This is the repository with the files for PlugAndPlay SAMD21 Development Board.
The PlugAndPlay system is an arduino-based environment that allows easier connections between the parts and intended to create a more "product-like" projects with permanent connections, compared to a breadboard.
PlugAndPlay parts do not require any soldering to connect. Just plug the cable to the connectors and you are ready to go. In the worst case, you might need to tighten few screws on a terminal block.
Most of the parts in the PlugAndPlay system communicate via I2C protocol. The connectors between the parts have 6 lines: 2 lines to provide the power (3.3V VCC and GND), 2 lines for the I2C communication and additional 2 lines for the interrupts, that can be used as digital inputs or outputs in some cases. The interrupts are handled by the Event Based Framework (EBF) in the background. No polling is needed in the software. A button pressed? Event function will be called in your code to handle that change.
Using the interrupts allows creation of very low-power projects, as well as controllers with fast responding to changes. The PlugAndPlay SAMD21 Dev Board consumes only 21.5 uA in deep sleep. Yes, 21.5 micro-amper! The system is designed to work with 3.3V power supply, but can go down to about 2V as well, so even less power consumption is possible for very low power needs.
No need to worry about the correct wires connection, accidental inversion of I2C lines, or even worse, the VCC and GND. No need to worry about the I2C addresses as well. Pull-up resistors if you connect few parts in serial, are those needed or not? What port should I connect the part? Is is PWM complatible? No more wories like that. Just plug the connectors and start playing with the code. As easy as that.
Every PlugAndPlay device contains an EEPROM with its identification, that allows the PnP code to match between the code instance implementing a logic to the physical device connected to one of the PnP ports on the SAMD21 Dev Board.
Communication is not the only thing handled by the PnP system. Power distribution is easily managed as well. Need to have a 12V relay, 5V servo and 3.3V for the logic? No problem at all... Plug the power cables between the parts, add needed regulator to the board and you're done.
The board is manufactured by the 4project.co.il.
You will need the Event Based Framework (EBF) to program the board.