Modular remote I/O system

This fast, real time-based module enables Smart Grid applications in medium voltage networks. We developed new modules for an existing I/O system in collaboration with our customer. The data acquisition can be synchronized with higher-level masters via Ethernet (IEEE1588) or a Standard Pulse per Second (PPS). The hardware is divided into the following functional blocks:

1. Data acquisition system for medium voltage electricity and voltage converters: The data pre-processing is executed in different functional blocks of an FPGA. Two microcontrollers implemented as soft-core in the FPGA (MicroBlaze in Xilinx Spartan FPGA) are responsible for synchronization of the samples, complex filtering and calibration of the signals and sending the data.
2. Connection of the front end to the system backplane: The acquired data from the various modules is made available to a central communication module via a backplane.
3. Communication module: An ARM Cortex M3 controller makes the acquired data present on the backplane available to a higher-level system via different interfaces: Ethernet (IEC61850-9-2 protocols), CAN (Controller Area Network), RS485, RS232.

Real time-based electronic module for Smart Grid applications

Electronic module in case

Higher-level modular I/O system with central communication unit