wanting to understand connections

[mhein68]

Hey all,
    I have my Prop-1 starter kit on order...I have been around here for a while and kinda understand the programming side of things (aka 1982-1986 high school basic computer class). What I am finding hard to grasp is the outputs on the Prop-1..
Heres my questions:
     - Am I to understand that P0 -P7 are for low voltage outputs(+5 volts)?
      - Outs 0-7 are for high outputs? The same voltage that the prop-1 is running by, say 24v or 12v?


I am mainly using ( for now!) 24v selonoids and a Cowlacious ISD Chipcorder... How am I to connect to the chipcorder and how does prop-1 trigger it (though the power side or the trigger input)??

Sorry if these are stupid questions or have been covered before..I have read though most all the post in prop-1 and a few other but am still stumped... I guess I need it spelled out! Thanks for any help in making it simpler for me..  ???  :P

[JonnyMac]

Yes, the P0..P7 headers are TTL I/O -- these are limited to 0 to 5 volts.

The OUTx terminals "float" (act disconnected) when off, and pull to near ground when on; they are called low-side drivers.  Your valves will connect between V+ (common) and OUTx; when you turn on the OUTx terminal the valve will operate -- if the power switch is in position P2.

Remember, we have fairly detailed docs on all our products.  I encourage you to read that stuff before your kit arrives.

You can use an OUTx terminal to start the Cowlacious board.  You need to connect the ground on the Cowlacious board to the GND terminal on the Prop-1.  Then you can connect an OUTx terminal to the Play input of the Cowlacious board -- this is an active-low input.  To start the Cowlacious board you'll make the OUTx terminal active for about 25 milliseconds or so.

This picture shows the Prop-1 and a Cowlacious board connected together.  As you can see I am pulling power from the Prop-1 and using it for the Cowlacious board.