We are familiar with all important microcontroller chips and FPGAs as well as with interface standards and data communication interfaces. We develop customer specific boards or modify our products according to the customer's requirements. We also offer the series production and maintenance of these products on request.
Examples of hardware components and embedded systems solutions are:
- Interface modules
- PC interface cards
- Control PCBs
- Embedded PC systems
Our range of services for hardware components and embedded systems comprise:
- Development of the hardware concept
- Hardware development including supply of prototypes
- Development of testing and inspection programs as well as testing equipment
- Production and supply of series components, also in bulk
- Long-term management
Example projects:
Specific cPCI/CAN interface module with I/O function
An active CAN interface module in accordance with the cPCI RTM standard (rear I/O) was developed for a measuring equipment manufacturer to connect the measuring systems to CAN networks. This consists of two separate microcontroller systems. The two microcontroller systems were arranged on a PCB and are connected to each other via CAN. Microcontroller system 1 allows access to the CAN bus from the PC with the standard IXXAT CAN driver VCI, the other microcontroller system enables customer-specific I/O accesses, for which corresponding firmware was developed. IXXAT also handles series supply of the interface modules.
CANopen/SAE J1939 interface for joystick
An interface was developed for a joystick manufacturer that equips the joystick with a CANopen and a J1939 interface. The necessary hardware and the complete joystick software were specified and developed by IXXAT. In addition to the microprocessor board, an additional I/O board provides the power supply and a variable number of digital and analog I/Os, which enable customer-specific modifications of the joystick handle with additional control elements. Comprehensive parameterization possibilities offer many ways to adapt the joystick to system requirements.
CANopen/Ethernet gateway module for flow meters
A CANopen/Ethernet gateway based on a modified standard IXXAT product CAN@net II was developed for a customer who manufactures flow meters for measuring flow rates in oil pipelines. Special hardware requirements had to be met, as the device is subject to strict environmental requirements. In addition to the development of the hardware module and the implementation of CANopen and of a TCP/IP stack, the gateway application (TCP server and data exchange) as well as a mechanism for downloading the gateway were implemented. IXXAT also handles series supply of the interface module.
Optical CAN star coupler for use in test benches
The development of the Airbus star coupler was a modification of the standard IXXAT star coupler for use in the "Victoria Testing" at Airbus. Airbus ordered the development and supply of 50 star couplers. A customer-specific device was required with switchable CAN branches, switchable terminal resistors and galvanic isolation for hat-rail assembly.The Airbus star coupler is used in test benches. The star coupler connects both a simulator to the DUT/SUT (Device Under Test / System Under Test) and the OE (Original Equipment). In the test benches, a distance of up to 300 m has to be bridged. These distances are designed as optical fibers. The fiber optic cables are connected via patch fields.
Typical test set-up in a cabin test system Airbus A380