Thread: Extended While Loop

Hi all,

I have the following code:

Code:

while(intIsLow != 1) {
			SetBit(SET_GLOW);
			intIsLow = ReadBit(IS_GLOW);
			}

The intIsLow variable is set to read a hall sensor which when high means the correct gear is selected. The while loop above simply activates a relay which actuates low gear change in a 2 speed gearbox. When the hall sensor becomes high then stop.

What I would like to do is extend the While loop with a timer. So after intIsLow == 1 the code in the while is executed for a further 1 second.

Can anyone advise the easiest way to do this?

Many thanks

Is this program intended for an embedded device? Depending on that (standard library coverage, OS), I suspect a timer might have to be realized differently.

Hi Adrian, thanks for the reply.

The program is run on a PLC with 8 inputs & 8 digital outputs. The PLC has its own C compiler and all standard libraries are supported.

What would be the best way to extend the operation of the while loop by 1 second after intIsLow == 1?

I'm a bit confused. Does SetBit(SET_GLOW) have to be called constantly to maintain the desired activity? Your loop example suggest so. In that case I'm not sure how best to approach it, but someone else here might.

On more complex systems with scheduling, one would avoid such a busy loop.

Originally Posted by Jimbo1986

It doesn't have to be called constantly, it could be called once without a loop.

I see. Probably better not to hammer the memory in that case.

Maybe something like this would work for you:

Code:

#define _POSIX_C_SOURCE 200809L

#include <time.h>

// ...

const struct timespec query_delay = {0, (1000 * 1000) * 10}; // 10ms
const struct timespec extension_period = {1, 0}; // 1s

SetBit(IS_GLOW);

while (intIsLow != 1) {
    intIsLow = ReadBits(IS_GLOW);
    nanosleep(&query_delay, NULL); // adjust or remove, according to your needs
}

nanosleep(&extension_period, NULL);
UnsetBit(IS_GLOW); // You'll presumably have something like this then

Btw, if you don't work with intIsLow outside of the loop, I would just get rid of the variable entirely:

Code:

while(ReadBits(IS_GLOW) != 1) {
   // ...
}