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The F215 is a universal interface board based on 3U CompactPCI. The physical layer can be realized individually for each channel by means of SA-Adapters.

SA-Adapters are small universal boards providing the line drivers for legacy serial I/O, fieldbus interfaces and other small I/O functions. Most SA-Adapters use 9-pin D-Sub connectors which are accessible at the front panel. Alternatively, the adapter can be connected to the front panel via ribbon cable. The SA concept allows to add additional I/O interfaces to the F215, enhancing flexibility with regard to the line transceivers and isolation requirements.

Two SA-Adapters can be mounted directly on the F215, the other maximum six adapters need more front-panel space and are connected to the carrier via ribbon cable. The F215 comes in a standard configuration with five pre-defined functions on 8 HP: two CAN interfaces, two UARTs and one 8-channel digital I/O interface. SA-Adapters are not included in the delivery, because different types are available, e.g. for the UARTs. They can be ordered as needed.

The board’s I/O functions are realized by means of an FPGA, making it a very flexible, inexpensive solution for dedicated serial I/O. The card can become “everything” from a customized I/O combination to a specialized 8-port CAN card or even an intelligent I/O board including a Nios soft core, on 4, 8 or 12 HP. The FPGA is loaded automatically after power-up from a 4 MB serial Flash. It is also possible to access this Flash from the CompactPCI bus to update its contents.

The F215 is designed for use in rugged environments. For example, all components are soldered-on and are specified for an operating temperature of -40 to +85°C.

Multiple I/O Functions and Status Indication

The F405 provides multiple I/O functions especially for Automatic Train Operation (ATO).

All digital inputs can be operated with common GND or common positive voltage in the range of -110 V to +110 V. The pulse counter inputs can be used to connect a speed sensor and provide frequency and distance measurement as well as direction, standstill and rolling detection as built-in functions which are all integrated in the FPGA.

The board’s high-side switching digital outputs support voltages in the range from 24 V to 110 V. The analog outputs provide the output value as voltage or as current. With their programmable cycle and pulse length, the PWM outputs are suitable for, e.g., engine power control.

The status of all inputs and outputs as well as the indication of OK and reset is shown via LEDs on the front panel.

Compact and Cost Saving

All I/O functions are located on one board and provided via one rugged I/O connector. This lowers the number of boards in the system, reducing system costs and minimizing the costs for maintenance and downtime.

Proven Components, Long-Term Availability

Due to its FPGA based design and the use of proven in use IP cores and hardware building blocks, the board provides reduced risk and effort as well as long-term availability.

Robustness and Safety Measures

The F405 provides safe and reliable operation. In case of software failures or host connection problems, the watchdog function sets the outputs to a default state. Reverse polarity protection, overcurrent protection and readback function make the digital outputs safe and robust in use.

Designed for Harsh Environments

The F405 is designed for operation in a -40°C to +85°C temperature range according to EN 50155 class TX. The coated board withstands shock and vibration for reliable operation and a longer product life-time.

Designed for Rail Applications

The F405 is especially designed for in-vehicle railway applications, can be used in all train types and is compliant with EN 50155. With a guaranteed standard life-time of 10 years from product start, F405 facilitates the client’s life-cycle management by making the overall system available at least for this period of time.

Digital I/O for Railway

The F403 is a digital I/O CompactPCI board especially designed for railway applications. The card is used for input/output of digital signals with different voltage levels and ground references. It supports 16 bidirectional binary input/output channels, which are separated into four optically isolated groups.

EN 50155 Compliance

Its voltage range from 14.4 VDC to 154 VDC and its current output of 1 A at 24 V complies with EN 50155, which makes the board ready for immediate use in train applications.

Safety Measures for Mobile Environments

The four front connectors are implemented by using spring cage terminal blocks causing only low wiring outlay and supporting fast installation.

The digital railway I/O supports all safety measures necessary for mobile environments like trains including voltage and temperature supervision and readback of outputs.