Arduino shield simplifies use of fibre-optic datalink
30 August 2024
Opto-Electronics
UK-based company OMC has launched an H19 fibre-optic shield, compatible with Arduino Uno, to demonstrate how an optical fibre datalink can easily be incorporated into a microprocessor-based design. The shields combine transmitter, receiver, and all necessary drivers plus digital output, which is ideal for interfacing with MPUs. An all-in-one design simplifies the receiver circuit, and avoids having to design and include the traditional pin diode amplifier and Schmitt trigger circuits needed to give a digital output.
Comments William Heath, OMC’s commercial director: “Certain applications require total confidence in the integrity of the data transmission. Fibre-optic datalinks are reliable, totally secure, noise-free, interference-proof and electrically-isolated. These shields have been designed to simplify the process of integrating fibre-optic datalinks into a digital system.”
The shield is designed for use with the Arduino Uno, and is stackable. It has jumpers for both transmitter and receiver devices. An example program is provided, which shows a datalink using the UART ports to transmit data over the optical fibre link. Data can be monitored either by using the serial monitor of the Arduino software, or the code is written to interface with a standard 16x2 LCD shield, which can be stacked on top of the fibre shield.
The shield can be used with any of the available microprocessor baud rates from 300 to 115 200, while the actual fibre-optic emitter and receiver pair can operate up to 5 Mbd.
The shield can be used with PMMA cables up to 25 metres long in the standard configuration, and for extended range, OMC can offer a high-power emitter option. The transmitter and receivers can also be ordered separately to build into customers’ designs. To connect with different fibre types, OMC also offers the transmitter and receiver parts in this shield mounted in alternative housings.
For more information visit www.omc-uk.com
Further reading:
Advanced HMI delivers enhanced durability
Fox Controls Rand
Opto-Electronics
This compact touchscreen HMI from IDEC provides essential visualisation and high-performance multitouch control, even in the most space-limited applications.
Read more...
Powerful UVC disinfection
Opto-Electronics
The S3535-H emitter generates an output power of more than 150 mW per chip at 265 nm, providing the strongest germicidal effect currently available on the market.
Read more...
Front panels for electronics
Seven Labs Technology
Opto-Electronics
In the world of electronics, the significance of a well-designed front panel cannot be overstated as it serves not only as the first point of interaction between users and devices, but also plays a crucial role in the functionality and aesthetics of electronic products.
Read more...
Cree: Illuminating the future of LED technology
Altron Arrow
Editor's Choice Opto-Electronics
As a pioneer in this field, Cree LED has been instrumental in shaping the LED landscape, driving innovation and performance in this sector.
Read more...
New optical sensors for object detection
Opto-Electronics
A special feature of the Würth Elektronik sensors is that they filter out visible light up to 800 nm, rather than just up to 700 nm, like many other sensors of this type.
Read more...
HTML5 WebPanel with Linux, Android, or AutomationBrowser
Vepac Electronics
Opto-Electronics
Having a front protection rating of IP65, and additional features such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, RS232 integrated, these panels are an excellent solution for most industrial applications.
Read more...
Laser control for smart glasses
Opto-Electronics
TDK has developed the world’s first full-colour laser control device for 4K smart glasses using lithium niobate thin film.
Read more...
PVision introduces interactive PoS to South Africa
Opto-Electronics
Recently, PVision partnered with Nexmosphere, a company that transforms any digital display into an engaging experience using sensors and controls, to bring the next level of point-of-sale digital displays to consumers.
Read more...
InGaAs and SWIR surveillance
Opto-Electronics
Sensing in the SWIR range (wavelengths from 0,9 to 1,7 microns) has only recently been made practical by the development of Indium Gallium Arsenide (InGaAs) sensors.
Read more...
Touchscreen interfaces for industrial applications
Rugged Interconnect Technologies
Opto-Electronics
Being protected from water and dust ingress, scratches, abrasions, and metallic dust makes them suitable for installation into harsh environments.
Read more...