Announcement: ACROMAG INC. ACQUIRES THE ASSETS OF XEMBEDDED, LLC.

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Dear Customers, Shareholders, and Suppliers:

I am pleased to announce that on May 15, 2012, Acromag Inc., a market leader in Industrial and Defense Electronics, has acquired the assets of Xembedded, LLC. This purchase adds the products of Xembedded, LLC to Acromag’s portfolio, benefitting both groups by combining product lines. Customers will have the advantage of a complete product solution, ranging from CPU products to I/O solutions.

Xembedded products are known for high quality and technology. Their focus on VME, VPX, and COM Express platforms compliments Acromag’s FPGA, PMC, XMC, and I/O technologies. This move also provides for extending production of the many Legacy products that Xembedded, LLC was known for.

The new “Xembedded Group” will now join the Acromag “Embedded Solutions Group” and “Process Instrument Group.” By forming this new group, Acromag is able to provide uninterrupted service to former Xembedded, LLC customers. Along with the products, Acromag has hired all of the employees of Xembedded, LLC in order to provide the expertise to design, manufacture, and support the many products in the “Xembedded Group” portfolio.

The new “Xembedded Group” will work to continue the relationship of the many sales representatives and distributors that have sold these products for years.

Using the engineering resources of Acromag, I believe we can begin a new era for the new “Xembedded Group” with a combination of talent and people that are amongst the best in the industry.

We appreciate all of our customers and look forward to serving them for years to come.

Sincerely,

David A. Wolfe
President and COO
Acromag Inc.

New Webinar: Designing with FPGA Modules for Computing Speed and Flexibility

Learn about FPGA-based system design for embedded computing I/O signal processing applications. We'll discuss how advanced Xilinx Virtex and Altera Stratix FPGAs make use of multiple digital clock managers and simultaneous parallel execution to rapidly compute a set of integrated processes. These processes include FFT, SERDES, FIFO management, logic sequencing, DDR control, and more. See how with integrated I/O; enablers such as a soft CPU and IP cores; plus tools like Xilinx ISE, Altera Quartus, SimuLink, and MathLab; the FPGA can process logic much faster than any real-time system with less effort than ever before. Additionally, the reconfigurability of FPGAs provides great flexibility to address changing requirements, combat processor obsolescence, and communicate with legacy systems.

View the Recorded Webinar

Download the White Paper

New I/O Extension Module Adds Analog and Digital I/O Processing Capabilities to FPGA Computing Boards

Acromag’s new AXM-A75 multi-function I/O module plugs into their PMC and XMC FPGA cards to provide front-end A/D conversion, D/A outputs, and discrete level monitoring/control functions.

The new AXM-75 is a multi-function I/O extension module that adds A/D, D/A, and digital I/O signal processing functions to a FPGA processor board. Acromag’s extension I/O modules plug directly onto their PMC and XMC reconfigurable FPGA cards equipped with an AXM mezzanine connector. Using the AXM-A75, engineers can interface a number of high-level analog voltage signals to and from the FPGA. TTL-level digital I/O channels can monitor and control discrete devices. A 68-pin VHDCI receptacle provides easy field I/O connections. The operating range is -40 to 85°C. Typical uses include hardware simulation, in-circuit diagnostics, machine control, signal intelligence, and image processing. List price is $1700.

“The AXM-A75 multi-function I/O module simplifies the interface between an FPGA and sensors or controllers” explained Joseph Primeau, Acromag’s sales and marketing director. AXM extension modules like the AXM-A75 provide a convenient method to interface real-world signals to and from the FPGA for high-speed measurement and control operations.

There are sixteen differential analog input channels on the AXM-A75. Each input has its own high-speed 16-bit 250kHz A/D converter offering the ability to simultaneously sample all channels. A low-pass filter removes unwanted EMI. The input range is ±10 volts with programmable gain of 1x, 2x, 4x, or 8x. Serial FLASH memory stores the factory calibration constants.

Two quad DAC devices drive eight analog output channels with a range of ±10V. Each channel has its own high-speed 16-bit D/A converter which allows updating of individual channels or all outputs simultaneously. The D/A settling time is 10µS.

Sixteen bi-directional digital I/O channels provide the ability to read or write 5V logic levels on TTL devices. Each I/O channel is individually configurable as an input or output for great flexibility to match your requirements. The open drain outputs are pulled high via a pull-up resistor.

Acromag has designed and manufactured measurement and control products for more than 50 years. They are an international corporation with a world headquarters near Detroit, Michigan and a global network of sales representatives and distributors. Acromag offers a complete line of embedded I/O products including bus boards, mezzanine modules, wiring accessories, and software. Industries served include military, aerospace, manufacturing, transportation, utilities, and scientific research laboratories.

For more information about Acromag products, call Inside Sales at (248) 295-0310 or Marketing Communications at (248) 295-0310, FAX (248) 624-9234. E-mail solutions@acromag.com or write Acromag at P.O. Box 437, Wixom, MI 48393-7037 USA. The web site is www.acromag.com.

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November 21, 2011

Contacts:    Sales - Inside Sales Department (e-mail: solutions @ acromag.com)
Editorial - Robert Greenfield, Mktg. Comm. Mgr. (rgreenfield @ acromag.com)

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
 

New PMC Module Uses Economical Spartan-6 FPGA to Reduce Cost of Complex Embedded Computing Tasks

Acromag’s new PMC module features a reconfigurable Xilinx Spartan-6 FPGA to offer a cost-sensitive solution for advanced computing applications requiring custom logic, DSP, or algorithm acceleration.

To assist embedded system developers with ever-tightening budget and time constraints, Acromag introduced new PMC mezzanine modules featuring the cost-optimized Xilinx^® Spartan^®-6 FPGA. The PMC-SLX reconfigurable FPGA modules can save thousands of dollars, yet still deliver high-performance computing for algorithm acceleration and custom logic processing tasks. Spartan-6 FPGAs have integrated logic, DSP, and memory resources that leverage the flagship Virtex-6 FPGA platform’s architecture and system-level blocks for quicker and smoother system development. Acromag adds a high-throughput PCI-X interface, large memory banks, and easy access to field I/O signals to deliver a ready-to-use FPGA computing module for advanced signal processing applications. Typical uses include hardware simulation, in-circuit diagnostics, communications, signal intelligence, and image processing. The base price is just $2895 with extra memory and extended temperature options available.

“The Spartan-6 FPGA is designed for cost-sensitive applications, but with abundant logic resources and high-speed DSP, it is more than capable for many mil-aero and industrial control functions” noted Rowland Demko, Acromag’s national sales manager. To optimize system performance and enable cross-platform compatibility, Spartan-6 FPGAs use an efficient dual-register 6-input LUT logic structure, built-in system-level blocks, and DSP slices derived from the high-end Virtex-6 architecture. As part of Xilinx’s targeted design platform, designers can leverage common design methodologies, development tools, and run-time platforms for greater cost savings and faster time-to-market. Likewise, Acromag’s PMC-SLX support software is very similar to their other FPGA design kits to save additional time.

Field I/O interfaces to the FPGA via the rear J4/P4 connector and/or with optional front mezzanine I/O extension modules. 64 I/O or 32 LVDS lines are accessible through the rear connector. Acromag’s plug-in AXM mezzanine cards provide additional I/O processing capabilities. A variety of these AXM mezzanine I/O cards are available to provide front-end 14-bit 105 MHz A/D conversions or an interface for CMOS digital I/O, RS-485 differential signals, or extra LVDS I/O lines.

All models employ the logic-optimized SLX150 version of the Spartan-6 FPGA which provides 147,433 logic cells and 180 DSP slices. Dual-ported SRAM (256k or 1M x 64-bit) facilitates high-speed DMA transfers to the bus or CPU. This memory provides direct links from the PCI bus and to the FPGA. 16MB flash memory enables on-board storage and loading of the FPGA code. The 100MHz 64-bit PCI-X interface ensures fast data throughput. PMC-SLX modules are ready for use in conduction-cooled systems and offer an optional upgrade to extended temperature range parts suitable for -40 to 85°C operation.

Acromag’s Engineering Design Kit provides utilities to help users develop custom programs, load VHDL into the FPGA, and establish DMA transfers between the FPGA and the CPU. The kit includes a compiled FPGA file and example VHDL code provided as selectable blocks with examples for the local bus interface, read/writes, and change-of-state interrupts to the PCI bus. A JTAG interface allows users to perform on-board VHDL simulation. Further analysis is supported with a ChipScope™ Pro interface.

For easy integration of the boards with embedded Windows^® applications, Acromag developed a DLL driver software package for compatibility with Microsoft^® Visual C++™, and Visual Basic. Sample files with “C” source demonstration programs provide easy-to-use tools to test operation of the module.

For real time and open source applications, Acromag offers C libraries for VxWorks^®, Linux^®, and other operating systems. The libraries provide generic routines (source code included) to handle reads, writes, interrupts, and other functions. Demonstration programs enable the developer to quickly exercise the I/O modules before attaching the routines to the application program. This diagnostic tool can save hours of troubleshooting and debugging. The Linux example programs are a free download.

Acromag has designed and manufactured measurement and control products for more than 50 years. They are an international corporation with a world headquarters near Detroit, Michigan and a global network of sales representatives and distributors. Acromag offers a complete line of embedded I/O products including bus boards, mezzanine modules, wiring accessories, and software. Industries served include military, aerospace, manufacturing, transportation, utilities, and scientific research laboratories.

For more information about Acromag products, call Inside Sales at (248) 295-0310 or Marketing Communications at (248) 295-0310, FAX (248) 624-9234. E-mail solutions@acromag .com or write Acromag at P.O. Box 437, Wixom, MI 48393-7037 USA. 

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Shown: PMC-SLX FPGA I/O module

Contacts:    Sales - Inside Sales Department (e-mail: solutions@acromag .com)
Editorial - Robert Greenfield, Mktg. Comm. Mgr. (rgreenfield@acromag .com)

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Acromag Signs Dynamic C4 Pte. Ltd. as their Embedded I/O Products Distributor for Singapore

Dynamic C4, with extensive embedded computing experience in aerospace and defense applications , now represents Acromag embedded I/O products in Singapore.

Acromag is very excited to announce that Dynamic C4 Pte. Ltd. has signed on as their embedded computing products distributor for Singapore. Dynamic C4 brings a wealth of experience in delivering embedded and applied computing solutions plus an extensive product line to complement Acromag’s I/O boards and re-configurable FPGA cards. They combine an expertise in COTS technology with an in-depth set of support services that helps clients bring their products to market quicker and more efficiently. With a focus on embedded systems for military, aerospace, industrial automation, and communications markets, Dynamic C4 is well-suited to provide sales, service and integration of Acromag products.

“Acromag is very pleased to have Dynamic C4 representing our products. Their technical expertise and system integration services will help serve Acromag customers across many industries thriving in Singapore’s rapidly growing high-tech sectors,” remarked Russ Nieves, Acromag’s international sales manager for embedded computing products.

DYNAMIC C4 was co-founded by several senior engineers, each with 7-10 years of experience in the embedded defense industry. They have a special expertise in C4ISR applications and are highly qualified to provide COTS boards and sub-system solutions with system integration and development services.

Offering a wide range of COTS products, Dynamic C4 can deliver signal acquisition and generation, FPGA, networking, single board computers, rugged computers, and many other solutions. These products are based on open standards like OpenVPX/VPX, VXS, VME, CompactPCI, XMC and PCIe form factors in both commercial and ruggedized, conduction-cooled versions. Partners include leading embedded computing vendors such as Mercury Computers, Pentek, Galleon, and now Acromag.

Dynamic C4 can be reached at sales@DynamicC4.com, +65 6405 4506 (tel), or +65 6425 4282 (fax). They are located at Blk 182, Bukit Batok West Ave 8, #04-155, Singapore 650182. Their website is www.DynamicC4.com.

Acromag has designed and manufactured measurement and control products for more than 50 years. They are an AS9100 and ISO-9001 certified international corporation with a world headquarters near Detroit, Michigan and a global network of sales representatives and distributors. Acromag offers a complete line of embedded I/O products including bus boards, mezzanine modules, wiring accessories, and software. Industries served include defense, aerospace, manufacturing, transportation, energy, and scientific research.

For more information about Acromag products, call Inside Sales at (248) 295-0310 or Marketing Communications at (248) 295-0310, FAX (248) 624-9234. E-mail solutions@acromag.com or write Acromag at P.O. Box 437, Wixom, MI 48393-7037 USA.

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Shown: Dynamic C4 website at www.DynamicC4.com.

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Acromag Selects Metromatics as its Embedded I/O Products Distributor for Australia and New Zealand

Metromatics, with extensive computer systems experience in avionics, defense, transportation, and manufacturing applications, now represents Acromag embedded computing products in Oceania.

Acromag is very please to announce that Metromatics Pty Ltd. is now their embedded computing products distributor in Australia and New Zealand. Metromatics is a leading-edge technology manufacturer and supplier of products for the commercial, industrial and defense industries. They specialize in design, project management, systems integration and support for avionics and military applications. Already representing an extensive line of embedded computing products to complement Acromag’s I/O boards and re-configurable FPGA cards, Metromatics is well-suited to provide sales, service and integration for Acromag customers.

“Acromag is excited to have Metromatics representing our products. Their expert level of service and system integration capabilities will greatly benefit Acromag customers developing high-performance computer systems for a broad range of applications,” stated Russ Nieves, Acromag’s international sales manager for embedded computing products.

Founded in 1989, Metromatics now has many years of experience providing full systems engineering solutions from concept and design to integrating industrial computer products and performing final testing. They also have an accredited ISO 9001:2008 quality assurance system. In addition to manufacturing industrial LCD displays and system racks, Metromatics represents a comprehensive portfolio of embedded computing products in a variety of form factors. This equipment includes rugged mobile systems, single board computers, modular I/O, and telecommunication products from partners such as GE Intelligent Platforms and now Acromag.

The Metromatics head office in Australia is located in the Brisbane suburb of North Lakes. Additional sales and support offices are located in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Auckland, New Zealand. For more information, please visit the Metromatics website at www.metromatics.com.au, send an e-mail to sales@metromatics.com.au, or call the Brisbane headquarters at +61 7 3868-4255.

Acromag has designed and manufactured measurement and control products for more than 50 years. They are an AS9100 and ISO-9001 certified international corporation with a world headquarters near Detroit, Michigan and a global network of sales representatives and distributors. Acromag offers a complete line of embedded I/O products including bus boards, mezzanine modules, wiring accessories, and software. Industries served include defense, aerospace, manufacturing, transportation, energy, and scientific research.

For more information about Acromag products, call Inside Sales at (248) 295-0310 or Marketing Communications at (248) 295-0310, FAX (248) 624-9234. E-mail solutions@acromag.com or write Acromag at P.O. Box 437, Wixom, MI 48393-7037 USA. 

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Shown: Metromatics website at www.metromatics.com.au.

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

See our new FPGA and Embedded I/O solutions at AUVSI Unmanned Systems Conference

Booth #1343

Acromag offers a broad range of embedded I/O boards to perform A/D, D/A, digital I/O, counter/timer, and serial communication functions. Some boards feature re-configurable FPGA's for custom computing solutions. These boards are available on VME, PCI, and CompactPCI cards as well as on Industry Pack and PMC mezzanine modules.

New VPX cards with a configurable Spartan-6 or Virtex-5 FPGA are ideal for high-performance computing. VPX carrier cards are ideal for interfacing XMC or PMC modules to perform a variety of functions.

An extended life cycle program manages component obsolescence to ensure long availability for OEM and COTS applications. Most products can also be ordered with extended temperature ranges for use in harsh environments.

AUVSI Unmanned Systems North America 2011
Washington DC
August 16-19, 2011
Walter E. Washington Convention Center

AUVSI's Unmanned Systems North America is the premier forum for reviewing, assessing and discussing the current state of the unmanned systems market. The event brings together the key leaders and decision-makers in the industry. Officials from government and user organizations around the world attend and participate in the symposium program.
 

Acromag Names New International Sales Representative for Process Automation Products Division

Acromag has tapped John Hayward of Haymac Ltd. to manage distribution channels and service customers for their process control product line in Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, and South America.

To keep pace with growing markets for remote I/O and signal conditioners in Europe, Asia, and many countries around the globe, Acromag has named John Hayward of Haymac Ltd. as their new international sales representative for the process automation division. John will team up with Acromag to expand Acromag’s presence in global markets and to service the unique needs of international customers. Based in England, John brings a wealth of technical and sales experience in process control technologies and numerous industries including oil & gas, utilities, chemicals, glass/metals, factory automation, and electronics test. He will work closely with Acromag’s Marketing and Sales Director Donald Lupo to manage the international sales channels for process products and to provide direct technical support for customers around the world.

“We are excited to have secured the services of Haymac Ltd. who will apply their experience and knowledge of measurement and control technologies to expand our service outside the Americas,” said Don Lupo. “Recently, we have seen a great increase in demand for Ethernet I/O modules and signal conditioners across Europe and Asia, as well as in emerging markets such as South Africa and the Middle East.”

John Hayward has more than 25 years of high-tech electronics industry experience and previously worked at several leading distributors and manufacturers, serving as product marketing manager, sales manager, and engineering. Earlier management positions involved selling data acquisition, test & measurement, and process instrumentation systems including sensors, PLCs, PC-based controllers and transmitters for companies such as Amplicon and Fisher-Rosemount in the U.K. He holds an HNC in electrical & electronic engineering in addition to later studies in marketing, sales, and project management.

Haymac Ltd. is based in West Sussex, England. John Hayward can be reached by email at jhayward@acromag.com or by telephone at +44 1903 522855.

Acromag has designed and manufactured measurement and control products for more than 50 years. They are an AS9100 and ISO 9001-certified international corporation with a world headquarters near Detroit, Michigan and a global network of sales representatives and distributors. Acromag offers a complete line of industrial I/O products including a variety of process instruments, signal conditioners, and distributed fieldbus I/O modules that are available with a 7-year warranty. Industries served include chemical processing, manufacturing, defense, energy, and water services.

For more information about Acromag products, call the Inside Sales Department at (248) 295-0880 or Marketing Communications at (248) 295-0865, FAX (248) 624-9234. E-mail sales@acromag.com or write Acromag at P.O. Box 437, Wixom, MI 48393-7037 USA. 

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July 26, 2011

Contacts:    Sales - Inside Sales Department (e-mail: sales@acromag.com)
Editorial - Robert Greenfield, Mktg. Comm. Mgr. (rgreenfield@acromag.com)

Shown: John Hayward, International Sales Representative, Process Automation Products

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

New Head-Mount Thermocouple Transmitter Provides High-Voltage Isolation to Prevent Damage and Errors

Acromag adds an enhanced version of their USB-configured thermocouple/millivolt input transmitters with an isolation barrier to protect from surges, reduce noise, and eliminate ground loop errors.

The latest release in Acromag’s new ST130 series of low-cost, temperature transmitters is the Model ST133, an isolated thermocouple/millivolt signal conditioner. This high-performance version of the economy-level ST132 also converts sensor input signals from eight thermocouple types or a ±100mV range and outputs a proportional 4-20mA process control signal. However, the addition of 1500V isolation between the input and output circuit shields equipment from high-voltage surges and transient signals. The isolation also breaks up ground loops and reduces signal noise that could interfere with measurement accuracy. Installing this output loop-powered two-wire transmitter is easy and a USB connection to your PC simplifies set up using free Windows configuration software. Units support mounting in DIN Form B sensor heads or on a DIN rail. They are CE compliant with pending UL/cUL Class 1 Div 2 Zone 2 approvals and operate reliably over a -40 to 80°C operating range. Pricing for these low-maintenance, high accuracy instruments starts at just $109.

“With the new ST133 thermocouple transmitter we can now offer a choice of isolated or non-isolated units to better meet a customer’s price/performance requirements,” says Don Lupo, Acromag’s sales and marketing director. Many end-user and OEM applications still require high isolation to combat and reject the effects of large common mode voltages, electrical noise, surges, and system ground loops. The ST133 bridges the gap between economy units and more expensive high-performance isolated transmitters.

Other features include signal linearization and cold-junction compensation functions. Response times are as low as 30ms. The Windows software helps you quickly configure the transmitter using a USB cable connection to select input type with standard or reverse-acting output, scale I/O ranges, set filtering levels, and choose upscale or downscale operation for sensor faults. Digital calibration eliminates zero/span pots, DIP switches, and pushbuttons for more precise and stable measurements.

A rugged design helps these transmitters operate reliably in harsh industrial environments. Ambient temperature drift is less than 75ppm/°C for long-term stability. The ST133 is shock (50g) and vibration (5g) resistant and includes high-level electrical noise immunity (RFI, EMI, ESD, EFT, and surge protection). And to prevent incorrect wiring, the output/power connection is non-polarized.

For easy installation, Acromag sells a variety of mounting and wiring accessories. A USB isolator further protects equipment from ground loops, electrical noise, and surges during configuration. For convenience, a kit supplies the software, isolator, and USB interface cables. Numerous connection head enclosures are also available from Acromag. Select from stainless steel, aluminum, and cast iron housings with explosion-proof or general-purpose ratings. A DIN rail adapter offers alternative mounting options.

Acromag has designed and manufactured measurement and control products for more than 50 years. They are an AS9100 and ISO 9001-certified international corporation with a world headquarters near Detroit, Michigan and a global network of sales representatives and distributors. Acromag offers a complete line of industrial I/O products including a variety of process instruments, signal conditioners, and distributed fieldbus I/O modules that are available with a 7-year warranty. Industries served include chemical processing, manufacturing, defense, energy, and water services.

For more information about Acromag products, call the Inside Sales Department at (248) 295-0880 or Marketing Communications at (248) 295-0865, FAX (248) 624-9234. E-mail sales@acromag.com or write Acromag at P.O. Box 437, Wixom, MI 48393-7037 USA.  The web site is www.acromag.com.

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June 27, 2011

Contacts:    Sales - Inside Sales Department (e-mail: sales@acromag.com)
Editorial - Robert Greenfield, Mktg. Comm. Mgr. (rgreenfield@acromag.com)

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

New PCI Express Carrier Card Interfaces up to Four IndustryPack Modules for Custom I/O Configurations

Acromag’s new APCe8650 card routes power and bus signals to four IndustryPack mezzanine modules to create custom I/O processing boards with a PCIe interface for use in a PC-based control system.

Acromag’s APCe8650 IndustryPack (IP) carrier cards offer a simple and cost-effective solution for interfacing I/O mezzanine modules to a PCI Express embedded computer system. These slot-saving carrier cards route power and interface bus signals to four plug-in IP modules through the PCIe card slot connector for rapid data throughput. By inserting any mix of up to four industrial I/O modules from Acromag or other vendors on the carrier, developers can easily create custom I/O boards to meet their unique requirements for use within a PCIe-based computer. Pricing starts at $750 for the standard model or slightly more for a -40 to 85°C extended temperature range version.

These carriers are ideal for high-performance industrial, defense, and scientific research systems requiring high-density I/O. “Now developers can leverage dozens of available IP modules for use in embedded control systems with a PCI Express bus,” says Joseph Primeau, Acromag’s sales and marketing director. The APCe8650 supports any combination of standard, single-width ANSI/VITA-4 IP modules to offer great flexibility in performing a variety of I/O signal processing tasks. Acromag offers dozens of compatible IP modules to perform A/D, D/A, digital I/O, and serial communication functions including CAN and MIL-STD-1553 bus interfaces. FPGA modules with configurable logic elements are also available for algorithm acceleration, DSP, and adaptive computing applications.

The carrier card resides in memory space and supports IP module I/O, ID, INT, and MEM spaces. Full IP module register and data access is provided for convenient configuration or control of the I/O modules through software. Plug-and-play carrier configuration simplifies installation and supports two interrupt channels per IP module. A non-volatile ID register identifies the carrier. Other features include supervisory circuit reset generation, plus individually filtered and fused power. Four 50-pin headers provide easy access cable access for I/O signals and simple connections to Acromag termination panels.

Software development tools are available for VxWorks, Linux, and Windows environments. These function libraries provide example routines or DLL driver support with C source code to save time.

Acromag has designed and manufactured measurement and control products for more than 50 years. They are an international corporation with a world headquarters near Detroit, Michigan and a global network of sales representatives and distributors. Acromag offers a complete line of embedded I/O products including bus boards, mezzanine modules, wiring accessories, and software. Industries served include military, aerospace, manufacturing, transportation, utilities, and scientific research laboratories.

For more information about Acromag products, call Inside Sales at (248) 295-0310 or Marketing Communications at (248) 295-0310, FAX (248) 624-9234. E-mail solutions@acromag.com or write Acromag at P.O. Box 437, Wixom, MI 48393-7037 USA. 

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Contacts:    Sales - Inside Sales Department (e-mail: solutions@acromag.com)
Editorial - Robert Greenfield, Mktg. Comm. Mgr. (rgreenfield@acromag.com)

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

New VPX Card Employs Spartan-6 FPGA to Satisfy Higher Computing Performance/Price Requirements

Acromag’s new VPX boards feature a powerful, yet economical Spartan-6 FPGA for higher performance in algorithm acceleration or logic processing applications requiring a lower cost solution.

Acromag’s new VPX-SLX series of 3U VPX FPGA boards provide powerful, but economical solutions for high-speed processing of algorithms in embedded computing applications. The VPX-SLX boards employ a configurable, logic-optimized Spartan-6 FPGA with 150k logic cells to meet demand for higher performance in cost-sensitive applications. These FPGA boards are designed to satisfy the performance requirements of many complex computing projects, at nearly half the cost, which previously required a flagship Xilinx Virtex or Altera Stratix class FPGA device. A high-throughput PCI Express interface, generous dual-ported memory for efficient data handling, and 64 I/O lines direct to the FPGA enable rapid data processing and great versatility. Ideal for defense, aerospace, or scientific research; typical applications involve signal intelligence, image processing, and hardware simulation. Pricing starts at $5200 for an air-cooled version and slightly higher in a conduction-cooled format.

“The Spartan-6 FPGA offers outstanding performance at a very attractive price,” states Joseph Primeau, Acromag’s sales and marketing director. “When teamed with a PCI Express interface, the Spartan-6 FPGA is capable of meeting the performance requirements of many applications.” Acromag’s VPX boards are optimized to rapidly transfer data between the FPGA and other system boards. A double fat pipe 4-lane PCIe interface ensures very fast data throughput. Dual-ported 1M x 64-bit SRAM enables high-speed DMA transfers to/from the CPU while simultaneously writing data to memory.

All VPX-SLX models use the XC6SLX150 Spartan-6 FPGA chip with 147,433 logic cells and 180 DSP48A1 slices. There are 64 I/O or 32 LVDS lines connected to the FPGA via the rear P2 connector. A series of AXM extension modules are available to provide additional front-end 16-bit A/D, differential RS-485, CMOS, or LVDS I/O processing channels through a mezzanine connector on the front of the card. FPGA code loads from the PCIe bus or from on-board flash memory. A JTAG and Xilinx ChipScope^™ Pro interface are also supported to simplify development tasks.

For extended temperature range operation, models can be ordered with a frame for use in a conduction-cooled chassis. The standard model operates reliably over a 0 to 70°C range in an air-cooled or forced convection system. The conduction-cooled version supports a range of -40 to 85°C. And for system compatibility, Acromag’s 3U VPX cards support a number of VITA 65 slot profiles and conform to VPX VITA 46.0, 46.4 and 46.9 specifications.

Acromag’s Engineering Design Kit provides utilities to help users develop custom programs, load VHDL into the FPGA, and establish DMA transfers between the FPGA and the CPU. The kit includes a compiled FPGA file and example VHDL code provided as selectable blocks with examples for the local bus interface, read/writes, and change-of-state interrupts to the PCI bus. A JTAG interface allows users to perform on-board VHDL simulation. Further analysis is supported with a ChipScope™ Pro interface.

For easy integration of the boards with embedded Windows^® applications, Acromag developed a DLL driver software package for compatibility with Microsoft^® Visual C++™, and Visual Basic. Sample files with “C” source demonstration programs provide easy-to-use tools to test operation of the module.

For real time and open source applications, Acromag offers C libraries for VxWorks^®, Linux^®, and other operating systems. The libraries provide generic routines (source code included) to handle reads, writes, interrupts, and other functions. Demonstration programs enable the developer to quickly exercise the I/O modules before attaching the routines to the application program. This diagnostic tool can save hours of troubleshooting and debugging. The Linux example programs are a free download.

Acromag has designed and manufactured measurement and control products for more than 50 years. They are an AS9100 and ISO-9001 certified international corporation with a world headquarters near Detroit, Michigan and a global network of sales representatives and distributors. Acromag offers a complete line of embedded I/O products including bus boards, mezzanine modules, wiring accessories, and software. Industries served include military, aerospace, manufacturing, transportation, utilities, and scientific research laboratories.

For more information about Acromag products, call Inside Sales at (248) 295-0310 or Marketing Communications at (248) 295-0310, FAX (248) 624-9234. E-mail solutions@acromag.com or write Acromag at P.O. Box 437, Wixom, MI 48393-7037 USA. 

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June 16, 2011

Contacts:    Sales - Inside Sales Department (e-mail: solutions@acromag.com)
Editorial - Robert Greenfield, Mktg. Comm. Mgr. (rgreenfield@acromag.com)

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Acromag Names New International Sales Manager for Embedded Computing Products Division

Acromag has tapped Russell Nieves to manage distribution channels and service customers for their embedded computing product line in Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, and South America.

To keep pace with growing markets for embedded I/O and FPGA boards in Europe, Asia, and many countries around the globe, Acromag has named Russell Nieves as their new international sales manager for the embedded computing division. Russ joins Acromag to expand Acromag’s presence in global markets and to service the unique needs of international customers. Working out of Acromag’s U.S. headquarters in Wixom, Michigan, Russ brings a wealth of technical and sales experience in embedded computing technologies and numerous industries including defense, aerospace, manufacturing, scientific research, and telecommunication. He will report directly to Embedded Computing Marketing and Sales Director Joseph Primeau to manage Acromag’s international sales channels and to provide direct technical support for customers around the world.

“We are excited to have Russ join our Acromag team and apply his experience and knowledge of embedded technologies to expand our service outside the Americas,” said Joe Primeau. “Over the past several years, we have seen a great increase in demand for high-performance computer boards across Europe and Asia, as well as in emerging markets such as South Africa and the Middle East.”

Russ has more than 30 years of high-tech electronics industry experience and previously worked at Xembedded LLC, where he served as a regional sales manager for the eastern United States and Asia. Earlier sales management positions involved automated manufacturing selling sensors, PLCs, HMIs and high-end vision systems. He received military electronics training at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, AL in addition to later college studies in business, robotics, and computer technologies.

Acromag has designed and manufactured measurement and control products for more than 50 years. They are an international corporation with a world headquarters near Detroit, Michigan and a global network of sales representatives and distributors. Acromag offers a complete line of embedded I/O products including bus boards, mezzanine modules, wiring accessories, and software. Industries served include military, aerospace, manufacturing, transportation, utilities, and scientific research laboratories.

For more information about Acromag products, call Inside Sales at (248) 295-0310 or Marketing Communications at (248) 295-0310, FAX (248) 624-9234. E-mail solutions@acromag.com or write Acromag at P.O. Box 437, Wixom, MI 48393-7037 USA. 

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Shown: Russell Nieves, International Sales Manager Embedded Computing Products

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Acromag Appoints New National Sales Manager for their Embedded Computing Products Division

Acromag has promoted Rowland Demko to manage their North American network of sales representative offices and service strategic accounts for their embedded computing product line.

To better service customers through their national distribution channels, Acromag has promoted Rowland Demko to the position of National Sales Manager for their Embedded Solutions Group. Previously serving as Acromag’s regional sales manager for the Western United States, Rowland will now oversee all sales operations in North America. He has a wealth of technical and sales experience in embedded computer technologies and numerous industries including defense, aerospace, manufacturing, scientific research, and telecommunication. He will report directly to Embedded Solutions Marketing and Sales Director Joseph Primeau to manage Acromag’s sales activities and representation in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

“Over the past five years with Acromag, Rowland has applied his experience and knowledge of embedded technologies to successfully service the needs of many customers and Acromag’s field sales representatives,” said Joe Primeau. “With this promotion, Rowland will assume responsibility for all North American sales offices and strategic accounts. His direction is to ensure our sales representatives and internal staff are well-prepared to assist customers in the selection and implementation of embedded I/O and re-configurable FPGA solutions.”

Rowland is a graduate of Case Institute of Technology with a BS in Computer Engineering. Previously working with Rockwell Automation, he served in many roles including managing real time systems engineering, automation product marketing and development, international business development and strategic marketing.

Acromag has designed and manufactured measurement and control products for more than 50 years. They are an international corporation with a world headquarters near Detroit, Michigan and a global network of sales representatives and distributors. Acromag offers a complete line of embedded I/O products including bus boards, mezzanine modules, wiring accessories, and software. Industries served include military, aerospace, manufacturing, transportation, utilities, and scientific research laboratories.

For more information about Acromag products, call Inside Sales at (248) 295-0310 or Marketing Communications at (248) 295-0310, FAX (248) 624-9234. E-mail solutions@acromag.com or write Acromag at P.O. Box 437, Wixom, MI 48393-7037 USA.  The web site is www.acromag.com.

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Shown: Rowland Demko, National Sales Manager Embedded Solutions Group

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Fanless Industrial PC with Modular I/O Receives UL Approval for Use in Hazardous Locations

Acromag’s rugged I/O Server Industrial PC is now UL/cUL listed with approval for use in Class I Division 2 Groups A, B, C, D hazardous environments containing volatile substances.

Already ruggedized for dependable computing in sites subject to extreme temperatures, shock, and vibration; the Acromag I/O Server Industrial PC now has Underwriters Laboratory (UL) certification for Class I Division 2 Group A, B, C, D hazardous locations with volatile substances. This UL approval permits use of the I/O Server fanless embedded computer and its plug-in I/O modules in environments with flammable liquids, gases, or vapors. UL’s Class I Div 2 certification is often required for electronics deployed in chemical, oil, gas, mining, and other manufacturing facilities. With the higher safety rating, the I/O Server can be installed closer to sensors and actuators to reduce installation costs for monitoring and control of automated machinery. Additionally, the I/O Server has no internal cables and conduction cooling removes heat without open vents or fans for more reliable operation from -40 to 75°C.

“The I/O Server's tightly integrated approach to embedded computing and I/O signal processing is ideal for controlling manufacturing machinery in hazardous locations,” states Joseph Primeau, sales and marketing director – embedded products. The I/O Server is a compact, industrial-grade computer with an Intel Atom^® or AMD Geode^® CPU and an integrated carrier card that holds up to four plug-in I/O modules to perform measurement and control functions. More than 20 I/O modules are available to provide high-density A/D, D/A, discrete level control, counter/timer, and serial communication functions. CAN bus, Mil-Std-1553, and configurable FPGA modules offer advanced control capabilities for specialized applications. High-density screw-down connectors on the front panel provide clean, secure cable access for up to 192 channels of field I/O signals.

Two models offer a choice of an embedded Intel Atom N270 1.6GHz or AMD Geode LX800 500MHz CPU that runs on Windows^® Embedded Standard or Linux^® and has up to 1GB of DDR2 RAM. Standard interfaces include VGA graphics, two Ethernet ports, two serial ports, four USB ports, a CompactFlash^® slot, and audio input/output jacks. An internal 2.5” PATA hard disk or solid-state drive is accommodated as a user-installed option.

I/O Server units have a rugged, extruded aluminum enclosure that is ideal for use in hostile industrial environments common in manufacturing, defense, transportation, and research applications. The hardened design has no internal cabling and is resistant to shock (5g) and vibration (50g) for higher durability. Sophisticated thermal management techniques eliminate the need for vents or mechanics that could permit contaminants to enter or moving parts to fail. As a result, an I/O Server with four I/O modules operates reliably across wide temperature ranges between -40 to 75°C (-40 to 167°F). In addition to the UL/cUL Class 1 Division 2 certification, the I/O Server is CE marked and FCC compliance meets FCC Part 15, Subpart B for Class A digital devices. The power supply requirement is 9-32V DC ±10% at 60 watts maximum. Power usage depends on the I/O modules used, but is typically about 30 watts.

To simplify software development, Acromag offers several programmer support tools. A Windows development package provides API development software and Win32^® DLL drivers, plus examples for C, Visual Basic^®, .Net, and LabVIEW^® environments. The Linux software includes a library of I/O function routines to speed code development. Both packages include demonstration programs with C source code to test and exercise the I/O module operation.

Acromag has designed and manufactured measurement and control products for more than 50 years. They are an international corporation with a world headquarters near Detroit, Michigan and a global network of sales representatives and distributors. Acromag offers a complete line of embedded I/O products including bus boards, mezzanine modules, wiring accessories, and software. Industries served include military, aerospace, manufacturing, transportation, utilities, and scientific research laboratories.

For more information about Acromag products, call Inside Sales at (248) 295-0310 or Marketing Communications at (248) 295-0310, FAX (248) 624-9234. E-mail solutions@acromag.com or write Acromag at P.O. Box 437, Wixom, MI 48393-7037 USA. 

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April 13, 2011

Contacts:    Sales - Inside Sales Department (e-mail: solutions@acromag.com)
Editorial - Robert Greenfield, Mktg. Comm. Mgr. (rgreenfield@acromag.com)

Shown: I/O Server Industrial PC

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

New VPX Boards Pairs Configurable Virtex-5 FPGA with PCIe Interface for High-Performance Computing

Acromag’s new VPX FPGA boards deliver maximum performance for accelerated algorithm processing or execution of complex logic routines in embedded computer systems.

Acromag’s new VPX-VLX series of 3U VPX FPGA boards feature a configurable Xilinx^® Virtex^™-5 FPGA enhanced with multiple high-speed memory buffers and a high-throughput PCIe interface. Field I/O interfaces to the FPGA via the rear P2 connector and/or with optional front mezzanine plug-in I/O modules. The result is a powerful and flexible signal processor card that is capable of rapidly executing custom instruction sets and algorithms. Typical uses include signal intelligence, image processing, hardware simulation, and communications. The boards start at $7100 with several options for FPGA logic capacity and conduction-cooled extended temperature operation.

“These VPX Virtex-5 FPGA boards combine very advanced signal processing capabilities with high speed data transfer for real-time computing applications” remarked Joseph Primeau, Acromag’s embedded sales and marketing director.

Three models provide a choice of logic-optimized FPGAs to match the performance requirements. Cards can be ordered with a Xilinx VLX85T, VLX110T, or VLX155T FPGA featuring up to 155,000 logic cells and 128 DSP48E slices. Each model is available in a format designed for use in air-cooled or conduction-cooled systems suitable for -40 to 85°C operation.

Large, high-speed memory banks provide efficient data handling. Dual-ported 1M x 64-bit SRAM enables high-speed DMA transfers to/from the CPU while simultaneously writing data to memory. Generous 32M x 32-bit DDR2 SDRAM buffers give the FPGA fast access to I/O port data. FPGA code loads from the PCIe bus or from on-board flash memory. A double fat pipe 4-lane PCIe interface ensures very fast data throughput.

64 I/O lines are accessible through the rear (P2) connector. A series of AXM extension modules are available to provide additional front-end A/D, RS-485, CMOS, or LVDS I/O channels through a mezzanine connector on the front of the board.

Acromag’s Engineering Design Kit provides utilities to help users develop custom programs, load VHDL into the FPGA and to establish DMA transfers between the FPGA and the CPU. The kit includes a compiled FPGA file and example VHDL code provided as selectable blocks with examples for the local bus interface, read/writes, and change-of-state interrupts to the PCI bus. A JTAG interface allows users to perform on-board VHDL simulation. Further analysis is supported with a ChipScope™ Pro interface.

For easy integration of the boards with embedded Windows^® applications, Acromag developed a DLL driver software package for compatibility with Microsoft^® Visual C++™, and Visual Basic. Sample files with “C” source demonstration programs provide easy-to-use tools to test operation of the module.

For real time and open source applications, Acromag offers C libraries for VxWorks^®, Linux^®, and other operating systems. The libraries provide generic routines (source code included) to handle reads, writes, interrupts, and other functions. Demonstration programs enable the developer to quickly exercise the I/O modules before attaching the routines to the application program. This diagnostic tool can save hours of troubleshooting and debugging. The Linux example programs are a free download.

Acromag has designed and manufactured measurement and control products for more than 50 years. They are an AS9100 and ISO-9001 certified international corporation with a world headquarters near Detroit, Michigan and a global network of sales representatives and distributors. Acromag offers a complete line of embedded I/O products including bus boards, mezzanine modules, wiring accessories, and software. Industries served include defense, aerospace, manufacturing, transportation, energy, and scientific research.

For more information about Acromag products, call Inside Sales at (248) 295-0310 or Marketing Communications at (248) 295-0310, FAX (248) 624-9234. E-mail solutions@acromag.com or write Acromag at P.O. Box 437, Wixom, MI 48393-7037 USA. 

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Contacts:  Sales - Inside Sales Department (e-mail: solutions@acromag.com)
Editorial - Robert Greenfield, Mktg. Comm. Mgr. (rgreenfield@acromag.com)

Shown: VPX-VLX FPGA modules in air-cooled and conduction-cooled formats

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

New Low-Cost Thermocouple Transmitters Feature Fast and Easy
PC-based Configuration via USB

Acromag expands their line of USB-configured head-mount temperature transmitters by releasing new thermocouple/millivolt input models with very high accuracy, linearity, and environmental stability.

The latest offering in Acromag’s new ST130 series of low-cost, temperature transmitters is a thermocouple/millivolt signal conditioner, Model ST132. This model can convert sensor input signals from eight thermocouple types or a ±100mV range and output a proportional 4-20mA process control signal. The ST132 is an output loop-powered (7-32V DC) two-wire transmitter and very easy to use. Free Windows configuration software simplifies set up and downloads calibration settings to the unit through a USB connection. Units mount easily in DIN Form B sensor heads or on a DIN rail. The rugged, low-maintenance design also features a 24-bit A/D controller that delivers high accuracy and linearity with very low drift across a -40 to 80°C operating range. Units are CE compliant with UL/cUL Class 1 Div 2 Zone 2 approvals pending. Despite the advanced-performance and features, the ST132 lists for only $89.

“Our new ST132 thermocouple transmitter offers great performance and convenience at a surprising price,” states Don Lupo, Acromag’s sales and marketing director. By leveraging the latest microcontroller technology, this transmitter is able to provide a performance level and feature set that was previously unavailable in a unit of this size and price. In addition to supporting numerous sensor types on a single unit , the ST132 performs signal linearization, and cold-junction compensation functions. It also supports reverse-acting (inverse) output and has a fast response time (as low as 8ms). The Windows configuration software helps you quickly program the transmitter using a USB cable connection to select input type, scale I/O ranges, set filtering levels, and choose upscale or downscale operation for sensor faults. Digital calibration eliminates zero/span pots, DIP switches, and pushbuttons for more precise measurements.

A rugged design helps these transmitters operate reliably in harsh industrial environments. Ambient temperature drift is less than 75ppm/°C for long-term stability. The ST132 is shock (50g) and vibration (5g) resistant and includes high-level electrical noise immunity (RFI, EMI, ESD, EFT, and surge protection). And to prevent incorrect wiring, the output/power connection is non-polarized.

For easy installation, Acromag sells a variety of mounting and wiring accessories. A USB-to-USB isolator protects equipment from ground loops, electrical noise, and surges during configuration. For convenience, a kit supplies the software, isolator, and USB interface cables. Numerous connection head enclosures are also available through Acromag. Select from stainless steel, aluminum, and cast iron housings with explosion-proof or general-purpose ratings. A DIN rail adapter adds more mounting options.

Acromag has designed and manufactured measurement and control products for more than 50 years. They are an AS9100 and ISO 9001-certified international corporation with a world headquarters near Detroit, Michigan and a global network of sales representatives and distributors. Acromag offers a complete line of industrial I/O products including a variety of process instruments, signal conditioners, and distributed fieldbus I/O modules that are available with a 7-year warranty. Industries served include chemical processing, manufacturing, defense, energy, and water services.

For more information about Acromag products, call the Inside Sales Department at (248) 295-0880 or Marketing Communications at (248) 295-0865, FAX (248) 624-9234. E-mail sales@acromag.com or write Acromag at P.O. Box 437, Wixom, MI 48393-7037 USA. 

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March 30, 2011

Contacts
Sales - Inside Sales Department (e-mail: sales@acromag.com)
Editorial - Robert Greenfield, Mktg. Comm. Mgr. (rgreenfield@acromag.com)

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

New VPX Carrier Cards for PMC or XMC Modules feature a High-Speed PCI Express Interface

Acromag’s new VPX board routes power and bus signals to a plug-in XMC or PMC mezzanine module with an 8-lane PCIe interface to enable a wide variety of I/O processing and FPGA computing options.

Acromag’s  VPX4810 3U VPX carrier cards  provide a simple and cost-effective solution for interfacing a PMC or XMC module to a VPX computer system. These carrier cards route power and interface bus signals to a plug-in mezzanine module through the VPX card slot connector. An 8-lane PCIe bus Gen 2 interface enables rapid data throughput. By inserting PMC/XMC industrial I/O and configurable FPGA modules from Acromag or other vendors on the carrier, developers can now leverage hundreds of available function modules currently unavailable in a VPX platform. Pricing starts at $1600 for an air-cooled version with a 0 to 70°C range. Conduction-cooled and REDI models are also available.

These carriers are ideal for high-performance industrial, defense, scientific research, and telephony systems requiring high-speed I/O. “As developers implement the new VPX architecture, they can still enjoy access to a broad range of readily available I/O processing and FPGA computing mezzanine modules,” states Joseph Primeau, Acromag’s sales and marketing director. The VPX4810 supports any standard IEEE-1386.1 module for great flexibility to address I/O signal processing tasks. Acromag offers dozens of compatible PMC modules to perform A/D, D/A, digital I/O, and serial communication functions. Re-configurable FPGA modules are also available in a PMC or XMC format with multi-lane serial interconnects for high-performance algorithm acceleration and adaptive computing applications.

The carrier card conforms to VPX VITA 46.0, 46.4 and 46.9 specifications and optionally VITA 48 for Ruggedized Enhanced Design Implementation (REDI). It is also compatible with a number of VITA 65 OpenVPX module/slot profiles. 64 I/O lines (P14, VITA 46.9) are supported via the P2 VPX connector. Front and rear-panel I/O access can be accommodated.

The PMC/XMC site uses 64-bit, 66/133MHz PLX technology with a PCIe to PCI-X bridge good for data transfer rates up to 1GB/s. Users can select a fat pipe (x4) or double-fat pipe (x8) PCI Express interface by adjusting a jumper.

Acromag has designed and manufactured measurement and control products for more than 50 years. They are an international corporation with a world headquarters near Detroit, Michigan and a global network of sales representatives and distributors. Acromag offers a complete line of embedded I/O products including bus boards, mezzanine modules, wiring accessories, and software. Industries served include military, aerospace, manufacturing, transportation, utilities, and scientific research laboratories.

For more information about  Acromag products , call Inside Sales at (248) 295-0310 or Marketing Communications at (248) 295-0310, FAX (248) 624-9234. E-mail solutions@acromag.com or write Acromag at P.O. Box 437, Wixom, MI 48393-7037 USA

March 21, 2011

Contacts:   
Sales - Inside Sales Department (e-mail: solutions@acromag.com)
Editorial - Robert Greenfield, Mktg. Comm. Mgr. (rgreenfield@acromag.com)

Shown: VPX4810 VPX Carrier Card with air-cooled, conduction-cooled, and REDI versions

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

New XMC Module with Configurable Spartan-6 FPGA Targets Cost-Sensitive Embedded Computing Tasks

Acromag’s new XMC module employs Xilinx’s cost-optimized Spartan-6 FPGA to help engineers with tight budget and time constraints solve high-speed DSP, logic, and algorithm computing challenges.

To address the need for low-cost configurable FPGA computing solutions, Acromag released new XMC-SLX mezzanine modules featuring an economical Xilinx^® Spartan^®-6 FPGA. These thrifty XMC modules still provide plenty of computing power for custom signal processing and algorithm acceleration with the FPGA’s integrated DSP, logic, and memory resources. The Spartan-6 FPGA’s logic structure also leverages the premium-performance Virtex FPGA platform’s architecture and system-level blocks for faster, easier and more compatible development. Acromag supports the FPGA with a high-throughput PCIe interface, generous memory, and convenient access to field I/O signals. Typical uses include hardware simulation, in-circuit diagnostics, communications, signal intelligence, and image processing. Pricing starts at $2895 with options for extra memory and extended temperature operation.

“Although the Spartan FPGA line is known for low cost, it now offers performance and capabilities beyond those of the largest FPGA from just a few years ago,” remarked Joseph Primeau, Acromag’s sales and marketing director. Engineers familiar with other Xilinx or Acromag FPGA cards can greatly reduce design time by capitalizing on shared resources. Many Spartan-6 system-level blocks and interface cores are derived from Virtex FPGAs for cross-platform compatibility and better integration. Additionally, the XMC-SLX’s support software is very similar to the design kits for other Acromag modules.

Field I/O interfaces to the FPGA via the rear J4/P4 connector and/or with optional front mezzanine I/O extension modules. 64 I/O or 32 LVDS lines are accessible through the rear connector. Acromag’s plug-in AXM mezzanine cards provide additional I/O processing capabilities. A variety of these AXM mezzanine I/O cards are available to provide front-end 14-bit 105 MHz A/D conversions or an interface for CMOS digital I/O, RS-485 differential signals, or extra LVDS I/O lines.

All models employ the logic-optimized SLX150 version of the Spartan-6 FPGA which provides 147,433 logic cells and 180 DSP slices. Units are ready for use in conduction-cooled systems and offer an option to upgrade with extended temperature range parts suitable for -40 to 85°C operation.

Large, high-speed memory banks enable high-efficiency data handling. 256k x 64-bit, or optional 1M x 64-bit, dual-ported SRAM facilitates high-speed DMA transfers to the bus or CPU. This memory provides direct links from the PCIe bus and to the FPGA. The high-bandwidth PCIe 4-lane interface ensures fast data throughput.

Acromag’s Engineering Design Kit provides utilities to help users develop custom programs, load VHDL into the FPGA, and establish DMA transfers between the FPGA and the CPU. The kit includes a compiled FPGA file and example VHDL code provided as selectable blocks with examples for the local bus interface, read/writes, and change-of-state interrupts to the PCI bus. A JTAG interface allows users to perform on-board VHDL simulation. Further analysis is supported with a ChipScope™ Pro interface.

For easy integration of the boards with embedded Windows^® applications, Acromag developed a DLL driver software package for compatibility with Microsoft^® Visual C++™, and Visual Basic. Sample files with “C” source demonstration programs provide easy-to-use tools to test operation of the module.

For real time and open source applications, Acromag offers C libraries for VxWorks^®, Linux, and other operating systems. The libraries provide generic routines (source code included) to handle reads, writes, interrupts, and other functions. Demonstration programs enable the developer to quickly exercise the I/O modules before attaching the routines to the application program. This diagnostic tool can save hours of troubleshooting and debugging. The Linux example programs are a free download.

Acromag has designed and manufactured measurement and control products for more than 50 years. They are an international corporation with a world headquarters near Detroit, Michigan and a global network of sales representatives and distributors. Acromag offers a complete line of embedded I/O products including bus boards, mezzanine modules, wiring accessories, and software. Industries served include military, aerospace, manufacturing, transportation, utilities, and scientific research laboratories.

For more information about Acromag products, call Inside Sales at (248) 295-0310 or Marketing Communications at (248) 295-0310, FAX (248) 624-9234. E-mail solutions@acromag.com or write Acromag at P.O. Box 437, Wixom, MI 48393-7037 USA.  The web site is www.acromag.com.

Contacts:    Sales - Inside Sales Department (e-mail: solutions@acromag.com)
Editorial - Robert Greenfield, Mktg. Comm. Mgr. (rgreenfield@acromag.com)

Shown: XMC-SLX FPGA I/O module

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

New RTD Signal Conditioners with USB Configuration Launch Low-Cost Temperature Transmitter Series

Acromag’s first release in their new ST130 series is an ASIC-driven RTD transmitter offering convenient PC-based setup through a USB interface and the performance advantages of analog signal conditioning.

The initial offering in Acromag’s new ST130 series of low-cost, temperature transmitters is an ASIC-driven RTD signal conditioner, Model ST131. Units combine the simplicity of a digital USB setup and calibration interface with the inherent performance advantages of analog signal conditioning. Selling for just $89 with free Windows configuration software, this DIN Form B head-mount instrument will convert the input signal from any 100 ohm Platinum RTD sensor to a highly accurate, loop-powered 4-20mA output. A ruggedized design features -40 to 80°C operation, electrical noise immunity, and surge protection. CE and UL/cUL Class 1 Division 2 Zone 2 approvals are pending.

“Our new ST131 RTD transmitter employs the best of analog and digital technologies at a very attractive price,” states Don Lupo, Acromag’s sales and marketing director. By maintaining a fully analog signal path (i.e. no digitization), the transmitter delivers optimal accuracy, noise resistance and response speed. Additionally, the unit supports digital calibration to eliminate zero/span pots, DIP switches, and pushbuttons for easy programming of ranges, over/under scale thresholds, and fail-safe settings.

Despite their tiny size and economical price tag, ST131 transmitters are full-featured. These transmitters provide sensor excitation and perform advanced signal linearization, lead-wire compensation, and sensor fault detection functions. Units can also support any 100 ohm Pt RTD sensor (alpha = 375-393) or 0-900 ohm input. Designed for harsh environments, the unit’s ASIC exhibits very low drift across wide ambient temperatures and is highly resistant to RFI, EMI, ESD, and EFT effects. Simultaneous differential sampling and auto-zero techniques yield further accuracy improvements. Another benefit, the output is non-polarized and reverse polarity protected. Factory calibration is also available.

A variety of options add greater flexibility. Programmable over/under range and fault/alarm levels enable identification of a “runaway” process or broken sensor. Selectable up/downscale failsafe modes ensure a safe, predictable shutdown with a NAMUR-compliant fault response.

For easy installation, Acromag sells a variety of mounting and wiring accessories. A USB-to-USB isolator protects equipment from ground loops, electrical noise, and surges during configuration. For convenience, a kit supplies the software, isolator, and USB interface cables. Numerous connection head enclosures are also available through Acromag. Select from stainless steel, aluminum, and cast iron housings with explosion-proof or general-purpose ratings. A DIN rail adapter adds more mounting options.

Acromag is an international corporation that has been developing and manufacturing measurement and control products for more than 50 years. They offer a complete line of industrial I/O products including process instruments, signal conditioning equipment, data acquisition boards, distributed I/O modules, and network communication devices.

For more information about Acromag products, call the Inside Sales Department at (248) 295-0880 or Marketing Communications at (248) 295-0865, FAX (248) 624-9234. E-mail sales@acromag.com or write Acromag at P.O. Box 437, Wixom, MI 48393-7037 USA. 

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January 17, 2011

Contacts:    Sales - Inside Sales Department (e-mail: sales@acromag.com)
Editorial - Robert Greenfield, Mktg. Comm. Mgr. (rgreenfield@acromag.com)

Shown: New ST131 RTD Transmitter

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

New I/O Modules Offer Single/Dual MIL-STD-1553 Interface for Industrial PCs and Embedded Systems

Acromag's new module for the popular U.S. Department of Defense bus is available in an IndustryPack format or for use with their I/O Server Industrial PC to interface avionics and weapons subsystems.

Acromag has released new MIL-STD 1553 bus modules to interface avionics and weapons subsystems to an embedded control system. Two versions of the 1553 bus interface module are available. The IP570 is an Industry Pack ANSI/VITA-4 card that plugs into VME, CompactPCI, and PCI bus mezzanine carrier cards or high-performance single-board computers. IOS-570 models are designed for use within Acromag’s I/O Server industrial PC, a small fanless box computer. Both 1553 bus modules offer the choice of one or two interface channels. A DDC Micro-ACE device controls the 1553 interface. Extended temperature models support -40 to 85°C operation. Single quantity pricing starts at $1695.

“Adding these 1553 bus interface modules to Acromag’s line of high-density I/O products gives designers of aerospace and defense subsystems greater flexibility to combat the challenges of size, weight and power in modern embedded computing systems,” states Joseph Primeau, sales and marketing director – embedded products. The 1553 bus is extremely popular for integration of flight control and vehicle management (electrical, hydraulic, environmental control) subsystems. This venerable communication standard is also regularly used for missile system testing, air traffic control system testing, on-board aircraft system monitoring, satellite test systems, and aircraft simulators. When combined with Acromag’s extensive offering of analog, digital, and serial I/O modules, these new 1553 bus modules further extend the ability to interface a wide variety of devices from a single computing platform.

All models feature a DDC Micro-ACE bus terminal that supports both MIL-STD-1553 revision B and MIL-STD-1760 transceivers, as well as the STANAG 3838 protocol. Users can choose from models with one or two complete dual-redundant interface channels. Each channel can be wired for either direct or transformer coupled operation and operates at data rates of up to 1Mb/s.

The DDC Micro-ACE controller provides a very flexible host-side interface that is compatible with Mini-ACE or ACE architectures and supports multiple configurations (bus controller, remote terminal, or bus monitor). Users get a highly autonomous bus controller with many powerful capabilities and options.

Dozens of Industry Pack (IP) and IOS modules are available from Acromag to provide a wide variety of analog, digital, and serial I/O processing capabilities. A re-configurable FPGA module allows users to execute custom logic routines and algorithms on TTL, differential or LVDS I/O signals. Up to five IP or four IOS modules can be combined in any mix on a carrier card for flexible, high-density I/O to meet custom requirements. Acromag offers a number of IP carriers for VME, CompactPCI, and PCI bus computer systems. IOS modules plug into a carrier card that slides directly into the I/O Server industrial PC. The I/O Server employs advanced heat sink techniques and conduction cooling to manage excessive heat within the fanless computer.

To simplify software development, Acromag offers several programmer support tools. A Windows development package provides API development software and Win32^®DLL drivers, plus examples for C, Visual Basic^®, .Net, and LabVIEW^®environments. The Linux software includes a library of I/O function routines to speed code development. IP modules are additionally supported by C libraries for VxWorks^®and QNX^®real-time operating systems. These packages include demonstration programs with C source code to test and exercise the I/O module operation.

Acromag has designed and manufactured measurement and control products for more than 50 years. They are an international corporation with a world headquarters near Detroit, Michigan and a global network of sales representatives and distributors. Acromag offers a complete line of embedded I/O products including bus boards, mezzanine modules, wiring accessories, and software. Industries served include military, aerospace, manufacturing, transportation, utilities, and scientific research laboratories.

For more information about Acromag products, call Inside Sales or Marketing Communications at (248) 295-0310, (877) 295-7092, FAX (248) 624-9234, or write Acromag, Inc. at P.O. Box 437, Wixom, MI 48393-7037 USA. 

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October 26, 2010

Contacts:  Sales - Inside Sales Department (e-mail: solutions@acromag.com)
Editorial - Robert Greenfield, Mktg. Comm. Mgr. (rgreenfield@acromag.com)

Shown: IP570 and IOS-570 MIL-STD-1553 bus interface modules
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