Vehicle tracking system uses powerful Blackfin as its core processor

DSP, Micros & Memory

24 August 2005 DSP, Micros & Memory

Analog Devices has announced that Maxtrack, a leader in vehicle tracking systems, will be shipping its product with Blackfin as the main system processor. Maxtrack's tracking solutions enable companies to track fleets of vehicles using a powerful software and hardware environment, comprising both standard tracking systems and special systems for bus and train monitoring and control. Initial products will begin shipping in September 2005.

Currently, Blackfin processors are used in Maxtrack's MTC-500 solution and are being designed into its next product, the MTC-600. The MTC-500, using Blackfin as the main system processor running functions such as high sensitivity GPS, GSM/GPRS modem, digital audio and other functions, is delivered as an ultra-compact device with dimensions of 120 x 70 mm. The next generation MTC-600, using Blackfin with an integrated CAN module, will add new capabilities such as networked camera, dead-reckoning GPS with integrated ADI gyro, SoundMAX audio codec, spread-spectrum integrated transceiver amongst others.

"We needed two main functions from our processor, firstly, it needed to drive GPS, GSM/GPRS, and networked cameras, and secondly, it needed to be the central processor for all other data-driven needs," said Gustavo Travassos, CEO, Maxtrack. "Blackfin not only provided us with this level of sophistication and power, but it also was more compact and cost less than leading DSP-only chips."

Blackfin is ideal for Maxtrack, says Analog Devices, because it combines breakthrough signal-processing performance and power efficiency in a RISC programming model. The processors allow flexible resource allocation between complex realtime signal processing tasks and non-realtime control tasks, with system control tasks often running in parallel to signal-processing tasks.

"Applications, from vehicle tracking to cellphones, are continuously integrating features, creating an environment of convergence, requiring a superior processor backbone," added John Croteau of Analog Devices. "Blackfin provides companies like Maxtrack with an embedded processor that manages control processing as well as GPS or networked cameras. We can do this while minimising design space, power dissipation, and costs."

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Vehicle tracking system uses powerful Blackfin as its core processor

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