<< Previous | Index | Next >>

> ## 1. Introduction

> This chapter introduces the RabbitLink Network Programming Gateway and describes its features.

> Rabbit-based embedded systems are normally programmed using a direct connection between a PC and the programming port of the Rabbit-based system. The RabbitLink provides an indirect connection between the two for remote downloading and debugging.

> Figure 1.0.0-1 Remote Network Access via RabbitLink Network Gateway

> ### 1.1 Overview

> Microprocessor boards with a Rabbit microprocessor use a standardized programming connector. Using this connector it is possible to load new software as well as perform the various testing and debugging operations that are part of normal software development. The target can be initialized completely via the programming port without the need for preexisting code stored on the flash memory of the target board. The programming port is a 10 pin 2 millimeter header (Rabbit 2000-based boards) or a 10 pin 1.27 millimeter header (Rabbit 3000-based boards). It is connected to a serial port that is a part of the Rabbit processor chip. High speed data transmission is possible via this port. The programming port is described in detail in both the Rabbit 2000 and the Rabbit 3000 user manuals. If you develop your own Rabbit-based microprocessor board be sure to include this standardized programming port.

> Before the RabbitLink board was introduced the only way to program a Rabbit-based system was via a special serial cable that connects a PC serial port to the Rabbit programming port. This cable, called the programming cable, includes a level translator to convert the RS-232 signal levels on the PC serial port to CMOS logic levels accepted by the Rabbit programming port.

> The RabbitLink makes it possible to load and debug programs on a Rabbit-based target via a network, including the Internet. The RabbitLink has an Ethernet port that can be connected to a network or directly to an Ethernet adapter on your PC (using a crossover cable). A programming port out connector on the RabbitLink is connected to the programming port on the Rabbit-based target using the program download cable provided. This connection is shown in Figure 2.3.0-1.

> When the RabbitLink is used to connect a target system to a network, communication between the programmer's PC and the RabbitLink is via TCP/IP. Windows-based PCs already support the TCP/IP protocol and Ethernet adapters. There are two separate programs that run on the PC and communicate with the RabbitLink:

> - Dynamic C (version 7.03 or later)
> - Rabbit Field Utility (version 2.0 or later)

> NOTE | The firmware shipped with the RabbitLink model EG2110 is version 2.05. This version of the firmware requires Dynamic C version 7.10 or later and/or version 2.20 or later of the Rabbit Field Utility.

> Dynamic C is a complete interactive development environment that allows the user to create, load and test programs on the target system. The Rabbit Field Utility (RFU) is a program that can be used to download .bin program files to the target. The RFU provides a convenient means of updating software on a remote target.

> ### 1.2 RabbitLink Features

> The following is a list of RabbitLink hardware and software features.

> - Rabbit 2000`TM` microprocessor operating at 22.1 MHz.
> - RJ-45 Ethernet port compliant with IEEE 802.3 standard for 10Base-T Ethernet protocol.
> - 2 serial ports.
> - 3 status LEDs, labeled USER, ACT and LINK.
> - 128K static RAM and 512K flash memory (two 256K flash chips).
> - Optional plastic enclosure and LED light pipes (enclosure and light pipes are included with the tool kit, and are also sold separately).
> - Firmware installed, ready to run.
> - Downloadable firmware upgrades.
> - Easy setup with DHCP or simple console commands.
> - Password protection.
> - Remote program downloading and debugging.

> ### 1.3 Development and Evaluation Tools

> The RabbitLink board comes with two program download cables. These cables connect a Rabbit-based controller to the RabbitLink board. They are functionally identical, differing in physical size to accommodate different Rabbit-based controllers. The RabbitLink Tool Kit (sold separately from the RabbitLink board) contains other hardware that may be used with the RabbitLink.

> The tool kit contents are:

> - RabbitLink (EG2100) User's Manual with schematics (this document). A black square indicates pin 1 of all headers shown in the manual.

> - The programming cable. Connects a PC serial port to the RabbitLink to set up the network parameters and to download firmware.

> - AC adapter. Supplies power to the RabbitLink. An AC adapter is supplied with tool kits sold in the North American market. If you are using another power supply, a minimum of 9-24 V DC at 120 mA is recommended.

> - Plastic enclosure with 4 customer-installable light pipes.

> - Screwdriver.

> - The companion CD. Contains RabbitLink firmware and the RFU.

> Figure 1.3.0-1 RabbitLink Development Tools

> ### 1.4 Software

> The RabbitLink board is shipped with firmware already installed in the flash memory. The rows in the following table show which versions of Dynamic C and the RFU are compatible with which versions of the RabbitLink firmware. The firmware version is the same as its serial console; the version number is displayed in the console's startup message.

> Table 1. Compatibility Between Dynamic C and the RabbitLink Firmware
> RabbitLink Firmware | Dynamic C | Rabbit Field Utility
> Version 1.00 | Versions 7.03 thru 7.06 | Version 2.0
> Version 2.00 | Versions 7.10 thru 7.26 | Version 2.20 and later
> Version 2.05 | Versions 7.30 and later | Version 2.20 and later

> #### 1.4.1 Upgrading Dynamic C

> Z-World recommends upgrading to the latest version of Dynamic C as soon as possible. To use version 2.05 or later of the RabbitLink firmware you need, at minimum, Dynamic C version 7.30.

> The simplified structure of version 2.00 and later of the RabbitLink firmware is more flexible and is also more stable and robust than version 1.00. The EG2110 model of RabbitLink is shipped with version 2.05 of the firmware. RabbitLinks (model EG2100) shipped in the 2nd quarter of 2002 have firmware version 2.00. RabbitLinks shipped before the 2nd quarter of 2002 require an upgrade of the firmware to be compatible with Dynamic C 7.10 or later.

> Please see Section 3.2.1, "Downloading Firmware to the RabbitLink," on page 15 for complete instructions for downloading the firmware.

> #### 1.4.2 Remote Downloading and Debugging

> Attaching the RabbitLink to the Ethernet and a Rabbit-based target allows a user to compile, run, and debug programs on the remote board from a network-connected PC running Dynamic C. All the standard features of Dynamic C are available over the remote interface, including the Dynamic C STDIO window, watch expressions, and the ability to step through C and assembly code. Dynamic C can be used exactly the same way as it is for a board connected to the PC's serial port.

> To use the RabbitLink, a network address (i.e., IP address) must be assigned to the RabbitLink and the software that runs on the PC must be made aware of this address. Default IP values are set in the firmware and are given here:

> - IP address is "10.10.1.100"
> - Gateway is "10.10.1.1"
> - Netmask is "255.255.255.0"

> By default, the RabbitLink will try to get an IP address using DHCP. (DHCP is a protocol to automatically assign IP addresses to computers when they are booted.) The network addresses may be changed using the RabbitLink serial console. Please see Section 2.2, "Configuring RabbitLink Network Parameters from your PC," for more information.

> If your PC is not connected to a network you may create a network using a hub or you may use a crossover Ethernet cable to make the connection directly from you PC's Ethernet adapter to the RabbitLink card. If you are already connected to a network it may be necessary for the network administrator to assign an IP address to be used by the RabbitLink.

> #### 1.4.3 Passphrase Protection

> Every time Dynamic C initiates a new RabbitLink session, the RabbitLink requests a passphrase from the user to ensure the security of the programs and data on the remote boards. This passphrase is stored by Dynamic C during that session so it only needs to be entered the first time Dynamic C contacts the RabbitLink gateway. For security reasons, Dynamic C does not store the passphrase on the hard disk of the PC.

> ### 1.5 RabbitLink CE Compliance

> This section describes the immunity and emissions standards met by the RabbitLink. Design guidelines are given to help developers incorporate the RabbitLink into an application while staying CE compliant.

> Equipment is generally divided into two classes.

> CLASS A | CLASS B
> Digital equipment meant for light industrial use | Digital equipment meant for home use
> Less restrictive emissions requirement: less than 40 dB µV/m at 10 m (40 dB relative to 1 µV/m) or 300 µV/m | More restrictive emissions requirement: 30 dB µV/m at 10 m or 100 µV/m

> These limits apply over the range of 30-230 MHz. The limits are 7 dB higher for frequencies above 230 MHz. Although the test range goes to 1 GHz, the emissions from Rabbit-based systems at frequencies above 300 MHz are generally well below background noise levels.

> The RabbitLink has been tested and was found to be in conformity with the following applicable immunity and emission standards. Boards that are CE-compliant have the CE mark.

> #### Immunity

> The RabbitLink meets the following EN55024/1998 immunity standards.

> - EN61000-4-3 (Radiated Immunity)
> - EN61000-4-4 (EFT)
> - EN61000-4-6 (Conducted Immunity)

> Additional shielding or filtering may be required for a heavy industrial environment.

> #### Emissions

> The RabbitLink meets the following emission standards with the Rabbit 2000 spectrum spreader turned on and set to the normal mode. The spectrum spreader is only available with revision C or higher of the Rabbit 2000 microprocessor. This microprocessor is used in all RabbitLink boards that carry the CE mark.

> - EN55022:1998 Class A
> - FCC Part 15 Class A

> NOTE | The RabbitLink satisfied the Class A limits but not the Class B limits. Such equipment need not be restricted in its sale, but the following warning must be included in the instructions for its use.

> Warning This is a class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio interference, in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures.

> Additional shielding or filtering may be needed to meet Class B emissions standards.

> #### 1.5.1 Design Guidelines

> Note the following requirements for incorporating a RabbitLink into your application to comply with CE requirements.

> #### General

> - The power supply provided with the Tool Kit is for development purposes only. It is the customer's responsibility to provide a CE-compliant power supply for the end-product application.

> - When connecting the RabbitLink to outdoor cables, the customer is responsible for providing CE-approved surge/lighting protection.

> - Z-World recommends placing digital I/O or analog cables that are 3 m or longer in a metal conduit to assist in maintaining CE compliance and to conform to good cable design practices.

> - When installing or servicing the RabbitLink, it is the responsibility of the end-user to use proper ESD precautions to prevent ESD damage to the RabbitLink.

> #### Safety

> - All inputs and outputs to and from the RabbitLink must not be connected to voltages exceeding SELV levels (42.4 V AC peak, or 60 V DC).

> #### 1.5.2 Interfacing the RabbitLink to Other Devices

> Since the RabbitLink is designed to connect to other devices, follow good EMC practices to ensure compliance. CE compliance is ultimately the responsibility of the integrator. Additional information, tips, and technical assistance are available from your authorized Z-World distributor, and are also available on our Web site at `www.zworld.com`.

<< Previous | Index | Next >>
Z-World, Inc. www.zworld.com Phone: 1.530.757.3737 Fax: 1.530.757.3792 | Rabbit Semiconductor www.rabbitsemiconductor.com Phone: 1.530.757.8400 Fax: 1.530.757.8402