fischertechnik ROBOTICS TXT 4.0 User manual

ROBOTICS
TXT 4.0 CONTROLLER
Operating manual

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ROBOTICS TXT 4.0 CONTROLLER
schertechnik TXT Operating manual_EN | 10. November 2021, 9:18 PM
04
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Overview of connections 03
Safety information 04
Intended use 04
The ROBOTICS TXT 4.0 Controller 05
Connection options for the Controller 06
Software requirements 11
Supply the Controller with power 11
Switching the Controller on and off 11
Switch on process 11
Switch off process 12
Setting the Controller 12
Menu overview 12
Menu in detail 13
Status bar 13
Master or Extension 14
Time 14
Control elements 14
Menu 15
Main menu 15
01. Start program 15
02. File 15
03. Settings 18
04. Test 20
05. Info 21
Selecting and launching programs 22
Extensions (EXT connection) 23
Connect to the Controller 24
Updating the operating system 29
Faults 29
Technical data 30
Correct disposal 32
Warranty 32
Liability 32

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ROBOTICS TXT 4.0 CONTROLLER
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OVERVIEW OF CONNECTIONS
01 02
03 04
05 06
07 08
M1
M2
M3
M4
C1
C2
C3
C4
I1
I2
I3
I4
I5
I6
I7
I8
EXT1
EXT2
ON/OFF
TXT 4.0 Controller
S1
S2
S3
SDUSB1 USB2
9V
OUT
IN9V
9V
OUT
Program1
12:30
PROGRAMM
NAME
STOPPED
PROGRAM 01
Program Running
Test
InfoSettings
File
Program1
12:30
01
0
0 0
1010
1
1
0
11
1
00
0 0
0
1
01 USB-A port (USB1)
02 Touch display
03 Micro SD card slot
04 Mini USB port (USB2)
05 9V IN, DC port
06 9V IN, Battery Pack connection
07 EXT connections for expansions
08 Outputs M1–M4 or O1–O8
09 Inputs C1–C4
10 9V Out
11 On / off switch
12 Speaker
13 Universal inputs I1– I8
14 Outputs S1-S3 for servo motors

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ROBOTICS TXT 4.0 CONTROLLER
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SAFETY INFORMATION
›Inspect the charger regularly for damage.
›In case of damage, the charger may not be used until repairs are completed.
›Do not insert the wires into an outlet!
›Non-rechargeable batteries cannot be charged!
›Remove rechargeable batteries from the battery compartment before charging.
›Only charge rechargeable batteries with adult supervision.
›Insert batteries with the correct polarity.
›Connection terminals may not be short circuited.
›The ROBOTICS TXT 4.0 Controller may only be operated with a schertechnik power supply, such as the Battery
Pack 35537 or Power Supply 9V DC, 2.3-2.5A.
›When connecting the Battery Pack to the Controller, observe the following:
›Connect the plus pole of the “9V IN” connection to the plus pole (+) of the Battery Pack.
›Connect the minus pole of the “9V IN” connection to the minus pole (-) of the Battery Pack.
›The maximum operating temperature is 40°C.
›Do not allow sharp or pointed objects to come into contact with the touch display, as this may cause damage!
INTENDED USE
The Controller may only be used to operate and control schertechnik models.

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ROBOTICS TXT 4.0 CONTROLLER
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THE ROBOTICS TXT 4.0 CONTROLLER
With 512 MB RAM and a 4 GB eMMC memory, three servo outputs and a capacitive touch display that supports
swipe gestures, the TXT 4.0 Controller includes a range of new features.
The Bluetooth/Wi-Fi module offers a wireless interface that can be used in many different applications. A
USB Host port is also provided, and can be used to connect the schertechnik USB camera or USB sticks, for
instance.
Up to nine additional controllers can be connected to a Controller as expansions. The Controller integrates
perfectly into the models thanks to its narrow housing.
Firmware updates are available to download from the cloud to ensure the device is always up to date, and the
Controller retains user-created programs following the download.
The ROBO Pro Coding software can be used for graphic programming or programming with Python. It is operating
system-independent, and can be used on mobile devices as well.
04

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ROBOTICS TXT 4.0 CONTROLLER
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CONNECTION OPTIONS FOR THE CONTROLLER
The following devices can be connected and controlled.
In addition, the Controller can be expanded with additional devices:
ACTUATORS
9V, 250 mA
›Motors / Servos
›Compressors
›LEDs
›Buzzers
›Solenoid valves (from the pneumatic building set)
SENSORS
Digital: 5 kO,10 V; Analog: 0 – 5 kO, 0 –10 V
›Buttons
›Magnetic sensors (reed contacts)
›Light sensors (phototransistors, photoresistors)
›Heat sensors (NTC resistors)
›Ultrasound sensors
›Color sensors
›Infrared sensors (track sensors)
›USB camera

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›Combination sensors
›Environmental sensors
›RGB gesture sensors

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ROBOTICS TXT 4.0 CONTROLLER
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ROBOTICS TXT 4.0 CONTROLLER / EXPANSIONS
Up to nine Controllers can be linked via the two 6-pole expansion plugs (7). These plugs can also e used to connect
I2C components (such as combination sensors, environmental sensors, and RGB gesture sensors).
FISCHERTECHNIK USB CAMERA
The camera can be connected to the USB host interface (USB1) (1).
WIRELESS TRANSMISSION
The Controller can connect to other devices, such as a PC, tablet or smartphone, via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
PORT, PLUG AND BUTTON FUNCTIONS
01 02
03 04
05 06
07 08
M1
M2
M3
M4
C1
C2
C3
C4
I1
I2
I3
I4
I5
I6
I7
I8
EXT1
EXT2
ON/OFF
TXT 4.0 Controller
S1
S2
S3
SDUSB1 USB2
9V
OUT
IN9V
9V
OUT
Program1
12:30
PROGRAMM
NAME
STOPPED
PROGRAM 01
Program Running
Test
InfoSettings
File
Program1
12:30
01
0
0 0
1010
1
1
0
11
1
00
0 0
0
1
1. USB-A port (USB1):
USB 2.0 host connection, for instance for schertechnik
USB camera art. No. 152522 or USB stick.
2. Touch display
The color touch display shows the status of the Controller,
which programs are loaded, and where the user is in
the menu. Functions and programs can be selected,
activated or deactivated. The user can display the
values of variables or values from analog sensors while a
program is running. A helpful menu overview is provided
in the “Settings (Menu overview)” section. Swipe gestures
are supported.
3. Micro SD card slot
A Micro SD card ts in this slot (not included in the scope of delivery) to expand the device memory.
4. Mini USB port (USB2):
The USB 2.0 port (1.1 compatible) connects to the PC. A cable of this type is included

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ROBOTICS TXT 4.0 CONTROLLER
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5. 9V IN, DC port (3.45 mm, plus pole internal)
The power supply from the Power Set is connected here (not included in the scope of delivery).
6. 9V IN, Battery Pack connection
This connection allows for a mobile power supply via the schertechnik Battery Pack (not included in the
scope of delivery) as an alternative to the power pack.
7. EXT connections for expansions
These connections can be used to link additional ROBOTICS TXT 4.0 Controllers, thereby expanding the
numbers of inputs and outputs. In addition, you receive an I2C interface, for instance for sensors.
8. Outputs M1– M4 or O1– O1
4 motors can be connected to the outputs. Alternatively, 8 LEDs or electromagnets with the second pole
connected to a ground connection ( ) can be used.
9. Inputs C1– C4
Fast counting inputs, record counting pulses up to 1 kHz
(1000 pulses / sec.), for instance from schertechnik
encoder motors. These can also be used as digital inputs,
for instance for buttons.
10. 9V Out
Supplies sensors with the required operating voltage 9V+,
such as color sensors, track sensors, ultrasound sensors,
magnetic encoders.
11. On / off switch
Switches the Controller on or off, and indicates the
operating status via different colors.
12. Speaker
The speakers can be used to play sounds or noises stored on the Controller or the memory card.
13. Universal inputs I1– I8
These signal inputs are designed for all-around use. They can be set using the ROBO Pro Coding software
for:
›Digital sensors (buttons, reed contacts, phototransistors) – Digital 5 kΩ
›Infrared track sensors – Digital 10V
›Analog sensors 0–5kΩ (NTC resistors, photoresistors, potentiometers)
01 02
03 04
05 06
07 08
M1
M2
M3
M4
C1
C2
C3
C4
I1
I2
I3
I4
I5
I6
I7
I8
EXT1
EXT2
ON/OFF
TXT 4.0 Controller
S1
S2
S3
SDUSB1 USB2
9V
OUT
IN9V
9V
OUT
Program1
12:30
PROGRAMM
NAME
STOPPED
PROGRAM 01
Program Running
Test
InfoSettings
File
Program1
12:30
01
0
0 0
1010
1
1
0
11
1
00
0 0
0
1

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ROBOTICS TXT 4.0 CONTROLLER
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›Analog sensors 0–10V (color sensors) display the value in in mV (millivolt)
›Ultrasound distance sensors
14. Servo connections S1-S3
3-Pole header to connect the schertechnik servo 132292.
Ensure correct polarity!

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ROBOTICS TXT 4.0 CONTROLLER
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SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS
Software requirements for the ROBOTICS TXT 4.0 Controller:
›schertechnik programming environment ROBO Pro Coding (Windows10 / Mac OS / Linux / iOS / Android)
available for free from relevant app stores.
›Python
›C/C++
SUPPLY THE CONTROLLER WITH POWER
There are two options for doing so:
›Connect the Battery Pack to the “9V IN” connections – see number 6 in the section “Overview of connections.”
This connection allows for a mobile power supply via the schertechnik Battery Pack (not included in the scope
of delivery).
›Connect the 9V DC/2.3-2.5A power supply to the “9V IN” DC port – see number 5 in the section “Overview of
connections.”
In this case, the power supply from the Power Set is connected (not included in the scope of delivery).
SWITCHING THE CONTROLLER ON AND OFF
SWITCH ON PROCESS
To activate the Controller, press the ON/OFF button (11) and hold it down for approx. 4 seconds until the display
lights up – see number 11 in the section “Overview of connections.” Once the boot process is completed (indicated
by a loading bar shown on the display), the main menu will appear.
After the initial boot process, the user must select their desired language using the touch screen (the default
setting is English):
To change languages:
1. Touch Settings | Language,
2. Touch the desired language
3. Press the button to return to the main menu

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ROBOTICS TXT 4.0 CONTROLLER
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SWITCH OFF PROCESS
To deactivate the Controller, press and hold the ON/OFF button (11) for approx. 3 seconds, until the button is
illuminated red. Now, release the ON/OFF button and the Controller will be switched off.
After switching off the Controller, unplug the power supply from the outlet.
SETTING THE CONTROLLER
The following subsections describe the Controller menu and its setting options in detail.
MENU OVERVIEW

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ROBOTICS TXT 4.0 CONTROLLER
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MENU IN DETAIL
STATUS BAR
The status bar at the top of the display contains display elements. The rst four symbols show the statuses of the
data connections. If the symbols are visible, the connection is active.
01. TXT role: Master / Extension / Single
Master: The Controller as the master receives control commands from the PC and transmits them to the extensions.
Extension: The Controller receives control commands only from the master.
Single: In this mode, using the CAN interface to connect additional TXT 4.0 Controllers as expansions
is not supported, in order to reduce power consumption.
02. Wi-Fi/Client mode: activated / deactivated / connection error /
Access Point mode / connected to the internet
03. Bluetooth: activated / deactivated / connected / not connected
04. USB Host: connected / not connected / USB stick connected / camera connected
05. SD Card: inserted / not inserted / boot from the SD card
06. SSH: activated / deactivated
07. Update: current version is installed / status unknown / update successful,
restart successful / failed / update available / update process running
08. Power source Power supply/Battery Pack
09. Boot: Autoboot deactivated / activated
12:30
02 Wi-Fi
04 USB
05 SD card
06 SSH
07 Update 09 Boot
01 Status:
Master /Extension/Single
Clock
08 Battery
03 Bluetooth

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ROBOTICS TXT 4.0 CONTROLLER
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MASTER OR EXTENSION
This symbol indicates whether the Controller is set at the Master or Extension.
M = operated as the Master (LED of the ON/OFF button illuminated blue); E = operated as Extension (LED of the
ON/OFF button illuminated green).
Changes can be made in the Settings | Properties menu.
Master:
The Controller set as the master receives control commands directly from the PC and transmits them to the
extensions.
Extension:
The Controller set as the extension receives control commands only from the master.
Up to 9 extensions are possible.
Single:
In this mode, using the CAN interface to connect additional TXT 4.0 Controllers as expansions is not supported.
This results in an energy savings of up to 10%, and therefore a longer battery life.
TIME
Displays the current set time. This can be changed using the Settings| Date and time menu.
CONTROL ELEMENTS
The user can navigate through the menu by touching the control elements.
One step back
in menu
Scroll/swipe
To scroll through longer menus (appears only if the menu requires).
Back to main menu

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MENU
MAIN MENU
01. START PROGRAM
The selected program is started. If no program is selected, a blue bar appears. After the program is started, the
display switches to green. If the program is stopped, the bar is red.
02. FILE
If program les have been transferred to the Controller via download from a PC, they are listed here. They can be
selected, assigned start functions, or deleted (see Main menu | File | File name).

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If the user selects the example object, they will access the directory containing the executable Python le (name.py).
If the user clicks the le name, the “Load” button will turn green and the program can be loaded.
If the user presses the arrow beside the program name, they will see the following options:
Load
If this function is activated, the program is loaded into the program memory and can be
launched by pressing the Start button in the main menu.
Auto load
If this function is activated, the program loads automatically into the program memory once
the power supply is switched on, and can be launched by pressing the Start button in the main
menu.

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Auto start
If this function is activated, the selected program will start automatically once the power sup-
ply to the Controller is switched on.
Delete project
The project is deleted (a security question will appear rst).

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ROBOTICS TXT 4.0 CONTROLLER
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03. SETTINGS
Role
Here, the Controller is assigned the role of Master or Extension. For more information on Mas-
ters and Extensions, see the section “Extensions”.
Single / Master / Extension: 1…9
After a new Extension is connected, the Controller must be restarted to detect all extensions
during the boot process.
Language
The menu language can be changed here.
Network
Wireless connections can be activated and deactivated here. In addition, the pairing code for
Bluetooth and the network security key for Wi-Fi required to connect to the PC are displayed
here.
Wi-Fi: On / Off
Switch Wi-Fi on or off and connect to a router.
Access Point: On / Off
Switch Access Point functions on or off. The network security key/SSID is displayed.
Bluetooth: On / Off
Switch Bluetooth functions on or off. The pairing code is displayed.

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ROBOTICS TXT 4.0 CONTROLLER
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API key
Display the API key that must e entered to connect to the Controller.
Date and time
The time, date and time zone can be set here.
schertechnik Cloud
Link to the schertechnik Cloud. A pairing code is displayed that must be entered in the sch-
ertechnik Cloud (www.schertechnik-cloud.com).
Pairing code: Pairing successful:
Updates
Complete operating system updates for the Controller if necessary, when connected to the
internet. The status bar indicates whether there are updates available (see the Status bar sec-
tion).
Energy management
Start the Controller up automatically when connected to the power supply, and adjust the dis-
play brightness.
Remote access
Switch the SSH connection on or off.

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04. TEST
Touch
Test the touch function.
Sound Test
Calls up a display where available sound les can be selected and played.