The CEI-420A-44R is a PC/104 ARINC 429 interface card for embedded avionics applications. This intelligent databus controller delivers comprehensive protocol support including ARINC 429, ARINC 575, and optional ARINC 573/717 functionality. Built around an Intel 80960 CPU, the card provides up to 8 receive and 8 transmit ARINC 429 channels with selectable data rates, parity, and automatic slew rate adjustment. On-board message scheduling, label/SDI filtering, time-tagging, and multiple buffering modes—Buffered, Merged, and Dedicated—enable flexible data acquisition and transmission. The card includes up to 16 discrete inputs (±100 V tolerance) and 8 switched output discretes rated to 0.5 A, supporting TTL to avionics-level voltages. Latching, keyed connectors ensure secure signal integration. Optional ruggedized configurations with extended operating temperatures are available, along with PC/104-Plus pass-through connectors for stacked deployments. Windows, Linux, and VxWorks drivers ship with on-board firmware and a high-level API. BusTools/ARINC Windows GUI enables real-time analysis, simulation, and logging; LabVIEW support is optional.

Technical Specifications

• Processor: Intel 80960 CPU
• ARINC 429 Channels: Up to 8 Rx and 8 Tx
• Discrete Inputs: Up to 16, TTL to avionics-level voltage compatible
• Discrete Input Voltage Range: ±100 V
• Discrete Outputs: Up to 8 low-side switched, 0.5 A maximum per channel
• Data Rates: Selectable
• Parity: Selectable
• Slew Rate: Automatic adjustment
• Buffering: Buffered Mode (per-channel circular), Merged Mode (time-sequenced), Dedicated Mode (latest-data snapshot)
• Data Filtering: Label and/or SDI filtering per receive channel
• Time-tagging: Supported
• Message Scheduling: On-board
• Error Detection: Included

– Key Features

• Large on-board data buffers with three buffering architectures
• Supports ARINC 429, 575, and optional 573/717 protocols
• Discrete I/O handles avionics-level signaling
• Optional ruggedization with extended temperature operation
• Latching, keyed connectors for robust field installation

– Typical Applications

• Avionics databus integration in embedded flight systems
• Aircraft health monitoring and parameter acquisition
• Multi-protocol avionics testbeds
• Real-time discrete I/O control and monitoring

– Compatibility & Integration

• Host Interface: PC/104 bus
• Operating Systems: Windows, Linux, VxWorks
• API: High-level application programming interface
• Software Tools: BusTools/ARINC (Windows analysis/simulation/logging); LabVIEW support (optional)
• Firmware: On-board, integrated for flexible protocol generation and reception
• Software Distribution: Device drivers, firmware, and sample programs included