Vernier LabPro - Manual (Page 5)

Revision Date: 08/02/02
LabPro Technical Manual 5
About This Manual
This technical reference is intended for LabPro users who want to write their own programs for LabPro
and computers or Texas Instruments graphing calculators. This document includes technical data such as
syntax for LabPro commands, sample programs, error codes, specifications for sensors and miscellaneous
other topics.
We have created and have available for download from our web site starter software for REALbasic
(Macintosh), Visual Basic 6 for Windows and LabView for Windows, Macintosh and Linux/X-Window.
Most people who use LabPro do not need to refer to this manual. Instructions for using LabPro with the
DataMate calculator program or app are given in Getting Started with LabPro, which is included in
LabPro package. Instructions for using LabPro with the Logger Pro computer program are in the Logger
Pro manuals and help files. Again, this manual is only needed if you are writing your own programs.
LabPro can be used to collect data or to control digital or analog lines when connected to either computers
or Texas Instruments calculators. The commands sent to LabPro and the results returned from LabPro are
usually the same, no matter what kind of computer or TI calculator is used. In this manual we will use the
term “host” to refer to either calculator or computer used to control LabPro. In a few cases, the commands
are different on calculators, and we will use the term “calculator”.
If you plan to use LabPro with Texas Instruments calculators, this manual assumes that you are somewhat
familiar with the calculator, and the use of
TI-GRAPH LINK™ for transferring programs from a computer
to the calculator. If you are not, we encourage you to look over TI-GRAPH LINK, TI Connects, and
calculator manuals for this information.
If you plan to use LabPro with your own computer software, this manual assumes that you are somewhat
familiar with the computer, the programming environment, and how the serial or USB port of the computer
is controlled. If you are not, we encourage you to look over other hardware and software manuals for this
information.
Introduction
LabPro is a small handheld computer dedicated to the task of data collection and control of output lines. It
contains a microprocessor that can communicate with a host calculator or computer. By using the
command set documented in this manual, the host (computer or calculator) can customize the parameters
of the data collection or control to suit specific applications.
LabPro contains different types of on-board memory; ROM and FLASH RAM. The ROM contains the
most fundamental functions that allow LabPro to begin operation and load its operating system. The
operating system is stored in the 8Mbits of FLASH memory. Having the operating system in FLASH
memory provides the flexibility of future upgrades and feature enhancements. The FLASH memory is also
used to store programs such as the DataMate calculator program. The FLASH memory has a user
accessible portion that may be used for long term data storage or other programs.
LabPro has no ON/OFF switch. Instead, it uses an on-board power controller. When the LabPro goes into
an IDLE state, it automatically enters a micro power mode. Any outside stimulus, such as activity on any
of the communication ports or a button press will cause LabPro to “wake up” and return to a normal power
state. When collecting data slowly, LabPro will power down unused elements in order to maintain a low
power state between sample points.
The LabPro has three methods for communicating with a host; through the GraphLink port at the bottom
of the device, through the RS-232 port or through the USB (version 1) port. Only one of these ports may