FlexStack

FlexStack

The FlexStack is a modular blackfin based rapid prototyping system Boston Engineering came up with (yes, I worked on FlexStack). Its really an impressive system and I have high hopes for it. Each board is 2.5" sq with two bus headers that mechanically and electrically connect it to the next module.

Core Module

• 500MHz BF537
• 16,32, or 64MB SDRAM
• 4MB Parallel Flash
• MicroSD socket
• RS232
• JTAG
• Smart Power to control the battery charger board
• 4-bit parallel QVGA Monochrome LCD header
• I2C Header

This is a competent SBC all by itself but is really intended to work with the other modules.

Communications

This board has Ethernet, RS232, RS485, and a serial to USB converter. This is the only module needed to run a powerful webserver or other embedded ethernet device.

DAQ

Originally called the MIO (multipurpose IO) board, most of my code for it still retains the term MIO but also has DAQ sprinkled threw it. The DAQ board has 8 single ended or 4 differential analog inputs, 2 analog outputs, programmable gains on the analog inputs and outputs, and 16 digital IO.

Breakout Board

The BoB is a must have for any development system. It breaks out the bus signals to 0.1" headers and has 0.1" breadboard area for developing custom circuits.

Process Control Board

This contains 3 high current relay for controlling large loads such is industrial pumps. The external connection is a removable terminal block with common, normally open, and normally closed connection options for each relay. It is capable of handling up to 10amps on each relay.

Projects

• FlexStackNetCam - RoboBusiness 2007 Demo using the FlexStack as a network camera interface
• FlexStackMioDemo - NI Week 2007 Demo using FlexStack to serve an AJAX website to monitor and control analog and digital IO

-- ChristopherPepe - 02 Jun 2007