Astronics Corporation announced the launch of new protocol models for its Ballard ME1000 family of mPCIe avionics interface cards for embedded aerospace applications. The new models provide interfacing capability for ARINC 429 and ARINC 717 databus protocols, and join models for MIL-STD-1553 that were previously released.

"The addition of ARINC 429 and 717 models to our high-performance Ballard ME1000 mPCIe family gives users a single line of cards for both their ARINC and MIL-STD-1553 avionics interfacing needs, providing a common programming API and procurement source," said Susan Miller, Vice President of Astronics Ballard Technology. "The product's small size and large complement of I/O, combined with our reputation for reliable designs, long life, and industry-leading customer support, gives our customers a highly flexible, low-SWaP embedded solution."

The Ballard ME1000, a Mini PCI Express® (mPCIe) card family designed and built by Astronics, provides the highest amount of I/O in the compact mPCIe form-factor. These rugged cards interface with ARINC 429/717 or MIL-STD-1553 databuses and enable host devices, such as small form factor mission computers, to reliably communicate with and monitor avionics equipment.

Key benefits of the ME1000 family include:

- High I/O density, including up to 12 ARINC 429/717 channels or two dual-redundant MIL-STD-1553 channels, and up to eight avionics level input/output discretes

- Comprehensive IRIG support for both IRIG A and IRIG B time code signals

- A cost-effective and rugged I/O connector that reduces mating connector costs and is available in either a horizontal or vertical orientation to fit in more places

- An extended temperature range and optional conformal coating to withstand harsh environmental demands

- The universal Ballard BTIDriver API to reduce software development time.