This first item should go without saying, but I'm worried about
it anyway. Other than the most trivial things (like this README
file), you MAY NEVER use any file while it is still within a zip
file. So, drag out the vi's into a "real" folder before using
them. The same applies to the .msi file. All the following 
assumes that there is nothing in a .zip file!

This is a two-device process. First, we use a UART (USB to RS-232
device) to be able to talk to the device, and this must be 
configured. Then, we'll install the Tic controller itself. You
need to be an admin to install stuff, so on your computer, run
"makemeadmin". You should be able to install stuff for about
30 minutes...
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Installing the UART

You only need to do this once. Turn LabVIEW all the way off.
Don't just close all the vi's. Unplug the UART from any USB port. 
Open the UARTDrivers subfolder, and run CP210xVCPInstaller_x64.exe
This will allow our serial controller to show up as a COM port.

This means it has a number (like, COM5). One way to find the number
is to plug in the UART, then run "device manager" on your computer.
The CP210x device will show up as a subset of "Ports (COM & LPT)",
so scroll down to the "P" section and look for it. You'll need
that number later, so maybe write it down! If you change to a
different USB port, you'll get a different number later...
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Now remove the UART from your computer. Wire the RX, TX, and ground 
connecting the UART to the Tic. Note that RX UART --> TX tic, and
TX UART --> RX Tic. Don't plug the UART into the computer again
at this time!
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Installing the Tic Controller.

Next, let's work on the Tic. You only need to do this once.
As an admin, double-click the pololu-tic-1.8.2-win.msi file. 
In 2025, I had trouble getting started until I installed the .msi
file (but, I remember not needing it in the past at all, but maybe
I remember wrong).

Then, power the Tic, using at least 8V in the green screw
terminal section. Then, connect the Tic to the computer using a
micro-USB cable. You won't be using this cable when it's finally
working, but you need it now to get set up. 

Next, run the program "Tic Control Center". This program will only 
run if the Tic is connected to your computer by USB, AND the Tic is
NOT connected to the UART.
Go to the tab called "Input and motor settings". 
On the top row, UNCHECK the box called "Enable Command Timeout".
Then, switch to the "Status" tab and fool around with the "set
Position" slider to see whether the motor moves. 
Then, close the "Tic Control Center".
Then pull out the USB cable.
Then, plug in the UART to both the computer and to the Tic. 



-Pogo

