LP8580EVM Evaluation Software
8
SNVU495 – March 2016
Copyright © 2016, Texas Instruments Incorporated
LP8580 Evaluation Board
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LP8580EVM Evaluation Software
The LP8580EVM is connected to the computer via USB. The EVM is controlled with special evaluation
software. The onboard MSP430 microcontroller is used to provide easy I2C/SPI communication, as well
as to control the digital inputs of the LP8580 IC. The microcontroller is powered by default from USB. The
LP8580 IC is powered from external power supply.
4.1
LP8580EVM Evaluation Software Installation
Before LP8580 evaluation software can be used it must be installed. Open the folder containing the
installation package and double click the “LP8580_setup.exe”. If Windows prompts you to verify the
installation click “Yes”. The license agreement window opens. Click “I Agree” for the license agreement.
Next choose to include the start-up menu and desktop shortcuts. Select the ones you like and click “Next”.
The installer then prompts for installation folder. Installing the program to its default location is
recommended. Click “Install”. Once installation is complete, close the installer by clicking “Close” button.
4.2
Driver Installation
When the LP8580EVM is connected to a computer for the first time, Windows should recognize it
automatically and start to install the driver. A “Found New Hardware” dialog box prompts user to locate the
missing driver. Select “No, not this time” and continue with “Next”. Select “Install from a list or specific
location (Advanced)” to install the driver. Select the directory where the TI_CDC_Virtual_Port driver is
located. If LP8580 evaluation software was installed to its default location, the driver can be found at
C:\Program Files (x86)\Texas Instruments\LP8580\Driver. Windows should now install the driver. The
driver generates a virtual COM port which is used to communicate with the evaluation board.
4.3
Evaluation Software Removal
The LP8580 evaluation software can be uninstalled through Windows Control Panel. Open
Control Panel
→
Programs and Features
. Find LP8580 from the list, right click it, then select "Uninstall".
5
Using the LP8580EVM Evaluation Software
When LP8580 evaluation software is run it looks like
. This is the main view where all the controls
are located. A short description of the main GUI areas follows, explaining how they can be used to control
the LP8580EVM.
