Integrate into a "dock" or bench?

[technerdchris]

Hi, I just learned of the m5 stack system and am excited because it seems I won't need to build and program the UI like I have for prior projects. Just a couple buttons can add days to a prototype!

I envision a testing bench with a core, face, and joystick module.

• Is it possible to also add the USB module with core and face?
• Does it go above the face and below the core?
• USB module also has general IO pins? (I may interface with a stepper motor driver, etc)

This bench it would affix to, I will create and it will hold the face and supply power, too. I have built test benches with chipKIT and ESP32 and wish I have used m5 Stack, which looks like will be my favorite going forward.

Thanks!
Chris

[m5stack]

Yes. You can stack "FACES Bottom + FACSE joystick panel + USB module + Core". The USB module has many IO pins. You can use them to program high or low digital signals. But you are not sure if it has the ability to drive a stepper motor. You can refer to its data sheet for this.

USB Module MAX3421E- datasheet link: https://m5stack.oss-cn-shenzhen.aliyuncs.com/resource/docs/datasheet/module/MAX3421E_en.pdf

[technerdchris]

@m5stack does the USB module go on top of the FACES and under the Core?

Yes, I would use an intermediate driver for the stepper itself and use the MCU + USB module to send signals. I mostly assume MCU pins do not do any work beyond to send/receive signals. ESP project above uses 3.3V relay to switch 12VDC. The chipKIT project referenced above uses Sparkfun Easy Driver product. Another application with a more hefty stepper uses "Rugger Circuits" designed Rugged Motor Driver shield.

Thanks,
Chris

[m5stack]

@technerdchris yes , USB module go on top of the FACES and under the Core , then stack they together