Programmable platform for device networks

June 16, 2015 - PRLog -- The new programmable device server Aport-212PG from Artila is well-equipped for the special communication tasks within future device networks. The energy-saving ARM Cortex M3 processor is the motor of the Ethernet serial converter. Its special feature is the integrated operating system FreeRTOS which supports 34 architectures and various compilation environments. FreeRTOS is perfectly geared to embedded microcontrollers and has proved its worth as a professionally developed and robust system in industrial and commercial environments.

Current developments under the keywords M2M, ZigBee or Industry 4.0 focus on network communication between devices. The so-called IoT (Internet of Things) incorporates a whole host of specialised end devices such as sensors, actors and controllers which are used equally in modern building management as in industrial plants, large-scale living environments and outdoor installations. End devices for light controls, thermostats, motion detectors, security sensors, switches, locks, pumps, meters and a lot more form a network within which the individual components should intercommunicate trouble-free and safely. The initial step is the transfer and concentration of serial data from the sensor via the TCP/IP protocol. Serial Ethernet converters such as the new Aport-212PG act as device servers here.

The Aport-212 has a Cortex-M3 processor with 100 MHz and is equipped with 64KB SRAM, 512KB flash, an 10/100 Mbps Ethernet interface as well as two RS-232/485 connections. The new converter supports lightweight IP (lwIP) and flexible and comfortable programming with the BSD Socket Library. A compact Web server for the customer’s own Web-based applications is integrated. Sample programs for data communication, Web configuration and EEPROM routines are incorporated in the development kit, making starting-up fast easier. A special Windows Management utility for the functional overview, the configuration of the Aport-212PG and the transfer of firmware developed by the customer is also included in the scope of delivery.

Its development options alongside the energy-saving and low-service hardware make the Aport-212PG an ideal platform for the Internet of Devices and the communication of serial data in TCP/IP networks. The Aport-212PG is available from the independent distributor Acceed (www.acceed.com).