3M Touch Screen Controller MT3000 Reference Guide

MT3000
Capacitive Controller

Reference Guide

The information in this document is subject to change without notice. No part of this document may be
reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, for any purpose, without the
express written permission of MicroTouch Systems, Inc. MicroTouch may have patents or pending patent
applications, trademarks, copyrights, or other intellectual property rights covering subject matter in this
document. The furnishing of this document does not give you license to these patents, trademarks, copyrights, or
other intellectual property except as expressly provided in any written license agreement from MicroTouch.

© 1999 MicroTouch Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.
Printed in the United States of America.

Document Title
Document Number: 19-236, Version 2.0

MicroTouch, the MicroTouch logo, AdLink, ClearTek, DrivePoint, Factura, FinePoint, Ibid, the Ibid logo,
KeyPad, Microcal, PicturePad, P r i vacyTouch, Prospector, The Public Browser, QuickPoint, ScreenWriter Tablet,
SimpleTouch, SurfControl, ThruGlass, TouchMate, TouchPad, TouchPen, TouchWare, TouchTek, TruePoint,
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MicroTouch Systems Incorporated in the United States and/or other countries.

Microsoft, MS-DOS, Windows, and Windows NT are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

: MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide

Contents

About This Manual

MicroTouch Support Services........................................................5

MicroTouch Technical Support ................................................5

MicroTouch on the World Wide Web......................................6

MicroTouch Corporate Headquarters and Worldwide Offices......7

Chapter 1 Integrating the MT3000 Controller

Overview of the MT3000 Touchscreen Controller......................10

Mounting the MT3000 Controller................................................12

Connecting the Touchscreen Cable..............................................14

Establishing the Data Connection................................................15

Supplying Power to the Controller...............................................17

Using an Internal Power Supply (+5V) to JP2.......................17

Using a Custom Serial Cable Design.....................................18

Using an External Wall-Mount Power Supply.......................18

Using a Keyboard Power Tap Cable......................................18

Mounting the Touchscreen...........................................................19

Turning On Your System.............................................................19

Status Light (LED) Diagnostics ...................................................20

What's Next? ................................................................................22

Installing and Using TouchWare............................................22

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide4

Calibrating the Touchscreen ..................................................22

Chapter 2 Communicating with the MT3000 Controller

Controller Default Settings .......................................................... 24

Communication Parameters...................................................24

Data Format............................................................................ 24

Operating Mode ..................................................................... 25

Communicating with the Controller ............................................26

Sending Commands to the Controller.................................... 26

Receiving Responses from the Controller..............................27

Summary of Firmware Commands..............................................30

AutoBaud Disable........................................................................34

AutoBaud Enable.........................................................................35

Calibrate Extended....................................................................... 36

Determining Target Areas......................................................36

Guidelines for Calibrate Extended......................................... 37

Calibrate Extended Procedure................................................38

Calibrate Raw............................................................................... 39

Format Decimal............................................................................ 41

Format Raw..................................................................................43

Format Tablet............................................................................... 45

Mode Status..................................................................................47

Mode Stream................................................................................49

Null Command............................................................................. 50

Output Identity.............................................................................51

Parameter Lock ............................................................................ 52

Parameter Set ............................................................................... 53

Reset.............................................................................................55

Restore Defaults........................................................................... 56

Unit Type Verify.......................................................................... 57

Appendix A MT3000 Controller Specifications

Index

About This Manual

This reference manual, directed to developers of touchscreen systems,
provides installation and configuration information for the MicroTouch
MT3000 capacitive touchscreen controller.

This document includes information on integrating the MT3000 controller
into your design, communicating with the controller, installing the
TouchWare user interface software, and troubleshooting setup problems. It
also includes a complete description of the firmware commands, a guide to
interpreting status LED conditions, and a table of controller specifications.

MicroTouch Support Services

MicroTouch provides extensive support services through our technical
support organization. You can contact technical support by telephone, fax,
or electronic mail, or obtain updated information and drivers on the World
Wide Web.

MicroTouch Technical Support

Technical Support by telephone is available:

24 hours a day, Monday through Friday (excluding holidays)

•

9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Saturday and Sunday

•

(excluding holidays)

The Technical Support Hot Line number is: 978-659-9200

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide6

Whenever you contact Technical Support, please be ready to provide the
following information:

Part numbers of your controller and sensor

•

Version number of your MicroTouch TouchWare

•

Make and model of your personal computer

•

Name and version number of your operating system

•

Type of mouse connected to your system

•

List of other peripherals connected to your system

•

List of application software installed on your system

•

You can also submit a written description of the problem to MicroTouch
Technical Support at any time by sending a fax or electronic mail.

Technical Support Fax: [phone]

•

Technical Support E-Mail: [e-mail]

•

MicroTouch on the World Wide Web

You can download MicroTouch touchscreen software and drivers, obtain
regularly updated technical information on MicroTouch products, or learn
more about our company at the following web site:

http://www.microtouch.com

About This Manual 7

MicroTouch Corporate Headquart er s and Worldwide Offices

United States

MicroTouch Systems, Inc.
300 Griffin Brook Park Drive
Methuen, MA 01844
United States
Phone: [phone]; Fax: [phone]
Web Site: http://www.microtouch.com
E-Mail: [e-mail]
Support Hot Line: 978-659-9200
Support Fax: [phone]
Support E-Mail: [e-mail]

Australia

MicroTouch Australia, Pty Ltd.
797 Springvale Road
Mulgrave Victoria 3170 Australia
Phone: [phone]
Web Site: http://www.microtouch.com.au
E-Mail: [e-mail]
Support: [e-mail]

France

MicroTouch Systems SARL
Europarc de Créteil
19, rue Le Corbusier
94042 Créteil Cedex France
Phone: [phone]
Email:

[e-mail]

Germany

MicroTouch Systems GmbH
Schiess-Straße 55
40549 Düsseldorf Germany
Phone: [phone]

Email:

[e-mail]

Hong Kong

MicroTouch Systems Ltd.
Unit 1, 26/F, Westley Square
48 Hoi Yuen Road, Kwun Tong
Kowloon, Hong Kong, SAR, PRC
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

Italy

MicroTouch Systems srl
C.so Milano, 19
20052 Monza (MI) Italy
Phone: [phone]
Email:

[e-mail]

Japan

MicroTouch Systems K.K.
Bellevue Miz onokuchi Build ing 3F
3-2-3, Hisamoto, Takatsu-ku
Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa 213 Japan
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

Korea

MicroTouch Systems, Inc.
#402, 4

th

Floor, Nam-Kyung Building
769-6 Yeoksam-Dong, Kangnam-Gu
Seoul, Korea
Phone: [phone]

Spain

MicroTouch Systems SL
Via Augusta 13-17 , Oficina 704
08006 Barcelona Spain
Phone: [phone]
Email:

[e-mail]

Taiwan R.O.C.

MicroTouch Systems, Inc. Taiwan
9-3 Floor, No. 33, Sec. 1, Minsheng Road
Panchiao, Taipei County 22046
Taiwan, R.O.C.
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

United Kingdom

MicroTouch Systems, Ltd.
163 Milton Park Abingdon
Oxon OX14 4SD England
Phone: [phone]
Email:

[e-mail]

CHAPTER 1

Integrating the MT3000 Controller

The MicroTouch MT3000 controller offers an economical, high
performance solution for capacitive touch applications. Its compact design
makes for easy integration into flat panel displays and mobile devices.

The MT3000 controller works with all the leading operating systems and is
backed by the MicroTouch guarantee of worldwide support.

This chapter covers the following MT3000 controller specifications:

Mounting requirements

•

Power requirements and options

•

Cable connections

•

Data exchange

•

Status LED codes

•

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide10

Overview of the MT3000 Touchscreen Control ler

The MT3000 touchscreen controller and touchscreen are supplied as a
matched set. A 25-point linearization procedure has been performed to
determine the physical properties of the screen, and the data is stored in the
NovRAM of the controller that ships with the screen.

The controller and touchscreen are shipped mated by the flex cable with a
serialized label on the sensor, the controller, and over the connector to
identify them as a matched set. If the connection needs to be broken during
the integration process, the components can be matched again by serial
number.

The MT3000 is a compact controller with a standard RS-232 serial
interface. It measures 1.3 x 2.4 inches with a total height profile of 0.4
inches from the thru hole pins on the trace side of the board to the top of the
highest component on the opposite side. The MT3000 has a touchscreen
connector, a serial cable connector, and a power connector. Refer to
Figure 1 for connector locations and to Figure 2 for the overall dimensions.

5-Wire
Touchscreen
Connector

Power

RS-232 Cable
Connection

Figure 1 MT3000 Connector Locations

Chapter 1 Integrating the MT3000 Controller 11

2.435"

0.125"

[3.18mm]

[61.85mm]

JP4

+

JP2

[3.18mm]

0.125"

0.125"

[3.18mm]

LED1

JP1

0.125"

[3.18mm]

Figure 2 MT3000 Overall Dimensions

To properly integrate and test the MT3000 controller, you need the
following items:

A MicroTouch capacitive touchscreen and MT3000, mated as a

•

linearized set. The touchscreens are available in a variety of sizes.

1.300"

[33.02mm]

A method of establishing the serial data communication between the

•

controller and your system. You can use the standard MicroTouch RS­232 serial cable (P/N 7310101), or you can build your own cable.

A method of supplying power to the controller. There are several options

•

available including a cable connection to the 0.2 inch power connector
(JP2) or supplying power through the serial cable.

A touchscreen driver with a 2–point calibration routine available to the

•

end user.

Note:

You can use TouchWare, which includes the touchscreen device

driver and utilities software.

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide12

Mounting the MT3000 Controller

You can easily mount the MT3000 controller using standard 4-40 machine
screws and washers through the two existing mounting holes. All the
components and the connectors are mounted on the top side of the PC board
to reduce the overall profile and to minimize clearance requirements.
Figure 3 shows the connector locations and identifies which of the
mounting holes requires grounding.

0.122" (4-40 screw grounding required)

0.336"

0.836"

[21.23mm]

0.200"

[5.08mm]

[8.53mm]

JP4

+

JP2

0.122" (4-40 screw no-grounding required)

0.080"

[2.03mm]

LED1

0.400"

[10.16mm]

0.929"

JP1

[23.60mm]

Figure 3 Connector Locations and Mounting Holes

When you mount the MT3000 controller, remember the following important
rules:

Always mount the controller internally. You can orient the components

•

up or down, but turn the board so that the flex cable is not twisted 180°.
If possible, mount the controller with the component side visible so you
can monitor the status of the LED.

Ground the controller. Mount it to a metal chassis surface if possible. If

•

you must mount it to a non-metal surface, be sure to attach a ground
wire as described in the last paragraph of this section.

Maintain a clearance of at least 1/8 inch from the highest projection on

•

the controller to the chassis.
Try to find a mounting area that is away from heat sources and EMI

•

noise generators such as power supplies and backlight (or CRT) drive
electronics.

Chapter 1 Integrating the MT3000 Controller 13

Route the touchscreen flex cable around the display and plug it into the

•

controller connector (JP4). The cable is supplied mated to the controller
and taped over with a part number sticker. If you must disconnect the
cable during assembly, ensure that the controller is re-mated to the
sensor with the same serial number.

To avoid malfunctions or damage due to electrostatic discharge (ESD),
make sure you properly ground the controller through the mounting hole
shown in Figure 3. Ideally, you should mount the controller to a metal
chassis surface that is properly grounded using metal screws and standoffs.

If you use plastic screws, or if you mount the controller to a non-metal
surface, you must connect the mounting hole

connector

(JP4) to a grounded location. See Figure 3. Be sure to route the

nearest the touchscreen

wire to the nearest grounded location, and keep the wire dimensions as short
and as thick as possible. MicroTouch recommends that you use braided
ground cable with a flat lug crimped at both ends.

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide14

Connecting the Touchscreen Cable

The touchscreen connector (JP4) is a 5-pin AMP 103634-5, locking right
angle male connector with pins on 0.1 inch centers.

The MT3000 controller supports exiting the flex cable in any direction from
the touchscreen– from the top, bottom, left or right. The standard
configuration is with the flex cable exiting from the right side of the sensor,
(3 o’clock position) when viewed from the front.

5-Wire
Touchscreen
Connector

Figure 4 Touchscreen Connector

If you exit from another direction, the controller firmware automatically
determines the pinout configuration when you calibrate the touchscreen
with TouchWare or your equivalent software. This permits flexibility in
orienting the sensor and in mounting the controller to conform to your
hardware requirements.

The automatic pinout configuration feature resides in the controller and is
independent of the driver you are using.

MicroTouch can provide software for performing a 25–point linearization
procedure by the customer, although this is not required with a mated
controller and sensor.

Caution:

If you are equipped to perform a 25–point linearization and
decide to do so, you must orient the sensor with the tail exiting to the right
during the procedure. After linearization, you can re-orient the screen as
required by your OEM design.

Chapter 1 Integrating the MT3000 Controller 15

Establishing the Data Connection

The MT3000 controller requires that an RS-232 serial communication cable
be attached to connector JP1.

You can use a standard MicroTouch RS-232 cable (P/N 7310101). You may
need a 9-pin to 25-pin adapter if the only available communication (COM)
port on your PC has 25 pins. One end of this cable plugs into the RS-232
connector (JP1) on the MT3000 controller (Figure 5). The other end, which
has a 9-pin D connector, plugs into a COM port on your PC, directly or
through the adapter. Table 1 describes the interconnections for the
MicroTouch RS-232 cable.

For OEM designs, you can build your own cable using a 7-pin Molex
connector (51004-0700) to mate to the JP1 connector, and design your own
connector or hard-wired configuration at the other end.

As an option, MicroTouch can supply a controller with the RS232
transceiver removed and bypassed to allow a direct serial 5V logic
interface.

Figure 5 Data Connection

RS-232 Cable
Connection

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide16

Table 1 COM Cable for MT3000 Controller

PC Side

(9-Pin D)

Pin RS-232 Assigned Jumpered to: Color Pin Description

1 Data Carrier Detect

(DCD)

2 Receive Data

(RXD)

3 Transmit Data

(TXD)

4 Data Terminal Ready

(DTR)
5 Signal Ground Blue 5 Power supply ground
6 Data Set Ready

(DSR)
7 Request to Send

(RTS)

4 and 6
DTR and DSR

1 and 6
DCD and DSR

1 and 4
DCD and DSR

Wire Controller Side

(7-Pin Molex)



Brown 2 Transmit Data

Red 3 Receive Data





Black 1 Request to Send

None

(TXD)

(RXD)

None

None

(RTS)

8 Clear to Send

(CTS)
Sleeve White 6 DC power jack

Pin

Shell

Green 4 Clear to Send

(CTS)

(+5 VDC)





7 Cable shield connected

to ground. D C power
jack ground

7 Chassis (earth) ground

Chapter 1 Integrating the MT3000 Controller 17

Supplying Power to the Controller

You must supply the MT3000 controller with power. You can use internal
power (that is, tap power from inside the monitor or PC) or external power.

Note:

with a maximum ripple and noise of 50mV peak-to-peak.

You can supply power to the MT3000 controller using any of the following
methods:

•

•

•

•

Caution:

controller. Power from two sources could damage one or both of the power
supplies.

However you supply power, the source must deliver 70 mA typical,

Internal power into JP2 using +5 volts DC at JP2, pin 1 and power
supply ground at JP2, pin 2

Internal power through a custom serial cable configuration
External power (+5 volts DC) from a wall-mount power supply
External power (+5 volts DC) from a keyboard power tap cable

Do not supply both internal power and external power to the

Using an Internal Power Supply (+5V) to JP2

You can power the MT3000 at JP2 using a +5 volt DC power source within
the system.

To provide power directly to the controller using JP2:

!

1.

Obtain a locking, mating connector for JP2
(Molex housing 22-01-3027 with 08-50-0114 contacts).

2.

Attach power and ground to the connector (Pin 1: +5V ,
Pin 2: Ground). The connector is keyed. Pin 1 has continuity to the
trace marked + on the board.

3.

Insert locking connector into JP2.

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide18

Using a Custom Serial Cable Design

When creating a custom serial cable connection (refer to "Establishing the

!

Data Connection"), you can provide power to the controller through the
mating Molex connector:

1.

Obtain a 7-pin Molex connector 51004-0700.

2.

Attach power and ground to the connector, (Pin 6: +5V, Pin 7: Ground).

Using an External Wall-Mount Power Supply

If you are using a standard MicroTouch RS-232 serial cable (P/N 7310101),
you can use either a 120 volt wall-mount power supply (P/N 19-408) or a
220 volt wall-mount power supply (P/N 19-409).

To connect an external wall-mount power supply:

!

1.

Remove the plastic plug covering the power jack of the 9-pin D
connector on the serial cable.

2. Connect a DC power plug to the power jack built into the 9-pin D
connector.

3. Plug the power supply into a grounded outlet. The power plug supplies
both +5V and ground.

Using a Keyboard Power Tap Cable

If you are using a standard MicroTouch RS-232 serial cable, you can use
either a 5-pin IBM AT compatible keyboard power tap cable (MicroTouch
P/N 19-356) or a 6-pin IBM PS/2 compatible keyboard power tap cable
(P/N 19-357).

To connect a keyboard power tap cable:

!

1. Disconnect the keyboard cable from the back of your computer.

2.

Plug the keyboard cable into the power tap cable.

3.

Plug the power tap cable into the keyboard socket on the back of your
computer.

4.

Remove the plastic plug covering the power jack of the 9-pin D
connector on the serial cable.

5.

Connect the DC plug from the power tap cable to the jack built into the
9-pin D connector.

Mounting the Touchscreen

There are several methods for mounting the touchscreen depending on your
application (CRT displays, LCD modules, flat panel displays, each in a
variety of sizes). If you need instructions or recommendations from
MicroTouch on how to incorporate a touchscreen into your OEM design,
you can order the publication Touchscreen Kits Installation Guide
(Document Number 19-215).

Turning On Your System

Before you turn on your custom system, ensure that all cables are connected
properly and that the controller is properly mounted. Be sure to tighten all
cable connector screws.

Chapter 1 Integrating the MT3000 Controller 19

To start up your system:

!

1. Turn on your monitor and computer.

2.

Adjust the contrast and brightness to suit your personal preference and
working environment.

3.

Adjust the horizontal and vertical position controls on the monitor to
center the image on the screen.

The MT3000 controller has a light emitting diode (LED) on the component
side of the board that indicates the status of the touchscreen unit.

If it was necessary for you to mount the controller component side down,
you can determine the status of the LED from its reflected light off the
mounting surface.

If the LED is on, and remains dimly lit, the controller has power and is
operating properly. If the LED is off, the controller is not receiving power.
See the next section for other indications.

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide20

Status Light (LED) Diagnostics

MicroTouch controllers are highly reliable units, however there may be
occasions when the controller does not perform exactly as you expect. The
MT3000 controller provides diagnostic feedback with an LED as shown in
Figure 6.

Figure 6 Diagnostic LED (component side)

When you power-up the unit, the LED is bright until the controller start-up
sequence is completed. Following start-up, the LED becomes dim and
remains dim as long as you do not touch the sensor. When you touch the
sensor, the LED becomes bright.

LED

A flashing (or blinking) LED during power-up indicates the controller’s
power-on self-test failed. Refer to Table 2 for a description of each error
code.

Chapter 1 Integrating the MT3000 Controller 21

Table 2. LED Diagnostic Codes for MT3000 Controller

LED Flashes

(per 10 seconds)

1 0 Reserved for future assignment.

2 1 ROM error. Firmware checksum verification

3 2 Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) error. Unable to

4 3 Block 1 NovRAM error. The operating

5 4 HDW error. The controller hardware failed

6 5 Reserved for future assignment.

7 6 Reserved for future assignment.

8 7 Block 2 NovRAM error. The linearization data in

Self-Test Bit

(UV Command)

Error Description

error.

establish PWM operating range at power-up.

parameters in the controller NovRAM are
invalid. Using defaults.

(unable to initialize or configure gate array).
Non-recoverable error.

the controller NovRAM is invalid.

Note:

Some errors are non-recoverable, meaning that normal touchscreen
operation cannot occur. Recoverable errors cause the controller to revert to
default values.

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide22

What's Next?

You have successfully installed the MT3000 controller and connected the
touchscreen to your computer. You are now ready to complete the following
tasks:

•

•

Installing and Using TouchWare

TouchWare includes the software driver that lets your touchscreen work
with your computer. MicroTouch has touchscreen drivers for many
operating systems, including Windows 3.1x, Windows 95, Windows 98,
Windows NT, MS-DOS, and OS-2. Be sure to install the touchscreen
software for the operating system you are using.

TouchWare also includes a control panel for setting user touchscreen
preferences and diagnostic utilities for isolating problems. For more
information on installing and using the touchscreen control panel, refer to
the

Install TouchWare or equivalent software for your touchscreen
Use the software to calibrate the touchscreen

TouchWare User’s Guide

.

Calibrating the Touchscreen

Calibration

the dimensions of the image area on the touchscreen, determining the edges
of the screen’s image, and locating the center of the touchscreen. You must
calibrate the touchscreen and test the calibration to ensure its successful
operation.

See the
touchscreen.

aligns the touchscreen with the underlying video by defining

TouchWare User’s Guide

for instructions on calibrating your

CHAPTER 2

Communicating with the MT3000
Controller

This chapter discusses the fundamentals of communicating with the
MT3000 controller. The firmware commands, which are usually issued by a
driver or utility program on the host system, control the operation of the
touchscreen controller, however developers can enter these commands
directly.

This chapter

Describes the controller default settings

•

Lists the recommended firmware commands for current development

•

Describes how to use each of these commands

•

References additional commands developers may need to use

•

The description of each command includes the command syntax, the default
value, how the command works, and the expected response from the
controller.

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide24

Controller Default Settings

This section describes the default settings for the MT3000 controller.

Communication Parameters

The default operation of the MT3000 controller is N, 7, 2 (no parity, 7 data
bits, and 2 stop bits) at 9600 baud. It also can be programmed to work with
even/odd parity, 8 data bits, and 1 or 2 stop bits.

Data Format

Data format

touch coordinates to the host system.
Format Decimal is the default format for the MT3000 controller operating

at 7 data bits. Format Decimal is provided for compatibility with older
designs,
current development because:

Format Tablet uses only 5 bytes per point and provides the most rapid

•

response time to a touch.
It is the most efficient and most compact data format, sending

•

approximately 192 packets per second at 9600 baud.
Format Tablet includes a status byte. The status byte contains

•

information on whether the X/Y coordinate is generated from a
touchdown, a touch continuation (when the finger is resting on the
screen), or a touch liftoff.

Format Tablet is supported by all current MicroTouch touchscreen

•

controllers.
It is the standard for current MicroTouch product development and is

•

the format used by all touchscreen drivers written by MicroTouch.

To use Format Tablet, you must reinitialize the controller to N, 8, 1. See the
initialization instructions in the following section: Communicating With the
Controller.

refers to the type of packet the controller uses to send the X/Y

however

MicroTouch recommends that you use Format Tablet for

Refer also to the Format Tablet command in the firmware reference section
that follows.

Chapter 2 Communicating with the MT3000 Controller 25

Operating Mode

The

operating mode

specifies the conditions under which the controller

sends the X/Y touch coordinates (input data packet) to the host system.
Mode Stream is the default operating mode for the MT3000 controller. In

Mode Stream, the controller sends a continuous stream of data packets
when the screen is touched. The controller sends the data as long as a touch
continues on the sensor.

Because Mode Stream sends touch data continually, it is the most versatile
mode, and it provides the best response time and overall feel.

MicroTouch recommends that the touchscreen generate an interrupt as each
byte in the data stream arrives. Because touchdown and liftoff events are
specially coded, your software always knows exactly what the user is doing,
provided that the interrupts are sent as recommended. This enables instant
feedback and prevents data loss.

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide26

Communicating wi th the Contr ol ler

This section provides information on sending firmware commands to the
controller and interpreting the responses that the controller returns.

The commands listed in this section are those that Microtouch currently
uses for development. MicroTouch recommends that you use these
commands for MT3000 controller development, however if you need
additional commands for compatibility with older designs, you can find the
complete command set on the TouchWare CD. Refer to Table 5 in this
document and the respective commands in the Touch Controllers Reference
Guide on the TouchWare CD.

Commands to the controller are sent on the signal
as a serial data stream. For each command it receives, the controller sends a
response to the host on the signal
serial data stream.

Transmit Data

Receive Data

(TXD) line– also as a

(RXD) line

Sending Commands to the Controller

When you send a command to the controller, you must use the correct
command format. The general format of a command is as follows:

<Header>Command<Terminator>

Note:

MicroTouch’s terminal emulator key sequences. You may need to enter the
sequence in a different format, depending on your emulator.

The
start-of-header control character SOH. The hexadecimal code for the ASCII
SOH control character is 01. To start the command sequence, use the key
combination Ctrl A (^A). If you are working with an IBM PC compatible
system, the Ctrl A key combination immediately returns an ASCII
character.

The following descriptions of header, command, and terminator, use

header

is the first character in the command string and is the ASCII

!

The

command

uppercase letters and numbers only (printable characters).

The

terminator

carriage return CR. An ASCII CR control character is 0D hexadecimal. To

, which always follows the header, consists of ASCII

is the last character of each command string and is an ASCII

Chapter 2 Communicating with the MT3000 Controller 27

enter a carriage return, ending the command sequence, use Enter or the key
combination Ctrl M (^M).

This chapter lists each command as a string of ASCII control characters and
printable characters consisting of a header, the command, and a terminator
as follows:

<SOH>

Command

<CR>

Receiving Responses from the Controller

After executing a command, the controller returns a response or
acknowledgment to the host system. Each controller response consists of a
header, the command response, and a terminator in the following format:

<Header>Command Response<Terminator>

Note:

MicroTouch’s terminal emulator key sequences. The format of controller
responses varies depending on the terminal emulation mode you are using.

The
start-of-header control character SOH. The hexadecimal code for the ASCII
SOH control character is 01. If you are working with an IBM PC compatible
system in terminal mode, the SOH control character returns a ! character to
the screen.

The
characters depending on the type of command received. Responses can be
in many forms.

The following descriptions of header, response, and terminator, use

header

response

is the first character in the response string and is the ASCII

, which always follows the header, is a range of ASCII

For example, one standard response is 0 (ASCII character ‘zero’ or 30
hexadecimal). This response indicates a successful command completion
for most commands, while it indicates a failed completion for other
commands. See the firmware reference section for a description of what the
response indicates for

particular command.

each

Another standard response is 1 (ASCII character ‘one’ or 31 hexadecimal).
In most cases, this response indicates the command failed. The controller
received an invalid command that it could not execute.

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide28

Some possible reasons for a command failure include:

The command was not formatted correctly.

•

The system parameters were not set up to allow command execution.

•

The controller does not support the command.

•

The

terminator

is the last character of each response string and is an ASCII
carriage return CR. The hexadecimal code for the ASCII CR control
character is 0D hexadecimal. The value returned in the response will be the
ASCII control character for a carriage return, displayed on the screen as the
cursor moving to the next line.

In this chapter, responses are shown as a string of ASCII characters
consisting of a header, the response, and a terminator as follows:

<SOH>

Response

<CR>

Controller Initialization

To initialize the MT3000 controller for new development, send the
sequence of commands shown in Table 3. For controller responses to each
of these commands, see the firmware reference section at the end of this
document.

Chapter 2 Communicating with the MT3000 Controller 29

Table 3 MT3000 Initialization Command String

Sequence # Command Format

1 Reset
2 AutoBaud Disable
3 Parameter Set

4 Format Tablet
5 Mode Stream
6 Parameter Lock

<SOH>R<CR>
<SOH>AD<CR>
<SOH>

PN812

<CR>

<SOH>FT<CR>
<SOH>MS<CR>
<SOH>PL<CR>

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide30

Summary of Firmware Commands

Developers may use this information when writing touch applications,
developing custom drivers or touch configurations, or testing their touch
systems. Developers can use firmware commands to initialize the controller,
select operating modes, specify data formats, and execute diagnostic
functions.

Most touchscreen users do

have to use firmware commands to use their

not

touch systems. For example, users can use TouchWare or equivalent
software to calibrate the touchscreen or to determine the controller type and
firmware version.

Caution:

This document assumes you are familiar with firmware
commands and how to use them. Executing some commands alters the
performance of your touchscreen and can render it inoperable. You should
be aware of the results before executing any firmware commands.

To optimize the performance of the MT3000 touchscreen controller and
simplify the development of custom drivers, MicroTouch recommends you
use the commands listed in Table 4 for current development. Using these
commands ensures compatibility with current MicroTouch controllers.

Table 5 lists the additional commands you can find in the Touch Controllers
Reference Guide located on the TouchWare CD.

Note:

When you enter commands in terminal mode, precede each

command with <CTRL> A to enter the header.

Chapter 2 Communicating with the MT3000 Controller 31

Table 4 Firmware Commands for MT3000 Development
Command Name Code Description

AutoBaud Disable AD Turns OFF the automatic baud rate detection feature.
AutoBaud Enable AE Turns ON the automatic baud rate detection feature.
Calibrate Extended CX Initiates an interactive, two-point calibration.
Calibrate Raw CR Collects the raw X and Y coordinates prior to normal

scaling, linearization, and filtering process.

Format Decimal FD Outputs the X/Y touch coordinate data as a 9-byte packet

in a decimal format. Default for MT3000.

Format Raw FR Returns the signal level (amount of touch) of each of the

four touchscreen corners in digital format.

Format Tablet FT Outputs the X/Y touch coordinate data in a five-byte

packet. Preferred for current development.

Mode Status MT Sends a touch status byte preceding the X/Y coordinate

data sent in response to a Format Decimal or Format
Hexadecimal command.

Mode Stream MS Sends a continuous stream of X/Y coordinate data when

you touch the screen.
Null Command Z Queries the controller and waits for a response.
Output Identity OI Identifies the controller type and the firmware version.
Parameter Lock PL Writes and stores the data format and operating mode of

the controller into non-volatile memory (NovRAM).
Parameter Set P

] Lets you adjust the communication parameters (parity,

pds[b

data bits, and stop bits) of the controller.
Reset R Initializes the hardware and the firmware, causes the

controller to stop sending data, and recalculates the

environmental conditions.
Restore Defaults RD Returns the controller to the factory default operating

parameters.
Unit Type Verify UV Identifies the touchscreen controller on your system.

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide32

Table 5 Additional Commands for Prior Design Compatibility

Command Name Code Description

Calibrate Interactive CI Initiates an interactive, two-point edge calibration.

Calibrate New CN Initiates an interactive, two-point

Filter Number FN

nn

Sets the number of X/Y values that the controller

calibration.

edge

uses to generate an accurate coordinate after the
touchscreen receives an initial touch.

Format Binary [Stream] FB[S] Outputs the X/Y touch coordinate data as a five byte

packet in a binary (or binary stream) format.

Format Hexadecimal FH Outputs the X/Y touch coordinate data as a nine byte

packet in a hexadecimal format.

Format Zone FZ Outputs the X/Y touch coordinate data as a five byte

packet and indicates whether the touch occurred
inside or outside the calibration area.

Frequency Adjust <Ctrl> C

Lets you change the operating frequency of the
sensor drive signal (DRVOUT) that is fed from the

F

nn

controller to the sensor and drives the sensor output.

Get Parameter Block GP Returns all power-up and run time parameters used

by the controller.

Mode Down/Up MDU Send one X/Y coordinate for each touchdown and

each liftoff on the touchscreen.

Mode Inactive MI Sends no X/Y coordinates when the screen is

touched.

Mode Point MP Sends a single X/Y coordinate for each touchdown.

Mode Polled MQ Sends an X/Y coordinate only when requested by the

host system and only when a user touches the screen.

Output Status OS Causes the controller to report the status of its

hardware.

Chapter 2 Communicating with the MT3000 Controller 33

Command Name Code Description

Set Parameter Block SP Sets all power-up and run time parameters used by

the controller.

Sensitivity Set SE

n

Changes the sensitivity of the touchscreen.

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide34

AutoBaud Disable

Syntax:

Description:

Response:

<SOH>AD<CR>

Turns off the automatic baud rate detection feature.
When you disable AutoBaud, the controller maintains the communication

rate currently set in non-volatile RAM (NovRAM). The controller continues
to use this communication rate until you change it with either the Parameter
Set command or the AutoBaud Enable command.

AutoBaud Enable is the factory default for some touchscreen controllers.
However, because this automatic feature is limited to the communication
rate, MicroTouch recommends that you issue an AutoBaud Disable
command to turn off the AutoBaud feature. After you disable AutoBaud,
send a Parameter Set command to change the communication parameters
(parity, number of data bits, number of stop bits, and baud rate).

<SOH>0<CR> Positive response.

AutoBaud Enable

Chapter 2 Communicating with the MT3000 Controller 35

Syntax:

Description:

Response:

<SOH>AE<CR>

Turns on the automatic baud rate detection feature.
When you enable AutoBaud, the controller changes its communication rate

to that of the next command from the host system. Thereafter, the controller
sets its communication rate to the first command received from the host
system after powering on the unit.

Although the AutoBaud Enable command sets the communication rate, it
does not automatically set the parity, the number of data bits, and the
number of stop bits. The controller cannot communicate with the host
system unless all communication parameters are the same.

AutoBaud Enable is the factory default for some touchscreen controllers.
However, because this automatic feature is limited to the communication
rate, MicroTouch recommends that you issue an AutoBaud Disable
command to turn off the AutoBaud feature. After you disable AutoBaud,
send a Parameter Set command to change the communication parameters
(parity, number of data bits, number of stop bits, and baud rate).

<SOH>0<CR> Positive response.

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide36

Calibrate Extended

Syntax:

Description:

<SOH>CX<CR>

Initiates an interactive, two-point calibration.
During the calibration process, you define the active area of the touchscreen

by mapping locations to an absolute X/Y coordinate system. You touch two

target areas

coordinates for those touch points to the controller. The controller
calculates all other touch points based on these two points.

The Calibrate Extended command sets the calibration targets (points)
inward from the corner of the video image. Setting the targets inward makes
the calibration process easier and more accurate.

on the screen. Touching the target areas sends the X/Y

Determining Target Areas

The default calibration targets (points) are located 12.5% (1/8) inward from
the corners of the video image.

For example, suppose the display resolution of your monitor is
1024 x 768. The Calibrate Extended command calculates the amount to
move inward as follows:

Amount to move inward in the X direction: 1024 x 1/8 = 128

•

Amount to move inward in the Y direction: 768 x 1/8 = 96

•

The Calibrate Extended command then positions the first calibration target
inward from the lower left corner (0,767) and the second calibration target
inward from the upper right corner (1023,0). The following illustration
shows how the calibration targets are calculated.

(0, 0)

(0, 767)

Chapter 2 Communicating with the MT3000 Controller 37

1023, 0)

(

Upper Right Calibration Target

X = 1023 – (1024 x 1/8) = 1023 – 128 = 895
Y = 0 + (768 x 1/8) = 0 + 96 = 96

(128, 671)

(80, 60)

(895, 96)

(560, 420)

Lower Left Calibration Target

X = 0 + (1024 x 1/8) = 0 + 128 = 128
Y = 767 - (768 x 1/8) = 767 - 96 = 671

Note:

The example in this discussion is in

terms, with the

video

origin (0, 0) in the upper left corner of the screen. Examples from the

controller’s

perspective, however, place the origin at the lower left corner

of the screen.

You can adjust the default calibration points using the Set Parameter Block
command. For more information, contact MicroTouch Technical Support.

Guidelines for Calibrate Extended

Here are several guidelines for using the Calibrate Extended command:

The controller uses the data immediately before liftoff to register a

•

calibration touch. Therefore, users can touch the screen, move their
finger to the target, hold for one second, and then lift off their finger.
Instructing users to touch this way results in a more accurate
calibration.

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide38

The controller stores the data in non-volatile memory (NovRAM).

•

Therefore, you do not have to calibrate the screen each time you power
on the system. You should, however, recalibrate the touchscreen any
time the video display changes or gets repositioned.

You can cancel a calibration at any time by issuing a Reset command.

•

Calibrate Extended Procedure

To use the CX command:

!

1.

Enter the Calibrate Extended (CX) command.
The controller sends an acknowledgment of <SOH>0<CR>.

2.

Touch the screen at a lower left target, which is located 12.5% (1/8) in
from the corner of the video image.

The controller returns an acknowledgment of <SOH>1<CR>. This is a
positive response. If you receive a negative response, try touching the
screen again.

Response:

3.

Touch the screen at an upper right target, which is located 12.5% (1/8)
in from the corner of the video image.

The controller returns an acknowledgment of <SOH>1<CR>. If you
receive a negative response, try touching the screen again.

Touching the two valid calibration points results in a successful calibration.
If either calibration point is invalid, the calibration fails. The MT3000
controller restores the factory default calibration if the Calibrate Extended
failed.

<SOH>1<CR>

<SOH>0<CR>

No Response Indicates that the user did not touch the target long

Positive response. Indicates that the controller
received a valid touch coordinate (point) when the
target was touched. Two valid touch points indicate
a successful calibration.

Negative response. Indicates that the touch point is
out of range of the expected target area. If you
receive a negative response, try touching the target
area again.

enough to provide an accurate calibration point.

Calibrate Raw

Chapter 2 Communicating with the MT3000 Controller 39

Syntax:

Description:

<SOH>CR<CR>

Allows the collection of raw (signed) X and Y coordinates prior to the
normal scaling, linearization, and filtering processes. The controller sends
the coordinates whenever a touch is detected and continues to send a stream
of data as long as a finger remains in contact with the touchscreen.

The Calibrate Raw data is a 5-byte packet that includes 1 status byte and 4
bytes of binary X/Y coordinate data. Each X/Y coordinate includes 10
binary bits and 1 sign bit. The 10 bits represent coordinates within a range
of -1024 to +1023.

To use the Calibrate Raw command, the controller and host system must be
in an 8-bit data communication mode. The Calibrate Raw command returns
a negative response if the controller is not using an 8-bit communication
mode.

To end Calibrate Raw mode, issue a Reset command.
MicroTouch uses the Calibrate Raw command during manufacturing and

testing, and recommends you use this command for diagnostics when you
want raw data. Use the Calibrate Extended command for standard
interactive, two-point calibration.

Response:

<SOH>0<CR> Positive response.
After the controller is in Calibrate Raw mode, touching the screen causes

the controller to return a response in the following format:

SXxYy

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide40

where:

= Status byte; first byte of data. Refer to Table 6.

S

= X (horizontal) coordinate data; second and third bytes of data

Xx

= Y (vertical) coordinate data; fourth and fifth bytes of data.

Yy

MSB* Bits LSB*

Data Sequence76543210

S- Byte 1 1 S6
X- Byte 2 0 X3 X2 X1 X0 Reserved
x - Byte 3 0 Xs** X9 X8 X7 X6 X5 X4
Y- Byte 4 0 Y3 Y2 Y1 Y0
y - Byte 5 0 Ys** Y9 Y8 Y7 Y6 Y5 Y4

*

MSB = Most Significant Bit, LSB = Least Significant Bit

**

s = sign bit

Reserved

Reserved

Table 6 describes the meaning of the bits in the status byte (Byte 1).

Table 6. Calibrate Raw Status Bits

Bit Description Values

S0 – S5 Reserved —
S6 Proximity

(touch state)

1 = Touchscreen is being touched (a

touchdown or a continued touch).

0 = Touchscreen is not being touched (a

touch liftoff or inactive).

When the proximity bit changes from 1 to 0
(touch liftoff), the controller outputs one
final set of X/Y coordinate data with the bit
equal to 0 and the X/Y coordinate data equal
to the last touch point.

S7 Packet

synchronization

Always 1.

Format Decimal

Chapter 2 Communicating with the MT3000 Controller 41

Note:

controllers. To ensure compatibility with all existing and future MicroTouch controllers, do
not use this command when developing your touch drivers and applications.

Syntax:

Description:

MicroTouch provides this command for compatibility with older touchscreen

<SOH>FD<CR>

Outputs the X/Y touch coordinate data as a 9-byte packet in a decimal
format. The packet includes the following 9 bytes:

1 header byte

•

3 bytes of X coordinate data

•

An ASCII comma

•

3 bytes of Y coordinate data

•

A terminator byte

•

Data is sent as a string of decimal ASCII characters (0 to 9). The output
range for both the X and Y data is 000 to 999.

When activated, Format Decimal resets the Mode Status to report the
standard <SOH> header. If the last format command was Format Binary,
then Format Decimal sets the output mode to Mode Stream.

Response:

Format Decimal, which sends approximately 106 packets per second at
9600 baud, is not as efficient as Format Tablet. Format Decimal does not
contain touchdown and liftoff information unless you also use the Mode
Status command.

Format Hexadecimal is the same as Format Decimal except the controller
returns the X/Y coordinates in hexadecimal instead of decimal.

Format Tablet, which sends approximately 192 packets per second at 9600
baud, is the most efficient packet. It also contains touchdown and liftoff
information. Format Tablet is the standard for MicroTouch product
development.

<SOH>0<CR>

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide42

After the controller is in Format Decimal mode, touching the screen causes
the controller to return a response in the following format:

<HDR>

Xxx,Yyy

<CR>
where:
<HDR> = Start-of-header (Hex 01). If you send a Mode Status command

after a Format Decimal command, this first byte becomes a
status byte. The status byte defines whether the X/Y
coordinates are generated from a touchdown, a touch
continuation (when the finger is resting on the screen), or a
touch liftoff. For more details, refer to the Mode Status
command later in this chapter.

Xxx

= X (horizontal) coordinate data. Total of 3 bytes.
= ASCII comma that separates the X and Y coordinate data.

Yyy

= Y (vertical) coordinate data. Total of 3 bytes.

<CR> = Terminator (Hex 0D).

Format Raw

Chapter 2 Communicating with the MT3000 Controller 43

Syntax:

Description:

<SOH>FR<CR>

Returns the signal level (amount of touch) of each of the four touchscreen
corners in digital format. The returned values are not corrected for offset
and stray values. However, you can obtain the offset and stray values using
the Get Parameter Block command. For more information, refer to the
description of the Get Parameter Block command later in this chapter.

The Format Raw data is a 7-byte packet that includes 1 status byte and 6
bytes of binary corner data. The data format for the packet is fixed in order
to provide the most efficient transfer of data. The first byte of each packet
always has its high bit (Bit 7) set to provide synchronization with the host
system. Each corner value is 10 bits, which are delivered in 2 bytes, and has
a range of 0 to 1023.

To use the Format Raw command, the controller and host system must be in
an 8-bit data communication mode. The Format Raw command returns a
negative response if the controller is not using an 8-bit communication
mode.

To terminate Format Raw, issue a Reset command. The controller may
return several bytes of data between the time you issue a Reset command
and the controller receives it. You can either scan the data stream for the
Reset acknowledgment, or you can ignore the response to the first Reset
command and then issue a second Reset after approximately 10 seconds has
passed.

Use the Format Raw command for diagnostics. Use Format Tablet for
standard touchscreen operation.

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide44

Response:

<SOH>0<CR> Positive response.
After the controller is in Format Raw mode, the controller returns a

response in the following format:
<

7-byte-packet><7-byte-packet

Byte Bits 0 – 7

>...<

7-byte-packet

>...

1 b0 – b3: Drive level (amount of signal sent from controller)

b4 – b6: Reserved

b7: Synchronization bit (Always 1)

2 b0 – b2: 3 most significant bits of upper left (UL) corner

b3: Always 0

b4 – b6: 3 most significant bits of lower left (LL) corner

b7: Always 0

3 b0 – b2: 3 most significant bits of lower right (LR) corner

b3: Always 0

b4 – b6: 3 most significant bits of upper right (UR) corner

b7: Always 0

4 b0 – b6: 7 least significant bits of lower left (LL) corner

b7: Always 0

5 b0 – b6: 7 least significant bits of upper left (UL) corner

b7: Always 0

6 b0 – b6: 7 least significant bits of upper right (UR) corner

b7: Always 0

7 b0 – b6: 7 least significant bits of lower right (LR) corner

b7: Always 0

Format Tablet

Chapter 2 Communicating with the MT3000 Controller 45

Syntax:

Description:

<SOH>FT<CR>

Outputs the X/Y touch coordinate data in a 5-byte packet. The packet
includes 1 status byte and 4 bytes of binary X/Y coordinate data. The
protocol also establishes the X and Y coordinate output as 14 binary bits
providing a range of 0 to 16,383.

The low order bits (X3 – X0 and Y3 – Y0) are not significant in a 1024 by
1024 touchscreen because data can fluctuate with each touch, and therefore
may not be completely accurate.

To use Format Tablet, the controller and host system must be in an 8-bit
data communication mode. The Format Tablet command returns a negative
response if the controller is in 7-bit format.

Format Tablet is the most efficient packet (sends approximately 162 packets
per second at 9600 baud). It also contains touchdown and liftoff
information. Format Tablet is the standard for MicroTouch product
development.

For comparison, Format Hexadecimal and Format Decimal (which send
approximately 106 packets per second at 9600 baud) are not as efficient as
Format Tablet. These data formats do not contain touchdown and liftoff
information unless you also use the Mode Status command.

Response:

<SOH>0<CR> Positive response.
After the controller is in Format Tablet mode, touching the screen causes

the controller to return a response in the following format:

SXxYy

= Status byte; first byte of data. Refer to Table 7.

S

= X (horizontal) coordinate data; second and third bytes of data.

Xx

= Y (vertical) coordinate data; fourth and fifth bytes of data.

Yy

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide46

MSB* Bits LSB*

Data Sequence76543210

S - Byte 1 1 S6 S5 S4 S3 S2 S1 S0
X- Byte 2 0 X6 X5 X4 X3 X2 X1 X0
x - Byte 3 0 X13 X12 X11 X10 X9 X8 X7
Y- Byte 4 0 Y6 Y5 Y4 Y3 Y2 Y1 Y0
y - Byte 5 0 Y13 Y12 Y11 Y10 Y9 Y8 Y7

*

MSB = Most Significant Bit, LSB = Least Significant Bit

Table 7 defines the status bits (Byte 1) for the Format Tablet data.

Table 7. Format Tablet Status Bits

Bit Description Values

S0
S1

Switch 1 status
Switch 2 status

For the TouchPen only.
1 = Switch is on (pressed).

0 = Switch is off.
S2 – S5 Reserved —
S6 Proximity

1 = Touchscreen is being touched (a

(touch state)

0 = Touchscreen is not being touched (a

When the proximity bit changes from 1 to 0

(touch liftoff), the controller outputs one

final set of X/Y coordinate data with the bit

equal to 0 and the X/Y coordinate data equal

to the last touch point.
S7 Packet

Always 1.

synchronization

touchdown or a continued touch).

touch liftoff or inactive).

Mode Status

Chapter 2 Communicating with the MT3000 Controller 47

Syntax:

Description:

<SOH>MT<CR>

Sends a touch status byte preceding the X, Y coordinate data sent in
response to a Format Decimal or Format Hexadecimal command. The
format of the data depends on the last format command received by the
controller.

By default, Format Decimal and Format Hexadecimal send a 9-byte data
packet. The first byte is the header byte. If you use the Mode Status
command, the first byte becomes a status byte. This status byte defines
whether the X, Y coordinates are generated from a touchdown, a touch
continuation (when the finger is resting on the screen), or a touch liftoff.

MicroTouch recommends that you use the Mode Status command in
conjunction with Format Decimal and Format Hexadecimal so that the
touch data includes status information in the packet header byte. By
default, Format Decimal and Format Hexadecimal do not contain the status
information in the header byte.

Note:

Hexadecimal) first, and then send the Mode Status command.

You should always send the format command (Decimal and

You do not need to send a Mode Status command if you are using Format
Tablet, Format Binary, or Format Binary Stream.

The Format Tablet protocol automatically includes status information in

•

the first byte of data.
Format Binary and Format Binary Stream automatically issue a Mode

•

Status command.

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide48

Response:

<SOH>0<CR> Positive response.
If the controller is in Format Decimal or Format Hexadecimal mode and you

receive a positive response to Mode Status, touching the screen causes the
controller to return the following response:

<

Status>Xxx,Yyy

where:
<

Xxx

Yyy

> = Defines how the X, Y coordinates are generated, where:

Status

<CR>

^Y (Hex 19) is a touchdown (first position of finger on the
screen).

^\ (Hex 1C) is a continued touch (position of finger remains
on the screen).

^R (Hex 18) is a touch liftoff (last position of finger on the

screen).
= X (horizontal) coordinate data. Total of 3 bytes.
= ASCII comma that separates the X and Y coordinate data.
= Y (vertical) coordinate data. Total of 3 bytes.

<CR> = Terminator (Hex 0D).

Mode Stream

Chapter 2 Communicating with the MT3000 Controller 49

Syntax:

Description:

Response:

<SOH>MS<CR>

Sends a continuous stream of X/Y coordinate data when you touch the
screen. The controller continues to send data as long as you touch the
screen. The controller sends the data even if the touch is stationary and
unchanging.

The format of the coordinate data depends on the last format command
received by the controller.

Format Raw automatically uses Mode Stream to send X/Y coordinate data.

<SOH>0<CR> Positive response.

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide50

Null Command

Syntax:

Description:

Response:

<SOH>Z<CR>

Queries the controller and waits for a response.
Use Z to determine that you are communicating with the controller or to

make sure that a utility is communicating with the controller. Using this
command does not affect the controller’s current operating parameters.

<SOH>0<CR> Positive response.

Output Identity

Chapter 2 Communicating with the MT3000 Controller 51

Syntax:

Description:

Response:

<SOH>OI<CR>

Returns a 6-character identifier, which describes the controller type and the
firmware version number. The output identity for the MT3000 controller is
A30630 or A30670 for APAC.

<SOH>
where:

Cc

Xxxx

CcXxxx

= Two ASCII characters that describe the type of MicroTouch

= Four ASCII characters that indicate the firmware version number

<CR>

controller.

A3 = Excalibur

MT3000
Serial/SMT2
Serial/SMT3V
PC Bus SMT3V

in decimal format. The first two characters represent the version

number; the last two characters represent the revision level. For

example, 0660 means Version 6, Revision 6 (that is, 6.6).

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide52

Parameter Lock

Syntax:

Description:

Response:

<SOH>PL<CR>

Writes and stores the data format and operating mode of the controller into
non-volatile memory (NovRAM).

Any time you make changes to the data format or the operating mode, you
should issue a Parameter Lock command to store the new settings to the
NovRAM. Therefore, the settings are not lost when the unit is powered
down.

<SOH>0<CR> Positive response.

Parameter Set

Chapter 2 Communicating with the MT3000 Controller 53

Syntax:

Description:

<SOH>
where:

p

d=
s=

b

Lets you adjust the communication parameters (parity, data bits, and stop
bits) of the controller. Optionally, you can change the communication rate
by appending an additional character to the command string. Upon
execution of the Parameter Set command, the controller automatically stores
the new settings, the current operating mode, and the current data format in
NovRAM.

P

= Parity type.

= Communication rate.

]<CR>

pds[b

= No parity

N

= Odd parity

O

= Even parity

E

Number of data bits (7 or 8).
Number of stop bits (1 or 2).

= 19200 baud

1

= 9600 baud

2

= 4800 baud

3

4
5

= 2400 baud
= 1200 baud

The communication parameters of the host system must match the present
settings of the controller when the command is given for it to be accepted
and the changes implemented.

The process of changing the parameters takes three steps:

The host system must first communicate with the controller using a

•

matched set of parameters.
The Parameter Set command is issued with the new parameters to the

•

controller. The new settings take effect immediately.
The host system must be changed to the new parameters in order to

•

communicate with the controller again.

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide54

Examples:

<Ctrl A>PN813<CR> Sets the serial line to no parity, eight

data bits, one stop bit, and 4800 baud.

<Ctrl A>PN81<CR> Sets the parity, data bits, and stop bits;

leaves the baud at its previous value.

Caution:

The settings are immediately written to NovRAM, and all future
communication must occur at the new values. It is possible to set the
parameters to values that prevent future communication with the controller.

For example, using PROCOMM, you enter <Ctrl A>PN815<CR> to set the
communication rate to 1200. However, PROCOMM does not support 1200
baud. The controller will now pass data at 1200 baud, but the host system
will not be able to read the data. The controller will expect to receive all
commands at 1200 baud and will not recognize any attempts to change the
communication rate. The controller is effectively locked up. If AutoBaud is
enabled, you can correct this situation by a power-down/power-up
sequence. If AutoBaud is disabled, you need to use Microcal or another
terminal application to set the communication rate at the new values.

The communication rates that can be set with the AutoBaud command are
the same as the rates you can set with the Parameter Set command.
Therefore, the AutoBaud command no longer finds 7200, 3600, 2000, 1800,
600, 300, 200, 150, 135, and 110 baud. Also, some MicroTouch controllers
do not support the AutoBaud command.

Response:

<SOH>0<CR> Positive response.

Reset

Chapter 2 Communicating with the MT3000 Controller 55

Syntax:

Description:

Response:

<SOH>R<CR>

Initializes the hardware and the firmware, causes the controller to stop
sending data, and recalculates the environmental conditions (for example,
stray and offset values). The Reset command also cancels the Format Raw
and Calibrate Raw commands and returns the controller to normal
operation.

MicroTouch recommends that the host system issue a Reset command
whenever the host system is powered on and is attempting to establish
communication with the controller.

The amount of time needed to execute a Reset command ranges from 225
milliseconds to 800 milliseconds. Therefore, the application program should
wait and be sure it receives the command response before issuing another
command to the controller following the reset.

<SOH>0<CR> Positive response.

MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide56

Restore Defaults

Syntax:

Description:

<SOH>RD<CR>

Returns to the factory default operating parameters. The Restore Defaults
command copies the MicroTouch factory default parameters from ROM to
the non-volatile memory (NovRAM) and then executes a Reset command.

Table 8 lists the factory defaults for the MT3000 controller. The Restore
Defaults command is useful in situations where inadvertent commands to
the controller have rendered the touchscreen inoperative.

Table 8 MT3000 Factory Default Settings

Operating Parameter Default

Baud Rate 9600
Serial Communication Settings N, 7, 2
Data Format Format Decimal
Operating Mode Mode Stream
Return to Factory Calibration Yes

The Restore Defaults command requires approximately 75 to 100
milliseconds, plus the execution time of the Reset command (225 to 800
milliseconds). Therefore, the application program should wait and be sure it
receives the command response before issuing another command to the
controller.

Response:

After you issue a Restore Defaults command, calibrate your touchscreen
using the Calibrate Extended command.

<SOH>0<CR> Positive response.

Unit Type Verify

Chapter 2 Communicating with the MT3000 Controller 57

Syntax:

Description:

Response:

<SOH>UV<CR>

Responds with an 8-character identity string. This string identifies the type
of controller currently attached to the system, lists the features supported by
the controller, and outputs the status of the controller hardware (a self-test
code).

Refer to the Unit Type command in the Touch Controller’s Reference
Guide on the TouchWare CD for a description of the 8-character identity
string. The Unit Type command and the Unit Type Verify command return
the same information.

APPENDIX A

MT3000 Controller Specifications

MT3000 Controller: Programmable CMOS small format-size

controller
Circuit Board Dimensions: 1.3 in. x 2.4 in. (33 mm x 61 mm)
Power Requirements: +5 VDC (70 mA typical), 50 mV peak-

to-peak maximum ripple and noise
Operating Temperature: 0 to 60 degrees C
Storage Temperature: -40 to +85 degrees C
Relative Humidity: 90% at 60 degrees C
Optional RS-232

Cable:

Output Port: Bi-directional asynchronous RS-232

Port Parameters: No parity, 7 data bits, 2 stop bits, 9600

Electrostatic Protection:

Regulatory Approvals: UL, FCC-B, and CE compliant

8' shielded cable with 9-pin D connector

for serial port; 9-pin to 25-pin adapter

available

serial communication

baud (N, 7, 2, 9600)

20KV air and ±8KV contact discharge

±

to screen (per IEC 801-2)

Index

A

acknowledgments to a command 27
AD (AutoBaud Disable) command 34
adapter, 9-pin to 25-pin 15
AE (AutoBaud Enable) command 35
AutoBaud Disable command 34
AutoBaud Enable command 35

B

baud rate
bits

data 39, 43, 59
parity 59
setting data and stop 53
touch state (proximity) 40, 46

C

Calibrate Extended command 36
Calibrate Raw command 39
calibration

commands 36, 39
definition 22

communication rate

See

guidelines 37

targets 36
carriage return <CR> character 26
clearance 12
command syntax 26
commands

receiving responses to 27

sending 26
communication parameters 24
communication rate

setting 53

turning off auto detection 34

turning on auto detection 35
communication settings

defining with Parameter Set

command 53
communication settings, default 24
connecting the touchscreen cable 14
connectors

JP1 15
JP2 17
JP4 14
Molex 18
serial cable 18
touchscreen 14

controllers

identifying type of 51, 57

62 MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide

corporate headquarters 7
CR (Calibrate Raw) command 39
CR (carriage return) character 26
CX (Calibrate Extended) command 36

D

data bits, setting number of 53
data connection 15
data formats

definition and defaults 24
locking 52
raw format 43
tablet format 45

defaults

communication settings 24
data format 24
factory 24
operating mode 25

restoring factory 56
diagnostic codes, LED 21
diagnostics

Unit Type Verify command 57
dimensions 10, 22
drive signal, adjusting 32
driver 11, 14, 22, 23

firmware version, identifying 51
flat panel displays 9, 19
Format Raw command 43
Format Tablet command 45
formats, data 24
FR (Format Raw) command 43
FT (Format Tablet) command 45

G

ground 12, 13, 16, 17, 18
grounding 12

H

hardware, initializing controller 55
header character <SOH> 26
headquarters, corporate 7
help

phone support 5
world wide web 6

I

identity of controller 51, 57
initializing, with Reset command 55
Internet address, MicroTouch 6

E

electrostatic discharge 13
error 20, 21
errors 21

F

factory defaults 24, 56
firmware commands

receiving responses to 27

sending 26

syntax 26

J

JP1 connector 15
JP2 connector 17, 18
JP4 connector 14

K

keyboard power tap 17, 18

Index 63

L

LCD modules 19
LED 19, 20, 21
linearization 10, 14, 21, 31, 39
locking parameters 52

M

MicroTouch Internet address 6
Mode Status command 47
Mode Stream command 49
mode, operating 25
modes

status 47
mounting holes 12, 13
MS (Mode Stream) command 49
MT (Mode Status) command 47
MT3000 controller

dimensions 10

factory defaults 56

LED 19

output identity 51

overview 9

power connector 17

serial data connector 15

specifications 59

operating modes

locking 52
orientation 12, 14
Output Identity command 51

P

packet, data
Parameter Lock command 52
Parameter Set command 53
parameters

communication 24, 53

factory default 56

locking 52
parity, setting the 53
phone support 5
pins 14, 15
PL (Parameter Lock) command 52
power requirements 59
power, supplying

external 18

internal 17, 18
P

(Parameter Set) command 53

pdsb

profile 10, 12
proximity bit 40, 46

data format

See

N

NovRAM 10, 21, 31, 34, 38, 52, 53, 54,

56

Null command 50

O

OI (Output Identity) command 51
operating mode

definition and defaults 25
stream 49

R

R (Reset) command 55
rate
raw data

RD (Restore Defaults) command 56
Reset command 55
responses from the controller 27
Restore Defaults command 56
RS-232 10, 11, 15, 16, 18, 59

communication rate

See

calibration 39

format 43

64 MT3000 Capacitive Controller Reference Guide

S

screws 12, 13, 19
sending firmware commands 26
sensor drive signal, adjusting 32
serial number 10, 13
settings
SOH (start-of-header) character 26
specifications 59
standoffs 13
status

touch 47
status mode 47
status, controller hardware 57
stop bits, setting number of 53
stream mode 49
supplying power 17
support, technical 5
syntax, command 26

parameters

See

T

tablet format 45
targets, calibration 36
technical support 5
telephone support 5
temperature 59
terminator character 26
touch state bit 40, 46
TouchWare 6, 22, 30
transmitting commands 26

V

version, identifying firmware 51

W

wall-mount power supply 18
World Wide Web site 6
worldwide offices 7

Z

Z (Null) command 50

U

Unit Type Verify command 57
UV (Unit Type Verify) command 57