Reset Microprocessor RS-232

Introduction

This circuit allows a remote microprocessor to be reset by a controlling host by sending a break signal over an RS-232 or RS-422 serial line. If the remote machine resets into a simple program loader program, it is possible for the host to halt and restart, or halt and reload/restart the remote machine's program. This is an ideal way to develop software on older EPROM-based systems. Modern EEPROM/NVRAM systems use JTAG interfaces for similar results.

The remote processor runs its target code out of RAM, allowing the code to be updated easily. The circuit is usually used for developing code on a target processor, but it can also be used for permanent applications where the target program lives on a host system's disk. This system was once used to load code into a microprocessor-based satellite receiving system in Hawaii from a host system in Colorado using an Internet-based remote serial communications program.

A program loader for the Z80 CPU is available below. The circuit has also been used with the Motorola 68HC11 EVB and the BUFFALO monitor program. See my Linux Cross Assemblers page for more info.

Theory

This circuit detects long duration zero level signals (breaks) on a NRZ (non return to zero) serial data line. Normal serial characters spend a short time in the zero state, and do not cause a reset. Break signals are a exception to this, they hold the line low for an extended period.

The 10K/1N4148 parts keep the 2.2uF capacitor charged up. Low input signals go through the 10K resistor and slowly pull the charge on the 2.2uF capacitor down. High input signals quickly recharge the capacitor through the 1N4148 diode. A break signal lasts long enough to discharge the 2.2uF capacitor to the point where the following gate changes state.

The 1N4148 on the right allows a manual break switch to be used on the target CPU, pressing such a switch does not short out the preceding 74HC14 gate. This circuit could be built with just 2 schmidt trigger non inverting buffers, the 74HC14 was chosen because it is a common part. The parallel inverters are also optional, single inverters work fine.

source : http://www.solorb.com