Hi,
I’m doing a group project to control a couple of hexapods using the SSC-32U unit. We have made a simple python script for serial communication with the SSC. However, it only seems to work with one of the robots.
I can control Robot A (a smaller hexapod with the SSC) and perform movements through the python script. Robot B (a larger hexapod with the SSC) however does not react at all to the serial commands. However, it functions properly when controlled through the servo sequencer.
The servo wiring is identical and we have tried swapping parts such as power supply, voltage regulator, and the controller between both bots but the Robot B still would not move. Is there anything I can do to find out what’s wrong?
Thanks in advance.
-moon
Hi moon,
Typically, if everything between Robot A and Robot B is completely identical and Robot B will not move, then there is a communication error. You mention that Robot B works with the servo sequencer (assuming USB connection), so this would mean everything is set properly (power to VS1, jumpers, wiring of servos, etc.). Therefore, we recommend that you try using Robot B with our free diagnostic tool, Lynxterm. Once downloaded and installed, power your SSC-32U with 6 V DC on VS1 and connect it by USB to your computer. Then, start Lynxterm and connect to the board (you may have to change settings in SETUP, such as baud rate and COM port).
Try and get a response from the SSC-32U by using the VER command (see attached image for details).
If this works, you should also be able to move the motors using the vertical slider on the right (you can change the channel in the dropdown above it).
If it does not, then you may have the wrong baud rate. You can check the SSC-32U baud rate by pressing the BAUD button once when it is properly powered by VS1. The LED A/B will flash according to the the baud rate. Check the details in the SSC-32U manual, page 34 (bottom half).
Sincerely,
