Simplifying Microprocessor Designs with OMC’s Arduino-Compatible Fibre Optic Shield: A Solution for Simple, Secure, and Reliable Data Transmission
An Arduino shield has been designed to make it easier to incorporate fibre-optic data links into MPU designs. This shield offers simplicity, security, and reliability.
OMC, a company known for its innovations in optoelectronics, has introduced an H19 fibre optic shield that works with Arduino Uno. This shield showcases how optical fibre communication can be seamlessly integrated into a microprocessor-based design. The shield includes a transmitter, receiver, drivers, and digital output, making it easy to connect with MPUs. The all-in-one design simplifies the receiver circuit and eliminates the need for traditional pin diode amplifier and Schmitt trigger circuits to achieve a digital output.
William Heath, the Commercial Director of OMC, explains that some uses of data transmission require complete trust in the reliability of the connection. Fiber optic datalinks are a dependable, secure, and interference-free option that also provide electrical isolation. These shields are designed to make it easier to incorporate fiber optic datalinks into a digital system.
This shield is made to be used with the Arduino Uno and can be stacked with other shields. It includes jumpers for both transmitter and receiver devices. A sample program is included that demonstrates how to send data over an optical fiber link using the UART ports. The data can be viewed by using the Arduino software's serial monitor or by connecting a standard 16×2 LCD shield on top of the fiber shield.
The shield is compatible with various microprocessor baud rates ranging from 300 to 115200. The fiber optic emitter and receiver pair can handle speeds up to 5Mbd. The shield serves as a tool to showcase how an optical fiber link can be integrated into a design.
The shield can support PMMA cables up to 25 meters in the standard setup. For longer distances, OMC provides a high-power emitter option and devices compatible with glass fiber if PMMA is not appropriate. Customers can purchase the transmitter and receivers separately to incorporate into their own designs. Different cable lengths and types of fiber/jacket are available upon request. OMC also offers the option to mount the transmitter and receiver parts in different housings to accommodate various fiber types.
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