In common with our other control boards the PC-Hawk can simply connect to a free USB port on a standard PC providing PC control of up 28 switching outputs. However, what is unique about the PC-Hawk is its ability to also operate independently of a PC.   i.e. the board can be programmed with switching sequences while connected to the PC (using our supplied software) and then disconnected from the USB port to operate in a "Standalone" mode. Full details of all board facilities are available in the manual which can be downloaded from the foot of this page. A brief description of both modes of operation is given below...

Connected Mode (connected to a PC via a USB port)
   Simply connect the PC-Hawk to any free USB port to give immediate access to 28 high voltage switches (up to 50v).   With in-built protection diodes, the PC-Hawk's 28 high voltage switches can directly connect to a wide range of devices including Electric Motors,  Relays,  Lamps.....In fact anything that can be operated by a simple DC electronic switch.

   

   Supplied with the PC-Hawk is Control Desk software.  This is a full editing suite for creating your own switch sequencer programs.  Simply enter your pattern of On/Offs and the duration of each step for up to 10,000 steps followed by RUN to  watch your connected devices respond according to your programmed sequence. No computer programming knowledge is required.

    PC-Hawk is designed to be simple to use even for the complete beginner with full instructions on how to connect devices and create your switch sequences. A standard USB lead (not included) is needed to connect the PC-Hawk to your computer .

Standalone Mode (not connected to a PC)
   One of the big advantages of using the PC-Hawk over our other USB control boards is the ability to operate completely independently of the PC. Once a sequence of control steps have been stored on the PC-Hawk , which would be done while it is connected to the PC, it is then possible to run this control sequence after disconnecting the board from its USB connection. When disconnected, PC-Hawk will still require a power source to operate and a momentary push button switch to allow the control sequence to be started/re-started. These external connections are made via the PL3 “Standalone Connector” . This is a 10 way header suitable for connection with standard 10 way IDC type plugs . These are typically made up as a 10 way ribbon cable assembly.

  PC Hawk requires a simple (clean) 5v DC supply with a current capability of 500mA.   Although it is very simple to connect PC Hawk in standalone mode we have a small adaptor board which makes it even simpler. The board is called the "Talon" and incorporates a Push button for reset, a on/off switch, a 5v regulation device and a 1-1 10 way header connector allowing a 10 way straight through ribbon cable (provided with the Talon) to be used for connecting directly to PC-Hawk.  The on board 5v regulator means that any external supply in the range of 6v - 12v can be used. For example the Talon is shown below connected to a PC-Hawk and using a standard 6v battery pack as a power source. This arrangement is a fully operational configuration...