February 2022, Volume 24 – Number 2 • cotsjournalonline.com
The Journal of Military Electronics & Computing
JOURNAL
Edge Computing Embraces AI-GPGPU-based System Performance A Better Way to Do Power
The Journal of Military Electronics & Computing COTS (kots), n. 1. Commercial off-the-shelf. Terminology popularized in 1994 within U.S. DoD by SECDEF Wm. Perry’s “Perry Memo” that changed military industry purchasing and design guidelines, making Mil-Specs acceptable only by waiver. COTS is generally defined for technology, goods and services as: a) using commercial business practices and specifications, b) not developed under government funding, c) offered for sale to the general market, d) still must meet the program ORD. 2. Commercial business practices include the accepted practice of customer-paid minor modification to standard COTS products to meet the customer’s unique requirements.
JOURNAL
—Ant. When applied to the procurement of electronics for he U.S. Military, COTS is a procurement philosophy and does not imply commercial, office environment or any other durability grade. E.g., rad-hard components designed and offered for sale to the general market are COTS if they were developed by the company and not under government funding.
SPECIAL FEATURES 16
Edge Computing Embraces AI-GPGPU-based System Performance By Dan Mor, Director, Video & GPGPU Product Line, Aitech
SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT 22
DEPARTMENTS 6 8
Publisher’s Note Entropy - lack of order or predictability; gradual decline into disorder The Inside Track
A Better Way to Do Power By John Reardon, Publisher
COT’S PICKS 24
Editor’s Choice for February
Cover Image A Falcon 9 rocket launches from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Fla., Jan. 31, 2022. The Italian built COSMO-SkyMed Earth observation second generation satellite is equipped with state-of-the-art radar technology, which will help provide data on a global scale for a variety of different applications. COTS Journal | Februray 2022
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The Journal of Military Electronics & Computing
JOURNAL EDITORIAL
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PUBLISHER’S NOTE
John Reardon, Publisher
A Look Back - In recent days the pandemic has left the headlines along with the number of
infections and deaths. This made me nostalgic for the ‘good old days, so I went back in my achieves to an Opinion piece I wrote shortly after the announcement of Covid 19 in January 2020. In re-reading it, it struck me more than I would have ever imagined that the world today is a much different place. I hope you enjoy it.
Entropy - lack of order or
predictability; gradual decline into disorder As the world becomes less predictable and gradually declines into disorder, the urgency to accurately predict when things might return to “normal” becomes increasingly more impossible. The reason this is true can be found in the definition of Entropy. Consider a box filled with red golf balls all lined up on the right and blue golf balls all lined up on the left – shake the box. The results will never be as orderly as the original. The entropy that the world is experiencing today and the infinite possibilities of how this box of golf balls might end up is a question that will not be answered easily or with any precision. The ability to predict how the balls will settle after having been shaken is nothing more than conjecture. Yes, you can predict that they all will remain in the box, but how they line up will be so random as to not even rise to the level of conjecture. 6
COTS Journal | February 2022
The same goes for how we are building our understanding of this virus. The normal perception is that we are building from a large and accurate dataset, built over time into a potential model. But this is not the case, the data sets have only been acquired over a short time, the testing is statistically unpredictable and any modeling would be limited at best. But I want to pivot on you a bit and discuss the future (after the virus). The disorder that I am interested in goes far beyond tracking down toilet paper or determining where to go to dinner. It is more the global concerns where oildriven economies are faltering. It is how this might further destabilize the Middle East. It is how hungry people might react to rich neighbors. This and an
Figure 1: This diagram shows the orbit of binary asteroid Didymos around the Sun. Didymos consists of a large, nearly half-mile-wide (780-meter-wide) asteroid orbited by a smaller, 525-foot-wide (160-meter-wide) asteroid, or moonlet. Didymos’ orbital path around the Sun is shown as the thin white ellipse and Earth’s orbit is the thick white line. In the background are the orbits of 2,200 other known potentially hazardous asteroids.
infinite amount of other issues will shape our world to come. I have always been intrigued by physical limits. For most of my life, there has been a theoretical threshold of fifty nautical miles an hour for a sailboat. It was not until 2008 that a Kite-surfer broke the threshold by the slimmest margin. But like with many of these types of thresholds there was debate as to whether the Kit-surfer was sailing through the water or flying above it. Today foiling sailboats routinely break this barrier – and the debate continues. Whether you are thinking of the Beverly Clock, thought to be the nearest thing to a perpetual motion machine, or a Stirling External combustion engine, that uses the differential in temperature to power itself – the concentration of these forces creates disorder. In considering the focus of order and the implications on disorder – Entropy – we can see examples resulting around us daily. Think about the retail store that requires patrons to line up outside to have social distancing inside. Consider the closing of public spaces and how it forces a greater number of people into smaller spaces. Consider shutting down flights, trains, and conventions and the order that it brings to the fight against the virus and the disorder that it brings to the social fabric of what we believe to be normal. Those that live in gated communities get a sense – false
or not, I don’t know – but a sense that they have “order” within their community and the ugly disorderly world is outside their gates. The world has changed forever; the order of this box of golf balls will never be the same as we face new norms. Whether people will ever feel comfortable with crowded spaces or how we design future classrooms will only be known in time. Just as we had a new norm after 911, we will have a new norm after this. It is our civic duty to face this change and to do everything possible to create a new norm that is better than the old.
A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty. Winston Churchill Disclaimer The opinions expressed are not to imply that we are overreacting, that statistical knowledge should not be pursued, or that any directions conveyed by our leaders are incorrect. There is a new paradigm facing us that will be addressed most favorably by those that are receptive to it.
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Curtiss-Wright Collaborates with Northrop Grumman to Migrate Legacy Real-time Avionics Software to Modern Hardware with Breakthrough Virtualization Technology Curtiss-Wright’s Defense announced that it is collaborating with Northrop Grumman to bring Real-time Virtualization And Modernized Protection (ReVAMP) technology to the embedded avionics market. Northrop Grumman’s ReVAMP software brings the advantages of enterprise virtualization and layers of cyber hardening to embedded systems to decouple software from specific hardware configurations and combat obsolescence. The use of ReVAMP effectively “future-proofs” software systems by virtualizing obsolete hardware currently being used to run existing software. Northrop Grumman has enabled multiple programs to migrate their valuable application software from obsolete hardware to modern hardware using ReVAMP. One specific program, for example, was able to use ReVAMP to migrate its application code, which was hosted on obsolete, no longer available hardware, so that it now runs, unchanged, on the latest Curtiss-Wright processing module technology, with underlying hardware technology dissimilar to the original host module. This approach both protected the customer’s software investment and supported their migration to next-generation form factors through virtualization. Using ReVAMP, programs can move trusted and proven applications from legacy cPCI, VXS, or similar form factors, to a contemporary VME, OpenVPX™, or
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XMC module from Curtiss-Wright, to both improve the performance of avionics systems and drastically reduce sustainment costs. “We are excited to announce support for Northrop Grumman’s ReVAMP virtualization software, a true game-changer for modernizing legacy embedded avionics applications, on select Curtiss-Wright single board computers,” said Chris Wiltsey, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions. “ReVAMP greatly simplifies and lowers the cost of sustaining legacy real-time embedded systems. With ReVAMP supported on a wide range of our VME, VPX, and XMC boards we provide our avionics customers with a simple and proven path for obsolescence mitigation and technology refresh that enables them to use legacy software on contemporary processor hardware without changing a single line of their application code.” ReVAMP enables technology refresh and mitigates product obsolescence by simplifying the migration of legacy real-time software applications to modern hardware platforms without requiring any changes to the existing software code. For many older systems, the risks and high costs associated with re-configuring legacy software to run on a new hardware platform can
be a significant and daunting barrier. ReVAMP eliminates these hurdles with a model-based systems engineering (MBSE) approach that virtualizes embedded systems at the processor level, so existing software binaries can run on new dissimilar hardware. What’s more, ReVAMP enables cybersecurity to be added to legacy software so older software applications can meet current cyber security standards, all while eliminating the need to re-write or re-architect the entire system. It provides a secure enclave execution environment that creates a layer of protection from outside threats and enables secure boot and hardware-supported encryption to be added once the legacy software runs in a ReVAMP virtual environment. With ReVAMP there is no need to replace existing software tools. ReVAMP provides diagnostic interfaces for creating new and custom diagnostic tools where legacy tools may have lacked. It also eliminates the challenge of porting older software applications to new hardware and operating system environments, which is difficult when the software documentation a decade or older is incomplete or no longer available. ReVAMP delivers new capabilities to legacy software. It enables legacy real-time software to take advantage of modern processing capability and memory resources without disturbing the old code and enables the older application to access modern data interfaces such as Ethernet or PCIe. From the application lifecycle perspective, the ReVAMP software’s use of hardware abstraction makes it possible to easily migrate to new generation hardware platforms, every five or ten years as needed for example, without having to re-configure the software.
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Alta Data Technologies Selects Holt MIL-STD-1553 Intergrated Transceiver/ Transformer for MEZ-E1553 Product
Alta Data Technologies (Alta) announced it has selected Holt Integrated Circuits MILSTD-1553 transceiver/transformer integrated product combination, HI-2579, for use in their MEZ-E1553 device, a real-time Ethernet MILSTD-1553 converter. The HI-2579 is a 3.3V MIL-STD-1553/1760 dual transceiver with integrated dual transformers. The IC is hermetically sealed on a ceramic LCC substrate and dual transformers are mounted in the same package. The ceramic substrate allows extended temperature operation from −55oC to +125oC and achieves Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) 1. The device operates from a single 3.3V supply and provides a single-component solution to interface an FPGA directly with a dual redundant MIL-STD-1553 bus. The HI-2579 transceiver is available in industrial −40oC to +85oC and extended −55oC to +125oC temperature ranges, with optional burn-in available for extended temperature range devices. “Holt is very happy Alta once again chose
us for their latest product design,” said Anthony Murray, Director of Marketing Communications at Holt. “This product provides them with a robust, compact product ideal for this application.”
schematics and 3-D STEP files are included.
“We have worked well with Holt for many years and have many of their parts designed in our products. The HI-2579 combined transceiver and transformer was a perfect fit for our new MEZ-E1553™ real-time Ethernet MIL-STD-1553 mezzanine board,” said Jake Haddock, CTO of Alta. “The combination of the transceiver and transformer to a single component allowed us to shrink-down this design to the lowest possible footprint for our customers.”
The MEZ, like Alta’s ENET™ products (1000s deployed on 100s of US DoD systems), implements a real-time, hardware UDP server design that eliminates traditional IP/UDP software stacks – virtually eliminating virus concerns. The product includes a full Berkley Socket Distribution (BSD) AltaAPI™ SDK with source, and 100s of example and ESS test programs – quick and easy integration that can run on almost any operating system, even DO178 systems.
The MEZ-E1553 is a unique mezzanine card that allows Alta’s customers to design in 1-2 dual redundant 1553 channels in their own embedded design (I/O sub-assembly, SBC, etc.) with a 100/1000 Ethernet host interface. For many embedded designs, routing Ethernet signals is much easier than a memory, PCI, or PCIe busses. The customer can easily design in Alta’s proven AltaCore™ full-featured 1553 protocol engine, including A/D O-Scope signal debugging, for deployed or test applications. Full reference
Also available is a low-cost reference design card with a USB Windows/Linux interface that runs the same AltaAPI. The customer can use the same application software from the reference card directly to the deployed design (allowing engineering teams to work in parallel). From integration to test, the MEZ-E1553 saves development time while providing a full-featured 1553 interface usually only found on PCIetype cards.
semiconductor shortages across the industry, resulting in drastically increased lead times from many chipmakers. Fortunately, QuickLogic continues to have a well-managed and stocked inventory of devices including the PolarPro 3 family. Because the family features reprogrammable FPGA logic, SRAM and IOs, the devices can typically be easily configured for existing or new designs.
designs from other vendors’ unavailable devices simple, quick, and easy.
QuickLogic’s PolarPro 3 Available to Solve Low Power FPGA Shortages QuickLogic Corporation announced that its PolarPro® 3 family of low power, SRAMbased FPGAs are available to solve semiconductor supply availability challenges. This highly flexible family features power consumption as low as 55uA and a tiny footprint in small packages, as well as die options. Packed into the small physical die size is up to 2,000 effective logic cells of SRAMbased FPGA fabric, 64Kbits of SRAM, and up to 46 configurable I/Os. The high flexibility, low power consumption, and small size make the family ideal for a variety of functions in handheld, wearable, mobile, IoT, and other battery-powered applications including interfaces, level shifting, small CPU cores, lowspeed serial protocols, and GPIO muxing. The COVID-19 pandemic has created
In addition, the PolarPro 3 devices are supported by QuickLogic’s tool suite as well as open-source tools such as Yosys Open Synthesis Suite, making them easily accessible to a wide range of users. Technical support for design migration makes mapping customer
“Customers have been approaching us about semiconductor supply issues which are making it difficult to build and ship their products,” said Mao Wang, senior director of product marketing at QuickLogic. “For those who need an ultra-low-power reconfigurable FPGA solution, we can offer the PolarPro 3 devices, which have a well-managed inventory and ready availability for prototyping and production volumes.” The QuickLogic PolarPro 3 FPGAs are available in production quantities now. COTS Journal | February 2022
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Lone Star Analysis Secures Direct to Phase II Small Business Innovation Research Contract
Lone Star Analysis was awarded a costplus-fixed-fee Direct to Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract totaling $799,926.00 to support the Naval Aviation Enterprise. Contract execution will be accomplished using the TruNavigator® platform for the development and delivery of near-real-time cartridge actuated device/propellant actuated device (CAD/PAD) digital twins to support service life adjustment decisions. The digital twins being developed are ‘failure’ twins which will capture and analyze the accumulation of meaningful stressors for real-time representations of individual component useful life. “Naval aviation continues to experience issues with CAD/PAD shortages, obsolescence, lot failures, diminishing manufacturing sources and material shortages (DMSMS), and production and shipping delays,” said Steve Roemerman, chairman and CEO, Lone Star Analysis. “Lone Star’s software and digital twin technology will help support readiness and safety decisions across multiple naval aviation platforms.” Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) has lifecycle ownership accountability for more than 2,500 different CAD/PAD types with over
Kevin Johnson Joins Acumentrics as Business Development Manager, Military Programs Acumentrics Inc. is pleased to announce that Mr. Kevin Johnson, formerly of General Dynamics Mission Systems, has agreed to join Team Acumentrics as Business Development Manager, Military Programs. Kevin brings over 20 years of technical, program, and business management experience that has been focused on the selection, qualification, and fielding of mission-critical COTS equipment to support over 120 Army and U.S. Department of Defense PEO’s. Said John Cerulli, CEO of Acumentrics: “It is incredibly exciting to welcome Kevin to Team Acumentrics. Acumentrics is committed to leading the industry with the best possible power solutions, and that objective 10
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805,000 individual components installed on active aircraft. Each component type has unique failure mechanisms that ultimately drive safety, cost, and logistics uncertainty. Current maintenance practices fail to consider uncertainty, resulting in components being removed when there is still significant effective useful life. Understanding and accounting for uncertainty, Lone Star helps better manage asset service life. The vision of the SBIR digital twin project is to establish a non-intrusive system of automated analysis solutions that deliver near the real-time performance and useful life projections by device and serial number. Eventually, needs to be supported by the best people. Kevin’s high level of professionalism, along with his deep technical and industry knowledge, fits well within our team as we continue to advance our growth strategy.”
the solution will fulfill associated maintenance intervention metrics for the entire CAD/PAD inventory. Phase I leveraged preliminary F/A-18 ejection seat work conducted by Lone Star and focused on operationalizing the capability. The end goal is the delivery of a secure, web-based capability that is accessible via the Navy’s network. This capability will be authorized to connect to authoritative government data sources as required to monitor and predict CAD/PAD service life and performance. The solution developed will facilitate service life adjustment decisions and support optimized inventory management.
programs and, ultimately, our Warfighters.”
Kevin will be responsible for the identification, qualification, and business management of new military programs. Kevin’s technical and business acumen coupled with his extensive knowledge of federal contracting and its procurement cycle will be the driving force necessary to achieve year-over-year growth that is in alignment with Acumentrics’s Strategic Plan. Said Kevin Johnson, “I am thrilled to join the Acumentrics team. I look forward to combining my extensive background in Technology, Program Management, and Business Development with Acumentrics’s innovative, reliable, and rugged COTS power solutions to meet the mission-critical needs of military
Kevin Johnson - Acumentrics as Business Development Manager, Military Programs
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GA-ASI Selects Two Companies to Support MQ-9B Development as Part of Blue Magic Belgium
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. has selected two Belgian companies, ALX Systems, and Coexpair, to support the development of the MQ-9B SkyGuardian Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) and other advanced RPA-related projects. The companies were selected from a field of 18 companies that presented their ideas and capabilities to a panel of GA-ASI technical experts during Blue Magic Belgium 2021. BMB21, held Sept. 15-16, 2021 at the headquarters of GA-ASI’s Belgian part-
ALX Systems develops unmanned aircraft solutions, including a cloud-enabled operating system that enables UAS to fly autonomously. “ALX is happy to be selected again and looks forward to working with GA-ASI to develop a mission manager software application that will generate mission plans for autonomous operations,” said ALX Systems’ Founder & CEO Geoffrey Mormal. Coexpair specializes in out-of-autoclave Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) processing of composite parts. They offer material selection and prototyping services to develop
ner DronePort in Sint-Truiden, provided an opportunity for Belgium-based businesses to present their capabilities and products to GA-ASI with the goal of expanding GA-ASI’s business-to-business cooperation with Belgian industry. The Belgian Ministry of Defense announced in 2020 that it will acquire the MQ-9B SkyGuardian with the first delivery expected next year.
this process for customer-specific needs. Coexpair will work with GA-ASI to develop an innovative RTM process for core stiffened composite sandwich structures.
“We were impressed by the many talented companies that participated in Blue Magic Belgium,” said GA-ASI Vice President of Engineering Dee Wilson, who led the GAASI panel. “We look forward to working with ALX Systems and Coexpair. Both companies bring unique products and capabilities that are important to our ongoing and future RPA development activities.”
ALX Systems and Coexpair are part of a growing list of Belgium-based businesses working with GA-ASI. Other companies include AeroSimulators Group, AIRobot, Hexagon’s Geospatial division and ScioTeq, SABCA, Thales Belgium, ST Engineering, and DronePort.
“Our project with GA-ASI will tackle the challenge of resin intrusion into a sandwich core during RTM processing,” said André Bertin, CEO of Coexpair
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AMD Completes Acquisition of Xilinx
The transaction creates a high-performance and adaptive computing leader AMD to offer industry’s strongest portfolio of leadership CPUs, GPUs, FPGAs, and Adaptive SoCs to address approximately $135 billion market opportunity
BAMD announced the completion of its acquisition of Xilinx in an all-stock transaction. The acquisition, originally announced on October 27, 2020, creates the industry’s high-performance and adaptive computing leader with significantly expanded scale and the strongest portfolio of leadership computing, graphics, and adaptive SoC products. AMD expects the acquisition to be accretive to non-GAAP margins, non-GAAP EPS, and free cash flow generation in the first year.
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“The acquisition of Xilinx brings together a highly complementary set of products, customers, and markets combined with differentiated IP and world-class talent to create the industry’s high-performance and adaptive computing leader,” said AMD President and CEO Dr. Lisa Su. “Xilinx offers industry-leading FPGAs, adaptive SoCs, AI engines, and software expertise that enable AMD to offer the strongest portfolio of high-performance and adaptive computing solutions in the industry and capture a larger share of the approximately $135 billion market opportunity we see across cloud, edge and intelligent devices.” Former Xilinx CEO Victor Peng will join AMD as president of the newly formed Adaptive and Embedded Computing Group (AECG). AECG remains focused on driving leadership FPGA, Adaptive SoC, and software roadmaps, now with the additional scale of the combined
company and the ability to offer an expanded set of solutions including AMD CPUs and GPUs. “The rapid expansion of connected devices and data-intensive applications with embedded AI is driving the growing demand for highly efficient and adaptive high-performance computing solutions,” said Victor Peng. “Bringing AMD and Xilinx together will accelerate our ability to define this new era of computing by providing the most comprehensive portfolio of adaptive computing platforms capable of powering a wide range of intelligent applications.” Upon close, Xilinx stockholders received 1.7234 shares of AMD common stock and cash instead of any fractional shares of AMD common stock for each share of Xilinx common stock. Xilinx common stock will no longer be listed for trading on the NASDAQ stock market.
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Aerojet Rocketdyne Positioned to Continue Driving Growth, Profitability, and Value Creation Announces Termination of Merger Agreement with Lockheed Martin
Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings, Inc. reaffirmed its strong foundation for substantial value creation following the termination of its merger agreement with Lockheed Martin Cor-
poration. The Company issued the following statement:
performing the Aerospace and Defense Index by 33% and the S&P 500 by 62%.
We are poised to deliver substantial value to our shareholders driven by our continued leadership in keyspace exploration and defense growth markets, including by advancing hypersonics and strategic, tactical, and missile defense systems. Aerojet Rocketdyne has delivered strong shareholder returns of 166% over the five years before the transaction announcement, significantly out-
We are confident in our future performance with an impressive backlog that is more than three times the size of our annual sales and a strong macroeconomic environment underpinning our portfolio. We look forward to providing further details regarding our financial performance and strategy on our fourth quarter and full-year 2021 earnings report on Feb. 17, 2022.
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DT Research Rugged Tablet Awarded C1D2 Certification for Safe Operation in Potentially Hazardous Environments
NDT362 Purpose-built Tablet Proven Safe to Use in Areas where Flammable Gases, Vapors, and Liquids Could Exist
DT Research announced that its DT362 Rugged Handheld Tablet has been tested and Class 1 Division 2 Certified to operate safely in hazardous areas where flammable gases, vapors, or liquids may be present within sufficient quantities to be explosive or ignitable. The C1D2 certification is recognized as the most widely accepted non-incendive standard in North America for products used in hazardous environments. As mobile electronic devices become ubiquitous in workplaces across industries, C1D2 certification has become increasingly important to ensure the safety of all workers. Many work environments have both hazardous and non-hazardous areas. In these situations, despite policy and warning signs, there is a high potential that workers may accidentally carry a
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non-compliant mobile electronic device into a hazardous environment.
With the C1D2 certification, companies in many industries can be confident that the DT362 Rugged Tablet can be used safely in environments where ignitable concentrations of flammable gases, vapors, or liquids might exist, such as aircraft hangers, military environments, chemical and gas handling areas, petroleum and gas processing plants, food processing, paint manufacturing and spraying facilities, dry cleaning facilities, and textile mills. “As a company specializing in reliable purpose-built solutions for many vertical markets, we strive to adhere to the tough high standards required in a broad set of industries,” said Daw Tsai Sc.D., president of DT Research. “We are proud to add the C1D2 certification to the robust features of the DT362 rugged tablet, making it a viable solution in many more environments.” As part of the certification, tests and evaluations were performed on the DT362 tablet where hazardous material not normally present in an explosive concentration may accidental-
ly exist through rupture, breakage, or unusual faulty operation.
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Keysight Enables Altice Labs to Verify Performance of O-RAN Radio Units. Keysight’s open radio access network test platforms help deliver certification services
Keysight Technologies, Inc. announced that Altice Labs has selected the Keysight O-RAN Radio Architect (KORA) solutions to advance the development of O-RAN equipment and deliver certification services. Based in Portugal, Altice Labs focuses on the development of innovative products and services for the information and communications (ICT) market and is in the process of developing a portfolio of proprietary O-RAN radio units (O-RU) solutions. “We’re pleased to provide Altice Labs with O-RAN test solutions for efficient deployment of 4G and 5G networks based on open, disaggregated architectures,” said Scott Bryden, vice president, and general manager at Keysight. “The KORA portfolio consists of integrated solutions based
VITA Announces Dean Holman as President/Executive Director VITA, the trade association for standard computing architectures serving critical embedded systems industries has announced that Dean Holman has accepted the position as VITA’s President and Executive Director effective February 1, 2022.
on common software platforms, enabling Altice to validate interoperability, performance, security, and compliance of O-RUs to standards specified by the O-RAN Alliance.” Altice Labs selected Keysight’s Open RAN Studio, part of the KORA portfolio, for performance validation of O-RUs and other network functions. The solution is built on a platform that emulates O-RAN distributed units (O-DUs) and supports a wide range of test cases. Altice Labs also uses Keysight’s radio frequency (RF) signal sources and analyzers (UXA signal analyzer, VXG signal generator) to validate 3GPP and O-RAN conformance and performance of the open frontant Executive Director in March 2021 and has spent the past 10 months getting acquainted with the business management tools and processes. This new role will allow Dean to leverage over three decades of leadership in the Aerospace and Defense industry to advance the development, publication, and adoption of next-generation leading-edge standards.
thaul implementation across radio frequency (RF) and protocol measurement domains. Altice Labs also leveraged Keysight’s O-RAN test solutions to address the strategic objectives of Altice International, which is the parent company of Altice Labs and a service provider with more than 250 million customers. KORA supports Altice’s quick rollout of high-speed broadband connectivity based on open standard interfaces.
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“I am honored and extremely excited to be taking on this leadership role within VITA,” stated Dean. “I look forward to applying my experience in building international teams, driving process/quality improvements, and ensuring customer success to lead VITA in its ‘Open standards, open markets’ mission of producing open interoperability standards to enable future system designs.” Dean has an extensive history with VITA going back to 2004 when he began participating in VITA as Technical Editor of the VITA 46 VPX working group while at Mercury Systems. In 2011, the membership elected Dean as Chairman of the VITA Standards Organization (VSO) where he leads the bi-monthly standards meetings and guides the working groups through the standards development process. Dean joined VITA as VP and Assis-
Contact us;
RTC Media Kevin Johnson - VITA’s President and Executive Director
3180 Sitio Sendero, Carlsbad, CA. 92009 Phone: (949) 226-2023
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SPECIAL FEATURE
Edge Computing Embraces AI-GPGPU-based System Performance By Dan Mor, Director, Video & GPGPU Product Line, Aitech Today’s military systems are built with far more functionality in a much smaller footprint, typically referred to as optimized SWaP—size, weight, and power—while still needing to keep costs low. In addition, these systems function in extremely harsh environments and carry with them the need to operate reliably all the time, every time. These rugged HPEC (high-performance embedded computer) systems not only support crucial, lifesaving, and security-focused applications, but must withstand extreme shock and vibration as well as severe and expansive tem-
perature and humidity fluctuations, ranging from sub-zero to triple digits. And they need to capture and process real-time data and graphics from several inputs simultaneously and manage it all from many I/O interfaces, providing what is known as “AI at the Edge.” (Figure 1) Data Challenges in Military Computing Balancing all these requirements pose challenges, but with the right ruggedization and system development techniques, embedded designers are developing AI-based supercomputers used throughout several military applications, such as situation awareness systems,
EW systems, and drones as well as a smart soldier and man-portable systems and augmented reality. Especially noteworthy is the growing field of autonomous operations utilizing this powerful technology including UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) and unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs). These real-time response applications require this AI at the edge, where processing that is happening at the sensors is exponentially increasing computing requirements. (Figure 2 on next page)
Figure 1: Military applications are increasingly using rugged, SWaP-optimized HPEC systems based on leading-edge technologies, like GPGPU, that facilitate AI computing. 16
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But AI at the edge is not contained to only unmanned applications. Security risks within the general in-the-field military computing applications make cloud computing a cause for concern. Large data sets in other non-critical industries are typically sent to the cloud for computation and processing, but for applications handling sensitive, security-laden information, this less secure, cloud-based infrastructure may not be a viable solution. This pushes the need for computing to the edge into a wide range of military applications. The Power of Parallel Processing As data needs continue to increase across the board, modern embedded systems are faced with some serious performance issues: continuing to only use a CPU as the main computing engine would eventually choke the system. Divesting the highly demanding data calculations to the GPU, while allowing the rest of the application to run on the CPU, helps balance system abilities and resources more effectively.
Figure 2: AI supercomputers in ultra-small form factors (U-SFFs), like the Aitech A179 Lightning, are helping to solve the challenges of AI-at-the-edge computing in today’s military embedded systems.
By combining a GPU with a CPU to accelerate applications, GPU-accelerated computing offloads some of the computation-intensive portions from the CPU to the GPU. Using a GPU with a parallel architecture instead of a CPU, which is serial, reduces development time and “squeezes” maximum performance per watt from the computation engine.
GPU accelerated computing runs compute-intensive portions on the GPU to accelerate the compute capabilities of a system, using less power and delivering higher performance over a CPU. Through this increased power-to-performance ratio, GPU-based systems can meet the exorbitant calculation demands
these applications now require. The specialized parallel computational speed and performance of GPGPUs enables system designers to bring exceptional power and performance into rugged, extended temperature small form factors (SFFs). This has made AI
But AI at the edge is not contained to only unmanned applications. Security risks within the general in-the-field military computing applications make cloud computing a cause for concern.
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Figure 3: The powerful processing abilities from AI supercomputers, like Aitech’s A178 that uses the NVIDIA® Jetson™ AGX Xavier System-On-Module, deliver advanced processing to growing cutting-edge applications, like eVTOLs.
and its subset of deep learning, a far more useful tool in military embedded systems.
both manned and unmanned systems, providing a strategic advantage for DoD.”
AI is A DoD Priority The United States Department of Defense (DoD) started an AI initiative that aims to bring AI and computer algorithms to the battlefield.
• Human-Machine Collaboration “If interoperability lays the foundation, then human-machine collaboration is the ultimate objective. Teaming between human forces and machines will enable revolutionary collaboration, where machines will be valued as critical teammates.”
The following insights are outlined in the “DoD Unmanned Systems Integrated Roadmap 2017-2042”: • Autonomy “Advances in autonomy and robotics have the potential to revolutionize warfighting concepts as a significant force multiplier. Autonomy will greatly increase the efficiency and effectiveness of
Applications of AI in Today’s Military Systems Think about this in the context of bringing AI to the defense drone industry. Drones are used for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance and usually record many hours of foot-
age every mission—video footage that takes a long time for human analysts to analyze. While human analysts process footage, the ground situation may change, and latency between analyzed footage and real-time battle conditions is presented. Another example is eVTOLS, where pilotless prototypes are being rapidly developed, with many utilizing platforms that already exist, such as drones or unmanned helicopters, then integrating leading-edge technologies to achieve the needed functionality of these air transport vehicles. The need for advanced features and increased computing functionality is being met by AI supercomputing. (Figure 3)
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Compact, High-powered Processing Upgrades Are Needed The DoD roadmap also details the challenge of upgrading and maintaining antiquated systems, which often suffer from inferior capabilities as well as the need for manual data analysis. Removing these barriers and embracing a trusted AI GPGPU-based computing infrastructure will help alleviate some of the challenges associated with managing the volume, variety, and veracity of data within today’s military embedded systems Using AI technology (deep learning process) would enable the processing of much more data within the same timeframe, which will bring situational awareness to “near real-time” status. And with some AI-based SWaP-optimized supercomputers offering an ultra-compact footprint, roughly the size of a cell phone, unmanned systems can achieve incredibly high performance with remarkable levels of energy efficiency. They can operate longer during a mission, offer better reliability and provide real-time data inputs by processing and transmitting that data back to the main command center or even building upon existing vehicle platforms to extend the func-
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tion of a single vehicle, effectively extending the amount of airspace one craft can cover. Embedded AI Requirements for Military Applications It has been established that the embedded AI defense market requires SWaP- and SWaP-C-optimized systems. This means that in addition to managing AI computing at the edge, next-generation AI system will also need to support: • SFF Platforms (i.e. based on NVIDIA Jetson Xavier NX and Nano SoM) for “Image Classification, Image Location, Image Segmentation” processes in a growing number of in-the-field applications • SWaP-optimized Systems - Low power consumption modules with compact footprints and exceptionally high processing capabilities • NVIDIA CUDA - A common platform framework where the user can share already-trained deep learning models between devices • Different Use Cases - Easily covered by simply retraining the model with different data sets • Detection Precision - Constantly approved
by fault detection, adding additional images to the data set and retraining the model • Provisions for Next-generation Systems – As more powerful GPUs (embedded SoM) become available, better performance will equate to more complex and precise detection Ensuring Reliable Edge Computing The intuitive processing that AI provides has propelled many modern military systems into this new area of high-intensity computing using real-time data, enabling autonomous decision-making. AI in military systems is fueled by GPU accelerated computing, which uses parallel processing versus serial, to enable the handling of thousands of data points simultaneously. Ruggedization of these HPEC systems means that computing power can be used in a wider number of remote and mobile locations. As processing demands increase, SFF (small form factor) systems using GPGPU (general-purpose graphics processing unit) technology and AI-based solutions are providing a path to next-generation embedded systems, poised to tackle the growing field of mobile, unmanned and autonomous vehicle technologies.
SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT
A Better Way to Do Power By John Reardon, Publisher
Military engineers are increasingly relying on a more efficient and sophisticated solution for their power-hungry designs with a new system from Vicor Power (http://www.vicorpower. com/) – a longtime leader in the space. Dubbed Factorized Power Architecture (FPA), the system reduces power losses typically associated with the distribution of low-voltage,
high current power loads – while also expertly managing dynamic voltage and transient loads. BISinfotech – a highly respected journal covering technology in India -- was so impressed with the tech, it recognized Vicor as an innovator in power with its BIS Excellence & Technovation Award last fall.
And the same head-turning power solution helped Vicor win the 2020 Global Semiconductor Alliance Award -- in the category of ‘favorite semiconductor company’ – beating out the likes of AMD, NVIDIA, Inphi Corporation and SiTime Corporation. The GSA is one of the most prestigious organizations in the industry, representing corpo-
And the same head-turning power solution helped Vicor win the 2020 Global Semiconductor Alliance Award -- in the category of ‘favorite semiconductor company’
Figure 1: Next generation power modules from Vicor free-up military engineers to create power-gobbling designs -- including those with artificial intelligence on board -with ease. Photo Credit: U.S. Army 22
COTS Journal | February 2022
rate members from more than 250 companies across 25 countries. GSA’s recognition of the FPA system is especially notable, given that the nod came from GSA members who are semiconductor industry analysts – people who stake their livelihoods on knowing what’s what when it comes to the latest in semiconductor technology.
amps. And it reduces motherboard copper and processor interconnect resistances by up to 50x Moreover, FPA enables engineers to reduce processor power pin counts by more than 10x. Essentially, engineers working with Vicor FPA can look forward to nearly unlimited customization options – while simultaneously being assured they can rely on an optimal power system.
Much of the impetus behind those awards is rooted in the innovative way FPA crushes obstacles that typically drain current delivery to high power processors -- enabling engineers to achieve new amperage highs as they design for current delivery. So far, many engineers using FPA are harnessing its next generation power handling to add more punch and performance to existing designs.
Under-the-hood, FPA works by first factorizing power conversion into separate functions: regulation and transformation. By separating the two – in terms of both processing and physical location -- FPA is able to better optimize the performance for each function individually. The result of this separation approach: The regulation module in an FPA system can be placed in virtually any location on a motherboard. And simultaneously, the FPA system also enables the current multiplier module to be placed extremely close to the processor by optimizing the module’s density, efficiency and noise reduction.
Others are tapping into FPA to greatly simplify their motherboard designs. And still other engineers are working with the new high currents made possible by FPA to tool-up applications that previously were simply beyond their reach in terms of available amperage. With FPA, AI engineers in particular who are looking to create big data mining projects will find they have hundreds of more amps at their disposal with Vicor’s power solutions. Machine learning applications suddenly become a breeze with the power management system. And autonomous vehicle systems will have all the extra power they need, thanks to FPA. On the circuit board, the new efficiency in power and design translates into a higher peak and average current delivery of more than 1,000
Meanwhile, the extremely low output impedance generating by FPA enables engineers to opt for much smaller ceramic capacitors (up to 1000x less capacitance) at the VTM. In practice, that novel design efficacy enables current multipliers running on FPA to reach current highs of more than 1,000 amps – while delivering a 50x reduction in power delivery network resistance. There’s also an added design bonus: The FPA system is available for both lateral and vertical factorized power applications. FPA’s approach dusts conventional power
management systems, which too often force engineers to settle for crowded design layouts and make them surrender to trade-offs that sacrifice power due to limited design options. In a phrase, working with traditional power systems engenders the perennial ‘last inch’ design problem: Newer applications often cry-out for hundreds of more amps. But those application designs are flummoxed by the conventional motherboard power plane and conventional interconnects within the processor socket. As engineers know all too well, when they’re working with traditional power systems, the size of the power converter prevents them from placing it too close to the load. And the high output current typical of such systems triggers large line (12R) losses. Meanwhile, conventional power systems also require engineers to resort to large, bulk-electrolytic caps that crowd the space near the load. Switchers also become a problem when using a traditional power system. Too often, they too need to be placed too close to the load -- resulting in noise that can also lead to power drain. Fortunately, those problems vanish with FPA. Essentially, once engineers start working with the advanced design flexibility of FPA, they never need look back at the limiting nature of conventional power systems. The hundreds of more amps that FPA offers -- the innovative designs that become possible when regulation and transformation become separated functions -- make conventional power systems seem quaint in comparison.
Figure 2: Military computer designers looking for extreme power -- and reliability -- will want to check-out Vicor’s award-winning Factorized Power Architecture. Photo Credit: James Bowman COTS Journal | February 2022
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February 2022
COT’S PICKS Industry’s Only Family of Standard NonHybrid Space-Grade Power Converters Now Includes 28 Volt (V)-Input Radiation-Tolerant Options
are easier to customize than alternative spacegrade power converters so they can meet specific voltage, current, and other needs. Customers gain flexibility while reducing the size, cost, and complexity of their space system designs.”
Microchip’s alternatives to inflexible hybridstyle converters improve design flexibility while reducing system size, cost, and development time
Microchip’s SA50-28 family is the industry’s only off-the-shelf, 28V-input, radiation-tolerant power converter offering that is based on discrete components with surface-mount construction and non-hybrid assembly processes. Delivering more capabilities than alternative off-the-shelf, space-grade power converters, a single SA50-28 device with customized parameters eliminates the volume, weight, and complexity problems of using hybrid solutions with their multiple devices and surrounding circuitry.
Space system designers cannot easily support non-standard voltages or add functions with traditional hybrid-style power converters. Microchip Technology Inc. has eliminated the cost, complexity, and customization challenges of these hybrid solutions by offering a discrete-component-based, space-grade DCDC power converter family that now includes 28V-input, 50-watt (W) radiation-tolerant options. “Our latest 28V-input SA50-28 products greatly simplify and accelerate system development,” said Leon Gross, vice president of Microchip’s discrete product business unit. “They
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Microchip’s comprehensive SA50-28 product line is a 20V- to 40V-input, 50W family with nine standard outputs of 3.3V, 5V, 12V, 15V, and 28V in single- and triple-output configurations. The devices can be tailored to a system’s exacting power needs in a relatively short time with
minimal additional costs as compared to hybrid-style power converter products. Other features include high efficiency, low output noise, output inhibit control, overcurrent protection, external synchronization, and full-rated power operation through −55°C to +85°C with linear derating to +125°C. The SA50-28 family is part of Microchip’s growing line of standard non-hybrid, spacegrade power converters that enable designers to use commercially available, off-the-shelf components whose circuitry has a proven spaceflight heritage. The products join the radiation-hardened SA50-120 power converter family, introduced in February 2021, that reduces risk and development time for qualified space systems by allowing designers to start with proven commercially available off the shelf technology in ceramic or plastic packages and quickly scaling up development using lower screening levels than traditional Qualified Manufacturers List (QML) requirements. Microchip www.microchip.com
February 2022
COT’S PICKS NVIDIA Quadro Turing RTX5000 / RTX3000 SOSA-aligned GPGPU Board
The GRA115S is a rugged 3U VPX VITA 65 or SOSA-aligned form factor high-performance computer (HPC) and graphics output board based on NVIDIA® Turing™ architecture using either the NVIDIA RTX5000™ platform or NVIDIA RTX3000™ platform. When utilizing the NVIDIA RTX5000™ the GRA115S’s GPU node is equipped with 16 GB GDDR6 graphics memory, 3072 CUDA® cores, 384 Tensor cores, 48 RT cores, and delivers up to 9.49 TFLOPS floating-point 32 performance with CUDA™ and OpenCL™ support. Additionally, the RTX5000™ provides a 256-bit wide memory bus for 448 GB/s peak memory bandwidth, 110.7 Gpix/s peak pixel rate,
DATA MODUL presents a sunlightreadable 15.6” wide-view display for outdoor applications
and 332.2 Gtex/s peak texture rate. For more power-sensitive applications, the NVIDIA RTX3000™ can also be used. Both RTX5000 and RTX3000 versions take full advantage of the NVIDIA GPUDirect™ RDMA to minimize latency for real-time video and data streaming. Similarly, both choices of GPU also deliver real-time performance for encoding applications with dedicated H.265 and H.264 encode and decode engines. With exceptional performance in GPGPU computing, AI inferencing, deep learning, sensor pro-
DATA MODUL is expanding its display portfolio and presents a sunlight-readable 15.6” wideview display from AUO. The outdoor display is ideal for digital signage applications, integration in e-charging stations, and many other outdoor applications.
use and can be operated without problems even in application areas with challenging light conditions or temperature fluctuations. In addition, the FHD resolution display (1920 x 1080) offers an extremely wide viewing angle with a high contrast ratio of 1000:1 over the full viewing angle thanks to Advanced Hyper-Viewing Angle (AHVA) technology, which is comparable to IPS. These features make it ideal for applications such as digital signage or e-charging stations,” explains Oguz Goekce, Product Manager at DATA MODUL.
“Our new sunlight-readable 15.6” wide-view display has been specially developed for outdoor
The new display with part number G156HAN04.0 has a brightness of 1000 cd/m² and
cessing, and data analytics, the card is ideal for ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance), EW (Electronic Warfare), DSP (Digital Signal Processing), OE/IR and Data Science applications. ABACO Systems www.abaco.com
can be used in an operating temperature range from -30 to +85 degrees Celsius. Featuring a Full HD resolution (1920x1080), a contrast ratio of 1000:1, and AHVA technology, it offers a detailed image from any viewing angle. In addition to suitable LCD controller boards from the in-house eMotion series, DATA MODUL also offers fitting touch extensions as well as a variety of additional services for the realization of customized complete solutions. DATA MODUL www.data-modul.com
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February 2022
COT’S PICKS congatec simplifies COM-HPC designs
congatec – welcomes the publication of the COM-HPC Carrier Board Design Guide by the PCI Industrial Computer Manufacturers Group (PICMG) with the launch of a full specification compliant ecosystem for engineers of COM-HPC Client and Server module-based designs. From now on, engineers can dive right in and start to develop fully compliant designs by picking their appropriate Computer-on-Module, adding a COM-HPC Server or COM-HPC Client evaluation carrier and appropriate cooling solution, installing their application, and run programming, debugging, and test routines on this new high-performance embedded computing standard. The congatec COM-HPC ecosystem is fully compliant to the entire range of new PICMG COM-HPC specifications, namely the COM-HPC Module Base Specification, the brand new Carrier Board Design Guide, the Embedded EEPROM specification, and the Platform Management Interface specification. Supported by all
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leading embedded computing vendors, including congatec, this set of PICMG standards offers engineers the benefits of best-in-class design security. “The launch of the COM-HPC Carrier Design Guide was the last building block of the COM-HPC specifications that has been eagerly awaited by engineers. It is essential to build interoperable and scalable customized embedded computing platforms based on this powerful Computer-on-Module standard, which is optimized for edge servers and high-performance embedded clients. So here we go! The design race for best-in-class high-end embedded and edge computing solutions can now begin,” says Christian Eder, Director Marketing at congatec, delighted that the COM-HPC committee has reached the final milestone of PICMG’s fundamental standardization process under his chairmanship. The congatec ecosystem for COM-HPC Server and Client designs will be complemented by personal integration support as well as
design verification and test services to tackle all challenges, from initial carrier board design verification to mass production testing. Carrier board and system design services will also be offered by congatec in collaboration with cooperation partners. To round off the ecosystem, a carrier board design training program is available where OEMs, VARs, and system integrators can get a quick, easy and efficient deep dive into the design rules. The training program will guide engineers through all the mandatory and recommended design essentials and best practice schematics of COM-HPC carrier boards and accessories, such as fanless high-end cooling solutions for server designs up to and even beyond 100 Watt. The reference platform will be COM-HPC Client carrier boards equipped with COM-HPC Client modules based on 12th Gen Intel Core processors (codenamed Alder Lake). COM-HPC Server training courses will start with the availability of corresponding Intel Xeon modules and evaluation carriers, which are expected to be launched later this year. congatec www.congatec.com
February 2022
COT’S PICKS ViaLite Adds Resilience to Critical GPS Timing Services
Focus Telecom antijamming products are a perfect complement to our range of GPS/GNSS signal distribution solutions,” said Richard Jacklin, ViaLite Director
of Sales.
computer imagined and manufactured by ECRIN Systems targeting aerospace tactical missions embedded in UAS, UCAV, fixed, and rotary wings (un)manned aircraft. But also many other applications requiring an ultra-compact and rugged system will quickly discover all the advantages of nanoONYX when it is just as much about high-performance onboard computing as it is about low power consumption, small footprint, and lightweight.
hot spots. Qualified nanoONYX reduces design risk, cuts costs, and boosts deployment. With under control risks thanks to proven technology and Environment Qualification, nanoONYX allows you to save your design and EQT fees.
ViaLite www.vialite.com
ViaLite’s RF over fiber systems can carry GPS/GNSS timing signals over long distances with very low signal degradation. However, the same cannot be said of GPS signals before they reach the GPS/GNSS antenna, as these weak radio waves are highly susceptible to jamming or spoofing. Timing-critical infrastructures in areas such as defense and cyber security can now be protected from this kind of attack by installing one of ViaLite’s new GPS Protection Packages. The packages integrate either the GPS Resilient Kit or OtoSphere™ Protection Module products from Focus Telecom for jamming protection. The GPS Resilient Kit has two GPS antennas, which enables the direction of the attack to be pinpointed. At its heart is the small OtoSphere Protection Module, which has a unique interference filtering algorithm that combines the patterns from the two omnidirectional antennas. The module can analyze the direction the interference is coming from and feed it into its algorithm, directing a null towards the unwanted signal to reject and reduce disruptions. Using OtoSphere, GPS receivers are up to 50 times more resilient to jamming attacks on positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) systems compared with having no protection. The GPS receiver can continue working normally throughout the attack. “ViaLite customers typically need the highest grade of reliability and service, particularly for critical infrastructure timing applications. With the increase in jamming threats, both land-based and maritime, these
nanoONYX: Ultra-Small Form Factor for extreme aerospace and military missions by ECRIN nanoONYX is an Ultra-SFF rugged embedded
nanoONYX is based on a Dual / Quad-Core Intel® Atom™ E39xx (Apollo Lake) processor with TDP starting from 6.5 Watts for low power applications. For higher performance, it integrates Dual-Core Intel® Core™ i7 Kaby Lake-U or Quad-Core Whiskey Lake-U with configurable TDP-down 7.5 Watts. nanoONYX offers to distribute computing and avoids a single point of failure and thermal
NanoONYX is based on a modular mezzanines concept that offers the customer great flexibility and Long-Life Management with revision control. It uses a cutting edge technology based on mini COM Express type 10 from PICMG consortium and four AcroPack® mPCIe-based Rugged I/O modules with rugged connector I/O interface (no flexible ribbon I/O cables) for high-density, high-reliability and high-performance, that will allow tailoring the configuration to exact customer’s I/O requirements, no more, no less. ECRIN www.ecrin.com
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February 2022
COT’S PICKS Kontron’s ACE Flight™ 4783 Dual Modem MODMAN is now flightqualified
Kontron announces the first flight and qualification of the ACE Flight™ 4783 Dual Modem MODMAN The Dual MODMAN accommodates two satellite modems in a single 4MCU LRU, while still maintaining compliance to the ARINC 791/792 standard for Modem Manager (MODMAN). The initial product configuration uses the two Ka-Band modem cards targeted for the new Inmarsat GX+ network – the iDirect iQ800 and the Hughes Jupiter. Other modem sets for the Dual MODMAN are anticipated in the future by Kontron to support operation on different combinations of regional or global networks. The motivation behind multi-modem architectures for Inflight Connectivity (IFC) is similar to a mobile phone user roaming between different Cellular networks. For example, with the GX+ enabled Dual MODMAN, while flying over the continental US, passengers will be connected to Hughes’ JUPITER satellite fleet. When the aircraft leaves US airspace, the system automatically switches to the iDirect based Inmarsat Global Xpress (GX) network, thus ensuring a completely seamless passenger experience across all regions. In addition to the two modem card slots, the ACE Flight™ 4783 Dual MODMAN provides a full Server capability within the same 4MCU package. This includes a 6-core Intel® Xeon®
processor, 24-port managed Gigabit Ethernet Switch, up to 16TB internal storage, 4G Cellular Modem for ground communications and all of the standard aircraft interfaces that are expected in an airborne server. These additional features enable the use of the Dual MODMAN not only as a Connectivity Server but also as a combined Connectivity & Media Server for aircraft installations with Size Weight and Power (SWAP) constraints. Kontron’s customer for the launch of the ACE Flight™ 4783 Dual MODMAN is GDC Advanced Technology, LLC, a subsidiary of GDC Technics, LLC, based in Ft Worth, Texas. GDC Advanced Technology is an IFC terminal integrator and engineering specialist while GDC Technics has extensive expertise in aircraft installation and certification through its FAA ODA. The Dual MODMAN is introduced as part of the GDC FALCON 300 IFC system, which has been installed on multiple Boeing B737 VIP aircraft and was selected by Saudia Airlines for their upcoming A321NEO and A321XLR fleets. “Kontron is pleased to launch the ACE Flight™ 4783 Dual MODMAN product, which is the first available multi-modem platform complying to the ARINC 791/792 standard”, says Andy Mason, Executive VP of Global Avionics for Kontron. ”As the aviation market goes through this recovery period, we see trends continuing that started pre-COVID – standards-based, open-architecture systems that support flexibility, scalability, and interoperability for the airlines and terminal integrators.” “Deployment of IFC terminals supporting operation on multiple satellite networks, using multiple modems with a single antenna, is another driver that bears watching”, Mason continues. “With new constellations such as LEO expected to become available for IFC applications in the next few years, there is a need for future-proof systems such that new capabilities can be added. The new Dual MODMAN and the ACE Flight™ 2780 Auxiliary Modem Unit (AMU) are examples from Kontron of this scalable approach.” Kontron www.Kontron.com
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February 2022
COT’S PICKS Phoenix International Introduces Tactical NAS Edge Data Storage Solution
quickly removed to offload data. The magazines can then be moved to separate locations and plugged into another RPC24 on any other network for further analysis.
Phoenix International Systems unveiled their RPC6 - Rugged Network Attached Storage Server.
Major Features of the RPC6 NAS: • Reliable, High-Speed Data Capture • Highly Available and Resilient Architecture • Quickly Upload Data with Removable Drive Magazine • Up to 120TB Storage Capacity • AES-256 hardware and file-level encryption • FIPS140-2 Validation • Secure Erase/Data Elimination • MIL-STD-810G Certified • Made in the USA
As the military works to capitalize on the deluge of data generated by intelligent, connected devices, intelligent data strategy has never been more critical. Enter edge computing, playing an essential role in addressing this challenge by enabling access and analytics close to the data source. Edge computing can mean many different things, but for military users, the key is flexible, modular, and rugged systems that are proven and reliable in harsh tactical land, maritime, and airborne environments. The RPC6 NAS incorporates a removable magazine with up to 6 SSDs or HDDs which can be
ADLINK launches COM-HPC Client Type and COM Express Type 6 Modules with 12th Gen Intel® Core™ processors ADLINK Technology Inc. introduces the world’s first 12th Gen Intel Core proces-
information. Network connections are provided through load-balanced Ethernet ports, available from Gigabit to 100 Gigabit, and can support multiple optical (or copper) Ethernet ports for low EMI susceptibility. Phoenix International Systems www.phenxint.com
The RPC24-NAS allows networked devices to share and store data using all common network services. It supports a variety of network-based file systems that allow multiple hosts to share and store sor-based Computer-on-Modules (COMs), available in two form factors – COM-HPC Client Type and COM Express Type 6. ADLINK COMs with the Intel 12th Gen Intel® Core™ processor family (Codename: Alder Lake-H) allows for a unique design that can be adapted for single-thread or multithread performance. The advanced hybrid architecture can be used for stationary, mobile, and portable solutions. It also provides system integrators with a future-proof design that supports both current and future best-in-class peripherals. “ Workin g closely with Intel, we are bringing timely, next-generation computing modules to the market with Intel® Alder Lake-H,” said Alex Wang, Senior Product Manager - Module Product Center, ADLINK.
“We now offer a full line-up of COM-HPC and COM Express modules for any deployment scenario and budget.” ADLINK COMs with Intel® Alder Lake-H provides support for PCIe 4.0 and DDR5 memory with up to 4800 MT/s combined with increased cache, as well as security and manageability features, AI enablement to deliver intelligent workload optimization, enhanced graphics, AI, computer vision, and enhanced peripheral, connectivity, and fast memory access capabilities. The integrated Intel® Iris® Xe graphics architecture, with up to 96EUs, offers four concurrent 4K60 HDR displays and an Intel Deep Learning Boost to deliver superior AI performance. Using DDI, eDP 1.4b, and USB4/TBT4, the four independent displays support Display Alternative mode, providing premium graphics features for superior content support, display, and I/O virtualization. System integrators can use ADLINK COMS with Intel® Alder Lake-H to boost productivity and fuel IoT innovation across a wide variety of applications, including ultrasound, test and measurement, industrial edge servers, machine vision, mammography, surgical robots, security or perimeter tracking, and access control. ADLINK Technology Inc. www.adlinktech.com
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February 2022
COT’S PICKS
RadioWaves Adds New Low Wind Load, Dual Polarity, Mesh Dish Antennas
Low Wind Load, Dual Polarity, Mesh Dish Antennas Are Perfect for Outdoor Applications RadioWaves, an Infinite Electronics brand and a manufacturer of high-quality microwave antennas and accessories have just released a new series of low wind load, dual polarity, mesh dish antennas with frequency coverage of 17104200 MHz and 2300-2700 MHz. RadioWaves’ new series of low wind load, dual polarity, mesh dish antennas is ideal for point-to-point use in large, open areas such as base station installations or backhaul applications. They are lightweight, economical, and provide directional patterns with dual slant (±45°)
polarization. The new mesh dish antennas are available in 1-foot and 2-foot grid sizes and are well-suited for ISM, 5G, LTE, PCS, UMTS, Wi-Fi, and CBRS ap-
plications. The multi-band design of these antennas also eliminates the need to purchase different antennas for each frequency, which simplifies installations since the same antenna can be used for a variety of telecommunication installations where wide coverage is desired.
Industry’s First COTS Mezzanine with 64 GSps ADC/DAC Sample Rates Is Introduced by Annapolis MicroSystems
Systems Chief Technology Officer. “This daughter card integration allows for maximum flexibility of use, and for significantly higher performance than adding the transceiver directly to a baseboard.”
Annapolis Micro Systems announced the availability of the industry’s first COTS FMC+ Mezzanine Card to feature Jariet Technologies’ Electra-MA chip with 64 GS/s, 10-bit ADC, and DAC capability. It is targeted at demanding applications requiring direct sampling frequency coverage anywhere from 0.1 to 36 GHz, and/or wide instantaneous bandwidths.
“The DME1 WFMC+ from Annapolis Micro Systems represents a significant milestone in the maturity of direct sampling transceiver products,” said Craig Hornbuckle, Chief Technology Officer of Jariet Technologies. “While ADC and DAC prototypes sampling at tens of Gigasamples per second have existed in the lab for a few years, the technology has finally reached the level of maturity necessary to practically deploy it for the warfighter. Flexible spectrum access from VHF through Kaband will be a gamechanger in the competition to control the electromagnetic spectrum.”
This breakthrough, direct sampling Jariet transceiver performs frequency conversion and filtering in the digital domain, eliminating the need for costly analog frequency conversion. The WILD FMC+ DME1 ADC & DAC Card thus provides an unprecedented level of performance and integration for RF and microwave systems: 2-Channel, 40 to 64 GSps, 10b ADC 2-Channel, 40 to 64 GSps, 10b DAC It has a usable analog bandwidth of 36 GHz and a maximum instantaneous bandwidth of 6.4 GHz on both channels simultaneously. All transceiver channels feature onboard digital downconverters (DDCs) and digital upconverters (DUCs), including sub-band channelizers for dynamic frequency selection. “We are excited to be the first company to use Jariet’s Electra-MA transceiver in a COTS mezzanine,” said Noah Donaldson, Annapolis Micro 30
COTS Journal | February 2022
Additionally, the multiport design of these antennas enables 2x2 MIMO operation. Other features include Type-N male or female connectors, gain ranging from 16 to 22 dBi, and rugged mounting brackets with attachment hardware. “Our new series of low wind load, dual polarity, mesh dish antennas for cellular and WLAN point-to-point communications provide significantly lower wind load and 70% lower weight than traditional parabolic dish antennas. Their dual polarization allows for MIMO system setup, more consistent signals, and faster data throughput,” said Kevin Hietpas, Antenna Product Line Manager. RadioWaves www.radiowaves.com
The DME1 is available for use with 3rd party FMC+ baseboards or with Annapolis’ WILDSTAR 3U OpenVPX Baseboards (one WFMC+ mezzanine site) or 6U OpenVPX Baseboards (two WFMC+ mezzanine sites). Annapolis WILDSTAR Baseboards utilize up to three high-performance FPGAs. The DME1 is one of the dozens of products that comprise Annapolis’ proven WILD100 EcoSystem that aligns with SOSA™ 1.0. The EcoSystem is an interoperable portfolio of rugged high-performance OpenVPX COTS boards and systems that are used for challenging data acquisition, digital signal processing, and data storage applications. Annapolis Micro Systems www.annapmicro.com
COTS COTS
Index
ADVERTISERS Company Page # Annapolis Micro Systems ........................................ 19
Website ......................................... www.annapmicro.com
Behlman Electronics .............................................
BC
............................................... www.behlman.com
Diamond Systems ...................................................
28
.................................. www.diamondsystems.com
GET Engineering .....................................................
5
................................................ www.getntds.com
Great River Technology ...........................................
4
..................................... www.greatrivertech.com
Holo Industries ......................................................
IFC
................................................ www.holoind.com
New Wave DV .........................................................
19
......................................... www.newwavedv.com
Pentek ..................................................................
21
................................................. www.pentek.com
Per Vices Corporation ............................................
18
............................................... www.pervices.com
PICO Electronics, Inc ............................................. 11/IBC
.................................... www.picoelectronics.com
Pixus Technologies .................................................
IBC
................................ www.pixustechnologies.com
Sealevel .................................................................
14
................................................ www.sealevel.com
SECO ......................................................................
20
..................................................... www.seco.com
U-Reach .................................................................
13
.......................................... www.ureach-usa.com
COTS Journal (ISSN#1526-4653) is published monthly at; 3180 Sitio Sendero, Carlsbad, CA. 92009. Periodicals Class postage paid at San Clemente and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to COTS Journal, 3180 Sitio Sendero, Carlsbad, CA. 92009.
