AppBlaster User Guide for TWN4

Quick guide from the manual

AppBlaster is a software tool designed for the Elatec TWN4 developer pack. It allows users to configure and program TWN4 readers for specific applications. You can prepare the reader by directly programming firmware, using interactive configuration, or by writing custom C code. The software also supports configuration via RF interface using configuration cards.

System Requirements

• Operating system: Microsoft Windows 7 or later (32 or 64 bit)
• Microsoft .NET Framework 4.7.2
• Processor: 2 GHz
• Hard Disk: 100 MB
• RAM: 4 GB

Installation

The software is distributed as a zip file within the developer pack. To install, create an empty directory on your hard disk and unzip the entire content of the package into it. The executable file is located in the top directory.

Configurable Project

To start a new project, select the Configurable Project button in the main dialog. The process involves several steps:

• Select Application Template: Choose the appropriate template based on your hardware. MultiBIX templates support multiple hardware types.
• Add Transponder Types: Select the required transponder technologies from the category list and add them to the active list.
• Specify Data Source: Define where data is stored on the transponder (e.g., UID, sector, block).
• Output Format: Configure how the data is formatted and output.
• Signalling/Behaviour: Customize LED and beeper responses for events like startup, card detection, or timeout.
• Security: Manage device security settings as detailed in the separate TWN4 Device Security document.
• Version Information: Assign a naming scheme to your firmware image for easier identification.
• Create and Program Image: Build the firmware image and program it into the TWN4 device.

OSDP Projects

OSDP applications differ from standard apps as signalling and behaviour are controlled by the host. Configuration is limited to OSDP-specific properties, such as reader model selection, standard properties (address, baud rate), and custom properties for customer-designed hardware.

Source Code Project

For advanced requirements not covered by standard configuration, you can create a source code project. This allows you to implement custom logic, host-based communication, or specific I/O handling using C programming language. The project dialog is simplified, focusing on template selection, source code module specification, and compilation options.

Setting Up AppBlaster

Access settings to manage command execution (e.g., showing command lines for make-based projects) and connection ports. Ensure the correct port (USB or COM) is selected based on your hardware connection.