Description
The OmniBusBox enables computers and networks to interface with up to 32 ARINC 429 channels or a combination of ARINC 429 with other protocols via Ethernet or USB. Applications for the OmniBusBox include simulation, monitoring, and testing of avionics equipment and systems. The OmniBusBox may be configured as a local peripheral to a computer, as a remote data server in a network, or as a stand-alone unit. The OmniBusBox is a member of Ballard's OmniBus® product line, a family of avionics databus interfaces that takes flexibility and power to a new level. With the demand for products with high channel counts and multi-protocol capability comes the need for more processing power, not only for handling the protocol but also for running the user's application. The OmniBus family has addressed these requirements through modularity and by adding multiple processors.
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ARINC 429 Channels
All ARINC 429 receive channels feature automatic speed detection and independent label and SDI filtering. Each transmit channel automatically maintains accurate label repetition rates. To support data transfer protocols, aperiodic words may be transmitted without altering the timing of periodic words. Both receive and transmit channels may be independently set for standard high or low speed (12.5 or 100 kbps). Independently of normal operation on transmit and receive channels, the Sequential Monitor concurrently stores a time-tagged record of all or selected channel activity. This filtered record may be streamed to a file for later playback or analysis. OmniBus ARINC 429 channels with parametric capability have variable transmit amplitude and user-configurable frequency. The transmit amplitude can be individually set in software for each channel. Configurable frequency, also set in software for each channel, allows both transmit and receive channels to operate at non-standard frequencies. Thus, 429 channels may also be used with equipment that varies from the ARINC 429 standard (such as some implementations of ARINC 575). The OmniBus 429 page contains complete information on ARINC 429/575 functionality for OmniBus products. ARINC 429 channels can be mixed with other protocols. See the OmniBusBox Configurations section below for examples
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Flexible Configuration
Through modularity, Ballard can provide unique, user-specified configurations on short notice at minimum cost. The flexibility of this design allows more protocol and channel count configurations to be developed and stocked than is practical with fixed configurations. The unique OmniBus architecture offers higher performance than general-purpose modular systems. Modularity also means that user may upgrade or reconfigure their OmniBus with additional functionality, channels, and protocols as their requirements change.
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Multiple Processors
OmniBus modularity allows additional processors to be added as more channels and/or protocols are added. Because each module has its own DSP (see diagram below), OmniBus products provide high channel count and mixed protocol capability without relying on the host processor or risking data loss from an overloaded DSP. By including more channels, protocols, and processing power in a single product, OmniBus provides better economy of scale. 
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User Processor
An on-board PowerPC processor can be programmed by the user to run independently or to off-load other processors in the system. Users can upload programs and may save them in non-volatile on-board memory. The PowerPC can be configured to automatically boot and run independently of the Ethernet or USB ports. Possible applications include data servers, data converters, dynamic data generation/simulation, data filtering, and event triggering. For example, the OmniBusBox could be configured as a stand-alone data converter that translates ARINC 429 to MIL-STD-1553.
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Additional Capabilities
- OmniBusBox provides two Ethernet ports, a USB 2.0 port, two serial RS-232 ports, and a CompactFlash socket
- The OmniBusBox may be controlled remotely through the Ethernet or USB ports
- The two auto-speed sensing 10/100 Ethernet ports are configured as a switch, so the OmniBusBox can be easily added in-line between a computer and its existing Ethernet connection
- IRIG circuits allow channels, boards, and other equipment to be synchronized to a standard clock time. The IRIG time can come from an outside source or be generated on board.
- All OmniBus modules include various digital input and output signals
- In addition to desktop use, the OmniBusBox can be rack mounted or bolted down
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OmniBusBox Configurations
Channel Count per Module | Protocol | Maximum Channels | | 1553 | 2 (both dual-redundant) | | 429 | 16 (various R/T configurations) | | 708 | 4 (2R/2T) | | 717 | 4R/4T (biphase/bipolar selectable) | | serial | 4 RS-422/232/423 ports | | CSDB | 8 (4R/4T with parametrics) | | discrete IO | 32 IO |
Example Configurations for 2 Modules - Up to 4 MIL-STD-1553 channels
- Up to 32 ARINC 429 channels
- 1 or 2 MIL-STD-1553 channels plus up to 16 ARINC 429 channels
- Up to 16 ARINC 429 channels plus 2 or 4 ARINC 708 channels
- Up to 24 ARINC 429 channels plus 8 ARINC 717 channels
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Technical Specifications
Interface - 10/100 Ethernet: 2 ports (internal switch)
- USB 2.0: Full speed and high speed
- RS-232: Two ports (on single RJ12)
- CompactFlash slot: Type I/II
- IRIG modes: A and B
Software - CoPilot available (Windows® software)
- BTIDriver™ API included (VB, C/C++, LabVIEW®)
- OS drivers: Windows 2000/XP included; call for availability of Linux, VxWorks®, and others
- Embedded Linux installed; SDK available
Main Board - Processor: IBM PowerPC (405GPr), 333 MHz (min.)
- Memory: 64 MB SDRAM (min.), 4 MB Flash
- DIO: 2 inputs, 2 outputs
- Other: real-time clock (1000+ hours backup)
Physical - Size: 1.7 (1U) x 12 x 9.6 in. (approx. 44 x 305 x 444 mm)
- Weight: 3.5 lbs. (1.6 kg)
- Mounting options:
- table-top (rubber feet)
- bolt-down
- rack mount
Connectors Power - Supply (built-in):
- Built-in
- Universal 100-250 VAC, 0.6-0.25 A, 50-60 Hz
- Optional 28 VDC; others available
- Fuses:
- 1 A, 250 V, time lag
- 5 x 20 mm IEC 60127-2
Environmental - Temperature: 0° to 50° C
- Cooling: convection (internal fan)
- Humidity: 0 to 95% (non-condensing)
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Software
The easiest way to operate an OmniBusBox is with Ballard's CoPilot software running on a Windows computer. CoPilot is an intuitive, interactive program that simplifies the simulation and testing of avionics systems. CoPilot auto-detection, engineering units conversion, and other features increase user productivity. The Plus version of CoPilot adds graphical displays, a powerful scripting engine, and playback. Because CoPilot can host multiple devices, channels, and databuses (MIL-STD-1553, ARINC 429, ARINC 708, and Serial), it is the ideal tool for OmniBus. CoPilot may be purchased separately or bundled with OmniBus hardware. Software developers can use the included BTIDriver API library to quickly develop custom applications. Although each OmniBus product can be easily configured and run with only a few API calls, the comprehensive library includes a broad range of functions for specialized needs. All OmniBus products run Ballard's universal BTIDriver API, so applications developed for one platform or product can be easily ported to another. Windows 2000/XP drivers are included; call for availability of Linux, VxWorks, or other drivers. An SDK is available for advanced users to develop applications for the PowerPC.
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Ordering Information
OmniBusBox can be ordered in many combinations of modules and features. The complete order number for OmniBusBox is a combination of the main model number, module number(s), and options. Ballard Technology also offers a variety of cables and other accessories that interface with our products as well as various databuses. Please contact Ballard Technology for specific ordering information.
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Download Brochure
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| FEATURED PRODUCT | | CoPilot Software |  | |
CoPilot integrates MIL-STD-1553, ARINC 429, ARINC 708/453, Serial, and AFDX functionality into one package. CoPilot users can host multiple boards and multiple databus protocols in the same CoPilot project.
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