The core of each of our devices: A main processor that runs the firmware. Its core task: the connection and coordination of all components connected to the processor – sensors, modem, external interfaces – on the board to form a smoothly functioning overall system. Firmware and hardware are thus inextricably intertwined. Or, to put it another way, without the right firmware to coordinate everything, the best hardware is useless.
Firmware: Data Acquisition & Data Transmission
Each of our firmware applications is primarily designed for two main tasks: data acquisition and transmission. For transmission, the firmware on the processor controls the cellular modem. It must adhere to defined procedures to connect to a mobile network. However, it must also be able to react to potential malfunctions of the modem or the mobile network.
Firmware Interactions with Middleware Server: Various Message Types and Commands
Data acquisition can vary greatly: If sensors are directly connected, the firmware must then operate the corresponding hardware interfaces, e.g., I2C, SPI, or direct measurement of analog signals. Due to the multitude of processor interfaces that can then be evaluated by the firmware, HK.SYSTEMS is able to connect almost any type of sensor.
However, external hardware circuitry is often also required: hardware and firmware therefore only function as a unit and must be precisely coordinated depending on the task. The firmware also implements processes, such as the sequence of different measurements, or varies the frequency of measurements depending on thresholds or other parameters such as time or additional environmental influences. All these parameters are firmware-controlled – not least also depending on the configuration that the respective device receives from the middleware.
Another type of data acquisition, for example, are retrofit solutions, as HK.SYSTEMS has already implemented in various customer projects. Here, the basis is existing electronics specialized in collecting specific data. Often, the customer has already invested a great deal of specific know-how in this area – but then lacks the know-how for reliable data transmission.
Our solution: The customer electronics are extended with the capability for over-the-air data transmission. For this purpose, our electronics are connected to an existing data interface (e.g., UART or RS485). The data stream running over it is evaluated by our firmware, and then, if necessary, information is transmitted or other actions are triggered. It is also possible to work out a special protocol with the customer for data exchange via an interface between both electronics. The firmware can then transmit or return corresponding information based on commands defined in the protocol.
Firmware: Further Advantages & Functions at a Glance
- Energy Management: In battery-powered devices, the firmware also takes care of sustainable energy management for the other components on the board. It puts them into sleep modes or completely cuts off the power supply to components through external circuitry whenever processes allow.
- Updates: The firmware can update itself. This function enables various feature extensions – completely straightforwardly.
- Configuration Options: The firmware can adopt parameters from the middleware server. This allows for easy server changes or modifications to thresholds, data acquisition frequency, and more.
- User Interactions: The firmware not only enables direct reactions to user input, for example via buttons, but also status visualizations or data visualizations via LEDs and displays.