VX3718

Overview

The CAEN Mod. VX3718 is the new VME to USB 2.0/Optical Link Bridge that fully replaces the VX1718 (VME-USB) and V2718 (VME- CONET) models. The Bridge Implements a VME master controlled by a PC via USB 2.0 and Optical Link (CAEN CONET protocol) including all the functions of its two predecessors in a unique device. The mechanics is 1-unit wide VME 6U.

The optical link connection between the VX3718 and the host PC requires the A4818 USB3-to-CONET Bridge and an optical fiber cable (AI2700 – Optical Fiber Series). The VX3718 is also compatible with CAEN A3818 PCI Express CONET Controller. Multi-crate sessions can be easily performed thanks to the CONET Daisy chain capability: up to eight VX3718 units controlled by a single A3818/A4818 building a CONET Optical Network. The USB data transfer over the USB 2.0 compliant interface takes place through the High-Speed Bulk Transaction protocol.

The VX3718 can perform all the cycles foreseen by the VME46 standard except those intended for 3U boards. The Bridge can operate as VME System Controller (normally when plugged in the slot 1) acting as a Bus Arbiter in Multi-Master systems. The activity on the VME bus can be monitored in detail both locally (through an 88-LED DataWay Display) and remotely.

The front panel of the VX3718 hosts 6 TTL/NIM programmable I/Os on LEMO connectors: four outputs (default assignment is: DSn, AS, DTK, BERR) and two inputs. The I/Os can be programmed via USB and Optical Link to implement functions like Timer, Counter, Pulse generator, I/O register, and others.

The supported data transfer rate is up to 30 MB/s by USB 2.0 and up to 80 MB/s by CONET2. Thanks to the 128KB memory buffer, the activity on the VME bus is not slowed down by the transfer rate on the USB port, or on the CONET one, especially when several VX3718 units share the same network.

The VX3718 can be integrated into the most common Windows® and Linux® computers by CAEN dedicated drivers. Middleware libraries and useful example demos are also provided. Firmware can be upgraded via USB/Optical link.