How to Use ClearCore: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The ClearCore (CCIO-8), manufactured by Teknic, is a versatile microcontroller platform designed for robotics, industrial automation, and other control system applications. It features multiple I/O ports, supports various programming languages (including C++ and Arduino-style programming), and is compatible with a wide range of sensors, actuators, and motor controllers. Its robust design and flexibility make it ideal for developing complex, high-performance control systems.

• Robotics and motion control systems
• Industrial automation and process control
• Sensor data acquisition and processing
• Actuator control for precision systems
• Integration with ClearPath servo motors and other Teknic products

• Microcontroller: ARM Cortex-M4F, 32-bit, 120 MHz
• Operating Voltage: 24 VDC nominal (20–28 VDC range)
• Digital I/O: 8 configurable digital I/O ports
• Analog Inputs: 4 analog input channels (12-bit resolution)
• Communication Interfaces: USB, RS-232, CAN, Modbus RTU
• Programming Languages: C++, Arduino-style programming
• Dimensions: 4.25" x 3.25" x 1.0" (108 mm x 83 mm x 25 mm)
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 50°C

The ClearCore features multiple connectors for I/O, power, and communication. Below is a summary of the key pin configurations:

1. Power the ClearCore: Connect a 24 VDC power supply to the VIN and GND pins.
2. Connect I/O Devices: Attach sensors, actuators, or other devices to the digital I/O or analog input ports as needed.
3. Establish Communication: Use the USB port for programming or data transfer. For industrial communication, connect to the RS-232 or CAN interface.
4. Program the ClearCore: Write and upload your code using the ClearCore library and your preferred IDE (e.g., Arduino IDE or a C++ development environment).
5. Test and Debug: Verify the functionality of your circuit and troubleshoot any issues.

• Power Supply: Ensure the power supply voltage is within the specified range (20–28 VDC) to avoid damage.
• I/O Configuration: Configure digital I/O ports as inputs or outputs in your code before use.
• Analog Inputs: Use sensors with a 0–3.3V output range to ensure accurate readings.
• Communication Protocols: Select the appropriate communication protocol (USB, RS-232, or CAN) based on your application requirements.
• Grounding: Ensure all devices share a common ground to prevent communication or signal issues.

Below is an example of how to use the ClearCore with an Arduino UNO to read an analog sensor value and control a digital output:

// Include the ClearCore library
#include "ClearCore.h"

// Define the analog input and digital output pins
#define ANALOG_INPUT_PIN AIN_1 // Analog input pin on ClearCore
#define DIGITAL_OUTPUT_PIN IO_1 // Digital output pin on ClearCore

void setup() {
  // Initialize the ClearCore library
  ClearCoreInit();

  // Configure the digital output pin as an output
  DigitalOut(DIGITAL_OUTPUT_PIN).Mode(OUTPUT);

  // Configure the analog input pin
  AnalogIn(ANALOG_INPUT_PIN).Mode(INPUT);
}

void loop() {
  // Read the analog input value (0–4095 for 12-bit resolution)
  int sensorValue = AnalogIn(ANALOG_INPUT_PIN).Value();

  // If the sensor value exceeds a threshold, turn on the digital output
  if (sensorValue > 2000) {
    DigitalOut(DIGITAL_OUTPUT_PIN).State(HIGH); // Turn on output
  } else {
    DigitalOut(DIGITAL_OUTPUT_PIN).State(LOW); // Turn off output
  }

  // Add a small delay for stability
  delay(100);
}

1. ClearCore Not Powering On

   • Cause: Insufficient or incorrect power supply.
   • Solution: Verify that the power supply provides 24 VDC and is connected to the VIN and GND pins.

2. I/O Ports Not Responding

   • Cause: Incorrect configuration in the code.
   • Solution: Ensure that each I/O port is properly configured as input or output in your program.

3. Analog Input Readings Are Inaccurate

   • Cause: Sensor output voltage exceeds the 0–3.3V range.
   • Solution: Use a voltage divider or level shifter to scale the sensor output to the appropriate range.

4. Communication Issues

   • Cause: Incorrect wiring or protocol mismatch.
   • Solution: Double-check the wiring and ensure the correct communication protocol is selected in your code.

• Can I use the ClearCore with third-party sensors and actuators? Yes, the ClearCore is compatible with a wide range of third-party devices, provided they meet the voltage and communication requirements.

• What IDEs are supported for programming the ClearCore? The ClearCore can be programmed using the Arduino IDE or any C++ development environment that supports the ClearCore library.

• Is the ClearCore compatible with Teknic ClearPath motors? Yes, the ClearCore is designed to integrate seamlessly with Teknic ClearPath servo motors for advanced motion control applications.