SpaceWire Isolator Mk2

The SpaceWire Isolator Mk2 is an isolation unit for ground test and integration applications, providing galvanic isolation for two SpaceWire links. Isolation is tested to ±60 V.

The SpaceWire Isolator Mk2 protects equipment from electrical surges and transient voltage spikes, and eliminates ground loop currents flowing between equipment which can cause damage to LVDS interfaces and poor equipment performance. It operates transparently in-line with the SpaceWire links, with no additional software drivers or configuration required.

The SpaceWire Isolator Mk2 provides two independent SpaceWire channels that operate at up to 400 Mbit/s between two SpaceWire devices which may not necessarily be at the same ground potential. The SpaceWire Isolator Mk2 employs digital isolation components to overcome this requirement, providing protection for two independent SpaceWire links to be connected safely.

The SpaceWire Isolator Mk2 builds upon the capabilities of the original SpaceWire Isolator product, providing operation at higher SpaceWire link speeds and enhanced FMECA protection. A FMECA report is available on request.

Product Features

  • Two independent links: isolates and protects two links between SpaceWire test equipment and SpaceWire flight equipment.

  • Isolation: tested to ±60 V potential difference between ground reference planes.

  • Link speed: both links are fully compatible with the SpaceWire standard and operate up to 400 Mbit/s.

    Note that maximum link speed depends on link length and timing characteristics of interfaced devices. 400 Mbit/s has been tested at room temperature on a variety of cable lengths including a 2 metre cable on the flight interface and 2 metre cable on the test interface using STAR-Dundee Lab Cables for SpaceWire Equipment.

  • Common mode filtering: on all data lines.

  • FMECA protection: Extensive FMECA protection with FMECA report available on request.

  • Software and configuration: none needed; works transparently.

  • Enclosure: compact size and rugged design.

Technical Specs

  • Part Number

    169

  • Size

    • 86 x 67 x 19 mm (enclosure body)

    • 102 x 67 x 20 mm (overall)

  • Power

    • +12V DC, mains power brick supplied

  • SpaceWire Ports

    • Compliant to SpaceWire Standard ECSS-E50-12A, ECSS-E-ST-50-12C and ECSS-E-ST-50-12C Rev. 1

    • Number of SpaceWire Links: 2

    • Speed: up to 400 Mbit/s

    • Connectors: 9-pin micro-miniature D-type

  • Isolation

    • Tested to ±60 V

  • LED Indicators

    • Flight side: Green LED indicates power to flight side

    • Test side: Green LED indicates power to test side

  • EMC

    • CE/FCC Certified