CHATSWORTH, Calif., 19 Dec. 2012. Aitech Defense Systems Inc. in Chatsworth, Calif., is introducing the RIO-NG modular digital processor that can be customized for high-reliability industrial, space, and military embedded systems that require small size and low power consumption.

The Freescale Cortex M4 ARM-based RIO-NG uses distributed processing and parallel task completion via several concurrent direct-memory-access (DMA) channels.

The parallel system-on-chip peripherals of the RIO-NG enables the device's CPU core to load only slightly by moving data, which enhances its data processing power, Aitech officials say.

The CPU core's efficiency enables the clock rate to run relatively slowly, yet provides the performance of a much larger CPU in a higher-power system, company officials say. The architecture leaves the processor free to run algorithms and process incoming data in tight-control-loop embedded computing systems.

The RIO-NG uses a common digital processing platform (CDPP) for handling data acquisition. Users can add Personality Modules (PM) to manage process control functions such as A/D and D/A conversion, RTD sensors, and LVDT drives, and high-current interfaces. These PMs also can manage servo amp, motor, and mechanism drives.

"The modularity and low power of the RIO-NG enables designers to develop very creative, high reliability platforms by distributing compact embedded technologies out closer to the sensors and effectors where they couldn't before," says Aitech Chief Technology Officer Philippe Kassouf.

The RIO-NG's ARM 120 MHz Cortex M4 CPU draws less than 300 milliwatts of power while supporting as many as 128 digital channels and a variety of built-in digital bus and analog interfaces. Standard interfaces include 10/100 Base-T Ethernet with a Power over Ethernet (POE) option, RS422 serial ports, LVDS, CANbus, and USB.

The device, which comes with a 64-channel analog A/D input personality module and sensor excitation circuitry, draws less than 5 Watts. The RIO-NG measures 4.5 by 3.3 by 4.5 inches, and weighs less than 3 pounds with MIL-DTL 38999 connectors.

For more information contact Aitech online at www.rugged.com.