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Software Support

Software platforms and communication protocols supported by the IRIV IO Controller.

Supported Development Platforms​

The IRIV IO Controller is based on the Raspberry Pi RP2350A microcontroller, which supports multiple programming environments.

CircuitPython​

CircuitPython is a beginner-friendly Python variant designed for microcontrollers.

Status: Officially supported

CircuitPython provides:

  • Python-based programming (easy to learn)
  • Extensive library support for sensors and peripherals
  • Interactive REPL for testing
  • No compilation required

For a comprehensive CircuitPython tutorial, see: Getting Started with IRIV IO Controller with CircuitPython

MicroPython​

MicroPython is a lean Python implementation for microcontrollers.

Status: Compatible with RP2350A

MicroPython provides:

  • Full Python 3 implementation
  • Lightweight and efficient
  • Extensive standard library

C/C++ SDK​

The official Raspberry Pi C/C++ SDK supports the RP2350A.

Status: Compatible with RP2350A

C/C++ SDK provides:

  • Low-level hardware access
  • Maximum performance
  • Full control over peripherals
  • CMake-based build system

Refer to Raspberry Pi official documentation for C/C++ SDK usage with RP2350A.

Communication Protocols​

The IRIV IO Controller supports both OT (Operational Technology) and IT (Information Technology) communication protocols.

MODBUS RTU (Default Firmware)​

The IRIV IO Controller ships preprogrammed as a MODBUS RTU IO Expander with counter function.

Interface: RS485 (isolated) Maximum Baud Rate: 500 kbps Function: IO expansion and pulse counting

The default firmware allows immediate integration into MODBUS RTU networks without additional programming.

MODBUS TCP​

Interface: Ethernet (W5500) Protocol Support: Built into W5500 TCP/IP stack

The W5500 Ethernet controller supports MODBUS TCP through its hardwired TCP/IP implementation.

MQTT​

Interface: Ethernet (W5500) Protocol Support: Via application layer

MQTT protocol can be implemented for IoT gateway applications, sensor data publishing, and cloud integration.

HTTP/HTTPS​

Interface: Ethernet (W5500) Protocol Support: Via application layer

HTTP/HTTPS protocols supported for web-based monitoring, RESTful API integration, and web server applications.

TCP/UDP​

Interface: Ethernet (W5500) Protocol Support: Hardwired in W5500

The W5500 provides hardwired support for:

  • TCP (Transmission Control Protocol)
  • UDP (User Datagram Protocol)
  • ICMP (Internet Control Message Protocol)
  • IPv4
  • ARP (Address Resolution Protocol)
  • IGMP (Internet Group Management Protocol)
  • PPPoE (Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet)

Firmware Upload​

Firmware is uploaded to the IRIV IO Controller via the RP2350A bootloader.

Upload Process​

  1. Enter bootloader mode (hold Boot button, press Reset)
  2. Device appears as USB mass storage
  3. Drag and drop UF2 firmware file
  4. Device automatically reboots with new firmware

UF2 File Format​

The RP2350A uses the UF2 (USB Flashing Format) for firmware updates. UF2 files can be generated from:

  • CircuitPython firmware releases
  • MicroPython builds
  • C/C++ compiled binaries (converted to UF2)

Programming Resources​

Official Raspberry Pi Resources​

CircuitPython Resources​

W5500 Ethernet Resources​

Limitations​

Based on the datasheet, the following limitations apply:

Analog Input Mode:

  • Both analog channels (AN0, AN1) must operate in the same mode (voltage or current)
  • Cannot measure voltage on one channel and current on the other simultaneously

Power Consumption:

  • Maximum power consumption: 0.7W
  • Terminal 1 power input protected by 500mA PTC fuse

Operating Environment:

  • Operating temperature: -20°C to 70°C
  • Relative humidity: 10-80% (non-condensing)

Digital Output:

  • Maximum load per channel: 50V, 500mA
  • Inductive loads require flyback diode for optimal EMI performance

Source(s):

  • IRIV IO Controller Datasheet, Rev 1.0, July 2024
  • IRIV IO Controller product page (my.cytron.io)
  • Getting Started with IRIV IO Controller with CircuitPython tutorial (my.cytron.io)