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TI’s updated Stellaris EVALBOT opens the door for more flexibility and fun with microcontrollers and robotics

Arming developers with more software and tool options, Texas Instruments announced the availability of its newest Stellaris microcontroller (MCU) Robotic Evaluation Platform (EVALBOT). The new mini-robot platform within TI’s embedded processing portfolio provides developers the flexibility to choose from a variety of software tool chains so they can fully access the features of the Stellaris Cortex-M3 MCU in their preferred environment. The updated Stellaris EVALBOT is also preloaded with a StellarisWare® application, and the kits now include more example projects in source code, including a demo that enables developers to more easily experiment with the kit’s expansion port that supports TI wireless evaluation modules. With EVALBOT, developers can experience the Stellaris MCU in a real-world application that leverages the processor’s integrated 10/100 Ethernet MAC/PHY, USB On-The-Go, CAN, and motion control capabilities.

Analysis

5 April 2011

byNews Desk

Stellaris EVALBOT features and benefits (EK-EVALBOT)

* 80 MHz Stellaris LM3S9B92 MCU with 256K flash, 96K SRAM, StellarisWare® software in ROM, as well as integrated Ethernet, USB On-the-Go (OTG)/Host/Device and CAN
* Multiple tool chains supported, including Keil MDK-ARM, IAR EWARM, TI Code Composer Studio, Code Red Technologies Red Suite, CodeSourcery SourceryG++ and generic GNU
* Example display, audio and motor control software projects based on the extensive StellarisWare code base for putting concepts into practice
* Expansion port supports TI wireless modules and end customer extensions
* Chronos-SimpliciTI demo software enables wireless control of the robotic platform when coupled with TI’s CC1101EM Low-Power RF module and eZ430-Chronos watch
* Two DC gear-motors provide drive and steering, opto-sensors that detect wheel rotation with 45 degree resolution, and sensors for bump detection
* TI motor drivers, voltage regulators, audio codec, interface and logic devices for easy evaluation of the complete signal chain
* Bright 96 x 6 blue OLED display and on-board speaker
* Debugging requires only a single USB cable (included)