PIC and MAX232 in/out

[mister_e]

Usually DMX will use something like a 75176. Open the datasheet, and see how you could trick it.

But MAX232 is really not what you need to use to meet the real DMX protocol/requirement.

[The Master]

Sorry if i wasnt clear. Im just using DMX wires. The actual circuits will use RS232

[mister_e]

Depending your baudrate and if you need interrupt, SERIN/DEBUG/SERIN2 may have their advantages.

HSERIN's timeout could be handy in this case. You send data, next line is a HSERIN if the timeout happen, you do something else.

Maybe i need another coffee

[The Master]

Yes i do need interrupts. Im going to add PWM to this version. Im making sure i have the correct pin connected to the diodes for zero crossing this time too.

The baud rate will be standard 9600 although im going to try and speed it up a bit. Ill think about that later though

[mackrackit]

Maybe need RS485 if you have multiple drops. And yes, you will need the converter if you use the hardware pins. But like MisterE said , lots of options.

[The Master]

I have been reading about RS485. It looks like i need a special converter between my PC and the chips (RS232 > RS485 converter). Would it just be easier to continue with RS232 but not allow any of the PICs to act as a master? If im going to need extra hardware to RS485 anyway then i might aswell have a small box that acts as the master. Thinking about it this might be the best way

[mackrackit]

With RS485 you would need a driver chip at both ends.

The other good thing about 485 over 232 is the 485 can handle longer distances with more reliability. If you do go this way and do not need multiple drops, RS422 is good.

As far as the best way to go for you system is hard to say. I do not fully understand your system and what you want it to do.

Just giving suggestions