Security, scalability top list of embedded computing concerns

AUSTIN, Texas. VMEbus International Trade Association (VITA) officials opened its annual Embedded Tech Trends conference in Austin, Texas, with a discussion of market trends. “Security is a growing issue across embedded computing,” says Brian Arbuckle, senior market analyst at IHS Markit in London, “securely connecting the embedded world.”

"For the first time, a number of defense contractors from the U.S. are coming to us and saying that security is their number one proirity," ahead of backward compatibility, says Nigel Forrester of Concurrent Technologies in Colcester, England.

Scalability is another major trend in embedded computing, adds Gerald Persaud, vice president of business development at Reflex Photonics in Kirkland, Quebec. Yet, he says, “scalability is only a concern if you want to change,” such as upgrading a system with the latest technologies and added functionality. In most cases, engineers must “change wiring in a system if you decide to upgrade it.”

Scalability design considerations include: change complexity, life cost profile (pay now or pay later), infrastructure sizing (bandwidth, power), open standards (HOST, SOSA, FACE), modular vs. integrated architecture, and fast or fast-changing technology (e.g., Can they be deployed before they become obsolete?)

Fast, disruptive technologies include:

• Deep neural networks (DNN)
• Augmented/virtual reality, with manned and unmanned advantages
• Graphics processors
• Solid-state memory (knowledge in smaller chips)
• High-resolution (hi-res) sensors
• Hi-res displays

“Scalability has to be very effective,” Persaud continues. “Systems must scale faster than ever to stay viable, and optical interconnects are the most scalable technology for fast upgrades.”

Optical transceivers provide unencumbered bandwidth for all technologies, Persaud adds. “Optical interconnects are the bridge to fast (technologies),” he says, “and multi-mode transceivers are the best fit for harsh environments.”

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