VPX, Open VPX and SOSA solutions from Comtel

Introduction

VPX, or VITA Portable eXtended, also known as VITA 46, is a computer bus standard used for building high-performance embedded computing systems, particularly in defense, aerospace, and industrial applications.  VPX is particularly useful in 1G/10G/40G/100G Ethernet or PCI-express parallel computing.The specification maintained the VME for factors 3U and 6U and air cooled or conduction-cooled options.

Building on the foundation of VPX, the OpenVPX standard (VITA 65) introduces system-level guidelines and profiles to ensure interoperability between different modules and backplanes. OpenVPX defines standardized slot and module configurations, enabling multi-vendor ecosystems and simplifying system integration. This standard ensures compatibility for high-speed communication fabrics, making it a preferred choice for mission-critical systems that require both high performance and flexibility.

The Sensor Open Systems Architecture (SOSA) standard takes the concept of open systems to the next level by further extending OpenVPX. SOSA is a consortium-driven initiative that enables true plug-and-play interoperability among hardware and software components, significantly reducing integration time and lifecycle costs. It aligns with the Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) and focuses on sensor-based systems, including radar and electronic warfare. By standardizing hardware, software, and system management, SOSA improves scalability and adaptability across various platforms.

High-Speed Links in OpenVPX Systems

High-speed communication is at the core of modern OpenVPX systems. Technologies like PCI Express Gen3 and Gen4, 10/40/100 Gig

abit Ethernet, InfiniBand, and Serial RapidIO provide the backbone for data-intensive applications. In certain systems, optical links are integrated to achieve ultra-high bandwidth and immunity to electromagnetic interference. Comtel excels in designing OpenVPX backplanes optimized for signal integrity, supporting data rates of over 100 gigabits per second and incorporating advanced materials and connector technologies for maximum performance.

VITA defined also the limits for the VPX Compliance Channel in the VITA 68.x family of standards. This standard defines a VPX compliance channel fixed signal Integrity budget including module performance criteria and common backplane performance criteria required to support multiple fabric types across a range of defined baud rates. This allows backplane developers to design a VITA 68.1 compliant backplane that supports required bit error rates (BER) for multiple fabric types when used with modules that are compliant to VITA 68.1 budget criteria. VITA expanded the standard and created VITA 68.2 S-Parameter Definition and VITA 68.3 Reference SI Model Standard for Gen4 and Higher Speeds. They have created worst case models for backplanes and modules so it will be easy for a backplane manufacturer to use worst case models for modules, measure or simulate the backplane, concatenate the S-parameters and check the channel compliance. Similar for a module manufacturer they can use the backplane worst case S-parameters to check channel compliance.

Comtel experience in signal integrity along with measurements of connectors and backplanes, latest PCB materials and innovative PCB design and layout techniques (Comtel Air-/-Plane technology) pushed the boundaries of the connectors in terms of high speed. Comtel measured backplanes with standard RT2 connectors passed IEEE 100GBASE-KR4 COM tool limits.

Comtel’s VPX and OpenVPX Solutions

Comtel offers a complete range of VPX and OpenVPX solutions tailored to meet the demands of modern embedded systems. From rugged and customizable backplanes to high-speed chassis and development platforms, Comtel provides end-to-end expertise, including system design, integration, testing, and validation. Our solutions are fully aligned with the SOSA standard, ensuring long-term compatibility and scalability.

Comtel also offers a development system with an online configurator based on OpenVPX and SOSA profiles. Start your configuration today => https://comtel-online.com/open-vpx-backplane-configurator/

Conclusion

VPX and OpenVPX technologies are key enablers for next-generation defense and aerospace systems. With its deep expertise and commitment to cutting-edge engineering, Comtel delivers solutions that combine the power of open standards with high-speed data processing capabilities. By supporting the latest communication fabrics and modular architectures, Comtel ensures that its platforms are not only future-proof but also optimized for the most demanding applications.