Jackal is an open-source Java application that lets you program
the HandyCricket miniature robotics controller in a variant of
the Logo programming language. It includes features like:
- Syntax highlighting
- Customizable interfaces (skins)
- Automatic library downloading
- Remote control over the net (iBrick)
- Support for coding in English, Spanish, and Portuguese
Is this overkill for a cute little robotics controller? Perhaps,
but most programming tools for microprocessors are extremely
un-user-friendly - hopefully Jackal can buck the trend :-)
Created by your friends at the Institute of the Future :
http://www.instituteofthefuture.org/jackal/
Find out more about the HandyCricket at :
http://www.handyboard.com/cricket/
> Getting Started
OSX Installation
Before anything else, you need to run the "Java Comm Installer"
file inside the "INSTALL-THESE-FIRST" folder. This sets up the
serial port so that Java can use it. As you are probably using
a USB->serial adaptor, you should go to the company's website
and download their latest OSX driver. To start Jackal just
double-click on the "Jackal" application.
PC Installation
Because Java support on the PC is fading fast, I've packaged
Jackal with Java included. To start Jackal,
double-click on "Jackal.bat" file.
Mac Classic Installation
As you are probably using a USB->serial adaptor, you should go
to the company's website and download their latest driver.
To start Jackal just double-click on the "Jackal" application.
If it fails to open, you probably need to download and install
the latest version of Java (called MRJ 2.2.5) from
http://developer.apple.com/java/classic.html
> Support
If Jackal crashes, you can look at the "error.log" file it creates
to try and see what went wrong.
You can discuss ideas and get help in the HandyCricket forum at
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/handycricket/
If you have more specific questions or bug reports, please email
jackal[at]instituteofthefuture.org
To uninstall Jackal, just delete this folder.
Known Bugs
- almost no documentation, sorry!
- (Mac Classic) every now and then launching the web browser crashes
- don't be surprised if the iBrick stuff is buggy, it hasn't been well tested yet
> Postcardware
In homage to the old days of BBSing we're releasing this software as "postcard-ware".
That means that you can use it for free, but if you like it then we ask that you send
us a postcard from where you live. Come on - postcards are cheap, and our sun-starved
scientists love communicating with the outside world! We'll post any postcards we
receive here. Our address is:
Institute of the Future
807 Ridge Dr.
McLean, VA 22101