Systems Design

Taking the initial architecture information provided by the specification system design is the process of refining this into a detailed system implementation.

During system design the functional requirements of the product are evaluated to identify the optimum implementation of each element of the design.

These may be implemented in one or more of:

• Discrete Circuits (Analogue or Digital).
• FPGA’s or CPLD’s.
• Custom circuits (ASIC).
• Embedded simple microprocessors.
• DSP’s.
• Firmware.
• Application software.

Depending on the particular sensitivities of a project, specific design parameters will be evaluated at this point. Some typical examples are unit cost, power consumption, physical size, tolerance, assembly techniques and mechanical design issues. In many case these parameters will be reviewed with you and any other design partners (e.g. industrial designers) to ensure that all key design requirements have been achieved.

FPGA/ASIC

During system design our engineering team are always looking for the optimum solution to meet functionality, cost, space and power constraints. In many cases the introduction of some form of programmable logic is the key to this process.

High End Systems

For complex systems high gate and I/O pin count devices can be an appropriate fit. In most cases a single device meets all the system logic requirements and this can also incorporate a processor architecture embedded in the FPGA along with Ethernet, PCI-e and other system interfaces. These complex devices can provide gate counts in excess of 5 Million along with 500 + useable I/O.

The provision of serial I/O hardwired on these devices can provide data rates in excess of 3Gb/s for demanding data intensive applications.

Migration

High volume products can take advantage of an FPGA for prototypes and initial production before migrating to a hardwired or ASIC solution once volumes and system design stability have been achieved.

For modest logic requirement a CPLD can provide a non-volatile ‘immediate on’ solution that can be very effective in small systems.

Technologies

We can support designs across the main FPGA / EPLD vendors including Xilinx, Altera, Lattice and Actel. The diversity of these architectures allows us to select the most appropriate technology for your systems design.

Design entry is performed using VHDL along with a suite of support tools for simulation, synthesis and layout.

Mechanical / Industrial Design

For products that are integrated into larger systems, a basic protection mechanical system is often all that is required. Careful designs can ensure a cost effective and functional end product.

Effective Industrial Design can enhance the market appeal of a product, giving it a polished look and feel but also involves many aspects of the overall design philosophy including;

• Style, ergonomics.
• Usability – controls, displays and software interfaces.
• Complex functional structures – e.g. lenses, probes, moving parts.
• Materials.
• Product assembly.
• Internal mechanical systems engineering.

The creative use of materials and structures can provide significant cost benefits for volume products. Low volume products can also benefit from careful industrial design. By applying appropriate fabrication techniques, a stylish and cost effective solution can be achieved.

Extensive use is made of 3-D modelling software to provide the ability to integrate physical models of all components, mechanical and electronic (PCB’s), to ensure seamless physical integration of the product.