SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., 4 Sept. 2009. A VME embedded computing industry working group in place to suggest system interoperability guidelines for the VPX (VITA 46) high-speed embedded computer switch fabric -- the OpenVPX Industry Working Group -- has completed the OpenVPX draft V0.8 specification, paving the way for final ratification by year's end.

The OpenVPX specification is nearing completion and is on schedule for moving into the VITA 65 working group following expected submission of the completed OpenVPX V1.0 Specification on schedule in October, the group announced. The OpenVPX and VITA 65 groups are trying to resolve interoperability conflicts that had made it difficult for lead systems integrators to make VPX components from different vendors work easily together.

The OpenVPX draft defines the VPX Systems Specification, an architecture that manages and constrains module and backplane designs. The VPX Systems Specification includes the definition of pin-outs and sets interoperability points within VPX, while maintaining compliance with the existing VPX specification. The OpenVPX V1.0 Specification is on track to be turned over to VITA 65 for final comment, ballot, and ratification as a standard.

The OpenVPX group technically is working as an independent standards organization, while VITA 65 is working within the VITA Standards Organization (VSO), which is part of the VITA industry trade association in Fountain Hills, Ariz.

Last April the VME embedded computer industry had threatened to fracture over a dispute on how to proceed with VPX interoperability standards. One side wanted to work outside of VITA through the OpenVPX group -- formed last January -- and the other side wanted to work within VITA -- traditionally the standards organization for the VME embedded computer industry.

The two sides eventually agreed dissolve the OpenVPX group in October and turn over the group's work to VITA 65, which will bring the work accomplished by the two organizations to the overall VITA membership for adoption as a series of industry standards.

For more information contact the OpenVPX Industry Working Group online at www.openvpx.org.