SUPA-4x3 Universal Programming Adapter
The SUPA-4X3 adapter is similar to our UPA-4X4, but it includes the standard PICAXE stereo connector for use with the AXE027 USB programming cable rather than the older 5X2 serial connector of the UPA-4X4. The SUPA-4X3 adapter can also be assembled in either of two different configurations depending on whether you want to insert the adapter at the end of a breadboard or along its side. The following photos demonstrate the two possible configurations. (Click on either photo to get a closer view.)
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Traditional "Side-Mounting" |
New "End-Mounting" |
As you can see in the photos, I have painted a different color dot on the top of each header pin to remind myself of the connection for each pin (there was no room on the board for labels). Here's the little mnemonic code I use to remember which is which. (I need all the help I can get in this area. :-)
- Black = Ground (what else?)
- Yellow = Serial Out because you "yell" out!
- Green = Serial In because nowadays it's "in" to be green.
In the photo on the right, it may not be obvious but the SUPA-4X3 is mounted behind (rather than in front of) the 08M processor. Since the pinout is the same on each side of the adapter, it can just as easily be installed on either end of a breadboard, depending on the requirements of your project.
Once the SUPA-4x3 is assembled in one configuration, it can't be converted to the other one. The solution to this dilemma, of course, is to buy two SUPA-4x3s and assemble one in each configuration. Hey, you never know!
One Final Note
When configured for side-mounting, the SUPA-4x3 pinout matches that of the standard 4-pin arrangement I will be using in all future installments of the Nuts & Volts PICAXE Primer column.