The DAX/2 System – Version 8.0.5
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6 Devices and Peripherals
The DAX/2 supports a wide range of integrated peripherals through what is known as the
light bus
. Like applications, de-
vices are capable of interfacing with a wide range of the system’s functionality. There are two major categories of devices,
termed
active
and
passive
devices, which are primarily distinguished by whether or not they appear in the device manager
or not. You can access the device manager from the
devices
menu on your unit.
Active devices
Official active devices include: handles (including horns), power switches, revision 6 SuperBit holographic sign systems, pel-
vis-mounted probes, controller-integrated collars, and batteries. Depending on their implementation, these devices may or
may not disengage their safety bolts with the controller, or may not include safety bolts whatsoever.
Passive devices
Official passive devices include: “Akashic Icon” chromatic communicators, ornamental status lighting elements, SynthOPTI-
CAL eye implants and contact lenses, battery gauges, flicker-enabled collars, and older SuperBit signs. With the exception
of collars, SynthOPTICAL products, and SuperBits, these devices disengage their safety bolts in concert with the main con-
troller. SynthOPTICAL products and older SuperBit signs do not include safety bolts whatsoever.
Tip
: When installing new passive devices, a reboot may be required before they are fully engaged. This is particularly prom-
inent with ornamental lighting elements. Before the bolts engage, take the opportunity to ensure that the components of
your passive device are correctly positioned on the unit’s chassis, as it may be more difficult to do this when the unit is shut
down.
Creating new devices
Consult the SXD System 8 SDK for information and sample code for developing custom peripherals. Additionally, examine
the developer notes included with your unit, as they include the API pertaining to the version of the system your unit was
running at its time of purchase.
