Can you build a communication and location extension for our product
Our customer has an existing device built around an embedded computer. They ask us to design and build a communication and localization subsystem so that they can extend the applicability of their product.
Design requirements:
Since the application needs to interface to an embedded computer and multiple communication channels are required to be operated in parallel, we decide to build an USB-hub on-board our design. This way, a single high-speed USB link requiring only a single USB connection to the computer can cater for all communication channels.
The hub has 4 downstream client ports that connect to:
- an Sierra Wireless AirPrime MC module for 3G communication
- an SRT Marine Krypton AIS receiver
- an Iridium 9602 satellite modem
- an NXP ARM Cortex M3 processor running an AT-based control protocol
The ARM processor then interfaces to various on-board sensors, the GNSS receiver module, all antenna switches and the SIM card selection.
Power is provided through DC-DC convertors that regulate the PoE input net to the required on-board voltage rails.
