Mini 100 Mbit Ethernet integrates microcontroller

Description: It is a miniature 10/100-MbBit Ethernet module that includes an integrated microcontroller. The price is less than $60. With its minimal dimensions of 1.38 in. x 2.16 in. (34.5 mm x 54 mm), the communications module can be used for compact designs such as surveillance systems or vibration analysis equipment. The module includes a 3.3-V regulator and 5-V-tolerant I/Os. The embedded microcontroller is a Silicon Laboratories (Silabs) Type C8051F021/23 device, which is an 8051-derived processor. The C8051F021 or /23 is responsible for the rich feature set of this product, delivering 20 MIPS peak performance with supplied clock options. An on-board JTAG connector eases debugging and downloading of code. The processor works with 64 kbytes of application-programmable flash and 4 kbytes of SRAM. The mini-module also offers two UARTs, allowing adaptation to various gateway applications. RS-232 or RS-485 gateway applications typically require very few external components. The module includes four channels of 10-bit/12-bit A/D conversion with programmable gain amplifiers (PGAs) and up to seven channels of 8-bit A/D conversion, also with PGAs. On the output side, there are two 12-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC) channels. An evaluation kit, priced under $200, contains the tools necessary for development, including one IP Avenger module and a JTAG-serial adapter. An integrated development environment (IDE) with a debugger is provided on a supplied CD-ROM, which also includes binaries and a sample application. For further information, contact Pontus Oldberg at Invector Embedded Technologies, Ostra Ingelstad 1603, 273 94 Tomelilla, Sweden. Phone: +46 414 51290.

The miniature 10/100-MbBit Ethernet module is designed for applications requiring compact and efficient communication capabilities. Its integration of a Silabs C8051F021/23 microcontroller enhances its functionality, making it suitable for various embedded systems. The microcontroller's architecture, based on the 8051 core, provides a familiar programming environment while delivering high performance with a peak capability of 20 MIPS. This performance is critical for real-time applications where response time is essential.

The module's compact dimensions facilitate its use in space-constrained designs, such as surveillance systems, where size and power consumption are critical factors. The inclusion of a 3.3-V regulator ensures compatibility with low-voltage components, while the 5-V-tolerant I/Os provide flexibility in interfacing with various peripherals.

The dual UART interfaces enable seamless communication with other devices, making it suitable for gateway applications in both RS-232 and RS-485 configurations. The ability to operate with minimal external components simplifies the design process and reduces overall system costs.

The analog input capabilities of the module, featuring multiple A/D conversion channels with programmable gain amplifiers, allow for high-resolution data acquisition, which is essential in applications like vibration analysis where accurate measurements are necessary. The dual 12-bit DAC channels provide the ability to output precise analog signals, further enhancing the module's versatility in control applications.

The evaluation kit provided facilitates rapid development and prototyping, allowing engineers to leverage the module's features effectively. The inclusion of an IDE and debugging tools on the supplied CD-ROM supports efficient code development and testing, streamlining the development process for embedded applications. Overall, this Ethernet module represents a robust solution for integrating networking capabilities into compact electronic designs.It`s a miniature 10/100-MbBit Ethernet module that includes an integrated microcontroller. Price is less than $60 a pop. With its minimal dimensions of 1. 38-in. x 2. 16-in. (34. 5-mm x 54-mm) the communications module can be used for compact designs such as surveillance systems, or vibration analysis equipment. The module includes a 3. 3-V regulator and 5-V-tolerant I/Os. The embedded microcontroller is a Silabs (Silicon Laboratories) Type C8051F021/23 device, which, as the part number indicates, is an 8051-derived processor. This block diagram (click to magnify) illustrates some of the on-silicon features of these processors.

The C8051F021 or /23 is really what`s responsible for the rich feature set of this product. These controllers are capable of delivering 20-MIPS peak performance with supplied clock options. An-board JTAG connector eases debug and downloading of code. The IP Avenger`s processor works with 64-kbytes of application-programmable flash, and 4-kbytes of SRAM. Thanks to C8051F021/23s, the mini-module also offers two UARTs. These serial channels let the module adapt to numerous gateway applications. RS-232 or RS-485 gateway applications typically require very few external components. The module also includes no less than four channels of 10-bit/12-bit A/D conversion. These analog-inputs offer PGAs (programmable gain amplifiers). You also get up to seven channels of 8-bit A/D conversion, also with PGAs. On the output side there are two 12-bit voltage-DAC (digital-to-analog converter) channels. A less-than-$200 evaluation kit contains the tools for starting development. The kit contains one IP Avenger module and a JTAG-serial adapter. An IDE (integrated development environment), with debugger, comes on a supplied CD-ROM. The CD also includes a copy of binaries, as well as a sample application. For more information contact Pontus Oldberg at Invector Embedded Technologies, Ostra Ingelstad 1603, 273 94 Tomelilla, Sweden.

Phone: +46 414 51290. E-mail: