Feature

PanelPilotACE capabilities extended with new software release

Lascar Electronics has released an update to its PanelPilotACE Design Studio software, which enables the rapid development of display interfaces with a simple drag-and-drop interface.

01/08/2015 10:20:51

The update provides powerful new interfacing and maths tools all of which can all be implemented without users needing to write a single line of code. Design Studio 2.0 is available to download for free here.

The addition of RS232 support in Design Studio 2.0 allows communication between PanelPilotACE and other external devices, supporting the sending and receiving of serial messages and configuration of protocol, message format and error checking. This allows, for instance, users to mirror the display to a slave device or to enable logging of readings.

Maths functions - accessed via the 'Mathematics Builder' feature - provide a powerful tool for performing calculations on values held within any project. A full range of mathematical operators are available to users: from simple addition and multiplication, through to exponential and trigonometric functions. These functions can be applied to most properties and variables within an application. Simple examples of its use would be for calculating power from two analogue inputs, or adjusting the value of a variable based on a touch screen input.

The enhanced Design Studio software also includes a number of new library elements such as meters, dials, buttons, widgets, and backgrounds. A suite of graphic files has also been made available for users to repurpose. These two resources make it much easier for those without access to graphic design software to quickly create attractive projects.

Lascar’s software remains free of charge, so any new user can download it if they wish to become familiar with the format and interface before purchasing a display. Users are able to configure a virtual PanelPilotACE, emulating its functionality in software before the hardware is connected, enabling developers to establish what’s possible with PanelPilotACE before installation.

PanelPilotACE is a hardware and software display platform that enables the rapid development of fully customised industrial and commercial user interfaces and panel meters. PanelPilotACE’s combination of a multifunctional touch-screen colour display with simple drag-and-drop design software removes the need for any coding, cutting development time for even the most advanced displays by months.

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.