8XRC Details:


The 8XRC converts the output from <8> rotary encoder into signals recognizable by the EPIC® system or any keyboard encoder that utilizes a standard Row/Column Scan process, such as the Hagstrom line of keyboard encoders. The 8XRC has been tested and verified operational with the Hagstrom LP24 Keyboard encoder, however it should be compatible with any Hagstrom encoder product. Works great with Grayhill optical encoders, and any mechanical encoder employing a 2-phase output.

It can also be used to drive your own home-brew logic design.

Features:

  • Compatible with EPIC ISA & USB, any Hagstrom Keyboard encoder, or power your own digital devices.
  • 12VDC Input, with polarity protection.
  • Use mechanical and/or optical rotaries (At the same time!).
  • Individual Speed-selectable setting allowing mixture of different encoder types.
  • Unique 'Dual Split Mode' allows connection to 4 separate Keyboard Encoders at the same time. (Great for Multiple EFIS panels!)
  • No need to provide separate power to Optical Encoders. Power is provided via the 8XRC.

Interfacing to a Keyboard Encoder


The 8XRC can easily interface to any keyboard encoder that employs a typical Row/Column matrix scan. (Hagstrom Encoders use this method) Wiring is straightforward and no conversion logic is required to convert signals from one card to the other.

8XRC Driving an EFIS Panel: (Split & Standard Mode)


One common application in using the 8XRC in conjunction with a keyboard encoder is the EFIS panel in a jetliner cockpit.

The diagram on the left shows how one 8XRC (in Standard Mode) and keyboard encoder can be used to control any system running Project Magenta software or any other 3rd-party Avionics programs. I currently have mine in this same configuration.

Doing it this way is much simpler for the beginner who wants to get off the ground quickly without worrying about complicated inter-system communications via EPIC, or is on a budget.

 

"Split Mode" Capability


Using the Split Mode, you can use 1 8XRC to control 2 EFIS systems. Split Mode allows the 8XRC to talk to 2 separate devices. This is especially useful for multiple keyboard encoders. In Split Mode, the 8XRC can be polled separately by 2 individual devices. Split Mode allows 2 rotaries per device. In this case, each keyboard encoder is allocated 2 Rotary Controls.