Custom Hardware Development for Complex Communication Systems
Our hardware developments are based on decades of experience with a wide range of platforms — from compact embedded systems to highly integrated dual-processor solutions. Our systems run reliably on our own real-time operating system ellan:RTOS and are consistently adapted to the requirements of each application area.
Goal-Oriented Platform Selection
The choice of the right hardware platform is not based on a fixed formula but depends on:
- the specific technical requirements
- the long-term availability of components
- space requirements and energy efficiency
- total cost of ownership (incl. production, support, service)
We carefully evaluate which system suits each application — regardless of manufacturer.
Experience with a Broad Technology Spectrum
We have implemented systems on a wide variety of microcontroller families:
PIC and AVR Controllers
For compact, low-power applications
ARM Cortex Families (M3, M4, M7 & A-Series)
For demanding control, audio and Linux applications
TMS-DSPs
For computationally intensive signal processing (e.g., audio technology)
Xtensa
For modern WLAN systems
Z80/eZ80 and MIPS
Historically grown, but still supported
Dual-Processor Concepts
Separation of safety-critical communication and graphical user interfaces (Android, Linux)
Comprehensive Interface Variety
Our hardware platforms support a broad range of system interfaces:
- Digital & Analog I/O — also with 12-bit resolution
- I²C, SPI, UART, CAN, PIO
- TDM, I²S — for audio processing
- USB 2.0 High-Speed, SDIO/MMC
- Ethernet (10/100 Mbps) — incl. PoE
- WLAN — Xtensa-based connectivity, incl. Access Point Mode
- Special Interfaces: DMX, MIDI, RS485, SPE, Cellular
This diversity allows us to build highly integrated, modularly expandable systems with maximum flexibility for future adaptations.
Security and Longevity
Our systems enable hardware-based access protection mechanisms, CAN communication with optional encryption, and operation in an extended temperature range from -40 °C to +105 °C. Long-term availability thanks to carefully selected components.
Product Development from A to Z
In addition to the pure control system design, we offer:
- System layout and adaptation to the customer enclosure
- Power supply planning (incl. PoE, Solar, Battery, Redundancy)
- Integration of sensors, actuators, and control elements (LED, buttons, displays)
- Prototype and series production
- Support for EMC and CE certification
Our goal is not just technical realization, but the reliable, long-term maintainable implementation of a custom complete system.