What This Document Is
This is a laboratory exercise assignment for ECE 443: Distributed Processing and Control Networks at the University of Idaho. It focuses on practical application of embedded systems principles, specifically utilizing a microcontroller to control a stepper motor. The assignment centers around implementing control algorithms in the C programming language and leveraging interrupt-driven real-time operation. It builds upon prior experience with microcontroller programming, shifting from assembly language to a higher-level language.
Why This Document Matters
This assignment is crucial for students seeking to solidify their understanding of embedded systems design and real-time control. It’s particularly beneficial for those enrolled in ECE 443 or similar courses covering microcontroller programming, digital logic, and control systems. Students will gain valuable experience translating theoretical concepts into a working hardware system, a skill highly sought after in many engineering roles. This lab will be most helpful when working through the practical component of the course and preparing for related assessments.
Topics Covered
* Stepper motor control techniques (full-stepping and half-stepping)
* Interrupt handling and prioritization in a microcontroller environment
* Real-time programming concepts using the C language
* Software timing and control algorithms
* Critical section protection within interrupt service routines
* Utilizing look-up tables for output sequence generation
* External interrupt handling for program flow control
* Hardware-software interaction with a stepper motor driver circuit
What This Document Provides
* A detailed project description outlining the objectives and scope of the lab.
* A list of required equipment, including specific hardware components and software tools.
* Background information relating to stepper motor operation.
* A schematic diagram illustrating the relevant hardware connections.
* Stepping sequence tables for different motor control modes.
* Guidance on identifying and protecting critical code sections from interrupts.
* A framework for developing and debugging a C-based microcontroller program.
