Alta Data Technologies NLINE-T1553 Thunderbolt interface appliance

Alta Data Technologies has released its MIL-STD-1553 Thunderbolt interface appliance: the NLINE-T1553. The product embeds the MIL-STD-1553 protocol engine, AltaCore, directly into the Thunderbolt cable assembly.

The device has full-featured controls for 1–2 channels of 1553 BC, RT and BM functions via a Thunderbolt USB-C connection. Combined with the standard AltaAPI software development kit (SDK) and signal capture o-scope capabilities, it offers 1553 functionality and ease of deployment for aerospace platforms.

For deployed systems, or lab usage, the product opens many 1553 integration options. For example, the user can take an application developed for desktops or servers and use this exact same application on a notebook with an NLINE-T1553. There is also signal capture, which is an o-scope capability built-in to help troubleshoot cabling and cybersecurity issues.

The product provides 1–2 channels of full 1553 network controls via a rugged in-line cable, and packaging techniques to embedded 1553 design directly into MIL-810G/461F qualified cable assemblies. The Thunderbolt interface provides full PCI Express (PCIe) functions of a 1553 interface board, even hardware interrupts. In most cases, the exact same application code as used with a PCIe card can be used with the device. The user can now decide to burn a PCIe card slot or use an external device via an in-line USB-C cable.