.txt File Storage - What's the best to do?

[krigisk]

Hello all!

First, sorry for my English, I'm from Brazil.

Guys, I have a little problem and need to find a solution to continue my project.

I'm building a equipment that tests cables. I need to save this tests like "TEST1.txt" and inside this file I need to write something like "TEST 1 - all OK" or "TEST1 - Found ERROR - You have a problem in the cable shield".
Then, logically, I need to transfer this file to the PC.

What's the best to work... A SD CARD? If this is the best option, do you have some example?

Is there another type of memory storage that I can use with USB communication? EEPROM maybe?


Thank you in advance.

[asmallri]

[krigisk]

Thanks for the response asmallri

I think I'll use a 18f4550 to this project.
Another point is that equipment will not have to storage many .txt file.

Sometimes I really think SD card is the best option. But If another options are more easy, I'll will make this project with them because my time to develop this is short.

Thank you very much.

[temtronic]

I've used the FTDI Vinculum chips designed for USB flashdrives for 'dataloggers'.
Simple to use, easy to get 'up and running',fast to get the project done!
It looks like a 'serial' device to the PIC and if you store your data as dotCSV files(easy with CCS !) you can have ANY PC with a USB port( all do ) read the data. Excel will automatically read it.
I buy the premade 'modules' for about $30 US.The 'operating system, is onboard, so it doesn't take up any PIC code space.
You should search this site for SD questions, tons of them,1/2 due to incorrect hardware(5V PIC <=> 3V SD card), 1/2 due to 'software' issues(you can buy commercial drivers).If you value your time, spend a 1/2 day and scan this site, google 'vinculum data logger',etc.
There are other makes/model out there but FTDI seems to be the easiest,fastest, best performance for the money.
You can easily finish the project in one or two days.

[krigisk]

temtronic thanks for the response!

When you said "module" means this?

http://www.parallax.com/tabid/768/ProductID/434/Default.aspx

Do you know any places that I can buy this or a "better" module?

Thanks for the help guys

[ckielstra]

[temtronic]

Yes, that's one I've used. There's also a 'panel mount' version that someone sells. Problem with the Web, it's so easy to find stuff once...remembering WHERE is 'fun'.
I like them as a fast, universal storage solution since every PC has a USB port but not SD interfaces. Heck you can easily blow $40 in R&D time and not get anywhere. I use mine at 115K200 without handshaking, never lost a bit or a byte of data.

[asmboy]

The very simplest method for close proximity connections (up to 10 ft or a bit more) are various RS-232 translators that use the FTDI FT232R chip.

It has a very simple way to interface to 5v or 3.3v logic on your pic
** they do not need a crystal and cost only a couple $$ each.

Better still, it will connect at TTL level to your pic and there are computer interface drivers for PC OS WIN,DOS, LINUX pc s's and several MAC OS's as well.

I have had excellent success designing these into a number of low cost to produce instruments and if you ONLY need a few ready to go units
for a pilot run consider the EXCELLENT UM232R development board.

It makes it VERY EZ to be up and connected for under $20 USD.

[krigisk]

Thanks for all the responses guys.

ckielstra

1)It's a prototype, so I will produce one and then my boss will decide if it's a good device to sell here in Brazil.
2)I think that is best to build a universal device. Anyone can use, intuitive.
3)It's a network cable tester for the industry, so yes, the user will be close to the PC.
4)I think 50 tests it's a good number.
5)I want to make the text like this: Test X - ERROR - Wire A breaked
Test Y - all OK - Nothing detected

temtronic

I found this in a electronic store here where I live: http://www.tato.ind.br/detalhe_produto.php?codigo_chave=63
The command sheet: http://www.tato.ind.br/files/PenBScomandos.pdf

Is the same what you talking about right?

asmboy

I will google that.

Thanks


Guys, you are awesome. You're help me so much, I hope some day help you with something.

[temtronic]

Yes, it is a very similar unit !

What does it cost in US$.

Jay

[Gabriel]

For 24$ USD, sparkfun's open log is tough to beat.
interface is simple... power, send serial data. thats it.
_________________
CCS PCM 5.078 & CCS PCH 5.093

[ckielstra]