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Many Meccano models have been controlled by computers, but the means to do so is often complex, incorporating knowledge of electronics, computers and programming. Computers have been used for the control of robots, and are also used in factory automation. These can form the subject of many wonderful and interesting models. An inexpensive and easy to use interface including control of servo and stepper motors, feedback from various types of sensors, and their integration with useful programmes and software, would transform the Meccano scene, and bring it up to date in the present electronic and digital age. Apart from being of interest to Meccanomen, the combination of computer control and Meccano as a means to build small scale engineering systems easily could be of immense use to schools, universities and technical colleges.
HARDWARE Contact Controller Plus Plugs in to the ComPort of the PC but versions also available for Mackintosh and Acorn. This makes it possible to use a laptop if desired. Comes complete with 9V power supply( can operate up to 15V) and Contact software(fairly elementary). Eight constant voltage outputs. Four variable voltage outputs with reverse(for motor control). Eight inputs for signalsfrom microswitches etc. Four sensor inputs which can be configured for a potentiometer, light and temperature. Price: approx. STG325 ex VAT and postage
Company: Data Harvest Educational Electronics, Woburn Lodge, Waterloo Road, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire LU7 7NR United Kingdom Tel. (0)1525 373666 Fax (0)1525 851638 Comments: The control language is fairly elementary but probably adequate for many purposes. Data Harvest are about to release a Windows version of this software which is an improvement over the DOS version. They have also released a Flowal flow control version of the program for Windows.
2. An interface similar to Contact Controller is marketed by Economatics. The interface is called Smart Box and is almost the same as the Data Harvest one but a little cheaper. The one disadvantage is that it operates at 5V whereas the Data Harverst version operates at up to 15v. They do an enhanced version which will control up to 4 motors at up to 12 volts (but other outputs are at 5V) This will also store one program; a very useful feature. The telephone number is (UK) 0114 281 3311 or 0800526411 ( E-Mail DATA@dandt.demon.co.uk). They have a much greater range of accessories than Data Harvest including a controller for mains motors . They sent an extremely good catalogue. Price Standard (5V) version STG295 ex VAT. Carriage free in UK Enhanced version œ395 ex VAT Company Economatics (Education) Ltd., Epic House, Darnall Rd.,Sheffield S9 5AA UK Tel (0114) 281 3344 Fax (0114) 243 9306
Michael Adler, April 1999