Rugged SWaP Optimised Error-Correcting Credit Card Sized Computers

The team at VersaLogic has been very busy over lockdown, and we are excited to bring their latest offering to UK customers - a new SWaP-optimised embedded computer with error correcting (ECC) memory.

Code name “Harrier”

This brand new compact embedded computer features the latest 5^th generation Apollo Lake Atom™ processors  from Intel. Alongside error-correcting memory, the Harrier also includes a TPM 2.0 security chip, on-board power regulation, USB and Ethernet I/O ports, and Mini PCIe expansion sockets.  The soldered-on ECC RAM enhances both the reliability and ruggedness of the product, making it worthy of consideration for a range of mission critical applications.

This compact little computer is 55 x 95 x 29 mm, around the size of a credit card,  making it perfectly suited for SWaP applications such as in unmanned vehicles on land, underwater, or in the air. The Harrier is designed and tested for operation across the full industrial temperature range (-40º to +85ºC) and meets MIL-STD-202H specifications for shock and vibration. In addition, the on-board power regulation ensures reliable operation with fluctuating or noisy power sources.

READ FULL PRESS RELEASE

Rugged MIL-STD-810 Monitors for Extreme Environments

The Talon Series of COTS rugged monitors from EIZO Rugged Solutions are ready to be deployed in extreme environments, and can be customised to meet specific requirements. Be it applications for the very latest systems or retrofitting legacy systems, Talon can be tailored to suit your project.

Talon monitors are built to survive harsh environments.

• All monitors come standard with MIL-STD-810 and MIL-STD-461
• LED backlight for a long lifecycle 
• Optical bonding for improved durability and visibility 
• IP65 protection against dust and water jets

EIZO Talon Displays Brochure

All monitors come with various features to make installation easy in any setting, including standard interfaces such as 3G-SDI, DVI, RGB, USB and serial communication, as well as a 19-inch rack mounting option. Standard panel sizes of 21.5-inches and 24-inches are available, other sizes can be provided on request.

As well as easy installation, the Talon monitors come with several features that make usability super easy. Picture-in-Picture and Picture-by-Picture allows users to display multiple inputs at once, and a projected capacitive (PCAP) touchscreen option with 5-point multitouch or analog resistive touch option makes using the interface straightforward and intuitive.

For more information about the rugged Talon range please speak to one of our engineers - they know all about these products and would be very happy to discuss your application requirements...

EIZO Rugged Releases 6-channel XMC Graphics/GPGPU Card

EIZO Rugged has just announced a game-changing, all-in-one solution with the ability to capture, process, encode, decode, display, and stream video and audio data, all with exceptionally low latency.

Rugged and packed with features, it's a thing of beauty - our team is excited to talk to you about it...

Based on the NVIDIA® Quadro® P2000 GPU with NVIDIA Pascal™ architecture, the Condor NVP2102AxX card also efficiently supports CUDA and OpenCL based GPGPU computing, AI processing (artificial intelligence), deep learning and H.265/H.264 encoding/decoding, with all of the processing done in hardware.

High-speed data transfer and exceptionally low latency levels are achieved with the Condor NVP2102AxX graphics processor by optimising NVIDIA’s GPUDirect RDMA (remote direct memory access) feature. This enables the captured video data to be sent over PCIe, bypassing system memory, directly to GPU memory for analysis/processing/display, almost in real time.

In GPU memory, the applications can do processing such as image analysis, image enhancement, 360-degree video stitching, sensor fusion, and target detection using the GPGPU (CUDA/OpenCL™) technology. The card supports multiple outputs including 3G-SDI, DisplayPort and DVI.

With air or conduction cooled options available, as well as a number of input/output configurations please contact one of our engineers to discuss the correct configuration for your application.

Compact Modular RFSoC Solutions

The boundary-pushing team at Annapolis Micro Systems has taken a pioneering approach to delivering powerful RFSoC functionality. Their WILD FMC+ RFSoC Cards are compact modular solutions that operate standalone. If your application is very processing-intensive they can be paired with a WILDSTAR 3U or 6U VPX or PCIe Baseboard.

The concept behind Annapolis' RFSoC Cards is simple: to provide full RFSoC functionality in a small, flexible package that has solved the most demanding circuitry, signal integrity, and packaging challenges. No small feat.

Xilinx’s Zynq® UltraScale+™ RF System-on-Chip (RFSoC) combines multiple elements that were formerly discrete operations. In defense and military applications like C4ISR and radar, Size, Weight, Power and Cost (SWaP-C) considerations are crucial. Applications like UAVs, backpacks, handheld devices, and custom-integrated applications are increasingly subject to smaller spaces and power sources.

Following an intensive design and manufacturing process Annapolis' RFSoC cards provide turnkey solutions ready for immediate deployment within any standard OpenVPX or PCIe system, or within Annapolis’ proven 100Gb Ethernet WILD100™ EcoSystem. They are also compatible with SOSA™-aligned Boards and Systems.

If you require high-performance RFSoC-enabled data digitisation, processing or storage in a compact, rugged environment, these WILD RFSoC Cards are for you. Contact us to have an engineer recommend the best approach for your application.

©2020 Annapolis Micro Systems, Inc.

VersaLogic Corporation Receives AS9100 Certification

Tualatin, Oregon – February 19, 2020

Our long-standing manufacturing partner VersaLogic is one of the embedded industry’s most trusted computer companies, and today they proudly announce their AS9100D certification.

With this certification, VersaLogic surpasses their existing ISO 9001 certification, and now joins an elite group of companies also registered to this aerospace standard.

“VersaLogic is proud to announce certification of our Quality Management System to AS9100D.” says Bruce McKinnon, Chief Operating Officer. “This achievement reflects our long-standing commitment to maintaining a world-class quality management system and producing best-in-class embedded computer products. Managing product and service quality per AS9100D assures that we will continue to meet or exceed our aerospace customers’ requirements.”

Enhancing Quality and Customer Satisfaction

The audit was conducted in accordance with the requirements of SAE AS9104/1:2012-01 by PRI RegistrarSM which is accredited by ANAB and IAF.

The standard certification aims to enhance customer satisfaction, something that VersaLogic has long held at the forefront of their business. It contains requirements related to quality, safety, risk management, and evidence-based decision making – all important factors that the aerospace and defense industries demand and uphold themselves.

What's New?

The latest addition to VersaLogic's embedded product line is the Grizzly - a rugged embedded server featuring an Intel 16-core processor, -40°C to +85°C operation, two 10 Gigabit Ethernet SFP+ ports, and up to 128 GB of ECC memory.

 It is ideal for high performance/high data bandwidth applications. Two Mini PCIe sockets and an M.2 site provide for expansion and on-board storage.

Grizzly is covered from the date of shipment by a five-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship, and VersaLogic’s 10+ year product life support ensures long-term availability.

For more information please contact one of the engineers at Sarsen Technology.

DSEI 2019 - What to See on Stand N7-268

DSEI 2019 - 10-13 September 2019

Sarsen Technology will be exhibiting in the dedicated Security Zone at DSEI 2019, showcasing the some of the worlds highest-performance computing hardware supported by a number of software options.

Our fastest growing market sector is niche computing systems for government and defence security applications, and the products we supply can be used in a wide range of security sectors, from UAVs and electronic countermeasures to surveillance cameras, secure storage and deep packet inspection.

This year we are highlighting technology from a number of our manufacturing partners. Here's a sneak peek at what you might see at the show...

Manufacturer	Overview	Image	Key Product
EIZO Rugged Solutions	The Condor XMC/VPX video capture products offer high resolution video capture, both in raw and H.264 formats. AMD and NVIDIA GPUs, including the new Quadro P2000 Pascal architecture, supporting OpenCL and CUDA are available for GPGPU applications.		NVP2102xX NVIDIA Quadro Pascal P2000 (GP107) XMC Graphics & GPGPU Card More Info
VersaLogic	VersaLogic's embedded computers are designed for the most demanding applications. From ultra small (credit card size) to industry-standard PC/104- and EBX-sized boards, their x86 compatible computers are used whenever reliability counts. They thrive in the harshest environments including temperature extremes (-40° to +85°C), shock, vibration, and humidity.		Grizzly Embedded Server Unit with Intel Server-Class Processor  More Info
DAVE Embedded Systems	DAVE Embedded Systems provides solutions based on CPU modules and System On Module (SoM) featuring the latest technologies including Multi-Core ARM Cortex, PowerPC and X86 based on NXP and Texas Instruments. Their products are typically used in demanding industrial markets such as medical and automotive.		MITO NXP i.MX8M Dual/Quad Core CPU Module More Info
Annapolis Micro Systems	Considered the leader in reconfigurable computing systems, Annapolis designs and manufactures embedded Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) systems and products for digital signal processing and high performance embedded computing for the military and commercial markets.		GM60 COTS FMC + Mezzanine card with Xilinx Zynq RFSoC More Info

We will also have hardware on the stand from REFLEX CES, X-ES, ECRIN Systems and Alta Data.

To arrange a meeting please get in touch, otherwise Nigel, Christos and Stuart will be on the stand all week if you have time to stop by.

Stand N7-268, DSEI 2019.

Supporting Military FPGA Requirements in the UK

Sarsen Technology provides a wide range of rugged COTS boards and system solutions to the leading European Defense manufacturers. We have a long track record of supporting mission critical systems for land, sea & air, and we understand the importance of both process control and long-term support.

Our military customers require rugged solutions that are designed for harsh environmental conditions such as heat or cold, altitude, humidity, shock and vibration. Often the solutions we supply must be able to fit into space-constrained platforms and we can offer custom systems to suit. Also key is fast time to market, low risk, flexibility and long product life cycle. Many of the products we supply and support have industry-leading product life cycles and warranties as standard.

Our product lines include:

• MIL-STD-1553 Hardware
• Rugged VPX and COM Express Boards
• Cyber security boards and technology
• 19” Rackmount Systems
• FPGA boards based on Xilinx and Intel, including rugged Xilinx Zynq boards.

We have recently joined forces with REFLEX CES to provide their high-speed FPGA based solutions to customers in the UK and Ireland.

COMXpress Stratix® 10 SoC

REFLEX CES' designs are based around FPGA boards and firmware development, CPU and embedded software/OS, Analog and RF portions, as well as mechanical parts and custom chassis.
This combination of high performance deliverables results in rugged systems designed for harsh environmental constraints including ESD, temperature, humidity, shock and vibration. These FPGA based solutions can be combined with x86 CPU architecture or similar inside a turnkey form factor.

For more information please contact one of our engineers to discuss your requirements.

Rapid Growth Fuels X-ES Move to New Corporate Headquarters

To accommodate their continuing growth, the lovely people at Extreme Engineering Solutions (X-ES) have moved to a fabulous new corporate headquarters in Verona, WI.

Completed in September of 2018, the combined office and manufacturing space is located at 9901 Silicon Prairie Parkway, approximately six miles from the company’s previous headquarters in Middleton, WI.

The new 126,200 sq. ft. facility is a significant upgrade from the 50,000 sq. ft. Middleton facility. The new building offers more office space and improved amenities for employees and customers, including more than twice the meeting space.

The design by KEE Architecture features a central atrium and clerestory windows that provide abundant natural light to offices and common areas. The building is situated on a green and open 13.8 acres, leaving ample room to grow as the company continues to expand.

Nearly half of the new facility is devoted to a state-of-the-art manufacturing space, where X-ES performs final product assembly, integration, and testing.

The 60,000 sq. ft. manufacturing area is temperature-, humidity-, and ESD-controlled, and as part of this expansion X-ES has acquired 165 new workbenches, six new thermal chambers for temperature testing, and one new shaker for shock and vibration testing.


To achieve ambitious goals for long-term energy savings, X-ES worked with the Wisconsin Focus on Energy Business Incentive Program to incorporate equipment and practices that reduce energy waste, such as network lighting controls and energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment. The estimated electricity savings over the life of the equipment is more than eight million kilowatt hours, and the estimated lifecycle natural gas savings equates to almost 49,000 gallons of gasoline.

If you'd like more information about X-ES please send us an email. 

Get to Know Alta Data Technologies - High Performance 1553 and ARINC Solutions

Since our inception in January 2000 we have partnered with many companies to provide exceptional services and technology, and to leverage the technical expertise of industry leaders in order to help our customers bring their own products to market. Alta Data is one of the latest additions to our product line.

Founded in 2007 Alta Data Technologies is committed to providing the best possible avionics products and service in the Aerospace industry. Their rugged MIL-STD-1553 hardware and ARINC interface modules & cards, powered by the AltaCore Protocol Engine, provide the most advanced product capabilities in the industry and are available for almost every form factor, including Ethernet modules.

Alta’s 1553 Products are Notice II and IV compliant, and the ARINC product line provides a software-selectable protocol interface for ARINC-429, 717, 419, 573 and 575.

Alta Data Products

The AltaAPI, AltaView and AltaRTVal software packages have been created to reduce integration and test efforts. Both the 1553 and ARINC cards include an Advanced Signal Capture of the Bus Waveform.

All products are designed and manufactured to the highest industry standards, including management processes certified to ISO 9001:2008, IPC Class 3 and ANSI S.20.20 certified manufacturing and innovative functional and JTAG testing methods. Alta also provides free, lifetime support and an industry-leading 5 year limited warranty with all of their cards.

Alta Data offers a huge selection of unique products. For a detailed review of your application please contact one of the engineering team to discuss your requirements.

Embedded World 2019 - Don't Miss These Exhibitors

embedded world 2019

From 26 - 28 February 2019 the focus will once again be on all things embedded.

The community comes together at the Nuremberg Exhibition Centre to shine a spotlight exclusively on embedded technologies. It reflects the trends in the sector with more than 1,000 exhibitors presenting state-of-the-art covering all aspects of embedded systems.

This year Sarsen Technology will be joining ECRIN Systems, VersaLogic and DAVE Embedded Systems to showcase all the latest and greatest innovations from these market leading companies.

For more information or to arrange a meeting at the show please get in touch - info@sarsen.net
 

Not To Be Missed

ECRIN Systems www.ecrin.com	Hall 2 - Stand 449	Founded in 1976, Ecrin Systems' core business is the integration of COTS building blocks from Open Standard form factors like PICMG 1.3 to achieve the best system performance at reduced cost and shortest time to market. Their Opale family of smart industrial PCs will be on display, alongside their VPX COTS Boards, Mil-COTS and rugged systems.
VersaLogic www.versalogic.com	Hall 3 - Stand 257	VersaLogic Corporation is the trusted name in embedded computer products. Featuring 5 to 10 year availability, -40 to +85° C operating temperature, Mil Standard 202G shock and vibration testing, and outstanding US-based support, VersaLogic products are ideal for critical applications that value ruggedness, reliability and long life. VersaLogic has a host of new technology to showcase at Embedded World, as well as some of their tried and tested boards and solutions including their Zebra ARM based i.MX6 board, which was recognided by EETimes.com as one of the top Single Board Computers of 2018!
DAVE Embedded Systems www.dave.eu	Hall 4 - Stand 481	DAVE Embedded Systems is a well-established Italian company, focussed on the design of highly complex miniaturised embedded electronic systems. Join DAVE at embedded world where they will be showcasing their past and present solutions and expaining their additional support services in detail. Their latest technology innovation is a new System on Module (SoM) based on NXP i.MX8 which will be introduced for the first time at the show.

Brand New Small Form Factor (SFF) System Features 10 Gb/s Optical Links for High-Bandwidth Embedded Computing

The latest 3U VPX embedded system from Extreme Engineering Solutions (X-ES) sets a new standard for high-bandwidth data acquisition and signal processing in harsh environments.

With multiple high-speed optical links, an Intel® Xeon® D-1500 processor, and a Xilinx Kintex® UltraScale™ FPGA, the XPand6215 offers uncompromising performance and reliability in a SWaP-optimised two-slot system.

High-Speed, Fibre Optic Communications
The XPand6215 is a commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) rugged chassis hosting two conduction-cooled 3U VPX modules. One slot contains the XPedite2570, a reconfigurable fibre-optic I/O module based on the Xilinx Kintex® UltraScale™ family of FPGAs.

The XPedite2570 supplies 12 protocol-independent optical transceivers operating at up to 10.3125 Gb/s, along with 8 GB of DDR4 ECC SDRAM in two channels capable of up to 38 GB/s aggregate bandwidth. The transceivers utilise 50/125 μm multi-mode fibre with MT connectors and are qualified over the full -40°C to +85°C industrial temperature range for reliable performance in extreme environments.

These optical links are paired with a user-programmable Xilinx Kintex® UltraScale™ FPGA, which provides a blend of performance and cost-effectiveness that is ideal for packet processing and DSP-intensive processing in embedded applications.

Unparalleled, Multi-Core Processing Power
The other slot of the XPand6215 contains the XPedite7670, a 3U VPX Single Board Computer based on the Intel® Xeon® D-1500 family of processors (formerly Broadwell-DE). Available with up to 16 Xeon®-class cores in a single, power-efficient System-on-Chip (SoC) package, this processor puts the XPand6215 in the upper echelon of embedded system performance. Xeon® D processors with up to 12 cores offer native extended temperature support with an operating temperature range of -40⁰C to +85⁰C.

The XPedite7670 also provides up to 16 GB of DDR4-2133 ECC SDRAM, while an XPort3305 10 Gigabit Ethernet XMC module installed on the XPedite7670 provides a rugged 10GBASE-SR Ethernet port.

Industry-Leading Functional Density in a Small Form Factor (SFF) Enclosure
The XPand6215 makes the most of every pound and square inch, packing maximum functionality into a streamlined two-slot design. Its integrated 28 VDC power supply eliminates the need for an additional power supply slot. It also includes a memory bay for a removable 2.5 in. solid-state drive (SSD), adding the option for up to 1 TB of storage. Fully loaded, the system weighs approximately 4kg, making it ideal for cutting-edge military and industrial applications that require small, lightweight solutions.

Qualified to the MIL-STD-461E/F, MIL-STD-810, and MIL-STD-704F standards, the XPand6215 has passed a battery of tests to ensure reliable operation in even the most challenging environments.

The XPand6200 Series of rugged, embedded systems are available in a diverse range of configurations, making them uniquely-suited to a variety of processing-intensive applications.

Please contact Sarsen Technology to discuss your requirements.

Long-Life COTS Solutions for Mission-Critical Land, Sea, and Air Applications

With literally hundreds of years of experience between them, VersaLogic's engineers know all about building dependable, high reliability embedded computers for mission critical applications. Some of today's most sophisticated and high profile military equipment has been designed around a rugged embedded computer from VersaLogic.

VersaLogic - Find Out More

A leading supplier of Helmet Mounted Displays (HMDs) for military aerospace applications is using a VersaLogic single board computer (SBC) for video processing and control functions in their latest helmet design.

The new display system is a powerful video processing solution and at the time it was the world’s only full-colour, helmet-mounted cueing system. The system provides for rapid target recognition and easy hand-off to sensors and weapons systems.

To enhance vibration protection, VersaLogic installed latching connectors, replaced jumpers with zero-ohm resistors, and applied conformal coating to a number of key components.

VersaLogic's product life cycle management and its market leading product longevity guarantee provided the customer with reduced inventory costs and ensured future product availability.


VersaLogic Technology Benefits

• Rugged board-level COTs computing solutions
• Extensive life cycle support - guaranteed 5-year off-the-shelf availability and formal programs for 10+ year extensions
• IoT Ready embedded CPU and processing modules
• Award winning customer support – awarded “Five Star” (highest) rating by the world’s largest defense contractor
• Ultra-high reliability COTS – industry leading manufacturing quality and screening programs
• Industry leading 5-year warranty
• Modified COTs in quantities as low as 100 units

Whether your embedded application needs a standard off-the-shelf product, or if it needs a little tweak to include some customisation, the knowledgeable engineering team at Sarsen Technology works closely with VersaLogic to fully support even the most demanding specifications.

Speak to one of our engineers to discuss your requirements.
T: +44 1672 511166
E: info@sarsen.net

Article - The Bus Too Tough To Die!

 

MilesTek has offered complete connectivity solutions since 1981, and since then their customers have come to expect more than just top quality products. MilesTek provides answers that help customers solve their installation or project questions, as well as writing and sharing useful articles, white papers and industry news. 

The latest article from the Mil/Aero component experts at MilesTek is an in-depth look at the MIL-STD-1553 bus.

Considering how long it's been in service, the MIL-STD-1553B bus has survived remarkably well, despite other, more advanced solutions having gained wide acceptance in the last few years.

However, the fact remains that the maximum data rate of 1Mb/s is orders of magnitude too slow for today’s data-intensive systems, therefore on paper logic dictates that it will soon fade away. That may be a logical assumption, but it’s likely to prove wrong, for several reasons.

 The most obvious is that MIL-STD-1553B continues to fly on at least 30,000 aircraft, as well as on commercial and military ships, and is widely used in industrial and ……

To continue reading this article which was originally published in Aerospace & Defense Technology please click here.

Unrivaled Processing Performance on Rugged, Deployable Intel Xeon D Processor Boards

Since announcing their first single board computers (SBCs) based on the Intel® Xeon® D-1500 family of processors in 2015, Extreme Engineering Solutions (X-ES) has been busy, developing an industry-leading portfolio of embedded Xeon D products that is still growing.

These embedded SBCs provide designers with feature-rich computing solutions that are equally at home in a broad range of industries and applications, from challenging industrial environments to rugged defence deployments.

Originally available with up to eight cores, the Xeon D processors from Intel are now available with support for 12 and 16 cores in a single processor. Integrated on X-ES VPX SBCs, these high-performance, low-power processors are ideally suited for a variety of applications and infrastructure, including routers, network appliances, and battlefield communications.

Xeon D is also the first Intel processor with native extended temperature support, a key requirement for many defence and aerospace applications. Xeon D processors with up to 12 cores are rated by the manufacturer for an operating temperature range of -40⁰C to 85⁰C.

Keeping pace with strong demand from the defence and aerospace sectors, X-ES continues to introduce new products and features to their Xeon® D lineup. Their talented design engineering team draws upon an impressive breadth of experience with this architecture to minimise risk for even the most challenging designs.

There are a number of configurations available, including 3U VPX, 6U VPX, and COM Express form factors. For more information please contact Christos or Nigel who can discuss your application with you in detail.

Obsolescence Management for Rugged, Embedded Computers

We are fortunate to work with a lot of really great companies across the entire globe, and Extreme Engineering is one of the best.

Extreme Engineering Solutions (X-ES) is a world leader in the design, manufacture, and support of embedded computing solutions for compute-intensive military, communications, commercial, and industrial applications, provides a product portfolio of commercial-grade to fully ruggedised boards and systems.

The X-ES product line features the very latest in Xilinx FPGA, ARM Cortex, Intel i7 technology and NXP PowerPC processors. SBCs from X-ES are available in a number of form factors - 3U and 6U rugged VPX boards, XMC, VME, CompactPCI and 6U LRM.

See more - XES Products

Their specialty is custom services, from modified COTS to full-scale custom designs, getting you the technology you need in the shortest possible time frame. All of X-ES' products are backed by the best possible customer support, from both X-ES and their global distribution network, and they are committed to providing full life cycle support for their products.

To provide customers with information, flexibility, and control over the products they depend on, X-ES offers three configuration and obsolescence management options.

Level 1 - Change Notice	Level 2 - Change Control	Level 3 - Life Cycle Control
All customers have access to a complimentary Change Notice. Any time a Major (Class I) Engineering Change Order (ECO) occurs, X-ES will issue a Product Change Notification (PCN) and then post it to the X-ES online customer information resource, SupportNet. To be automatically notified of such changes, customers may also subscribe to email notifications of updates to SupportNet.	For customers who need to closely manage changes to their product’s design, X-ES offers Change Control. Under this upgraded configuration management option, designated customer contacts will receive notification for all Major (Class I) ECOs. They then have the option to accept or reject those changes.	Life Cycle Control includes configuration and obsolescence management, ideal for customers with long project lifecycles. Along with the Change Control configuration management offered in Level 2, X-ES proactively monitors obsolescence notification sources and issues an obsolescence notification form to designated customer contacts. Life Cycle Control provides options to lengthen the life of projects as products age and their components reach End-of-Life (EOL). When an obsolescence notification is issued, X-ES provides an impact assessment, along with details for last-time buys of components, substitute components, and product replacements/ re-designs as appropriate, thus ensuring product availability for several years to come.

For more information please contact Sarsen to discuss your application with one of our engineers.

What is an Embedded Processing Unit (EPU) ?

Embedded Processing Unit

Definition - Fully assembled and tested x86 embedded computer based on COM Express form factor.

The EPU concept is based on the flexibility of a 2-board set forming a complete embedded computer product. When you combine two completely separate CPU and I/O modules, tightly sandwiched together, the final product provide a huge range of advantages and a much smaller footprint than equivalent single board computers.

VersaLogic's family of rugged EPU products are designed around the COM Express form factor, and are delivered as fully assembled and tested units (including heat plate).



What's Inside

 

EPUs offer a long list of advantages over other embedded computer board products, including:

• Fast time-to-market 
• Smaller footprint 
•  -40° to +85°C operation 
• Fully tested 
• Available off-the-shelf!

There is also often the added complication of designing a custom carrier card for COM Express modules. EPUs eliminate the effort needed to design with high speed signals, validate the I/O circuits to make sure they work properly, create testing methods for the finished units, etc. The expertise required to create software drivers, BIOS customisation, and API code for the on-board I/O is also removed for easy integration.

EPU modules are almost obsolescence proof. The industry standard form factor means it's really easy to migrate to an EPU with a newer CPU module, but keep your existing I/O configuration and connectors for drop-in compatibility. This is combined with VersaLogic's standard 5-year availability guarantee and Product Life Extension programs for almost completely future-proof technology solutions.

Have a look at the EPU Product Overview to find out more.

If you think one of VersaLogic's rugged, off-the-shelf EPU embedded computer models might be a good fit for your application please give one of our experienced engineers to discuss your requirements.

T: 01672 511166
E: info@sarsen.net  

Extreme Engineering Releases 3U VPX Xilinx Kintex UltraScale FPGA Module

Extreme Engineering Solutions (X-ES) introduces the XPedite2570, a rugged FPGA processing module with a high-speed optical front-end interface. Equipped with an integrated Xilinx Kintex® UltraScale™ FPGA, the XPedite2570 optimises both cost and performance for high-bandwidth embedded computing applications.

XPedite2570 Datasheet

Xilinx Kintex® UltraScale™ FPGA Delivers Great Performance Without Great Cost
The XPedite2570 is a high-performance, conduction-cooled 3U VPX FPGA processing module based on the Xilinx Kintex® UltraScale™ XCKU115 FPGA.

The Xilinx Kintex® UltraScale™ family of FPGAs provides the best price/performance/watt at 20nm, as well as the highest signal processing bandwidth for a mid-range device.

Ideal for programs that need to optimise both cost and capability, the Kintex® UltraScale™ XCKU115 packs over 1.4 M system logic cells, 5,520 DSP slices, and 75.9 Mb of block RAM into a cost-effective package. It also provides a straightforward upgrade path for legacy systems, offering up to 40% power savings compared to the previous generation of FPGAs.


Optimised for High-Bandwidth Applications
The XPedite2570 is a reconfigurable FPGA resource designed to meet the demands of high-bandwidth applications such as packet processing, signal processing, and DSP-intensive applications. It features 12 rugged, protocol-independent fiber optic transceivers operating at up to 10.3125 Gb/s, along with 8 GB of DDR4 ECC SDRAM in two independent channels capable of up to 38 GB/s aggregate bandwidth. The XPedite2570 has several options for high-performance backplane I/O, including a x8 Gen3 PCI Express interface, dual GTH transceivers with a maximum data rate of 16.375 Gb/s, and up to 44 LVDS transceivers for user I/O.

X-ES’ board support package for the XPedite2570 includes an FPGA Development Kit for Xilinx Vivado complete with a reference design, IP Integrator IP blocks, HDL, test benches, and Linux drivers, so developers can jump right into application development without having to work through hardware integration issues.

Build a Rugged COTS System with Compatible X-ES Products
For lower development costs and faster deployment, pair the XPedite2570 with a 3U VPX single board computer (SBC) and install them together in the XPand6215, a Commercial-Off-the-Shelf (COTS) rugged system designed to meet the rigorous standards of MIL-STD-704F and MIL-STD-461. The XPand6215 can support several embedded single board computers from the XPedite767x product line, such as the XPedite7670. This family of high-performance SBCs is based on the Intel® Xeon® D processor, which provides up to 16 Xeon®-class cores in a single, power-efficient System-on-Chip (SoC) package.

More about Extreme Engineering Solutions (X-ES)

VersaLogic Announces ARM Based Embedded Computer Family

VersaLogic announced a brand new line of production-ready, ARM-based embedded computers at Embedded World 2018.

The Tetra is the first in the family, and provides a power-efficient, quad-core Single Board Computer (SBC) featuring a quad-core i.MX6 Cortex®-A9 32-bit processor. The board typically consumes about 4W of power when operating (not idle). It is ready for off-the-shelf deployment into demanding industrial applications requiring rugged, long-life, power-efficient, industrial temperature rated (-40° to +85°C) solutions.

VersaLogic Tetra Datasheet

Unlike many ARM-based "modules," VersaLogic's new line of ARM-based EPC (Embedded Processing Card) products are complete board-level computers. They do not require carrier cards, companion boards, connector break-out boards, or other add-ons to function.

For ease of mounting, and future upgrades, VersaLogic's ARM products are designed around the size and mounting points of COM Express products. Unlike proprietary-format ARM products, VersaLogic ARM boards provide a standard mounting pattern allowing for simplified upgrading in the future.

The Tetra matches the COM Express Basic footprint (125 x 95 mm) and offers a variety of I/O options for rugged, industrial applications. All three quad-core Tetra models feature a wide (8 to 17-volt) power input, making it ideal for 12-volt automotive applications.

More information

Many applications that require lower power or lower heat dissipation still need very high levels of reliability. VersaLogic's 10+ year formal life-extension program ensures long production cycles free from expensive changes and upgrades that come from short, disposable life cycles.

On-board I/O
A variety of on-board I/O includes a Gigabit Ethernet port with network boot capability, HDMI and LVDS video outputs, and two USB 2.0 Ports. Serial I/O (RS-232) and a SATA II interface or mSATA, support high-capacity rotating or solid-state drives.

CAN Bus, I2C and SPI are also included along with a 6-axis e-compass, and MIPI camera input. The on-board Mini PCIe socket provides flexible expansion using plug-in Wi-Fi modems, GPS receivers, Ethernet, FireWire, and other mini cards.

Industrial Toughness
Designed and tested for Industrial temperature (-40° to +85°C ) operation, VersaLogic's rugged Tetra meets MIL-STD 202G specifications to withstand high impact and vibration. It is engineered and validated to excel in unforgiving environments. Each component is carefully selected to ensure reliable operation in the field. With decades of embedded design experience, VersaLogic understands how to design in quality and reliability. U.S.-based technical support includes comprehensive assistance during project development.

Availability
The Tetra, part number VL-EPC-2700, is available from stock. Contact info@sarsen.net for more information.

Embedded World 2018 - Highlights from Nuremberg

From 27 February until the end of the day tomorrow the focus is once again on all things embedded.

The embedded technology community has joined together at the Nuremberg Exhibition Centre to shine a spotlight exclusively on the latest trends in the sector, with more than 1,000 exhibitors presenting state-of-the-art covering all aspects of embedded systems.

This year Mike Blee from Sarsen Technology is joining representatives from ECRIN Systems, VersaLogic and DAVE Embedded Systems to showcase all the latest and greatest innovations from these market leading companies.

ECRIN Systems www.ecrin.com	Hall 2 - Stand 449	This is the first time ECRIN Systems has exhibited at Embedded World. The new µONYX SWaP-C rugged system, based on the Intel Core i7 Skylake SoC will be on display, alongside their VPX COTS Boards, Mil-COTS and rugged systems. Embedded World will also be the first time visitors can see the brand new myOPALE modular system. myOPALE provides a simple solution for applications that need more I/O boards than can be fitted in a standard Industrial PC based on backplane PCB.
VersaLogic www.versalogic.com	Hall 3 - Stand 259	VersaLogic Corporation is the trusted name in embedded computer products. Featuring 5 to 10 year availability, -40 to +85° C operating temperature, MIL-STD 202G shock and vibration testing, and outstanding US-based support, VersaLogic products are ideal for critical applications that value ruggedness, reliability and long life. VersaLogic will be officially introducing their newest embedded computer product line at Embedded World. Built around ARM processors for low power, lower performance requirements using the COM Express form factor (95x125 mm), the EPC line offers designed in reliability and is validated to withstand extreme temperatures and high-impact/vibrations. The first board in the EPC family is the rugged Tetra (VL-EPC-2700)
DAVE Embedded Systems www.dave.eu	Hall 4 - Stand 481	DAVE Embedded Systems is a well-established Italian company, focussed on the design of highly complex miniaturised embedded electronic systems. This year DAVE Embedded Systems is celebrating their 20th anniversary, so join them at embedded world 2018 where they will be showcasing their past and present solutions with a new booth design. Their latest technology successes includes the Xilinx Zynq-based BORA SoM and their new range of single board computers.

Embedded World 2018 Photos:

DAVE Embedded - Hall 4 Stand 481

ECRIN Systems - Hall 2 Stand 449

Mike Blee from Sarsen Technology supporting DAVE

How VersaLogic's Rugged Computers are Being Used in Security and Surveillance Applications

VersaLogic designs products for use by OEMs in a variety of market applications. Anywhere that the need for superb quality and high-performance embedded computing exists, VersaLogic can provide an effective and robust solution.

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Protecting lives and property are at the heart of every security application. And VersaLogic embedded computers are designed into some of the most sophisticated and high profile security equipment used today.

Caught on Camera
A leading supplier of security and surveillance cameras is using VersaLogic single board computers in their ultra-long-range laser illumination cameras. These high performance surveillance systems are protecting airports, borders, ports, waterways and nuclear power plants around the world.

Designed to be rugged and highly reliable, the systems are employed by both the U.S. Department of Energy and the Department of Defense. Unlike conventional night vision technologies that rely on moonlight, laser illumination cameras use continuous wave laser illumination, electro-optics and image processing to provide clear pictures in zero light or full daylight.

Using the high performance processing power of the VersaLogic SBC, the surveillance system is capable of producing gray scale video in which words and numbers are legible from a range of up to 3000 meters. The system also provides visibility through rain and other inclement weather. Designed to withstand extreme temperature fluctuations, VersaLogic SBCs are capable of operating smoothly under the harshest environmental conditions.

VersaLogic SBCs for Security Applications

Bengal	Fox	Blackbird
PCIe/104 OneBank format Intel Atom E38xx processor Dual gigabit Ethernet DDR3L RAM (up to 8 GB) USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports Visit Bengal Webpage	PC/104-Plus format DMP Vortex DX2 processor (933 MHz) Dual Fast Ethernet Serial I/O (4 ports) Visit Fox Webpage	COM Express Basic form factor Intel Skylake i7 or i5 processors Dual gigabit Ethernet Onboard TPM chip Visit Blackbird Webpage

Protecting lives and property are at the heart of every security application. And VersaLogic embedded computers are designed into some of the most sophisticated and high profile security equipment used today.

• Rugged solutions for operation in harsh, mobile, and/or remote environments
• SBCs with extensive on-board I/O capabilities help to minimise system size, power, complexity, and expense
• Ultra-high reliability COTS – industry leading manufacturing quality and screening programs
• IoT Ready embedded CPU and processing modules
• Customised boards in quantities as low as 100 units
• Extensive lifecycle support - guaranteed 5-year off-the-shelf availability and formal programs for 10+ year extensions
• US-based manufacturing and support

Every VersaLogic product is designed from the ground up for high reliability, manufactured and tested to the highest quality standards, and backed by world-class service, 5 year warranty, and a 5+ year production life guarantee.