pictas-interface-rs is the host interface software for the PICTAS replay device, written in Rust. This project is still an early prototype, code is likely to be messy and buggy. Others are allowed to write their own interface software if they wish; the PICTAS does not require that this particular software is used for communication.
The PICTAS currently uses a USB to TTL module to communicate with a host computer, however this will be replaced with another microcontroller similar to how some Arduino boards connect over USB. The general process looks like this: Load movie into this software. Program the movie's inputs onto the PICTAS device. And finally, initiate the playback (there are multiple ways to do this).
The replay device contains a 16MB FLASH memory IC that stores the movie's inputs. It does not need to be reprogrammed each time you wish to playback the TAS, only when changing/updating the run. Communication details will be found in the PICTAS's readme file.
Currently only .r08 files are supported, but there will be support for .r16, .m64, and any others as more console support is added.
Rust is highly integrated with the cargo build system. To install Rust and cargo, just follow these instructions. Once installed, while in the project directory, just run cargo build --release or to run directly, you can use cargo run.