User Guide

For first time access it is recommended to sign-up, i.e. to create personal account.

Alternatively you can explore without account. All features are available in Explore mode. Account can be created later, when you will ask to manufacture.

For start click on [Select Functions] button on the menu bar.

Tabs will be opened looking like this:

On the left pane you can select computer type and peripheral functions.

On the right there is a list of Resources available in the selected computer. It is provided just for reference. In most cases it is not necessary to understand resource meaning, as they are managed automatically by RoboDesigner. For more information about resources please refer to Peripheral Functions page.

Once you selected required functions, click on Layout Designer (or Update Project). Note that at any stage you can return to Functions Selection in order to add or remove functions.

White rectangle indicates initial area of the board.

Computer and its support components are already placed on the board.

You can resize the board and drag components to the required positions.

Clicking on the specific module will open module control box to view its properties and precisely control its position.

Most of the modules have interface connector and therefore by default they are locked to board edge. In this case you can drag the module along board edges.

To unlock click on “Snapped to the edge” icon in module control box. Then you can drag it to any position on the board.  Application will rotate it in order to optimize routing. You can cancel auto-rotation by clicking on “Auto rotate” in control box, and then you can rotate the module as you find necessary. Click on the module and then right-click the mouse to open rotation menu.

Additional tools are available on the top bar, to measure size, show grid, add mounting holes, etc.

If you will try to position modules too close to each other or over board edge, the system will warn you by coloring the violation in red:

Here is nicely arranged small board with previously selected functions:

To assure compatibility with mechanical specifications of your application, click on “Review DXF & 3D” button:

Review mechanical design, either from RoboDesigner application, or download files and review them with other tools.

When you are satisfied with functional content and mechanical design, click on “Ask to Manufacture” button. The application will then check if it is possible to manufacture PCB (printed circuit board) for your design. It will perform initial check that signals routing is possible.

During the process it will look something like this:

The process is fully automated, you just have to wait. It will end up with one of two possible results:

1. The routing is possible and therefore manufacturing is possible. In this case you will be forwarded to ordering page.
2. The routing cannot be done. In this case go back to layout designer and try one of following solutions:

• Move peripheral modules to different position, which may help router to resolve interconnection.
• Try rotating the computer module. (click on the module and then right-click mouse)
• Increase board size
• Remove some of functions
• Contact Compulab through Support forum. We will help to resolve routing issues

Note that cases when routing cannot be accomplished are rare. Usually above-mentioned solutions are not required.

Tips and Recommendations

• On initial order Compulab will manufacture and supply one prototype board. We strongly recommend to test prototype board before ordering more. After approval of prototype, additional boards can be manufactured relatively quickly.
• If required function is missing in module’s library or if you need different computer, contact Compulab sales. Compulab offers design service for these.
• Accessories, such as WiFi antennas, mounting standoffs or AC to DC adapters can be ordered from Compulab.
• Read Peripheral Functions page for more information about how to get out the most of selected computer and required peripherals.