| .NET Micro Framework targets tiny Ethernet module |
Apr. 03, 2007
 Digi International launched a family of .NET Micro Framework development kits at the Embedded Systems Conference this week. The first kit in the series supports Digi's "Connect ME" module, a tiny embedded computer squished into a package not much larger than an ordinary RJ45 Ethernet connector.
(Click for larger view of Digi's intelligent "Connect ME" Ethernet connector)
Digi's new development kit for the Connect ME module, known as the "Connect ME JumpStart Kit for Microsoft .NET Micro Framework," is claimed to result in the first embedded Ethernet networking platform for Microsoft's new low-end embedded software platform.
Microsoft's .NET Micro Framework
Microsoft officially released the software development kit (SDK) for the .NET Micro Framework (.NET MF) in February at the Embedded World conference in Nuremburg, Germany, following a beta release of the SDK last September. Microsoft is positioning .NET MF as a low-end extension to its embedded software product line, noting that it brings the efficiency and reliability of a managed code environment to very small devices with tight resource, power, and cost constraints. (For lots more details regarding the .NET MF, refer to the "Related stories" at the bottom of this article.)
Digi announced its intention early on, in May 2006, to support .NET MF in the future for both its wired and wireless communications modules.
According to Colin Miller, Product Unit Manager of the .NET Micro Framework at Microsoft, "Digi was one of [Microsoft's] earliest partners, and we have been working closely together to bring the advantages of .NET to small embedded devices." The Digi kit is "a great starting point for opening embedded programming to the large community of software developers familiar with C# and Visual Studio," Miller continued. "Our collaboration with Digi has been very strong and we anticipate working with them on more and more products as we continue to change the way embedded development is done for small devices."
Digi's .NET MF JumpStart Kit
Digi's first product to support the .NET MF is the "Digi Connect ME JumpStart Kit for Microsoft .NET Micro Framework." The Kit comprises a Digi Connect ME Ethernet-based "communications module," a development/carrier board, documentation, and support for "rapid evaluation and development" of .NET MF-based applications, the company said.
Connect ME "communications module" plugged into development board
The tiny (1.45 x 0.75 x 0.85 inches) Connect ME communications module (PDF download) integrates a custom 32-bit ARM processor along with 8 MB of SDRAM and 2-4 MB of flash memory, plus a high-speed TTL serial interface and an autosensing 10/100Base-T network controller and MAC, and its design complies with FCC Rules for a Class B digital device per Part 15 SubpartB, Digi says 
Connect ME module internal block diagram
According to a Digi spokesperson, .NET MF managed code running directly within the Connect ME module implements a "robust" TCP/IP [protocol] stack.
The development/carrier board provides a socket for the Connect ME communications module, as well as various I/O connections (including two TTL-level serial ports and 10 GPIO lines), switches, connectors, test points, and LED indicators. The board is operated from an external 9-30 VDC power source.
Wireless version of Connect ME
(Click to enlarge) |
Availability
Introductory pricing for Digi Connect ME JumpStart Kit for Microsoft .NET Micro Framework is $299. A free 180-day evaluation of Microsoft Visual Studio 2005 for the board is also available for download. A limited number of the kits are available now, with full production expected by the end of April, the company said. Further details on the kit are here. Pricing for the Connect ME communications module, by itself, was not disclosed.
Digi also offers a wireless version of the Connect ME, the Connect Wi-ME (shown here), which may also be compatible with its new .NET MF support.
Related stories:
(Click here for further information)
|
|
|
7 Advantages of D2D Backup
For decades, tape has been the backup medium of choice. But, now, disk-to-disk (D2D) backup is gaining in favor. Learn why you should make the move in this whitepaper.
4 Legal Reasons to Control Internet Access
The Internet is obviously a valuable resource for many organizations. However, many are exposed to legal liability concerns because they fail to control Internet access. Learn if you're safe in this white paper.
Rapidly Resolve J2EE Application Problems
Whether you are in the process of building J2EE applications or have J2EE applications already running in production, you must ensure that they deliver the expected ROI. Learn how in this white paper.
Load Testing 2.0 for Web 2.0
There are many unknowns in stress testing Web 2.0 applications. Find out how to test the performance of Web 2.0 in this white paper.
Build Better Games Online
For the game infrastructure providers, life is complex. Making money from games has become more complicated. Why? Find out in this white paper.
Building a Virtual Infrastructure from Servers to Storage
This white paper discusses the virtual storage solutions that reduce cost, increase storage utilization, and address the challenges of backing up and restoring Server environments.
Gaining Faster Wireless Connections with WiMAX
Welcome to what is quickly becoming the hyperconnected world where anything that would benefit from being connected to the network will be connected. Learn more in this white paper.
Is Your Desktop a Security Threat?
The new wave of sophisticated crimeware not only targets specific companies, but also targets desktops and laptops as backdoor entryways into those business’ operations and resources. Learn how to stay safe in this white paper.
Increasing SAN Reliability by 100 Percent
Storage area networks (SAN) are a strong part of storage plans. Learn how to increase your reliability and uptime by 100 percent in this case study.
|
|
|
|
|
news feed