How can I make my (9S12C32) embedded design programmable from a PC?

[JohnnyP]

My embedded design has user mode switches and control knobs, but I am running out of real estate. I would like make the next version laptop programmable, so users can load their settings, plus I could offer data logging, etc.

Aside from the physical interface, what software do I need to communicate with a PC?

What is the cost in dollars and real estate to use USB? Does Freescale sell a processor with the USB IP?

[JohnnyP]

Jim:

Thanks. Didn't know there was so much to it. The chip is cheap enough, though.

Is there a 9S12 version with USB, or did it get left out of the "controller continuum"?

[JimDon]

Yes the 9S12 is not part of the continuum.
For a very good reason - the price difference from 8 to 32 is too small.
Although they have extended the life a bit of 9S12 with all sorts of paging registers, it is a big pain.
Consider the JM V1 chip is 8 bits does not suit you.

[JohnnyP]

Jim:

I was hoping all I would need was an add on USB chip, a connector, and some low cost software to communicate with the PC.

I was using HC11's until last year. Don't really want to learn a new chip and port 1500 bytes of assembly code again.

Can you recommend a 32 bitter to replace the 9S12C32? I use all the timer channels. I guess I could use an 8 bit, since the code works on the HC11.

[kef]

Haven't you used serial communications with PC before? I guess you have. So add something like FT245R / FT232R and you have COM port available again.

Yeah, would like to hear about  Coldfire (or something 32bit) with 8 OC/IC channels timer and with single pin BDM.

[JohnnyP]

Kef:

No, I haven't used serial to a PC. My product is self contained, but users are asking about data logging and displaying it on a PC. I tell them I can't do it because I ran out of knowledge.

I'm a Mac user and don't know anything PC beyond the Codewarrior IDE. And I program in assembly.

I need a low cost or freeware software package that I can distribute, that will allow users to display data from my system.

Is there an easy way to do this and keep the 9S12C32, or should I redesign and use something from the continuum?

[JimDon]

It doesn't matter as far as the PC is concerned which micro you are using.
Send me a forum message with your contact info.

[JimDon]

Yes, but you probably want to use the newer JM series .
Here is a demo board.