uCBF54x Start Kit - Analog Devices And Arcturus Supply IP Media Development Kit And Ready-to-use Module Based On Blackfin Processor

Based on ADI's Blackfin processor with voice, media, and management software and support from Arcturus Networks, the uCBF54x solution is available in two forms: either as part of a development kit complete with implementation examples, or as a system-on-a-module suited for dropping directly into end-products. The uCBF54x Start Kit and System Module are available from Digi-Key, an Analog Devices authorised distributor. A product training module detailing the Arcturus kit and module is also available from Digi-Key.

 The uCBF54x Start Kit and System Module are based on a small form-factor embedded processor module that uses the high-performance 533 MHz Blackfin BF548 processor to support up to six channels of audio. This system-level solution integrates all subsystem components, including memory, codecs (Analog Devices' SSM2603 low-power audio codec), transceivers, and network controller, to develop most applications with only limited external circuitry. Software includes an open source uClinuxu BSP (board support package) and Arcturus Voice and Management Middleware, including a complete SIP and RTP stack. A host board is provided as part of the Start Kit and can be used as a reference for hardware and software development.

The combination of vendor-proven hardware, open source software, and middleware offers engineers the best of both worlds: flexibility to customize, integrate, and control the software, while having Arcturus available to provide system integration. Complete details about the uCBF54x are available here.

Collaborating with ADI to create the uCBF54x has enabled us to deliver a highly cost-effective solution for multichannel embedded voice applications, said David Steele, product manager at Arcturus. The performance we're able to achieve, courtesy of Blackfin, makes this a very capable platform with application in all parts of an embedded media system, including mini-PBX servers and video devices. It's this soup-to-nuts capability we believe will help drive the next level of convergence for commercial and industrial applications.

To succeed in replacing ageing analogue systems and provide better communication, digital voice products have to be able to support multiple channels of audio, and when the application requires, be extensible to video, said Stephen Daly, channel marketing director, General Purpose DSP Division, Analog Devices. Embedded media applications like these are a stronghold for Blackfin. Digital signal processing and microcontroller functions are handled on a single processor, and Blackfin allows for flexible partitioning among control, network, multimedia, and signal processing tasks.