Unified middleware simplifies access and control of hardware resources
1 min read
Kontron is to start the next wave of embedded standardisation with its new cross platform middleware, Kontron Embedded Application Programming Interface (Kontron EAPI). It will be launched at this year's SPS/IPC/DRIVES fair in Nuremberg, Germany.
According to Kontron, it has standardised the access and control of hardware resources for embedded applications and has incorporated a library of API functions for getting information from all new Kontron embedded computing platforms. Kontron EAPI is compliant to the PICMG's EAPI but independent of form factors and operating systems and offers an extended feature set.
Designed to minimise OEMs' development work and the time spent on initial designs up to cross-platform migrations, Kontron says the EAPI enables remote monitoring and control functionalities, resulting in improved service, easier maintenance and a lower total cost of ownership.
The first products to be fitted with the new Kontron EAPI are the Kontron embedded motherboard KTQ45, the Kontron COM Express computer on module nanoETXexpress-SP and Kontron's Microspace MPCX line of industrial pcs. All future platforms will also be supported so there will be an identical set of function calls for dedicated tasks.
The software interfaces to the hardware can be linked to any higher programming language like C++ or Java and developers can utilise the knowledge that has gone into creating the solution, even when migrating to another Kontron platform.
Dirk Finstel, cto of Kontron, said: "We want to reduce R&D costs for our customers. With Kontron EAPI they can handle the fast technology changes much easier. Due to standardisation the complexity to access I/Os is now dramatically reduced. And this not just for a single board, but across all platforms.
"Some standards already exist, of course, such as IPMI, and PICMG's EAPI. But these are limited to dedicated form factors and functionalities. With Kontron EAPI we've combined the best features of all major standards, added further enhancements and provide now most easy usability - on all Kontron platforms. We provide a middleware package that unifies the way all Kontron embedded platforms are handled, independent from form factor or OS. This isn't only for one product category, but for our entire product range. By achieving this standardisation, we aim to attain a leading position compared to our competitors."
