Open source software stack eases security integration, says Infineon

Trusted Platform Modules (TPM) enable secured remote software updates, disc encryption and user authentication in connected embedded devices in industrial and automotive applications. Infineon provides its Optiga TPM 2.0 software stack to facilitate seamless integration in Linux-based systems. The TPM software stack implements the latest feature application programming interface (FAPI) standard. Infineon has developed the open-source software jointly with Intel Corporation and Fraunhofer Institute for Secure Information Technology (SIT).

According to Infineon, using the Optiga TPM 2.0 allows IoT system integrators to “significantly improve” the security of connected products. Software integration with TPM software stack (TSS) -FAPI does not require specific skills in low-level security specifications and reduces source code development by a factor of up to 16, claims Infineon. This can result in reduced time to market as manufacturers can accelerate the process for certifying industrial devices according to the IEC 62443 standard for industrial applications, which requires hardware-based safety from level 4 upwards.

The FAPI specification was released as an international standard by the Trusted Computing Group (TCG). The specification is implemented in the TSS stack 1 with the associated tools and plug-ins. The TSS stack is open source software, which allows seamless integration of the TPM 2.0 in Linux-based systems. This includes the support of typical Linux software for device authentication, data encryption, software updates and remote device management.

The FAPI enables the native support of the PKCS#11 standard as a generic interface for user authentication, single sign-on and email encryption/signing. The FAPI provides a default configuration for cryptographic functionalities, system integration and automated processing of security mechanisms, says Infineon.

The Optiga TPM acts as a vault for sensitive data in connected devices and lowers the risk of data and production losses due to cyber attacks. Infineon’s TPMs are certified by independent certification bodies according to the Common Criteria, an international set of guidelines and specifications developed for evaluating information security products. The TSS stack including the recent FAPI has been verified to achieve compliance and interoperability.

Application developers can use the Optiga TPM SLB 9670, Optiga TPM SLI 9670 and Optiga TPM SLM 9670 Iridium boards and TSS Quickstarter now. There are also board and source code packages for the Infineon Aurix and for the Arduino microcontrollers.

http://www.infineon.com

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Emulator accelerates EV development for international markets

A smart charging station emulator from dSpace allows for the emulation of charging stations with a power of up to 85kW. According to dSpace, the emulator can accelerate the development of electric vehicles (EVs) for international markets.

The Smart Charging Station Emulator allows for the emulation of charging stations with a power of up to 85kW. Manufacturers of EVs and suppliers of battery systems can realistically test new developments with different technical charging standards and protocols, simulate a large number of faults, and develop them quickly and efficiently in line with the requirements of international markets, says dSpace.

It is based on dSpace’s Smart Charging Solution, which is used for testing onboard chargers, charging stations, and communication modules. Other components of the Smart Charging Station Emulator include a Scalexio real-time simulator, a dynamic and expandable model that runs on the simulator. There is also a power supply that enables DC charging and discharging at a maximum of 85kW. This means that vehicle-to-grid (V2G) scenarios can also be simulated, confirms dSpace.

All components are contained in a robust rack, fitted with wheels, to make the system flexible and mobile. It can be used not only in the laboratory but also for tests on prototype vehicles in workshops. There is automatic cable recognition, connecting communication and charge release, insulation monitoring and emergency stop switches, for operator safety.

The system supports international standards for charging communication such as ISO 15118 and DIN SPEC 70121, GB/T 27930, GB/T 18487, and CHAdeMO, and emulates a variety of charging stations and charging scenarios in real time. New charging standards such as CHAdeMO 3.0 or ChaoJi can be implemented.

The Smart Charging Station Emulator supports AC charging up to 63A and DC charging up to a maximum of 200A or 85kW. It is also adaptable to customer-specific charging supply requirements. In addition, the system offers almost unlimited options for manipulating electrical parameters and communication.

dSpace provides simulation and test solutions for developing networked, autonomous, and electrically powered vehicles. Automotive manufacturers and their suppliers use the company’s end-to-end solution range to test the software and hardware components of new vehicles long before a new model is allowed on the road.

As well as a partner for vehicle development, engineers in aerospace and industrial automation fields also rely on dSpace. The company’s portfolio ranges from end-to-end solutions for simulation and validation to engineering and consulting services as well as training and support.

Headquartered in Paderborn, Germany, dSpace has three project centres in Germany and serves customers through regional dSpace companies in the USA, the UK, France, Japan, China, and Croatia.

http://www.dspace.de

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Bridgetek’s evaluation hardware uses EVE technology for HMI prototypes

To assist with the initial development and prototyping of human machine interfaces (HMIs) based on Bridgetek’s object-oriented graphic controller ICs, the ME817EV evaluation board features Bridgetek’s BT817 embedded video engine (EVE) device. It allows engineers to experiment with the latest generation of EVE technology and its capabilities. The BT817 supports higher resolutions and large format displays to develop HMIs with broad functionality, offering greater visual clarity and enhanced video playback capabilities.

Measuring 165 x 100mm, the ME817EV has all the necessary attributes for undertaking development work relating to the graphics, audio and touch elements of the HMI. As well as audio amplification and multi-stage audio filtering features, an LED driver can be used to adjust the display backlighting. The evaluation board also includes a touch controller that supports five simultaneous touch points, with 16Mbytes of on-board flash memory resource for storing unicode fonts and image libraries.

The ME817EV can interface with large scale, high resolution display modules. For 1280 x 800 pixel displays it can connect through a 40-pin LVDS interface. A 50-pin RGB interface can be used for 1024 x 600 pixel displays. Capacitive touchscreens may be connected using a six- or 10-pin FPC connector. The board can be powered via a 5.0V supply using the SPI host connector, or via the USB Type-C port.

Fred Dart, founder and CEO of Bridgetek explains the company’s thinking behind this latest introduction: “It is clear that there is a real need for a more streamlined approach to larger format HMI construction. By providing this evaluation platform, we are making the whole project development process a lot quicker and easier for engineers to complete, with much better end results being derived too”.

Founded in 2016, Bridgetek supplies highly advanced ICs and board level products to meet the demands of a constantly evolving global technology landscape. The company’s Embedded Video Engine (EVE) graphic controller ICs each integrate display, audio and touch functionality onto a single chip. The EVE graphic controller ICs are complemented by its highly-differentiated, speed-optimised microcontrollers with augmented connectivity features.

http://www.brtchip.com

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8W DC/DC converter is compact for e-mobility

There are three input options for Recom’s REC8E range of low cost, 8W DC/DC converters. The converters are available with inputs of 9.0 to 18V (12V systems), 18 to 36V (24V systems) and 20 to 60V (48V systems). This last input range matches the LV 148 requirements for 48V Li-ion voltages in vehicles. The converters are supplied in a 1.0 x 1.0-inch (25 x 25mm) package. The industry-standard low profile, non-metallic package is suitable for use in high density PCBs.      

The REC8E range of low cost, high efficiency, 8W DC/DC converters are designed for battery-powered applications, such as 48V Li-ion inputs in e-mobility vehicles, as well as in general industry and test and measurement applications.

They are protected from damaging deep discharge, with under-voltage lockout, which automatically switches off the converter if the battery voltage falls below safe levels.

Fully protected output voltages are available of 5.0, 9.0, 12, 15, 24, +/-12 and +/-15V.  All outputs are tightly regulated and can drive high capacitive loads over a wide temperature range of -40 to +75 degrees C without derating. An on/off control pin is fitted as standard to reduce the supply current to less than 0.7mA in shutdown mode.

EMI is very low, with only simple, low-cost external components required for compliance with EN 55032 class A or B emission limits, recommends Recom. Isolation rating is 1.6kV/1 minute, and the devices are certified to UL/IEC/EN 62368-1.

The REC8E series joins Recom’s Econoline series. Samples and OEM pricing are available from all authorised distributors or directly from Recom.

Recom Power manufactures a full range of standard and customised DC/DC and AC/DC converters in every power class from sub-1W to tens of kW, as well as a range of switching regulators and LED drivers in a wide selection of formats.

The company headquarters are located in Gmunden, Austria, and include a logistics research and development centre and laboratory wing. The company is supported by a worldwide distribution network.

http://www.recom-power.com

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