The included help files contain a wealth of information on using MakerPlot-J (MPJ), including Quick Start information. This page will cover a few features of common interest.
Example Code:
The software installed with several sketches for testing MPJ with the Arduino and the Parallax Propeller. These can be opened from the Folder Menu–>Micro Code Folder. Simply download the code to your microcontroller and test with an appropriate installed interface.
Analog Plotting
Send Analog data for plotting as CSV values, such as: 10,30,50.5 and MPJ will plot the data once connected. For the Arduino:
// send analog data as num,num CR or LF
Serial.print(temperature);
Serial.print(",");
Serial.print(pressure);
Serial.println(","); // end of line with LF
Digital Plotting
Send digital plotting on a digital plot or the analog plot (see analog plot’s pop-up menu) as %1010
// Send digital values starting with %, ending with LF or CR
Serial.print("%");
Serial.print(heater);
Serial.print(fan);
Serial.println(stir); // End line with LF
Create a GUI Interface
Construct an Interface for monitoring and logging. F9 to enter Edit mode, F2 to open Control’s Palette. Choose Controls and place.
![](https://makerplot-j.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image-11-1024x438.png)
The meter, named ‘met’, may be updated through code:
Serial.print("!met=");
Serial.println(temperature);
Or, the meter may have its automatic update value set to an incoming analog value though it’s pop-up menu (Data Source) or through its properties window (F3) in the Update Value.
![](https://makerplot-j.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image-12.png)
Event Code for controls use MPJ’s scripting instructions to perform some action when a control is triggered, such as a high alarm.
![](https://makerplot-j.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image-13.png)
Drawing operations
MPJ Supports a wide range of drawing instructions to draw on plots, interface back grounds or Canvas Controls.
![](https://makerplot-j.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image-16.png)
![](https://makerplot-j.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/image-18.png)
High-Level Math Operations
Perform math on values directly or using the Data Modifier. Math operations are defined enclosing in { }.
!plot.drawFilledArc 50a,50a,10,0,{[ain0] * 2 + 10},RED
Highly Versatile in Use!
+ Script Instructions from your serial data or MPJ Events.
+ Use your own images for backgrounds and images.
+ Quickly plot and construct interfaces for your data.
+ Have an idea but need some help getting started? Contact us.