Chapter 4: Programming
Firmware
USB DynaKey Capabilities
The NCR USB DynaKey is a multifunction device comprised of several
functions, including a keyboard switch matrix and a speaker. Both of
these functions are controlled by a single field programmable gate
array (FPGA).
The keyboard matrix translates between a key switch physical location
and the key data reported to the host PC. This matrix is programmable.
The matrix may be replaced in whole or in part, permitting any key to
be mapped to any function.
The FPGA has the ability to sound a short chirp whenever a key is
pressed, providing auditory feedback to an operator of the keyboard.
This auditory feedback is optional. The FPGA may be configured to
make the sound or not to make the sound, depending on the particular
application.
The FPGA has no static memory and thus cannot retain any settings
after power loss. Thus, each time the system to which this keyboard is
connected is powered-up, or any time the keyboard is connected to a
powered system, the FPGA must be informed of any pertinent settings.
This function is an ActiveX/COM control (NCRUsbKeyboardCtl) that
provides a mechanism by which the keyboard features of “key click
sound” and “key translation matrix” can be set.
The keyboard firmware is standard USB compatible keyboard
firmware with added extensions for POS-specific functions.
The keyboard supports the following minimum standard PC keyboard
capabilities:
• System Reset (Control-Alt-Delete)