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Re: Using the new PF remote for Technic

by Conchas :: Rate this Message:

>
> Thanks for the feedback!
>
> Im not surprised the power level is not continuous, its a digital signal not
> analogue! iirc its 2 bytes of data, thats the mode and data for both channels
> in combo mode. (There is a toggle setting in one of the modes I suspect that
> sets continuous output) I am however surprised at the +1 increment thing
> using the PF protocol in combo mode would send a power level... maybe its
> another mode, I dont recal them all at present...
>
> Any news on wether the charger is the same as the NXT Battery charger? isn't
> that a 10V DC also? (700mA??) Im really tempted by a battery but the price is
> a shock!
>
> I'm also wondering (If anyone knows!) if the IR receiver has been fixed, I
> believe there was a firmware error in the first batch...(will that affect
> this remote?)
>
> Regards
>
> Mike

Hi Eric,

Thanks for sharing with your findings about the new PF remote with us! I haven't
played with it yet, so was very curious to know about some implementation
details and you gave full light on those.

From your description the remote implements the 'Single Outupt Mode' of the
protocol. This mode implements two other sub-modes, depending on 'M' bit.
So it can be PWM with absolute settings, or 'Clear/Set/Toggle' where remote
actions would increment/decrement the PWM step sent to the motors, lights,
etc... or just clears PWM if you press for instance the Stop button (the red
ones). So the implemented one, should be the second I described.

It has some advantages and disadvantages as you well described. In the end,
because of the implemented sub-mode, it maybe not so useful for TECHNIC
constructions as you wrote. I believe it could have been much better if there
was implemented some button or keystroke sequence that would allow us to select
which sub-mode to use (absolute or incremental). Maybe there is something
hidden. Lets see...

Has Alexandre mentioned today in a comment at TBs, I also believe that main/best
usage for this remote at TECHNIC sets could be to steer treade vehicles.
"differential vehicles should be more precise with this remote, since each
individual track/wheel can have its variable speed, which allows for equally
variable turning radii. Plus, not having to send constantly "move" commands, the
controller's batteries should last longer. "

@Mike,
To my knowledge the IR receiver is still the same, so no fix.
Which however doesn't impact at all with the mode implemented with the new
remote.
You cna just notice that if programatically trying to use other modes, with an
NXT and IR Link sensor for instance.

The NXT battery charger, was still the 10V AC version.

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