Hey Mike,
I've uploaded a pic of an encoder circuit using the chips you suggested.
http://xa.yimg.com/kq/groups/3694848/or/465001900/name/encoder+counter+%26+buffer+circuit+v2.jpg
I chose to use a dual FF IC (74HC74D) to decode the encoder.. I also tried to include a debouncing circuit before the signals go into the FF.
Please take a look and see if this is on the right path. I left the 4024's reset line and the 74HC244's enable lines open for you to possibly show me how you use them with the Hawk Boards I/O lines.
I assume the outs on the 244 go directly to the main CPU bus.
Of course I only showed half of the full circuit for one encoder.. X out circuit is the same as Y outputs circuit.
I assume the counter changes it's output lines as a binary number.. so in essence, with 7 bits it can produce a number between 0 to 127?
Is it possible to test this thing with LED's at the outputs of either the counter or the buffer using a simple breadboard and 7 LED's?
Any further suggestions? Am I on the right path with this design?
Thanks in advance for all your help.
-Blaine