Eltec progresses interface cards for transport CANbus modules
Eltec Elektronik developed interface cards for the communication of safety-critical infrastructure. The cards are plugged into a computer board as mezzanine boards and are controlled via SPI or PCI Express. When integrated in the wireless gateway CyBox GW-P or in the automotive LTE router CyBox RT 2-A, the CyBox I/O CAN modules enable the collection of operating and sensor data for condition-based monitoring. The modules also allow the safe transmission of status data, diagnostic and fault messages for preventive maintenance in rail and road traffic.
The CyBox I/O CAN module are an interface to the CANbus (CAN V2.0B). It is based on the CAN controller MCP 2515 and has two internal buffers for data which are controlled by the controller with a data rate of 1Mbit per second. The MCP 2515 also provides the implementation of ISO11898 functionality in the hardware.
The CAN interface is galvanically isolated up to 1,500V DC and offers a high interference resistance in widely distributed systems. Daisy chaining can be implemented via separate Sub-D connectors. The host interface is designed as an SPI, offering sufficient speed for any kind of CAN transaction, said Eltec.
In uni-directional, read-only mode, any intervention in the controller is prevented by blocking writing to the bus in the hardware. This corruption-free communication ensures that control processes, bus signals or writing operations are not affected. The module is also available in a bi-directional version.
Dimensions and interfaces comply with the Eltec standard for mezzanine modules. Other interfaces such as MVB are available in the same format, confirmed Eltec. The connection to the base board is made via a 30-pin connector with the corresponding SPI and power supply signals. The modules are designed for the extended temperature range of -40 to +70 degrees C and for harsh environmental conditions.
Eltec also offers an evaluation kit based on the CyBox RT 2-A automotive wireless router. The kit includes the router, the CAN module and all necessary accessories such as antennae, adapters, cables, and power supply.
