ZENWHEELS MICRO CAR

The Technology Behind ZenWheels
Microchip RN42NAPL Bluetooth Module
Part Number: RN42NAPL-I/RM
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At the heart of Plantraco's ZenWheels Micro Car is the recently acquired Roving Networks RN42 Bluetooth module, which enables drivers to enjoy the full fun of driving by Smartphone wireless remote control with a level of precision almost impossible to believe. The RN42NAPL version of the RN42 is fully approved by Apple® for use with their iOS operating system on platforms such as the iPhone or iPad. Development time is substantially reduced by directly communicating with the authentication coprocessor, allowing the host microcontroller to operate as it would in any Bluetooth application.

Roving Networks' ultra-low power Bluetooth® modules natively support all smartphones. iPhone®, Blackberry®, and Android® (or Droid) are all compatible with Roving's Bluetooth® modules. Roving Networks Bluetooth® APL modules natively support iAP (iPod Accessory Protocol) data connections and directly manage authentication, reducing engineering effort and cost, and simplifying accessory product design. Apple iOS devices such as the iPhone freely connect with Bluetooth® hands-free and headset accessories. However, establishing Bluetooth® data connections with Apple devices requires a unique discovery/pairing sequence and negotiation with the Apple authentication co-processor. APL modules are based on the standard RN41 and RN42, making them footprint compatible. Power, ground and UART connections are identical, and connection of the Apple authentication chip is direct to the module via a 3-wire interface.

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Microchip PIC24H, 16-bit, 40 MIPS, 128K Flash MCU
Part Number: PIC24HJ128GP204
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With 40 MIPS performance, the PIC24H controls the ZenWheels Micro Car with plenty of code space for the application in 128KB Flash and 8KB RAM. The MCU includes communication peripherals to talk with the Bluetooth Module as well as control peripherals like input capture, output compare, pulse width modulation and timers. The PIC24H family also includes integrated analog functions such as ADC, comparators as well as flexible power management.

The free motor control software with application notes and tuning guides included with the PIC 24 help to shorten the development cycle. Scalable motor-control development tools promote rapid prototyping for low- and high-voltage systems including dual motor-control options.

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