The KBCZ-VSX1 is a prototyping platform for VipSticks.  It provides the address match and connection switch logic.  And, you also get - an amazing array of ready built peripherals at NO additional cost!  Now how much would you pay?  But wait, there's more - if you act now, we will throw in plans for several more simple to build VipStick peripherals that you can build in under 2 hours.

The standard components include:

In order to maximize the design, the board has several optional components as well:

This allows for several ready to go peripherals:

1. LCD output connector
2. 8 bit bi-directional I/O 
3. 8 relay drivers using a ULN2803
4. Dallas 1-wire connection

In addition, designs will be published to allow you to quickly build additional peripherals:

1. A VipStick Bus Monitor equivalent to the KBCZ-VSP1
2. 5804 based stepper motor driver
3. LM293 based dual H-Bridge

This is a 2.025" high SimmStick module.

The board can be configured as any one of these peripherals or new peripherals may be built in the prototyping area by taking advantage of the optional components.  It is not intended that all of the options will be installed one a single board.  In fact, it will not be possible.  But, you will be able to choose from a set of very versatile configurations (Versatile is the V in VipStick).

On-Board PIC Processor

Many applications will not need a processor.  But, some will.  So, there is space for an on-board 18 pin PIC and a ceramic resonator.  The 4 switched signals and ADDRMATCH are connected to the Port A lines.  ICSP lines are connected to port B.  That leaves at least 6 lines free for on-board functionality (8 if you isolate the ICSP lines).  The 8 lines of Port B are optionally connected to the ULN2803.

In Circuit Programming

To facilitate ICSP of the optional on-board PIC, RB6 and RB7 will be connected to the D6 and D7 lines.  A jumper block will be provided to isolate these lines if necessary.

Bi-directional I/O

There is provision for both a  74HC595 and a 74HC165 on board.  These may be used for input and output..  The MISO will be connected to the '165 and the MOSI to the '595.  The SCL will be connected to both.  In most applications, one or the other will be used.  If both are used, data will be transferred in both directions on each clock.  

The '595 shift register will be cleared by the ADDRMATCH signal.  This will set the shift register to receive serial data.  The storage register clock will be driven by a low edge of the ADDRMATCH.  So, to send data to the outputs, set the board address on the bus, clock 8 bits (or less) on MOSI and SCL, and then pulse the PSEL line (to pulse the ADDRMATCH).

The data latch of the '165 will also be driven from the ADDRMATCH.  When this signal goes high, the '165 will acquire the state of the input lines and load them into the shift register.  Driving SCL will shift data onto the MISO line.  To acquire a new sample of the inputs, pulse the PSEL line low then high.

Common Anode LEDs

There are many times an LED or two is a requirement.  Provision is made on board for 8.  These are connected to the 8 lines of the ULN2803 and to a +5v common.  The lines from the '2803 may be used to drive other items as well.  The LEDs are just there for convenience.

Relay Drivers

You are not actually going to fit 8 relays on one of these boards - maybe 4 if they are small.  But, you could drive 8 relays off board.  The intent is not to put relays on the board, but to allow off-board relays to be connected.  Specifically, you could drive 8 sprinkler valves.  Or relays used to drive robot functions.