Astronics / Ballard Technology LP1553-3A PCI to MIL-STD-1553 Interface Board

The Astronics/Ballard Technology LP1553-3A is a PCI interface board that bridges host computer systems to MIL-STD-1553B data buses. It enables Bus Controller, Remote Terminal, and Bus Monitor operation modes—with advanced models supporting simultaneous BC, Monitor, and multiple RT functions. The on-board DSP core handles 1553 protocol processing independently, reducing host PC overhead and enabling real-time autonomous operation. Configurable RAM from 256 KB to 1 MB with flexible message buffering accommodates diverse simulation, test, and data acquisition workloads. A programmable 32-bit time-stamp capability supports precise event correlation in time-critical applications.

## Technical Specifications

• **Bus Standard:** MIL-STD-1553A/B compliant
• **Interface:** PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect)
• **Channel Configuration:** Dual-redundant MIL-STD-1553 channels
• **Operating Modes:** Bus Controller (BC), Remote Terminal (RT), Bus Monitor (BM); concurrent operation supported on select models
• **On-Board Memory:** 256 KB to 1 MB RAM configurations
• **Time Stamping:** Programmable 32-bit resolution
• **Front Connector:** Female DB25 or BNC

## Key Features

• DSP-based protocol offload eliminates 1553 processing bottlenecks on the host
• Autonomous operation via on-board memory reduces real-time dependencies
• Flexible message buffering maintains data integrity across varying bus loads
• Dual-redundant channel architecture ensures fault tolerance
• Field-upgradeability extends product lifecycle for evolving requirements

## Typical Applications

• MIL-STD-1553 hardware and software development
• Avionics bus simulation and integration testing
• Real-time data acquisition on 1553 networks
• Multi-terminal emulation and error injection scenarios
• System validation in demanding aerospace environments

## Compatibility & Integration

• **Operating Systems:** Windows 95/98/NT/Me/2000/XP driver support; Linux and VxWorks drivers available
• **Software Ecosystem:** Compatible with CoPilot 1553 and related application packages
• **Standards Compliance:** MIL-STD-1553B certified