TransTerm 8B ‘BASIC’ Computer

The TT8B has a built-in BASIC language interpreter that recognizes an abbreviated version of the BASIC language (TTBASIC). TTBASIC supports a set of functions and statements for memory initialization, program control, and input/output of data. Each program statement has a preceding integer line number. The statements are stored is ascending order in the program memory. TTBASIC statements can PROMPT the operator to enter data, recognize alpha numeric data from the keypad or optional barcode scanner, validate the input and review and/or edit the data in memory. BASIC routines can PRINT to the serial port or display, INPUT from the serial port, keypad or barcode reader, manipulate Integers, real numbers and string variables. Several Math functions are supported, and even the tone and duration of the beeper can be user controlled. The Interpreter operates in 3 modes:

1. DIRECT mode – Executes a TTBASIC statement immediately.
2. RUN mode – Executes a TTBASIC program downloaded to the TransTerm.
3. TERMINAL mode – Emulates a dumb terminal.

A TTBASIC DEVELOPERS KIT is available for the IBM PC/AT or compatible computers. Programs can be written, debugged, uploaded and downloaded from the PC (over COM1 or COM2). The kit includes a cable and a diskette containing a Utility program, Programmer’s Reference Manual, and sample TTBASIC programs and routines (with documentation).

• Twisted nematic liquid crystal technology with 2 lines x 16 character positions.
• Each character position is a 5×7 dot matrix, 0.179″ high x 0.124″ wide (4.55mm x 3.15mm).
• 96 ASCII characters (uppercase, lowercase, numerics and specials characters) with a blinking box cursor symbol.

• 32­key (4 col. x 8 row) hermetically sealed membrane keypad with Key­click for audible feedback.
• A WINDOWED polycarbonate overlay allows a printed key legend to be inserted between the keyboard and overlay to label the keys.
• Keyswitch travel: 0.006″ ­ 0.008″, Typical with actuating force: 4­8 ounces (Rated life: 10,000,000 cycles per switch element).
• The keypad supports 8 special characters, numerics (0-9) and Alphas (A-Z) (using the A/N key). Other keys perform the following functions:

STOP – Stops a RUNning program (RUN mode) and returns control to the keyboard (DIRECT mode).

RUN – Begins Execution of the program loaded into memory (RUN mode).

SPACE – Generates the ASCII space code (CHR(32)).

DELETE – This key entry deletes the last character entered.

ENTER – Generates the ASCII carriage return (CHR(13)) and terminates a statement line or string input.

A/N – Toggles from Numeric to Alpha key entry.

• 128K bytes (up to 1152k optional) used for both program and data storage.
• TTBASIC programs can be stored in RAM memory or optionally stored in EPROM memory.
• The maximum program size is 64K. Multiple programs can be CHAINED to on the RAM disk.
• The RAM memory can store multiple Data arrays and Data files for validation and data collection.
• The maximum number of files is 254, the maximum file length is 64K, and the maximum number of records per file is 64K.
• The RAM memory is maintained by a 3V lithium battery when the unit is turned off (3 to 5 year battery life).

• EIA RS­232C compatible with Serial asynchronous full duplex ASCII coding
• The TransTerm recognizes both hardware and software handshaking (XON/XOFF) and has a 32-byte input buffer.
• Data format: 1 start bit, 7 or 8 data bits, Optional parity (even, odd, mark, space or none) and 1 stop bit.
• The TransTerm supports eight baud rates: 110, 150, 300, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19.2K

The RS-232 connection uses a DB-9M connector with the following signals:

• The BARCODE interface is a Hewlett Packard wand interface (5 pin DIN) to connect a wand/pen, handheld laser, CCD scanner or barcode card reader. Nine different symbologies are supported: Code 39, Extended Code 39, UPC, EAN/JAN, Code 128, Codabar and Interleave 2 of 5.
• The TOUCH MEMORY interface reads Touch-key ID tags in place of the barcode reader. These small metal micro-cans provide a more durable alternative to bar coded badges (micro-cans are typically attached to a key chain).
• The DISPLAY BACKLIGHT option illuminates the display for viewing the TransTerm in the dark.
• CUSTOM OVERLAYS can be provided for high volume re-sellers with special needs (OEM applications).
• The PROTECTIVE CARRYING CASE has a loop to hang the unit from a belt and a holster for the barcode wand.

Case

• Two piece injection molded ABS. 

Power

• The TT8B is powered by four AA size Ni-Cad batteries and comes with a battery charger. The battery charger connects to a standard 110VAC outlet, and it’s cable plugs into the side of the unit. The TT8B can operate with the charger plugged in for extended periods of time.
• Power consumption: 30 milliamps @ 4.8 Volts (typical). Battery life is 10 to 20 hours on a full charge (varies with options, battery age, etc).
• The TransTerm can be optionally powered over the serial connector (6 to 12 VDC on pin #6).

Environment

• Operating: 0ºC to 60ºC (32ºF to 140ºF); Humidity: 5 to 95% noncondensing
• Storage Temperature: -30ºC to 70ºC (-20ºF to 158ºF); Humidity: 0 to 100%

Size and Weight (options will effect weight)

• Enclosure: Height: 7.50″ (19.05 cm), Width: 4.0″ (10.16 cm), Depth: 1.29″ (3.27 cm), Weight: 0.86 lbs. (535 grams)