FPGA Central

First of all, thanks for the replies so far.

Actually, we need to develop a final product with all the embedde
hardware designed in a case: PCB for the controller and for th
input/output modules.

The NI solution is very interesting and fast, but as far as I coul
understand I will have to start from "zero" to design the final hardware.

For this reason, it is important to start working with a development ki
that offers most of the needed devices.

The Labview is being considered to develop a prototype. A DAC board i
being considered to generate the analog signals (simulating a conditione
signal) used for the ADC inputs. Then, the digitalized signal is going t
be fed (using SPI, Parallel, etc) to the controller.

For the controller, I have seen so far two options:
1. From Atmel, the DIOPSIS 940HF
2. From TI, the TMS320F3812
cause both combine DSP and uC.

For the ADC, I am looking for an evaluation board that offers simultaneou
sampling for many channels (preferably as many as possible, since we nee
at least 40 analog channels). So far, I found some options from TI:
- ADS8365, but uses parallel output
- ADS1178, that uses SPI

Since a lot of data is to be stored, it is also important to have at leas
16-32Mb of SRAM, and a higher mass storage media such as SD cards o
2-4GB.

Digital input varying from 24 to 250Vdc is also needed: at least 2 time
the number of analog channels, which means at least 80 DI. Again, for th
prototype, a DO board with Labview is being considered.

Digital output for alarm purposes is also considered.

Communications features (Ethernet, USB) is basic requirement, as it i
also a keypad, LCD, etc.

When the prototype with the "final" firmware is designed, then the fina
PCB input modules together with the controller PCB will be developed. Th
test will be carried out using a digital box capable to generate the rea
analog values coming from the field: currents ranging from 1 to 20pu (1 p
equals to 1 or 5A) and voltages ranging from 1 to 2pu (1 pu equals to 66 o
115V).

But for prototyping, the ADC board and the controller are the critica
hardware components that I need to define until next week.

Well, that is the "architecture" we have envisaged so far. Any ideas ar
welcomed.

Hope I was clear enough. Any other detail, please, just ask me.

Thanks again for all.