The compact XPort Direct Embedded Device Gateway module delivers network connectivity to virtually any electronic product with a serial interface on its host microcontroller. Manufacturers can now affordably offer network connectivity as a standard feature, greatly enhancing product value, and enabling a host of applications such as remote monitoring, networked control, data acquisition and Internet content streaming.
XPort Direct increases profitability by reducing the cost, development time and risk associated with a chip-based solution.
Turnkey Ethernet Module with Marketproven TechnologyThe XPort Direct offers powerful network connectivity at a very affordable price. This ready-to-use solution is built on the same time-tested and market-proven technology offered in the successful XPort. It includes all the necessary networking hardware and standards-compliant software for situations where advanced web services are not required.
Ideal for High-Volume Device DeploymentsWith its low cost and powerful functionality, XPort Direct is ideal for high-volume product deployments where low-cost, limited functionality microcontrollers traditionally create a barrier to network-enablement. Examples include:
Building automation (lighting, etc.)Consumer electronicsEnergy/metering applicationsHome automation (high-end audio, alarm panels, etc.)Point of sale (POS) productsRFID readersSensors and controllersVending machinesWhite/durable goods Powerful Network Information ConduitXPort Direct acts as a dedicated co-processor module to optimize network activities, permitting the device’s host microcontroller to function at maximum efficiency.
Serial data from the device microcontroller’s CMOS logic-level serial port is packetized and delivered over an Ethernet network via TCP or UDP data packets. Similarly, incoming TCP or UDP packets are unbundled and presented to the attached device over its microcontroller’s serial interface.
The XPort Direct includes an x86 class 16-bit network processor SoC, 256 KB of zero wait-state SRAM, an Ethernet 10/100 MAC/PHY along with Flash memory, and an RJ45 jack that incorporates LEDs for link and network activity indication.
Feature-Rich Software, Easy Configuration and DeploymentThe XPort Direct’s comprehensive software suite includes all Layer 3 to Layer 7 (of the OSI 7 layer reference model) software needed for a feature-rich network-enabling solution. The suite includes the actual application software that packs serial data into an Ethernet stream for network transmission. Device deployment and network initiation are simplified with Dynamic Host Protocol Support (DHCP) support and additional IP configuration methods via the included Windows®-based Lantronix DeviceInstaller™ software.
The supported Com Port Redirector (CPR) software maps ‘virtual COM’ ports on a PC platform and redirects application data destined to an attached device. Rather than going out the local COM port, the data is transmitted across the Ethernet network to/from XPort Direct using TCP/IP. CPR is also licensed as an API to OEMs for incorporation into their applications on non-PC platforms such as a web pad or PDA.
XPort Direct’s parameters are highly configurable prior to network deployment:
Baud RateFlow ControlPort NumberConnect ModeModem ModeData Packing Control IntervalsInactivity TimeoutMTU SizeVersatile Applications
With limited engineering effort, XPort Direct can make any electronic product a smart device with embedded network intelligence, enabling capabilities such as:
Remote diagnostics and upgradesNetworked remote controlAsset tracking/replenishmentRemote data acquisitionEthernet bridging (RFID to Ethernet, for example)Personalized content delivery