Description
The OmniBusBox enables computers and networks to interface with up to 16 ARINC 717 channels or a combination of ARINC 717 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.
 TOP OF PAGE
ARINC 717 Channels
OmniBus ARINC 717 channels can be configured by the user as biphase or bipolar and the amplitude of transmit channels can be configured by the user. ARINC 717 channels are capable of operating at 64, 128, 256, 512, 1024, 2048, 4096, and 8192 wps. OmniBus ARINC 717 modules can include ARINC 429 channels, allowing the user to communicate over 717 databuses while simultaneously transmitting and receiving ARINC 429 data. This configuration is ideal for troubleshooting Flight Data Recorders or testing systems that involve the interaction of 429 and 717. Please note that ARINC 429 is also available separately on OmniBus boards for ARINC 429 (see OmniBus family page). The OmniBus 717 page contains complete information on ARINC 717/573 functionality for OmniBus products. ARINC 717 channels can be mixed with other protocols. See the OmniBusBox Configurations section below for examples.
TOP OF PAGE
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.
TOP OF PAGE
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. 
TOP OF PAGE
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.
TOP OF PAGE
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
TOP OF PAGE
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 w/ 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
TOP OF PAGE
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)
TOP OF PAGE
Software
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.
TOP OF PAGE
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.
TOP OF PAGE
Download Brochure
Click here to download a PDF version of the OmniBus_717 Product Brochure
 Adobe Acrobat is required to view the PDF.
Click here to download a free version of Acrobat Reader
Top |
| FEATURED PRODUCT | | Ethernet/USB for ARINC 717 |  |
- IRIG Timetag
- PowerPC user processor
- CompactFlash slot
- Software-Selectable
The OmniBusBox enables computers and networks to interface with up to 16 ARINC 717 channels or a combination of ARINC 717 with other protocols via Ethernet or USB.
More...
|
| For More Information | |
Call:
|
800.829.1553
| |
Email:
|  |  |
|