Got a lot
accomplished over the last few days on the SNA project. All the parts are now installed including the
LCD screen. In order to expedite the build I went on a “field trip” to Ottawa
to pick up extenders for the LCD. And then
off to Toronto to pick up the LCD… Ok I did pick up the xyl at the airport so
it was a multi-purpose trip.
The shield
for the AD8307 circuit I managed to get done without any real fuss. I thought
for sure it would be a little problematic to do, but in the end it went
ok. Sure it’s a little ugly and not as
good as I would have liked, but it will do.
The final
smoke test was completed and software routines for testing the individual circuits
were completed. Dave VE3OOI, had written routines to test the functionality of
the 8307, 9850, encoder and buttons, memory chip, as well as the LCD. What a terrific idea that was. Well done Dave.
The main SNA
program was loaded and went smoothly. I
am having a problem with the calibration routine, but I’m sure Dave will set me
straight before too long. The only other
issue at the moment is the display is not oriented correctly with the controls.
I’ll have to lean on my hardware department to be on the same page as the
software department. Can’t be making mistakes like this again. Not sure yet how
I’m going to remount the controls, but I don’t think it’s going to be as clean
as it is now. Well, that’s what Alpha
builds are for, work out the details.
Up next is
putting the SNA through its paces. I need to think up some protocols that will include
not only the real world and most likely scenarios, but some with extreme specifications
as well so I can see how the SNA behaves.
You never know.
