Free Tools Help Engineers Connect Common Appliances

The options needed to more easily and quickly add connectivity capabilities to embedded designs are said to be found in the Connectivity Power Pack and on the on-line Connectivity Design Center. Both include the tools needed to implement embedded connectivity, including application notes, development systems, evaluation tools, product datasheets, and a variety of third-party resources. Technical reference material is included on CAN, LIN, USB and Internet connectivity options, such as technical articles and app notes. The PICDEM.net Internet/Ethernet demo board is also available to provide engineers with the basic tools for various TCP/IP solutions. The PICDEM.net board uses a member of the company's large family of flash microcontrollers, namely the 40-pin PIC16F877, as well as TCP/IP firmware for the network interface. The board is priced at $299 each.