Description
Ballard's OmniBus products connect computers or networks to one or more avionics databuses or other interfaces. OmniBus Discrete refers to the digital IO interface available for all modular OmniBus platforms. Separate web pages provide information on OmniBus platforms (PCI,
cPCI,
PMC,
VME,
USB/Ethernet), avionics protocols (MIL-STD-1553, ARINC 429,
ARINC 708,
ARINC 717, and CSDB), and serial ports (RS-422/232/423).
OmniBus products are built around an intelligent platform that can host one or more protocol modules. This flexible architecture accommodates mixed protocols, high channel counts, and unsurpassed processing power. An on-board PowerPC® processor can be programmed by the user to offload the host or for stand-alone operation. Each module has its own DSP dedicated to protocol processing.
OmniBus Discrete provides interface capability for standard avionics discretes and general-purpose digital IO. OmniBus Discrete has many programmable features that facilitate its use for sensing, controlling, and testing DC circuits at voltages up to 40 VDC. Each of the 32 IO lines may be configured as as an input and/or an output. The input of an IO line can be used in conjunction with its output for built-in test (i.e., to verify the state of the output) or to sense the state of an ORed circuit. Inputs can be configured as series (voltage/open or voltage/ground) or shunt (open/ground) with a programmable threshold voltage suitable for use from TTL level through 28 VDC. The debounce feature filters the input to eliminate excessive transitions. Outputs are open collector and can sink up to 200 mA. Protection circuits permit switching of inductive loads and will shut down the output driver in over-current or over-temperature conditions.
Applications for OmniBus products include testing, simulation, and operational uses of avionics databuses. The high channel count, multi-terminal capability, and on-board PowerPC processor provide the power necessary for flight simulators and system integration laboratories. An OmniBus product may also be used as a data server or as a stand-alone converter from one protocol to another.
Software
Software programs can be easily developed using the included BTIDriver™ application program interface (API). Functions are provided for configuration, reading inputs, and setting outputs. Interrupts can be enabled to notify the program of transitions on inputs and faults on outputs.