Protocol modules simplify embedded networking
By Warren Webb -- EDN, November 11, 2004
Eliminating one of the most complex portions of a networked design, FieldServer Technologies recently announced a quick and easy method of adding serial and Ethernet protocols to embedded controllers. The company’s family of ProtoCessor modules delivers plug-in connectivity to all the common communications protocols for building automation, process control, remote-site monitoring, utility automation, transportation, and materials handling (Picture). “While a typical embedded controller may be implemented with a $5 microcontroller, some communications protocols need a 32-bit processor and 8 Mbytes of RAM,” says Edward Hague, chief technology officer.
Typical ProtoCessors include the Industrial Ethernet Protocol (Ethernet/IP), BACnet (Building Automation and Control network), Metasys building-management protocol, SNMP (Simple Network Management System), and DNP (Distributed Network Protocol). Future protocols include LonWorks and ZigBee. The appropriate testing laboratories certify ProtoCessors for the protocols they support and eliminate the need to maintain in-house protocol support services.
Prices for ProtoCessor begin at $250 (100). An RDK (Rapid Development Kit) is also available and includes application source code in C, a compiler, two ProtoCessor modules, debugging tools, test tools, documentation, and technical support. The RDK sells for $1995.
ProtoCessor, 1-978-486-3811, www.ProtoCessor.com.
