Walfront 8051 Microcontroller Development Board User Manual

1. Product Overview

The Walfront 8051 Microcontroller Development Board is designed for learning and experimentation with microcontrollers, specifically featuring a PIC16F877A chip and an RS232 communication interface. This board provides a robust platform for developing and testing embedded systems applications.

Image 1.1: Top-down view of the Walfront 8051 Microcontroller Development Board, showcasing its various components including the ZIF socket, RS232 port, USB power input, and onboard buttons.

Key Features:

• Onboard 4M crystal oscillator, with a socket for easy replacement of crystal frequency.
• 4-bit independent keyboard connected to RB0, RB1, RB2, RB3 for user input.
• 8 LEDs connected to the RD port, enabling visual feedback. The J3 jumper controls LED activation, allowing the RD port to be fully released when unplugged.
• Standard RS232 communication interface for seamless communication between the microcontroller board and a computer.
• External 5V DC power interface, compatible with USB power cables.
• ICSP programming simulation interface, supporting connection to K150, PICKIT2, PICKIT3, ICD2, and other programming tools.
• VCC and GND pin header power extension interfaces for accessing or supplying 5-volt power.
• All MCU IO ports are extended via pin headers for easy access and expansion.

2. What's in the Box

Upon unpacking your Walfront 8051 Microcontroller Development Board, please verify that all components are present:

• 1 x Walfront 8051 Microcontroller Development Board
• 1 x USB Power Cable
• 1 x Board Support (standoffs)

Image 2.1: The development board shown alongside its included USB power cable, illustrating the typical contents of the package.

3. Setup Instructions

3.1 Power Connection

1. Connect the provided USB power cable to the USB-POWER port on the development board.
2. Plug the other end of the USB cable into a 5V DC power source (e.g., a computer USB port or a USB wall adapter).
3. Alternatively, an external 5V DC power supply can be connected to the dedicated 5V DC power interface.

3.2 Microcontroller Installation

1. Carefully lift the lever of the ZIF (Zero Insertion Force) socket located in the center of the board.
2. Align the PIC16F877A microcontroller chip with the socket, ensuring the notch on the chip matches the orientation indicated on the socket.
3. Gently insert the chip into the socket. Do not force it.
4. Lower the ZIF socket lever to secure the chip in place.

Image 3.1: A detailed view of the ZIF socket, where the microcontroller is inserted, and the 4M crystal oscillator, which can be replaced.

3.3 Connecting Peripherals

• RS232 Interface: Connect a standard RS232 serial cable from the board's DB9 connector to your computer's serial port or a USB-to-serial adapter.
• LCD Displays: The board supports LCD1602 and LCD12864 displays. Connect these to the designated LCD interface headers. Refer to the specific LCD module's datasheet for pin connections.
• DS18B20 Temperature Sensor: Connect the DS18B20 sensor to its dedicated interface pins.
• ICSP Programmer: For programming the microcontroller, connect a compatible ICSP programmer (e.g., K150, PICKIT2, PICKIT3, ICD2) to the ICSP programming simulation interface.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Basic Operation

1. Ensure the board is powered on and the microcontroller is correctly installed.
2. LEDs: The 8 onboard LEDs connected to the RD port can be controlled via software. To enable them, ensure the J3 jumper is plugged in. Unplugging J3 releases the RD port for other uses.
3. Keyboard: The 4 independent buttons (KEY1, KEY2, KEY3, KEY4) connected to RB0-RB3 can be read by your microcontroller program for user input.
4. Reset Button: Press the RESET button to restart the microcontroller's execution.

4.2 Programming the Microcontroller

1. Connect your ICSP programmer to the board's ICSP interface and to your computer.
2. Install the necessary programming software and drivers for your chosen ICSP programmer on your computer.
3. Develop your microcontroller code using a suitable IDE (e.g., MPLAB X IDE for PIC microcontrollers).
4. Compile your code to generate a HEX file.
5. Use the programming software to load the HEX file onto the PIC16F877A microcontroller via the ICSP interface.
6. After successful programming, disconnect the programmer and reset the board to run your new program.

5. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and proper functioning of your development board, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Keep the board clean and free from dust and debris. Use a soft, dry brush or compressed air for cleaning.
• Avoid exposing the board to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
• Handle the board by its edges to prevent damage to components and to minimize static discharge.
• Store the board in an anti-static bag when not in use.
• Regularly inspect connections and components for any signs of wear or damage.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Walfront 8051 Microcontroller Development Board, refer to the following troubleshooting steps:

• No Power/Board Not Responding:
  • Verify that the 5V DC power supply is correctly connected and functioning.
  • Check the USB cable for damage and ensure it is securely plugged in.
• Microcontroller Not Programming:
  • Ensure the microcontroller chip is correctly seated in the ZIF socket and the lever is locked.
  • Confirm that your ICSP programmer is properly connected to the board and your computer.
  • Verify that the correct drivers for your ICSP programmer are installed and up-to-date on your computer.
  • Check the programming software settings to ensure the correct microcontroller model (PIC16F877A) is selected.
  • Some older programming software or drivers may not be compatible with modern operating systems. Consider using a compatible environment if issues persist.
• RS232 Communication Failure:
  • Check the RS232 cable connection between the board and your computer.
  • Verify the serial port settings (baud rate, data bits, parity, stop bits) in your software match those configured in your microcontroller program.
  • If using a USB-to-serial adapter, ensure its drivers are correctly installed.
• LEDs Not Functioning:
  • Ensure the J3 jumper is correctly plugged in to enable the LEDs.
  • Verify your microcontroller program is correctly controlling the RD port pins.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support regarding your Walfront 8051 Microcontroller Development Board, please contact the seller or manufacturer directly. You may also visit the official Walfront store for additional product information and resources:

Visit the Walfront Store on Amazon