Q:    Is it possible to modify an NCD device to run at higher baud rates?

A:    In some cases, it is possible.  If the device uses a CMOS 4099 IC, then it is not possible to modify the design under any circumstances.  If the design uses an NEC-2501 optoisolator, then it must be replaced by a newer high-speed version which we stock.  If the device runs at 1200/9600 baud, then the baud rate can be increased to 2400/19.2K by removing the 4 MHz ceramic resonator (usually CR1), and replaced with an 8 MHz version.  Some devices use a 4 MHz crystal, which can probably be replaced by an 8 MHz version, but we have not tried it.  Over clocking any CPU is typically not recommended by any manufacturer.  However, we have found this modification is stable for long term operation, but the design may be more sensitive to temperature and humidity.  Devices qualified for this modification: R45/R410, AD8 (untested), 8SC (untested), R85/R810 (untested).

Q:    Is it possible to use a device without the RSB serial booster?

A:    In some cases, it is possible.  The data output line of the PIC can usually be connected to a 220 ohm resistor, then to the RS-232 input of your computer or micro-controller.  

Q:    Why do some NCD designs use Crystals and some use Resonators?

A:    Some NCD devices such as the AD8 use a crystal because they have timing critical functions written into the firmware, necessitating high accuracy.  A ceramic resonator is not as accurate as a crystal, but still well within specification for the timing requirements of RS-232 data transmission/reception.

Q:    Do you have plans to release new products any time soon?

A:    Yes, we have recently moved our facilities and hired employees, allowing us more time for development.  We are working to release 20 new products by the end of 2000. 

Q:    I am new to computer control, where do I begin?

A:    The very best place to start is to download and read the Articles that have been published in Nuts & Volts magazine, they are very useful for beginners and experts alike.

Q:    Do you do custom design work?

A:    Not typically, it is not cost effective for us to redirect our efforts on other peoples designs, but we do like to hear about design needs.  If we get enough requests for a particular design, then we will pursue the development of a new device.

Q:    I am trying to use an Oscilloscope to monitor the clock pins of the PIC with little or no success.

A:    You may have blown the clock oscillator circuit on the PIC.  We have seen a number of PIC microprocessors die from the use of oscilloscopes.  From what we have been able to determine, the capacitance of the leads or improper grounding is causing the problem.  We do not recommend the use of monitoring the clock oscillator lines under any circumstances, as this is RARELY the problem.

Q:    I am trying to use an NCD pre-programmed micro-controller, but cannot get it to work.  

A:    We have often found that our customers like to use PICs in a breadboard.  This is not recommended under any circumstances.  You MUST solder a prototype board.  There are two reasons for this: 1) Breadboard contacts are not ideal for the clock oscillator because they rarely make good enough contact to handle 4 million + pulses per second.  2)  Breadboards are natural capacitors, just enough to slew the clock oscillator, causing the micro to stall sporadically, resulting in eventual, sometimes sudden death of the PIC.  One customer claimed all 6 of the chips were defective, refusing to believe the breadboard was the problem.  After ordering another batch of chips and soldering a prototype, his problem was solved.

Q:    How can I use NCD devices under Windows?

A:    Please read our articles published in Nuts & Volts, they have detailed answers to this question.

Q:    Can I use an NCD device with the Basic Stamp?

A:    In many cases, Yes, please see our software section for a list of products that are compatible with the Basic Stamp.  If we have source code for it, then it's compatible.

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