Manual

PoBlocks user manual (March 31, 2014)

www.poscope.com

1. PoBlocks description

PoBlocks is a graphical programming tool for PoKeys devices. It features an intuitive and clean interface

and enables the user to quickly and easily design, deploy and debug a program that gets transferred and

executed by the PoKeys device itself.

PoBlocks was developed with ease of use in mind, which means that it does not require long manuals,

extended tutorials or deep knowledge to use. Although PoBlocks is simple to use, it also boasts a rich set

of features - support for PoKeys basic and extended I/O interfaces support, timers, counters,

configurable clock sources, algebra, memory, logic and non-linear operations, time schedule, event

drums, even PID and on/off controllers, etc.

PoBlocks also features a simple to use monitor mode for debugging that gives user a good insight in how

the program executes in real-time.

2. Main features

 Simple and intuitive graphical user interface with integrated support: just open the application

and start designing your diagram. Drag the function blocks from the graphical toolbar with

mouse and connect them by clicking on the input/output ports. When in doubt, hover over the

block to access the integrated help.

 Support for wide array of PoKeys peripherals: PoBlocks gives you the access to digital inputs

and outputs, analog inputs, PWM outputs, encoder inputs, digital counters, PoExtBus outputs

and more just by dragging a block and selecting the pins in the property panel on the right.

 Algebra, logic blocks: Choose from basic algebra functions and logic functions to create simple

conditional logics.

 Memory blocks: use JK, D, T or data latches, minimum/maximum value memories, simple RAM

blocks.

 Trigger and timing functions: PoBlocks offers counters, signal level triggers, on-, off- and pulse-

timers, etc.

 Advanced blocks: weekly time schedule, LCD interface support with multiple layouts, drum-style

programming, process control etc. Advanced blocks enable you to quickly start controlling your

process as you want it. If no block suit your needs, Custom PoIL block enables custom PoIL code

execution.

 One-click compiling and downloading: when satisfied with your design, compile it and

download it to the device with only one click.

 Real-time debugging/monitoring: with PoBlocks, your diagrams are simply created, then

compiled and downloaded to the device with one click. When it comes to debugging or

monitoring the process, simply activate the monitor mode and all outputs and connections will

be populated with current values.