myUSBCtrlr USB Controller Board (DIY)
This is a 4Port USB through-port Hub controlled by an Arduino Nano CH340G
Each of the 4 USB2.0 ports has an IN (source - computer/hub ) and an OUT (device - camera/mount/focuser) connector.
Each port can be turned ON or OFF (disconnected) through software control.
A Windows application provides control over each of the 4 Ports.
Each port is jumper selectable to provide for sourcing of USB power via source or from an internal 5V source (derived from 12V via an LM7805) - ie HUB mode. Diodes are used in-line to prevent damage to the source, controller and device in case of reverse polarity of voltage.
This
is a very handy device. Often, when using a remote observatory, a USB device such as camera or focuser will hang (fail to respond). The only way to recover is to power-off (and sometimes disconnect the USB cable).
Now, with the myUSBCtrlr, you do not have to do that. Simply connect the IN port to the computer, and the OUT port to the device. Now you can control the connection/disconnection of the device via the myUSBCtrlr controller.
If the device hangs, exit the application software. Simply use the supplied software to connect to the myUSBCtrlr controller and disconnect the associated port. Wait 10 seconds, then re-enable the port. Start your application software and connect to your device. It is as simple as that!
CONTRIBUTIONS
If you wish to make a small contribution in thanks for this project, please use PayPal and send the amount to user rbb1brown@gmail.com (Robert Brown). All contributions are gratefully accepted.
NOTE: THERE IS NO ELECTRICAL ISOLATION BETWEEN THE IN AND OUT PORTS
NOTE: The 4 LED's provide an indication as to whether the port is ON.
If using pre-wired LEDS which already have a resistor wired, then use a short across R6, R7, R8, R11 instead of using 470 Ohm resistors
If not used a pre-wired LED with a series resistor pre-wired, then use R6, R7, R8, R11 with 470 Ohm resistors
External Power (12V) is connected to JP5 (2=12V, 1=GND)
To use Source power for USB, then place jumpers on pins 1-2 (JP1, JP2, JP3, JP4)
To use External power for USB, then place jumpers on pins 2-3 (JP1, JP2, JP3, JP4)
DO NOT OPERATE WITHOUT AN EXTERNAL 12V SUPPLY
WHEN CONNECTING
1. Connect USB cable first
2. Connect 12VDC last
WHEN DISCONNECTING
1. Disconnect 12VDC first
2. Disconnect USB cable last
