Quick Start
It is strongly recommended that you read the first few chapters of this manual
before using the PICAXE system. However if you cannot wait to get going, this
quick start guide provides a summary of the information explained in much
more detail later in this manual!
1. Install the Programming Editor software from the CDROM (or download
from www.picaxe.co.uk).
2. Insert the AXE026 serial cable into the 9 pin serial COM socket at the rear
of the computer, or the AXE027 USB cable into an available USB port.
3. Start the Programming Editor software (click Start>Programs>Revolution
Education>Programming Editor). Then click View>Options menu to display
the Options panel (this may also automatically appear on startup). On the
‘Mode’ tab select the correct type of PICAXE chip. On the ‘Ports’ tab also
select the appropriate serial COM port (the port where you connected the
serial / USB cable).
4. Connect an LED and 330 ohm resistor to the output pin 4 of the PICAXE
chip. On ‘home-made’ or prototype circuits connect the LED/resistor
between the output pin and 0V. On project boards (which have a Darlington
transistor buffered output) connect the LED/resistor between V+ and the
output pin. Ensure correct polarity of the LED.
5. Connect the PICAXE cable to the hardware.
6. Connect the 4.5V (3xAA battery) or 5V regulated power supply to the
project board. Do NOT use a 9V PP3 battery.