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Robust, high-speed MIL-STD-1553B communications using NI VeriStand and Alta interface hardware

The Bloomy Custom Device for Alta 1553 interface hardware is the only high-speed, robust MIL-STD-1553B solution available for NI VeriStand on the market today. Since its deployment over six years ago, multinational airframers have relied upon this custom device in their systems integration labs (SILs) for high-fidelity validation testing of line replaceable units (LRUs), avionics and systems.

2021 Highlights

• Renovations and move-in to expansive new 30,000 ft2 headquarters
• Final delivery of 10 HIL Simulation Systems for unmanned undersea vehicle program
• Ramped production test throughput of robotics systems for modernizing the global supply chain
• Tested and then scaled-up test capacity for new hypersonic missile defense technology
• Resisted climate change through the delivery of multiple battery electronic test systems and heavy investment in new battery test and simulation technology
• Launched the Hardware-In-the-Loop (HIL) Technology Evolution Center with NI
• Navigated supply chain issues, promoted health and safety in order to avoid COVID-19 issues

A Test Engineer's Perspective

During a recent social media post, a reader inquired: "I am interested in your thoughts on MOSFETs (or IGBTs) vs. Contactors in a BMS."

MIL-STD-1553B is a low-speed avionics data protocol frequently used in aircraft for communication between different line-replaceable units (LRUs). Hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulators and systems integration labs (SILs) frequently simulate MIL-STD-1553B networks using devices such as Bloomy's 1553B C Series module. This article presents a high-level overview of MIL-STD-1553B communications and implementation.

To celebrate the release of the newest EFT Module for TestStand version, which adds native support for LabVIEW and TestStand 2019, we wanted to share with you some very useful features that you might not be aware of.

LabVIEW Real-Time driver for Bloomy’s MIL-STD-1553B Avionics Bus Communications C-Series Module dramatically simplifies development and improves performance.

Programming Bloomy’s 1553B C-Series Module may now be performed using LabVIEW Real-Time, without the need for complex FPGA software development. While the FPGA remains an available resource, the new driver largely eliminates its use for most common automated test applications. The new Real-Time driver is much more intuitive, functional, as well as higher performing. New capabilities include:

Highlights

• Established western US coverage
• Released four new Simulation System test platforms for aerospace, transportation and defense
• Released five new simulation modules and accessories for NI SLSC
• Delivered our largest & most complex Simulation System to a premiere airframer
• Supported electrification of vehicles with BMS testing equipment

The Battery Simulator 1200 is a commercial, off-the-shelf instrument designed for safe and efficient battery cell simulation under the control of a host PC or automated testing system. Due to the increasing pace of electrification across many industries, our customers are using this instrument in more widely varying test configurations.

The Battery Simulator 1200 has been a robust and reliable product simulating battery cells for hybrid and electric vehicle OEMs and other electrification customers around the world!

Highlights

• Record revenue
• 12 Simulation system deliveries
• Editor’s Choice award for 1553 C Series module
• Continued success of battery simulators for EV BMS testing
• New leadership and function-based organizational structure
• New higher-volume production capacity with higher quality
• New SLSC modules and accessories
• 2019 outlook

Happy New Year.