Run a Single Program at Different Microcontroller Locations

Managing the Clones

© Lead Image © urbanhearts, Fotolia.com

© Lead Image © urbanhearts, Fotolia.com

Article from Issue 308/2026
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Use common logic with DIP switches to determine functionality, IP addresses, hostnames, and other functional differences on repetitive hardware arrangements.

There are many projects where a common hardware setup is repeated in multiple locations. For systems with only three microcontrollers, creating unique logic for each instances is a sensible approach. However, when you work with over ten controllers, this can be a nightmare to maintain, debug, or add a new functionality.

This problem has a solution that is commonly used in industrial Modbus [1] and Remote Terminal Unit (RTU) [2] applications: it is to make use of Dual In-line Package (DIP) switches in the hardware setup. Typical applications for DIP switches include module addressing, defining I/O, and enabled debug features (Figure 1). Figure 2 shows DIP switches being used as selectors on relay, input/output boards, and a Raspberry Pi I/O shield.

Figure 1: You can use common logic with DIP switches to give unique configuration at different microcontroller locations.

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