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Talos Custom Backpack Kit

The Custom Backpack Kit is a unique, customizable base on which the user can create their very own backpacks for the MU-05 Talos Heavy Combat Mech! This accessory is a great keystone piece for any creator looking to make their own backpack attachment for the Talos platform, but is unsure on how to decode the mech's logic. Full instructions on how to install/customize this kit is detailed below.

• Node: Instrument Panel (Composite Input)
  Connected directly to the instrument panel found on the left side of Talos' cockpit. This node simply takes the incoming composite signals for decoding. Editing or utilization of this node should not be attempted / is already available for use elsewhere. (See Instrument Panel Output).
  
  
• Node: Release (On/Off Output)
  Pretty self explanatory; this output will enable when the user presses the "Release Backpack" button inside of the cockpit. By default this node is already connected to the hardpoints for ease of use, however, if the user wishes to install a timing system it can be rerouted in a separate chip. Note; when the "Enable Release Two-Stage Output" MC option is enabled, the user will need to hold to release the backpack instead of a quick tap.
  
  
• Node: Seat (Composite Input)
  Much like the instrument panel input, this node is for decoding only and should not be tampered with for proper use. The sole purpose of this input it to decode raw seat data within the MC. (For output use, see Seat Output).
  
  
• Node: Action (On/Off Output)
  For most backpack designs, this node will be the star of the show. The "action" output will enable when the user taps the "5" hotkey from within the mech. In it's default configuration, this node will output a pulse signal. so external logic or MC editing will be required to change this to a toggle or timer. Use this node if you want your backpack to have a single action, such as enabling a boost, or firing tertiary ordinance.
  
  
• Node: Release Two-Stage Output (On/Off Output)
  This node's function is a tad complicated however it can be a lifesaver for individuals looking for more dedicated controls for their backpack. By default, this node is disabled, connecting it to anything will yield no results. However, once enabled in the MC's settings (See Microcontroller Settings), this node will act as a secondary pulse output controlled from the "Release Backpack" button on the left side of the cockpit. Enabling this node will change the release controls of the backpack from a push to a hold system; freeing up an additional button for backpack use.
  
  
• Node: Seat Output (Composite Output)
  Directly wired to the hardpoint, this node outputs raw encoded seat data from the mech. By decoding this data in an external microcontroller, the user can gain full access to all the outputs of Talos' seat. This is a great way to extract X and Y "Look" position for a turret mount or etc.
  Seat Composite Output Quick Reference:
  
  • Hotkey 1: On/Off Channel 1
    
  • Hotkey 2: On/Off Channel 2
    
  • Hotkey 3: On/Off Channel 3
    
  • Hotkey 4: On/Off Channel 4
    
  • Hotkey 5: On/Off Channel 5
    
  • Hotkey 6: On/Off Channel 6
    
  • Trigger: On/Off Channel 31
    
  • Occupied: On/Off Channel 32
    
  • A/D: Number Channel 1
    
  • W/S: Number Channel 2
    
  • Left/Right: Number Channel 3
    
  • Up/Down: Number Channel 4
    
  • Look X: Number Channel 9
    
  • Look Y: Number Channel 10
  
  
• Node: Disable Legs (On/Off Input)
  This feature is for individuals who wish to (as labeled) disable Talos' walk cycle. Enabling this node will lock Talos' legs into a standing position, great for external locomotion based accessories such as jetpacks. Incredibly easy to use, simply wire an on signal to the node to operate.
  
  
• Node: Outgoing Info For Main Chip (Composite Output)
  Like the other hardpoint-mounted composite outputs, this node is used to send necessary data to Talos' primary microcontroller. Tampering/editing of this node is unadvised as it is a staple component in the communication between Talos and the connected backpack.
  
  
• Node: Instrument Panel Output (Composite Output)
  A pretty niche output, this node is a direct composite of the primary instrument panel found on the left side of Talos' cockpit. Features that can be extracted from this node are as follows:
  
  • Output 1/4: "Computer Systems" (On/Off Output)
    Toggle output that will enable when the user turns the mech's computer systems on.
    
  • Output 2/4: "Interior Lights" (On/Off Output)
    Toggle output that will enable when the user flips the interior lights switch.
    
  • Output 3/4: "Release Backpack" (On/Off Output)
    Push output that will activate upon pressing the backpack release button. (Utilization of this node is not recommended due to the backpack release function being handled elsewhere in the chip).
    
  • Output 4/4: "Cycle Spotlights" (On/Off Output)
    Push output that will activate when the spotlight button is pressed. (please note this is raw output data, the spotlights have a dedicated chip for their cycles, this MC does not, to properly integrate your spotlights into the mech's pattern, an external MC will be required).
  
  
  Microcontroller Settings
  • Enable Release Two-Stage Output
    This setting will change how the backpack is released. By enabling this option, releasing the accessory will change from a immediate push command, to requiring the user to hold the button for a set amount of time. However, once enabled, the "Release Two-Stage Output" node will be enabled for use. (See Node: Release Two-Stage Output).
    
  • Time Held In Seconds Until Release (Use With Two-Stage Output)
    Self-descriptive; this number will designate how long the user has to hold the "Release Backpack" button to detach the accessory if the "Enable Release Two-Stage Output" is enabled. 3 seconds is optimal, however the user can change this at their digression, though it is worth noting lower numbers will begin to effect the MC's internal sequence.
  
  
  Conclusion/Final Notes
  Now that all of the logic has been covered, heres a couple noteworthy points for the intrepid individual making their own backpacks:
  
  • The backpack does not sit 100% flush with Talos' rear protective framing. Ensure when building your backpack that the design avoids clipping into this obstacle for best functionality and interchangeability.
    
  • The user should be very aware of weight distribution. Talos, being a mech, can only handle so much weight before functionality is reduced. Plan your design accordingly.
    
  • The backpack hardpoints are connected to Talos' primary power supply which is an infinite generator, no external power source will be necessary for your electric designs!
  
  

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