Acromag VPX7600: Building a Modular Platform for Demanding Embedded Applications
Defence and high-tech systems often need to combine sensor interfaces, data processing and communication within a compact enclosure. The challenge is making those functions work together while meeting requirements for bandwidth, cooling and future expansion.
The Acromag VPX7600 provides the processing element for such a platform. This SOSA-aligned 3U OpenVPX single-board computer combines Intel Xeon W processing with 100GbE connectivity and XMC expansion, allowing it to operate alongside other modules in a configured VPX system.
32GB Soldered DDR4 ECC Memory
10GbE Control Plane & 2.5GbE TSN Support
3U OpenVPX I/O Intensive Profile
What is VPX, and when would you choose it?
VPX is a standard for modular embedded computing. Processor, I/O and other boards plug into a backplane inside a chassis, which provides power and routes connections between modules. OpenVPX adds defined profiles for modules, slots and backplanes to guide system integration.
This architecture is worth considering when a project requires several specialised functions within one rugged computing platform. Examples include defence electronics, aerospace instrumentation and scientific acquisition systems.
VPX allows a system to be assembled from commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components selected specifically for the application. Processing and I/O functions can be distributed across separate boards, creating opportunities to adapt or upgrade individual parts of the platform over time.
How could the VPX7600 be used in an application?
Consider an illustrative sensor acquisition and analysis platform. It needs to receive measurements from several sources, process the incoming information and pass results to an operator or another system.
A possible architecture would divide the workload across key system elements as follows:
| System Element | Role in the Application |
|---|---|
| Sensor interfaces and I/O modules | Acquire signals and provide the required electrical interfaces. |
| Optional FPGA processing module | Perform application-specific preprocessing before passing data onwards. |
| VPX7600 processor board | Run application software, coordinate acquisition and analyse the resulting data. |
| Compatible backplane and network connections | Carry data and control traffic between system elements. |
| Storage and display interfaces | Support local recording and presentation of results. |
The exact configuration depends on the signals, processing workload and timing requirements. This is an example architecture, not a validated VPX7600 customer installation.
What does the VPX7600 contribute?
Processing & High-Speed Connectivity
The VPX7600 combines an eight-core Intel Xeon W processor with 32GB DDR4 ECC memory for application processing.
Its 100GbE data plane provides a high-bandwidth connection within a compatible system, while a separate 10GbE control plane supports control communication. An additional 2.5GbE interface supports Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN).
Flexible Expansion Routes
An onboard XMC site enables expansion with a compatible mezzanine module. Additional I/O can also be implemented through separate VPX carrier cards populated with suitable modules.
Acromag’s wider range includes analogue, digital, serial, networking and FPGA-based I/O options. Note that these are different expansion routes: the VPX7600’s XMC site does not directly accept every module in Acromag’s portfolio.
Matching the board to your system
The VPX7600 aligns with the SOSA I/O intensive profile. This provides a defined architectural reference when selecting it for an appropriate platform; it does not automatically guarantee compatibility with every VPX chassis or module.
Cooling is another key selection factor. Acromag offers an air-cooled version with front I/O and a conduction-cooled version. The correct choice depends on the enclosure and how heat will be removed from the system.
| Key Specification | VPX7600 Detail |
|---|---|
| Format | 3U OpenVPX (SOSA Aligned) |
| CPU | Intel Xeon W, 8 cores / 16 threads |
| Memory | 32GB DDR4 ECC |
| Ethernet | 100GbE data plane; 10GbE control plane |
| Additional Ethernet | 2.5GbE with TSN support |
| Expansion | Onboard XMC site |
| Storage | 64GB NVMe standard; options up to 1TB |
| Software support | Board support packages for Windows, Linux and VxWorks |
| Cooling | Air-cooled or conduction-cooled options |
Start with your application requirements
The right configuration starts with your inputs, data rates, processing tasks and operating environment. These determine the combination of processor board, I/O modules, backplane, cooling and software required for your platform.
Discuss your application with Arcobel
Working on a VPX platform? Share your requirements and project timeline with Arcobel. Our team can help assess the options and discuss compatibility, configuration and current lead times.
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