PC Java GUI for eprom changes - How'd they do that?!?

Hi Guys,

Im fairly new to programming in general, however I have an application to help me learn, this might be well beyond my current abilities but I find it best to learn about things like this when I actually have a real need etc.

Application:

I would like to change the position of a solenoid, the solenoid is a simple PWM unit. The position of the solenoid is to be dictated via a 3D lookup table, potentiometer and temperature sensor. Z-PWM X-temperature and Y-Pot position.

Fairly simple. However there is a catch (as always!)


I would like to create a simple PC based user interface to:
A) graphically (in 2D form) adjust table values
B) Display temperature and POT position

I figure (please correct me) that the table will be stored in eprom, the main body of code will fetch table data from the eprom based upon pot position and temperature reading. Communication will be via rs232 (or usb depending on PIC choice). I think I can currently implement this (badly) with fixed code however I cannot figure how to change things via a PC application.

So if your still reading;

I'm having a hard time finding information regarding this general topic, I'm pretty sure I just don't know what to search for. I've tried strings like: JAVA based eprom programming, flash programming, jave PIC GUI etc and I haven't gotten very far.

Could someone point me in the right direction? A good book or website perhaps. And also if you have suggestions regarding this topic?

Is there a programming application similar to Java or VB that is graphics based or has a language similar in form Basic?

Thank you for your time

Bobby,

Hey, I still use VB6 for my PC-based applications.

Only problem is that I put projects on hold for a few months, forget a ton of details, then have to relearn a lot of stuff over again.

But I still think any VB version is the way to go just because of the huge number of examples on google, and help forums. I go here (currently have a Access app on hold, so this is my VBA reference):
http://www.access-programmers.co.uk/forums/

Robert

have a look at python . its runs on just about any platform and is pretty easy to learn and gui interfaces with python tkinter or pygame modules are brilliant. best of all its free

I use MS VSExpress for free.

http://www.visualstudio.com/en-us/pr...xpress-vs.aspx

Lots of forum support and examples on line.

Hi Guys,

Thanks very much for the fast replies with suggestions, just what I need. I have looked at VB in the past and thought it would suit, so thanks for the resources!

Python sounds interesting, I hadn't even considered that it would be multi platform. Thankyou.

Does anyone have any thoughts regarding methods for changing table values in the eeprom live with a PC based GUI? Or perhaps has seen a similar and well documented project?

Thanks once again and enjoy the weekend!

Bobby,

Fastest way to setup PC-PIC data entry is RS232 and your favorite hyperterminal.

Robert