Introduction to Developing Controller applications

Introduction

About this chapter

This chapter deals with analysis, design and implementation of FlexPendant SDK applications.

It also discusses some specific programming issues that are important for FlexPendant SDK users:

thread conflicts and how to avoid them
controller events and event handling
errors and exception handling
the User Authorization System

The chapter does not include hands-on information on how to set up your first project or detailed information on how to use the FlexPendant SDK class libraries, as these topics are covered in dedicated chapters.

Basic approach

In most aspects, using the FlexPendant SDK for application development presents no major difference compared to ordinary .NET development. The .NET class libraries are used for everything that is not robot specific. In addition, you use the public Controller API of the SDKs.

Note
When using the .Net class libraries for FlexPendant development, see Version Information to be sure that the class or method is supported on .NET Compact Framework 2.0, which runs on the FlexPendant.

Use this procedure to program the FlexPendant SDK application for the first time:

Step	Action
1	Before you start Learn the basics about FlexPendant SDK programming by reading all relevant sections of this manual. Feel reassured that this is a timesaving activity and do not rush into coding. If you are going to develop an application for the FlexPendant, a device with limited resources compared to a PC, studying the chapter Robust FlexPendant applications is crucial.
2	During Development Frequently test application functionality. Do not wait too long before you test a FlexPendant application on a real FlexPendant device.
3	After Development If you develop a FlexPendant application, set up a long term test before use in production. If not, you risk that the FlexPendant slowly runs completely out of memory and crashes due to your application. Verify application behavior, performance and memory consumption. Use the services offered by ABB. For more information, see FlexPendant- Debugging and troubleshooting.

Step

Action

Before you start

Learn the basics about FlexPendant SDK programming by reading all relevant sections of this manual. Feel reassured that this is a timesaving activity and do not rush into coding. If you are going to develop an application for the FlexPendant, a device with limited resources compared to a PC, studying the chapter Robust FlexPendant applications is crucial.

During Development

Frequently test application functionality. Do not wait too long before you test a FlexPendant application on a real FlexPendant device.

After Development

If you develop a FlexPendant application, set up a long term test before use in production. If not, you risk that the FlexPendant slowly runs completely out of memory and crashes due to your application. Verify application behavior, performance and memory consumption. Use the services offered by ABB. For more information, see FlexPendant- Debugging and troubleshooting.