The Reliable Software Developers’ Conference – UK, May 2014

Technology event organiser Energi Technical has announced that it will be launching "The Reliable Software Developers' Conference", scheduled for May 2014.

This one-day conference will provide an important forum for engineers and developers working in the development of safety critical systems and high availability systems. It is expected to attract software developers working in such industries as automotive, railway systems, aerospace, banking, medical and energy. www.rsd-conference.co.uk

"In recent years, software has become so complex that ensuring safety and reliability is now a major challenge," said Richard Blackburn, Event Organiser. "Many systems now have millions of lines of code and will handle enormous amounts of data. Further to this, modern computer based systems will make millions of decisions every second and also have to be immune to interference and unpredictable events. This event will look at the MISRA coding standards, debug tools and software testing tools that are available to assist software programmers and engineers seeking to develop reliable and safety critical
systems."

The Reliable Software Developers' Conference will be co-located with the 2014 UK Device Developers' Conference. Both will be a one-day conference to be run in Bristol, Cambridge, Northern England and Scotland on May 20th, May 20rd, June 3rd and June 5th.

Delegates attending either event will have the opportunity to sit in on technical presentations and ½ day technical workshops and a attend a vendor exhibition of tools and technology for the development of real-time and embedded systems. www.device-developer-conference.co.uk

"Advanced Debug Tools, Code Test, Version Control, Verification Tools and Software Standards have been a growing feature of recent conferences, so it made sense to create a dedicated event," said Richard. "There will be a lot expertise available to delegates, and the chance to meet a broad range of vendors of test technologies and tools, all under one roof."

Developed in collaboration with MISRA (Coding Standards), the Reliable Software Developers' Conference will feature a number of presentations in the morning, followed by a half-day technical workshop in the afternoon. The presentations will be free and open to delegates of both Conferences, but the half-day workshops will be subject to a charge of £75. Delegates will learn about developments in coding standards, test and verification tools and best practices and it will also be an opportunity to meet with many industry experts.

Refer to：http://embedded-computing.com/news/the-uk-may-2014/

Acrosser wish you Happy Holidays and a very prospective 2014 coming soon!

As we near the end of 2013, Acrosser would like to send you our warmest New Year’s wishes! We wish you and your family health, comfort, and prosperity this holiday season.

We also thank you for keeping up with our latest products, sending us inquiries, and choosing our products for your integrated solution! In 2014, we hope you will continue to choose Acrosser. We look forward to assisting you and your company in becoming the leader in your vertical market, and building a win-win relationship together.

And don’t forget about our star product, AES-HM76Z1FL, and its upcoming Product Testing Event in January! Remember to mark your calendar, since Acrosser is lending the product for free only to selected participants! Please stay tuned for more event information in early January!

With your continuous dedication and our commitment to quality, Acrosser is always motivated to make your embedded idea a reality!

Product Information:
http://www.acrosser.com/Products/Embedded-Computer/Fanless-Embedded-Systems/AES-HM76Z1FL/Intel-Core-i3／i7-AES-HM76Z1FL.html

Contact us：
http://www.acrosser.com/inquiry.html

Comprehensive customization for network appliances: meet our rackmount and micro box!

acrosser Technology, a world-leading network communication designer and manufacturer, introduces two network appliances that deliver great performance and protection while simplifying your network. Each product has its own target market and appeals to a unique audience.

Acrosser’s ANR-IB75N1/A/B serves as an integrated Unified Threat Management (UTM) device that covers all of your networking security needs. Featuring a 3rd generation Intel Core i processor, increased processing throughput is easily made. For integration with information security systems, the device also features functions such as anti-virus, anti-spam, fire wall, intrusion detection, VPN and web filtering, in order to provide complete solutions to meet the demands of various applications.

Key features of the ANR-IB75N1/A/B include:
‧Support for LGA1155 Intel® Core ™ i7/i5/i3 processor / Pentium CPU
‧Intel B75 Chipset
‧2 x DDRIII DIMM, up to 16GB memory.
‧2 x Intel 82576EB Fiber ports
‧8 x Intel 82574L 10/100/1000Mbps ports
‧Two pairs LAN ports support bypass feature (LAN 1/2 + LAN 3/4)
‧LAN bypass can be controlled by BIOS and Jumper
‧CF socket, 2 x 2.5” HDD, 1 x SATA III, 1 x SATA II
‧Console, VGA (pinhead), 2 x USB 3.0 (2 x external)
‧Support boot from LAN, console redirection
‧Equipped with 80 Plus Bronze PSU to decrease CO2 dissipation and protect our environment
‧LCM module to provide user-friendly interface
‧Standard 1U rackmount size

As for our micro box, the AND-D525N2 provides more possibilities for different applications due to its small form factor (234mm*165mm*44mm). Aside from its space-saving design, the other 3 major features of the AND-D525N2 are its high performance, low power consumption and competitive price. Please send us your inquiry via our website (http://www.acrosser.com/inquiry.html), or simply contact your nearest local sales location for further information.
Key features of the AND-D525N2 include:
‧Intel Atom D525 1.86GHz
‧Intel ICH8M Chipset
‧x DDR3 SO-DIMM up to 4GB
‧1 x 2.5 inch HDD Bay, 1 x CF socket
‧4 x GbE LAN, Realtek 8111E
‧2 x USB2.0
‧2 x SATA II
‧1 x Console
‧1 x MiniPCIe socket

Besides In addition to these two models, Acrosser also provides a wide selection of network security hardware. With more than 26 years of rich industry experience, Acrosser has the ODM/OEM ability to carry out customized solutions, shortening customers’ time-to-market and creating numerous profits.

For all networking appliances product, please visit:
http://www.acrosser.com/Products/Networking-Appliance.html

Product Information – ANR-IB75N1/A/B:
http://www.acrosser.com/Products/Networking-Appliance/Rackmount/ANR-IB75N1／A／B/Networking-Appliance-ANR-IB75N1／A／B.html

Product Information – AND-D525N2:
http://www.acrosser.com/Products/Networking-Appliance/MicroBox/AND-D525N2/ATOM-D525-AND-D525N2.html

Contact us：
http://www.acrosser.com/inquiry.html

INDUSTRIAL ETHERNET GROWING IN CHINA

December 5, 2013 - The Chinese market for industrial Ethernet & Fieldbus Technologies grew by 18 million nodes in 2012. More than 3 million nodes used Ethernet and the remainder used Fieldbus technology.

Although Fieldbus has a large base of new connected nodes in China, the usage of Fieldbus is not as common as in developed countries such as Germany or the United States. This is mainly because Chinese customers are encountering networking technology much later than those developing countries.

However, the growing speed of Ethernet is quite considerable in China and we think it is a great opportunity for Chinese customers to upgrade their automation system under current market condition. Customers will just jump from old Fieldbus Technologies direct to Ethernet now and actually many of them are doing right now.  The Chinese market is currently engaged in extensive upgrading and new infrastructure construction, and that will require a great deal of Ethernet applications.

refer to:http://www.automation.com/portals/industrial-networks-field-buses/industrial-ethernet-growing-in-china

High Computing Performance for All Applications- F.I.T. Technology

The demand for computing performance in the IPC market continues to become stronger as the IT field advances. Acrosser’s new AES-HM76Z1FL has been designed to meet these demands.

The F.I.T. Technology used to build this new product reflects its 3 major features: fanless design, Intel core i processor and ultra thin frame. The fanless design not only reduces the risk of exposure to air dust, but also prevents fan-malfunction. With a height of less than 0.8 inches, AES-HM76Z1FL’s slim design makes itself FIT into every application.

As its structure and output interface show, AES-HM76Z1FL provides a wide range of choices, from HDMI, VGA, USB, and audio to GPIO output interfaces that suit almost all industries. For wireless communication needs, the AES-HM76Z1FL has a mini-PCle expansion slot which provides support on both 3.5G and WiFi.

Another fascinating feature of the AES-HM76Z1FL is its ease of installation for expansions. By disassembling the bottom cover, expansions such as CF cards, memory upgrades and mini-PCIe can be easily complete without moving the heat sink. Moreover, Acrosser adopts 4 types of CPU (Intel Core i7/i3, Intel Celeron 1047UE/927UE) for AES-HM76Z1FL, allowing it to satisfy the scalable market demands of different applications.

In conclusion, the AES-HM76Z1FL is truly a well-rounded product designed for diverse applications. To promote our star product AES-HM76Z1FL, Acrosser will launch a product testing campaign starting in January, 2014. Acrosser will provide selected applications with the new AES-HM76Z1FL for one month, and it’s free! For more detailed information, please stay tuned for our press release, or leave us an inquiry on our website at www.acrosser.com!

Product Information:
http://www.acrosser.com/Products/Embedded-Computer/Fanless-Embedded-Systems/AES-HM76Z1FL/Intel-Core-i3／i7-AES-HM76Z1FL.html

Contact us：
http://www.acrosser.com/inquiry.html

Innovation Automation Vendors Serve

Over the last few years a number of automation vendors have announced various services including outsourced maintenance, system integration, manufacturing and business process consulting, and remote operations. I wonder if an automation vendor can continue to be effective as both a product company and services provider.

To clarify the difference, let’s start by defining what I mean by services and products. By providing services, automation vendors engage with customers to perform labor and knowledge intensive tasks that may include system design, engineering services, system integration, preventative maintenance, remote operations, and other services. By providing products, automation vendors sell something to the customers, system integrators and engineering firms that they will apply to accomplish automation tasks in manufacturing and process environments.
Service Dynamics

The primary objective of a service company should be to focus on the development a system solution that is uniquely suited to the idiosyncrasies of the client’s business without being tethered by particular product solution offerings. A big part of this is the ability to deploy technologies from appropriate sources using integration and engineering skills to achieve a superior result for the client. Service businesses need to have effective and refined project, personnel, and quality management systems. The growth and effectiveness of these businesses is directly related to adding and managing smart people and this is a unique business proficiency mastered by successful service organizations. Pure service businesses have an advantage of successfully maintaining alliances with a range of product vendors that cannot be logically achieved by product vendors who provide services. This separation positions a pure service business to use best of breed and get the most out of vendors. For comparison, consider you are a smartphone user and the only place to get apps was your phone hardware vendor.

refer to:http://www.automation.com/portals/factory-discrete-automation/can-automation-vendors-serve-two-masters-products-services

Acrosser unveils its ultra slim fanless embedded system with 3rd generation Intel core i processor

Acrosser Technology Co. Ltd, a world-leading industrial and embedded computer designer and manufacturer, announces the new AES-HM76Z1FL embedded system. AES-HM76Z1FL, Acrosser’s latest industrial endeavor, is surely a FIT under multiple circumstances. Innovation can be seen in the new ultra slim fanless design, and its Intel core i CPU can surely cater for those seeking for high performance. Therefore, these 3 stunning elements can be condensed as "F.I.T. Technology." (Fanless, Intel core i, ultra Thin)

The heat sink from the fanless design provides AES-HM76Z1FL with great thermal performance, as well as increases the efficiency of usable space. The fanless design provides dustproof protection, and saving the product itself from fan malfunction. AES-HM76Z1FL has thin client dimensions, with a height of only 20 millimeters (272 mm x183 mm x 20 mm). This differs from most embedded appliances, which have a height of more than 50 millimeters.

The AES-HM76Z1FL embedded system uses the latest technology in scalable Intel Celeron and 3rd generation Core i7/i3 processors with a HM76 chipset. It features graphics via VGA and HDMI, DDR3 SO-DIMM support, complete I/O such as 4 x COM ports, 3 x USB3.0 ports, 8 x GPI and 8 x GPO, and storage via SATA III and Compact Flash. The AES-HM76Z1FL also supports communication by 2 x RJ-45 gigabit Ethernet ports, 1 x SIM slot, and 1 x MinPCIe expansion socket for a 3.5G or WiFi module.

Different from most industrial products that focus on application in one specific industry, the AES-HM76Z1FL provides solutions for various applications through the complete I/O interfaces. Applications of the AES-HM76Z1FL include: embedded system solutions, control systems, digital signage, POS, Kiosk, ATM, banking, home automation, and so on. It can support industrial automation and commercial bases under multiple circumstances.

Key features:
‧Fanless and ultra slim design
‧Support Intel Ivy Bridge CPU with HM76 chipset
‧2 x DDR3 SO-DIMM, up to 16GB
‧Support SATA III and CF storage
‧HDMI/VGA/USB/Audio/GPIO output interface
‧Serial ports by RS-232 and RS-422/485
‧2 x GbE, 1 x SIM, and 1 x MiniPCIe(for3G/WiFi)

Product Information:

http://www.acrosser.com/Products/Embedded-Computer/Fanless-Embedded-Systems/AES-HM76Z1FL/Intel-Core-i3／i7-AES-HM76Z1FL.html

Contact us：

http://www.acrosser.com/inquiry.html

Transitioning to UAV software development using model-based design

With the FAA and EASA adopting aviation standards such as DO-178C and ARP4754A, UAV software developers should familiarize themselves with these standards, particularly when transitioning to model-based design.
Few applications place more importance on verification, or prescribe more process guidance, than aviation. The FAA and its European equivalent, EASA, provide guidance using standards such as ARP4754 for aircraft systems and DO-178B for flight software. These standards are often used outside of civil aviation, in whole or in part, for applications including military aircraft and land vehicles. Adoption for UAV programs is rapidly growing because of the FAA’s recent decision to require UAS and OPA certification via FAA Order 8130.34A. UAV systems are heterogeneous, and not restricted just to flight software. Therefore, other standards are used such as DO-254 for hardware and DO-278 for ground and space software.

refer to:
http://mil-embedded.com/articles/transitioning-do-178c-arp4754a-uav-using-model-based-design/

Asia claims almost half of Industrial computers solutions

In light of the sensitive current economic climate, many Asian companies are taking a more careful approach to investment – they are becoming more demanding towards their suppliers and making more enquiries before purchasing. Furthermore, according to IHS’ research, several Chinese manufacturers are currently developing products which are in direct competition with the ones provided by Western suppliers of industrial automation solutions. These are only a few of the obstacles facing European vendors who want to penetrate the Asian market to change the way they do business.

Flexibility and the ability to respond to very specific demands are becoming essential factors when dealing with the Asian market. Being able to offer technologies and products which are compatible with the needs of Asian clients is no longer an option, it’s a must.

- See more at: http://www.connectingindustry.com/automation/asia-claims-almost-half-of-automation-sales.aspx#sthash.4z4uCkA2.dpuf

refer to:http://www.connectingindustry.com/automation/asia-claims-almost-half-of-automation-sales.aspx

Security options for avoiding on-chip safety guide

Security options
Vehicle security relies significantly on the electronics of the automotive system. Hence it is extremely important to safeguard the electronic system and data stored in it. Below are a few options for securing the vehicular system. A system can be locked to avoid manipulation of configuration data that would disrupt the proper functioning of the chip. A password mechanism can be deployed to unlock and enable reconfiguration. This is a simple and cost-effective single-tier security measure.

Redundant critical on-chip modules like processor, ISO, DMA controller, internal clock generator, and communications peripherals can improve reliability should a primary hardware module become non-functional while the vehicle is running. Such a system can have in-built error detection mechanisms and on-the-fly switching to redundant hardware to mitigate threats to passenger safety.
But this kind of redundant hardware architecture comes with the penalty of increased area and higher power management in silicon. Area penalties can be minimized by intelligent selection of which functions need to be duplicated in silicon. Power can be minimized by adopting power and clock gating in the redundant modules. Some  in-vehicle computers can be implemented in lock-step of each other, where primary and redundant modules process the same input. Mismatch in the output of the lock-step modules indicates a defect in either of the modules. The system can switch itself off or take appropriate safety measures to avoid any real-time failure. Redundant hardware should be placed quite far in silicon from the primary embedded systems to avoid tampering of both modules together.

refer to: http://www.edn.com/design/automotive/4421704/Safety---security-architecture-for-automotive-ICs

“About five years ago when we launched the original BeagleBoard, what you could do with ARM devices was not as clear,” says Jason Kridner, Cofounder, BeagleBoard.org. “Especially as the superscalar ARM core was just coming out, people did not know much about what it was really capable of doing. The closest networking appliance out there were things like the Nokia N800-types of devices, but we were really taking a big jump in performance.

“For the industrial  part, the approach was to put this cool technology into people’s hands and get out of the way,” Kridner continues. “It was really just to try to reach that price point so that folks that wanted to go and play with embedded computer software on these networking appliance could go and do that. And it was really an industry changer; you can see all the things that have come since then.”

refer to:
http://embedded-computing.com/articles/diy-pushes-open-hardware-kindergarten-kickstarter/

Leveraging IT Technology for industrial controls

With that said, the controls world is going to be moving with anautomation that has a definite consumer bias, with product development and release cycles of six months or less. In an industry where the average life expectancy of an automotive production line is eight years, it is impossible to expect the networking in an industrial setting to keep up with modern IT standards. Therefore, we turn our attention to the technologies that have existed the industrial, with the most open standards and the very best support. These are the protocols we wish to use and keep, and this article highlights and explains some of these technologies. This article does not focus on the technical implementations of each piece of technology. Rather, it is assumed the reader will be using packaged solutions such as a function block for a PLC.

refer to:
http://www.automation.com/leveraging-it-technology-for-industrial-controls-applications

Consolidation for both GbE ports configuration

 The board also supports two additional 10 GbE ports combined with PCI Express 3.0 x4 on the backplane, all based on PICMG 2.20 for applications with high bandwidth requirements. The features are rounded out with USB solutions and Serial ATA for an onboard 2.5" SATA hard disk or industrial grade fanless embedded systems – all in a single-slot computer.Several Alliance members offer off-the-shelf solutions that help designers take advantage of the improved performance. For example, Premier member Kontron offers seven platforms based on the embedded systems, such as the Kontron CP6005-SA shown in Figure 2. This 6U CompactPCI board offers high computing and graphics performance along with a complement of high-bandwidth embedded systems that includes five Gigabit Ethernet channels for external and internal PICMG 2.16 compliant Ethernet traffic

refer to:

http://embedded-computing.com/articles/transform-factory-the-intel-core-processor/

Power plant market with new embedded technology

The market for Rotork valves and actuators has been strong in almost every segment of the power sector, especially hydropower. "Hydroelectric has really been a nice technology business for us," Kundin said. "A lot of hydro upgrades have quietly gone on at a lot of the existing stations."

They work in harsh environments, and they get little or no recognition. But their impact on power plant efficiency can be significant. Valves and actuators are critical in almost every aspect of single board computer. They are used in a wide range of applications, including pollution control, feed water, cooling water, chemical treatment, bottom ash and steam turbine control embedded systems. They are exposed to a variety of chemicals, abrasive materials and very high temperatures. They are critical in optimizing efficiency, and they are often the final control element in the operation of a power plant. The move toward electric actuators has led to the creation of more digital networks for controlling these types of actuators. But the transition has been slow, Kundin said.
"The power industry was probably one of the last industries to embrace digital networks," he said. "Today, it's almost more of a standard to see the electric actuators controlled over a digital network than traditional wiring."



refer to: http://www.power-eng.com/articles/print/volume-117/issue-8/features/opportunities-to-improve-efficiency.html

JR and AWL join in one force for greater picture

In addition to increasing available resources, JR and AWL will share knowledge and expertise on the latest technologies, keeping both companies on the cutting edge.

For the merger taken place last week, the 2 companies already figured a strategy for job allocation. JR will service and support customers in the US, Canada, and Mexico, and AWL will support customers in Europe and China.

 JR Automation,  in business since 1980, is a rapidly expanding embedded system automation company with experience in creating a wide range of solutions, from stand-alone operator assist stations to highly automated assembly lines. Similarly, AWL is a leader in production industrial computer and experienced in the automotive and general industries with proficiency in laser welding.  With JR and AWL’s standing as leading global system integrators, this strategic partnership will facilitate an environment rich with knowledge, ability, and possibility for our customers.

refer to: http://www.automation.com/jr-automation-and-awl-techniek-join-forces

Cut throat automation business in U.S.A. and Europe

For the merger taken place last week, the 2 companies already figured a strategy for job allocation. JR will service and support customers in the US, Canada, and Mexico, and AWL will support customers in Europe and China.  JR Automation,  in business since 1980, is a rapidly expanding embedded system automation company with experience in creating a wide range of solutions, from stand-alone operator assist stations to highly automated assembly lines. Similarly, AWL is a leader in production industrial computer and experienced in the automotive and general industries with proficiency in laser welding.  With JR and AWL’s standing as leading global system integrators, this strategic partnership will facilitate an environment rich with knowledge, ability, and possibility for our customers.

refer to: http://www.automation.com/jr-automation-and-awl-techniek-join-forces

New debug forum held later

Software debug tool company Lauterbach has announced that it will be holding an Automotive Forum at its head office in Munich. This free, one-day embedded computers event is open to all English speaking developers and interested embedded computers parties. The day will include a number of interesting topics presented by a Lauterbach specialist or a guest speaker.

“Developing reliable software for safety critical automotive applications can be very challenging,” said Barry Lock. “We have recently developed several important new techniques, such as ‘long-term trace’. It is this kind of innovation that is enabling faster and more effective code development. I think engineers will greatly benefit from this Forum.”

For more information and to register please visit www.lauterbach.com/1809

refer to: http://embedded-computing.com/news/lauterbach-software-debugging-workshops/

New feature for power management

Qseven supports power management features embedded computer and requires only a 5 V power supply, making it well suited for battery-run applications. Recent embedded computer updates to the specification also introduced a reduced form factor module and extended support for mobile processors, increasing the specification’s viability for low-power, portable applications.

“If it is a mobile application with low to medium computing performance requirements, then Qseven is the right choice,” says Christian Eder, Marketing Manager at congatec AG headquartered in Deggendorf, Germany (www.congatec.com). “Medical systems typically require special functionalities such as ultrasonic control or high levels of isolation in order to protect patients in case of a malfunction. Standard SBCs typically do not feature that. The embedded computer logical consequence is to create a custom carrier board that takes all specific functionalities and complete it with a standard COM. Once this combination is certified, it is quite easy to upgrade or scale to other CPUs while the certification remains or just needs to be updated. This provides a lot of freedom to choose the best-fitting CPU and graphics for a given application.”

refer to: http://smallformfactors.com/articles/qseven-coms-healthcare-mobile/

I/O connectivity in embedded industry

FMC technology is gaining ground as preferred I/O embedded computers. FPGAs have long been used to implement I/O customization, since the required mix of I/O interfaces can be easily implemented in a programmable device from existing IP blocks. The electrical drivers and connectors also need adaptation; however, in a modular embedded system this is not an issue, because the I/O connectivity and electrical protections are customized to the application. It is not difficult to include the electrical drivers in this system-level customization.

On the other hand, for laboratory and test embedded system equipment, it is more convenient to have the electrical drivers directly onboard, because there is no need for sophisticated protection devices, and standard front-panel connectivity is convenient. The FMC form factor allows the customization of the electrical drivers and connectors on a low-cost mezzanine, while the FPGA board itself and the backplane connectivity remain unchanged.

refer to: http://vita-technologies.com/articles/technically-trends-mass-customization-fpgas/

Software add up for the embedded system

Embedded computer software vendors also supply software performance analysis tools to help developers profile and visualize the real-time activity in software. Many of these analysis tools are optional and will add to the overall tool cost. Green Hills Software offers the MULTI Integrated Development Environment (IDE) to support a variety of OSs. The IDE software tools include several C compiler options, editor, configuration manager, code browser, and debugger in a single package. MULTI also features DoubleCheck, an integrated static analyzer that isolates bugs caused by complex interactions between code segments that might not be in the same source file.

refer to: http://embedded-computing.com/articles/choose-right-embedded-operating-system/

Wi-Fi applications availability among industry

An upcoming industry-standard specification that defines an interoperable mechanism for reliable, point-to-point HD video transmission between two Wi-Fi-enabled devices is expected from the in-vehicle in the second half of 2012. Although video over Wi-Fi applications have been available for quite some time, this is the industry’s first attempt to develop an interoperability specification for video distribution. s to IVI systems is instrumental in providing an optimal end-user experience. lose proximity or touch. To ensure this seamless transfer of information between the mobile and automotive ecosystems, in-vehicle manufacturers must leverage standards-based technology that in-vehicle enables consumers to carry any phone into any car and transfer data wirelessly. time, this is the industry’s first attempt to develop an interoperability specification for video distribution. s to IVI systems is instrumental in providing an optimal end-user experience. lose proximity or touch.

refer to: http://embedded-computing.com/articles/wireless-accelerate-next-wave-in-vehicle-innovation/

Threats you should be aware of

“One of the biggest threats is the administrative threat, caused by vulnerabilities related to having a super user or super password that can access every file,” he says. “Industry and government are moving away from super users due to leaks that have occurred. If that super user or super password is compromised embedded computer, every piece of data in a system is vulnerable. At SafeNet we assume someone is bound to get in, so we work at encrypting each object so even when they get in they can’t wreak havoc with the data. The more granular you drive the encryption, the less exposure your data will have to malicious attacks.”

refer to : http://mil-embedded.com/articles/cloud-security-the-dod/

10 GbE technology enables a standard solution

Virtualization trends in commercial computing offer benefits for cost, reliability, and security, but pose a challenge for military operators who need to visualize lossless imagery in real time. 10 GbE technology enables a standard zero client solution for viewing pixel-perfect C4ISR sensor and graphics information with near zero interactive latency.

For C4ISR systems, ready access to and sharing of visual information at any operator position can increase situational awareness and mission effectiveness. Operators utilize multiple information sources including computers and camera feeds, as well as high-fidelity radar and sonar imagery. Deterministic real-time interaction with remote computers and sensors is required to shorten decision loops and enable rapid actions. A zero client represents the smallest hardware footprint available for manned positions in a distributed computing environment. Zero clients provide user access to remote computers through a networked remote desktop connection or virtual desktop infrastructure. Utilizing a 10 GbE media network for interconnecting multiple computers, sensors, and clients provides the real-time performance and image quality required for critical visualization operations. The cost of deploying a 10 GbE infrastructure is falling rapidly and 10G/40G has become the baseline for data center server interconnect. Additionally, deploying common multifunction crew-station equipment at all operator positions brings system-level cost and logistics benefits. The following discussion examines the evolution to thinner clients and the path to a real-time service-oriented architecture, in addition to looking at zero client benefits and applications.

.....

refer to : http://mil-embedded.com/articles/10-real-time-remote-desktops-c4isr/#utm_source=Cloud%2Bmenu&utm_medium=text%2Blink&utm_campaign=articles

International Exhibition Center about ACROSSER

ACROSSER Technology announces our participation in 2013 the Embedded Systems Expo and Conference (ESEC) from May 8th to the 10th. The event will take place at the Tokyo International Exhibition Center in Tokyo, Japan. We warmly invite all customers to come and meet us at the west hall, booth number: WEST 10-61.Contact：
http://www.acrosser.com/inquiry.html

The embedded computer future is active

The embedded computer future is active

At the Fleck Connection Congress, Intersil's embedded computer elaborated on active cable interconnects as a way to address many of the challenges. In active cables, small silicon ICs are embedded in each end. The silicon restores signals that have been attenuated over the length of the cable. Active copper-based cables can be used for the lowest cost and lowest power applications while active optical fiber-based cables are ideal for the longest distances. Data centers are already embracing active cables to overcome embedded computer of existing solutions. The consumer embedded computer is more cost sensitive and thus more hesitant to use active cables, but the driving need for ultra-thin product profiles and I/O density are making active cables the only option.

refer to: http://vita-technologies.com/articles/connect-trends-challenges-solutions-advancing-performance/

The embedded Analog Front End (AFE) as a new device

The ubiquitous use of sensors in our embedded smart devices – from cell phones to industrial equipment and even medical devices – has increased the need for more intelligent sensor technologies that are more versatile, lower overall costs, and require fewer resources to develop and maintain.

However, Many of today's embedded systems incorporate multiple analog sensors that make devices more intelligent, and provide users with an array of information resulting in improved efficiency or added convenience. The Analog Front End (AFE), allowing the connection of the sensor to the digital world of the MCU, is often an assumed "burden" in designing sensor interface circuits. However, the latest concept in a configurable AFE, integrated into a single package, is helping systems designers overcome sensor integration challenges associated with tuning and sensor drift, thereby reducing time to market. The following embedded discussion examines how the versatility of such a technology allows the designer to tune and debug AFE characteristics on the fly, automate trimming and adjust for sensor drift, and add scalability to support multiple sensor types with a single platform.

refer to: http://embedded-computing.com/articles/latest-afe-simplifies-interfacing-hundreds-sensors/#at_pco=cfd-1.0

Rich meal on open source market with embedded techniques

Embedded platform distributions – To eat or not eat?

Evaluating options, refining the OSS palate

Finding potentially useful code represents only half the challenge. Developers must also vet discovered code across a variety of parameters to determine if it is technically and legally viable. Factors to consider include code size, language, and quality; community history and dynamics; software licensing; and provenance.

Code size – Legacy embedded designs face severe constraints on code size. While tumbling DRAM and flash memory prices have made parsimonious provisioning a concern of the past, embedded software still benefits from compact code. Memory and storage eaten up by utility and infrastructure code are unavailable for differentiating software and for end-user content.

Because OSS starts with source code, the memory footprint of a given project or softwarecomponent isn’t always obvious. Moreover, today’s device-based software stacks can contain ingredients cooked up in traditional compiled/assembled languages (C, C++, assembly), byte-code executed Java, and scripted/interpreted languages (PHP, Python, Lua, and so on).

refer to: http://embedded-computing.com/articles/eating-open-source-buffet/#at_pco=cfd-1.0

Boost network capacity

 IT managers are under increasing pressure to boost network capacity and performance to cope with the data deluge. Networking systems are under a similar form of stress with their performance degrading as new capabilities are added in software. The solution to both needs is next-generation System-on-Chip (SoC) communications processors that combine multiple cores with multiple hardware acceleration engines.

refer:http://embedded-computing.com/articles/next-generation-architectures-tomorrows-communications-networks/

Innovation in automotive IVI is making a lot of heads turn

The speed of innovation in automotive IVI is making a lot of heads turn. No question, Linux OS and Android are the engines for change.

The open source software movement has forever transformed the mobile device landscape. Consumers are able to do things today that 10 years ago were unimaginable. Just when smartphone and tablet users are comfortable using their devices in their daily lives, another industry is about to be transformed. The technology enabled by open source in this industry might be even more impressive than what we’ve just experienced in the smartphone industry.

 The industry is automotive, and already open source software has made significant inroads in how both driver and passenger interact within the automobile. Open source stalwarts Linuxand Google are making significant contributions not only in the user/driver experience, but also in safety-critical operations, vehicle-to-vehicle communications, and automobile-to-cloudinteractions.

 

Figure 1: Software complexity in IVI systems continues to grow. Today, the IVI system of an S-Class Mercedes has 100m lines of code. By 2015, it is expected to be 300m. A Linux-based solution, capable of scaling to handle the complexity, is mandatory.

 

Figure 2: An example of smartphone in-dash tethering: Drivers use the same smartphone apps in the vehicle as they do on their own smartphone, which provides a great deal of familiarity.

Figure 3: There are several ways to include Android (Android apps) in a Linux-based IVI solution. One method, which is becoming increasingly more popular, is using Linux Container Architecture. Here, Android sits as a guest OS on top of the Linux kernel. Privileges and permissions are tightly controlled.
refer:http://embedded-computing.com/articles/automotive-source-drives-innovation/

How about dimension in operating systems?..

Given the increased complexity of processors and applications, the current generation of Operating Systems (OSs) focuses mostly on software integrity while partially neglecting the need to extract maximum performance out of the existing hardware.

Processors perform as well as OSs allow them to. A computing platform, embedded or otherwise, consists of not only physical resources – memory, CPU cores, peripherals, and buses – managed with some success by resource partitioning (virtualization), but also performance resources such as CPU cycles, clock speed, memory and I/O bandwidth, and main/cache memory space. These resources are managed by ancient methods like priority or time slices or not managed at all. As a result, processors are underutilized and consume too much energy, robbing them of their true performance potential.
1.An advanced performance management solution
2.Extending to more dimensions
3.Implementation on VMX Linux
4.Benchmarks show the results
refer:
http://embedded-computing.com/articles/performance-management-new-dimension-operating-systems/

Embedded industry M2M

Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communications strategies and cloud computing are transforming industrial interconnects from an assortment of fragmented, proprietary technologies to open standards easily integrated into new designs. This new direction in M2M connectivity enables a wide range of applications and services by exchanging real-time data between remote devices, one or more central servers, and authorized third parties.

M2M technology allows embedded design teams to contain costs, improve security, enable remote management, and maximize system availability. The major goal of M2M communications is to combine real-time data from remote devices with enterprise applications to automate everyday company decisions and thus optimize industrial output and lower operating costs.

In this issue of Industrial Embedded Systems, we asked contributors to take a look at the networking, sensing, and computing issues affecting embedded design for industrial applications. For example, Mike Ueland, senior VP and general manager at Telit Wireless Solutions North America, describes the benefits and cost savings associated with M2M connections for remotely monitoring and managing assets. Mike outlines several good reasons to support an M2M industrial application based on cellular technology. In an in-depth interview covering intelligent networking technologies, Tom Barber, director of marketing at Silicon Labs, presents a new wireless microcontrollerproduct that fulfills the requirements of embedded applications with RF connectivity. Tom also highlights the new capabilities offered in low-power mesh networks resulting from Silicon Labs’ acquisition of Ember Corporation. Expanding the discussion, Shaye Shayegani, senior field applications engineer at Lantronix, answers questions on the security and adaptability of industrial networking modules. Shaye addresses the major connectivity challenges that industrial customers are dealing with right now.

Changing the subject to the sensitivity and stability of brushless DC motors in industrial applications, Honeywell Sensing and Control’s Joshua Edberg, senior global marketing manager in the Magnetic Sensors division, and Fred Hintz, engineering manager in the Speed and Position Sensors division, dispel three myths of chopper stabilization techniques. Covering another topic essential to factory settings, Karim Wassef, director of DC-DC product line management at GE Energy’s Power Electronics division, answers questions about the power sources available to operate in hostile conditions such as extended temperatures or corrosive environments. In a software-related topic, Doug Jones and Brian McKay, marketing managers at MathWorks, cover the advantages Model-Based Design offers for complex industrial control systems, allowing users to simulate, test, and debug circuitry before committing it to hardware.

refer:
http://industrial-embedded.com/articles/embedded-upgrades-m2m-networks/

To survive and prosper in the competitive atmosphere

 

To survive and prosper in the competitive atmosphere of today’s embedded industry, designers are constantly developing and testing new ideas and innovations that can enable smaller, faster, lower-power, and lower-cost devices while achieving faster time to market. One of our objectives this month was to identify and recognize a few of these innovative products along with the prominent innovators who are changing our industry.
In response to the promotion for this inaugural Innovation Issue, we received dozens of suggestions and entries specializing in our main topics of coverage: Silicon, Software, and Strategies. Although it was a difficult choice, our editorial team evaluated nominees and selected three winners based on creativity, uniqueness, and value to the embedded community. As you can see on the cover, the winners of the 2012 Embedded Computing Design award for Top Embedded Innovator are:

• Silicon: Zvi Or-Bach, founder and CEO of MonolithIC 3D, for breakthrough techniques that enable the fabrication of 3D semiconductor devices using conventional fabrication equipment.
• Software: Sebastien Marineau-Mes, Senior VP of Engineering at QNX Software Systems, for advances in embedded automotive technology, mobile operating systems, and open-source development tools.
• Strategies: Kwok Wu, Head of Embedded Software and Systems Solutions atFreescale Semiconductor, for networking and communications innovations that connect users and smart devices.

In addition to the innovation coverage, this issue is loaded with new ideas and technologies you can use in your embedded design projects. For example, in the Silicon section, Alex Lin of Advantech shows how the transition to multicore processing platforms is revolutionizing embedded computing design by removing many traditional constraints. Recognizing how multicore delivers new capabilities and improvements to performance, power consumption, and cost, Debbie Greenstreet and Atul Verma from the Multicore Processors Business Unit at Texas Instruments issue a call to action for the industry to establish a market-accepted multicore benchmarking strategy that benefits not only embedded engineers, but multicore System-on-Chip(SoC) manufacturers as well. Presenting a key technology at the center of multicore-based mobile devices, Intel’s Max Domeika demonstrates how HTML5 can help solve two of the biggest problems in embedded design: application portability and performance.

The transition to multicore has made a significant impact on the software development side of embedded design. In this issue’s Software section, Brad Quinton from the Tektronix EmbeddedInstrumentation Group outlines techniques to simplify the on-chip instrumentation and debug process for ASICs and FPGAs with increasing complexity. Continuing the debug theme, Frank Schirrmeister, Michael McNamara, Larry Melling, and Neeti Bhatnagar of Cadence Design Systems describe the best methods to observe and evaluate the significant software/hardware dependencies present in the latest generation of intricate electronic systems. Emphasizing the need for software developers to interact with hardware earlier in the design process, Colin Walls of Mentor Graphics Embedded Software Division explains how an integrated embedded platform offers greater visibility into hardware and software execution threads and enables more efficient debug.

Focusing on the rising popularity of In-Vehicle Infotainment (IVI) applications, this month’s Strategies section presents some of the latest technologies that help enhance system usability and safety. Scott Pennock of QNX Software Systems discusses how spatial auditory displays can improve human-machine interaction and serve as an enabling technology for new in-vehicle applications. In addition, Marvell Semiconductor’s Bart Giordano examines the impact of wirelesstechnologies such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Near Field Communication (NFC)on current IVI designs and the next generation of vehicle-to-vehicle communications systems.

The embedded industry is constantly changing as new innovations such as those revealed in this issue are implemented and integrated into the latest devices and applications. We are working hard to keep you up-to-date with the most recent trends and technologies essential to your embedded design projects. If you would like to present your innovation to the embedded industry with a technical article or video, please send me a suggestion or an abstract.

Refer:
http://embedded-computing.com/articles/creative-innovations-reshape-embedded-environment/