Software update

Compiled hex file

you need

    • PC or laptop
    • hex file
    • xloader
    • FTDI adapter USB - serial. This is probably already on your hydrocontrol PCB,
    • USB cable PC - Mini-USB. This is probably somewhere inside the hydrocontrol casing.
    • USB extension
    1. Download the new hex file from the files section
    2. Download http://russemotto.com/xloader/
    3. Shut down your hydro power system.
    4. The PCB must NOT be powered from an external 5V power supply.
    5. Make sure your FTDI adapter is set to 5V, or is suitable for 5V.
    6. Establish a serial connection from your PC to the hydrocontrol with the FTDI232 USB serial adapter. For windows 8.1 or newer, you probably don't need to install drivers. More information:
    7. http://lab.dejaworks.com/programming-arduino-mini-pro-with-ftdi-usb-to-ttl-serial-converter/
    8. http://www.ftdichip.com/Drivers/D2XX.htm
    9. https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/how-to-install-ftdi-drivers/all
    10. You can also remove the Atmega DIL chip from an arduino uno and use the arduino PCB als USB-serial adapter.
    11. save all your hydrocontrol settings on SD or paper
    12. make sure you know what your current hydrocontrol software version is: hydrocontrol Menu status / microcontroller
    13. Xloader settings:
    14. - choose the right COM port - there should be only one selection possible, if you only have one serial adapter attached.
    15. - Choose MEGA2560
    16. - baud rate 115200
    17. - select the hex file
    18. upload - after a few minutes there will be a "sucess" message in the status line.
    19. verify settings

If you want to revert to the old software version, download the correct hex file and upload it.

Software release notes

Source code

This is more complicated, but you can modify the code, if needed.

    1. install Arduino IDE
    2. install all the needed libraries (go to www.arduino.cc for help)
    3. do the library modifications (to do: document changes)
    4. open the hydrocontrol sketch
    5. establish a serial connection (see above, and the bootloader page)
    6. upload