The Hercules SETUP utility by HW-group is a standalone, lightweight terminal application used to test and debug Serial (RS-232/RS-485), TCP/IP, and UDP/IP communications. Because it runs directly from a single .exe file without installation, configuration is entirely handled within its specialized tabbed interface. 📑 1. Configuring Serial Communication
The Serial tab acts as a classic terminal emulator to read and write data to hardware com ports or virtual serial ports.
Select the COM Port: Find the Name dropdown on the right side panel and choose your targeted port (e.g., COM1, COM12).
Set the Baud Rate: Match the communication speed of your micro-controller or peripheral using the Baud dropdown (typically 9600 or 115200).
Adjust Frame Parameters: Define the data structure to match your hardware requirements: Data Size: Usually set to 8 bits. Parity: Choose none, odd, or even.
Handshake / Flow Control: Set to off unless your hardware utilizes hardware lines (like RTS/CTS).
Open the Connection: Click the Open button. The status indicator at the bottom will turn green, indicating the serial line is live. 📑 2. Configuring TCP/IP Communication
Hercules can function as either a TCP Client or a TCP Server depending on which device is initiating the connection network. Option A: TCP Client Mode
Use this mode when your PC needs to connect to an external server or an Ethernet-enabled microcontroller. Navigate to the TCP Client tab.
In the right panel, input the destination Module IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.10).
Enter the specific Port number the remote server is listening on.
Click Connect. If successful, the terminal area will change from black text to display a connected status. Option B: TCP Server Mode
Use this mode when external devices need to connect directly to your PC. Navigate to the TCP Server tab.
Locate the Listening Port parameter on the right side panel.
Provide an available local port number (e.g., ports above 1025 are generally safest to prevent system conflicts).
Click the Listen button. Hercules will stay open and await incoming data requests from clients. 📑 3. Sending and Receiving Data
Once a communication link is active (Serial or TCP), you can interact using the utility’s data delivery toolsets:
Text Transfers: Type standard string characters directly inside the lower text field and hit the Send button.
Formatting Special Tokens: To transmit commands like a Carriage Return (\(0D</code> or <code>\)0A within your hex/ASCII mix strings.
Sending Hexadecimal Data: Format raw binary hex characters with a leading dollar sign (e.g., \(41\)42$43 sends the characters ABC).
Configuring Quick Macros: Utilize the multi-row macro section at the bottom of the layout window to save common command routines for one-click deployment. If you need help resolving a connection error, let me know:
Are you receiving a specific error message (like “Port closed” or “Connection refused”)?
What specific hardware or micro-controller are you attempting to link up with?
Do you need to track specific hardware handshaking pins like RTS/CTS?
I can provide targeted troubleshooting steps for your exact network environment. Hercules Setup Utility (SERIAL/TCP/UDP) – AVPro Help Center