LynuxWorks says its embedded OSes were used by industrial computing specialist B&B Electronics in a new line of wireless Ethernet serial servers. B&B's wireless Vlinx devices can run BlueCat Linux or LynxOS, and target harsh-environment applications such as factory floors where fragile wiring is not practical.

(Click for larger view of B&B's wireless Vlinux adapters)

ESR901W485 (Click to enlarge)

B&B says it selected LynuxWorks OSes because of the migration path they provide from a standards-compliant embedded Linux environment — BlueCat Linux — to LynxOS, a hard, real-time RTOS with a Linux Application Binary Interface. Additionally, LynuxWorks's development tools support both embedded OSes, the companies said.

B&B's Vlinx line of wireless serial servers includes five models ranging from single- to four-port devices. The Vlinx devices include an RJ-45 port “for configuration,” B&B says, and support 802.11b/g networking. They also support common serial interfaces, such as RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485.

The wireless Vlinx devices can operate at -10 degrees to 80 degrees C, and accept 12 to 48VDC, or 24VAC. They measure 6.9 x 5.7 x 2.3 in (17.4 x 14.5 x 5.8 cm), and are optionally available with a panel mounting kit.

ESR902W (Click to enlarge)

Downloadable firmware for the wireless Vlinx devices includes a Digi International copyright statement, suggesting they may run uClinux on NetSilicon's ARM-based processors.

LynuxWorks CEO Inder Singh said, “B&B is now able to leverage the benefits of the open source Linux platform, and evolve their product line while preserving their initial software investment.”

Availability

The wireless Vlinx devices are available now, priced as follows:

• ESR901WB — RS-232/422/485 on DB9, 802.11b — $300
• ESR901W232 — RS-232 port on DB9, 802.11b/g — $400
• ESR901W485 — RS-422/485 terminal block, 802.11b/g — $400
• ESR902W — RS-232 on DB9, RS-422/485 on second DB9, 802.11b/g — $500
• ESR904W — Two RS-232 DB9s, two RS-422/485 DB9s, 802.11b/g — $700

 
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