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DMX-84

A DMX-512 driver for the TI-84

Overview

DMX-84 is a hardware and software driver for TI-84 calculators to run DMX equipment such as DJ and theater lights. It is currently written as an Axe include program, but it may be rewritten as an Axiom in a later version. The driver requires an Arduino-based adapter to transmit DMX.

Disclaimer: I am not responsible for any damage that may occur due to the use or misuse of the hardware and/or software specified in this repository.

How It Works

The software

The software driver on the calculator is an implementation of an application-specific protocol. The protocol is designed to be as lightweight as possible to minimize transmission time. To accomplish this, messages consist of a single command byte followed by optional parameters, wrapped in a standard TI link packet. For details on the protocol, see Protocol.md.

The hardware

The hardware driver is an Arduino Pro Mini 328 - 5V/16MHz produced by Sparkfun. I selected this board because its small feature set is perfect for this project, especially because it can be powered by USB Mini B from the calculator (or an external USB power supply). I also selected it because of its small size and relatively low price. The Arduino handles the calculator input and stores the channel values in memory. It transmits DMX packets at 250 kbaud using a slightly modified version of the DmxSimple library. Between the Arduino and the DMX Out jack is a transceiver that converts the +5/0V signal from the Arduino pin to a differential +5/-5V signal.

The adapter connects to the calculator through a combination of a 2.5mm audio jack for the serial data and a USB Mini B to FTDI adapter for power, serial debugging, and firmware updates. The Arduino can also receive power from any normal USB power supply, such as a computer or even a phone charger.

The Arduino transmits DMX packets over a 5-pin XLR female jack. An LED mounted on the enclosure currently serves as a power indicator, although it can be controlled in software for any purpose. All of the hardware is housed in a small aluminum enclosure, painted black for theater use.

Open Source Licenses

DMX-84 uses certain open source hardware and software.

All other software used in the project, as contained in the repository, is open source under the GPL version 3.

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A DMX-512 driver for the TI-84

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