NIU3R

SWaP Optimized Processing, Multifunction I/O & Communications System

The NIU3R is a compact, rugged, low-power mission computer and integrated I/O system designed as a self-contained line-replaceable unit (LRU) for SWaP-constrained aerospace and defense platforms. The system integrates mission processing with a range of platform interfaces, including discrete I/O, serial communications, pulse timing resources, and Ethernet networking, within a single enclosure. Its compact, round form factor and flat interface surfaces enable efficient installation within cylindrical or space-limited vehicle structures, while eliminating the need for external expansion modules and providing an integrated deterministic control platform.

The NIU3R employs a fixed inboard I/O architecture derived from NAI’s Configurable Open Systems Architecture™ (COSA®) technology, integrating proven smart-function capabilities directly onto the system electronics. This approach enables a compact and highly reliable implementation while allowing integrated functionality to be adapted for program-specific requirements where appropriate.

At the core of the system is a Xilinx Zynq® UltraScale+™ MPSoC, combining quad ARM® Cortex®-A53 processors with programmable logic resources to support deterministic interface control and real-time data processing. The device incorporates a Physically Unclonable Function (PUF) used to establish a silicon-unique hardware root-of-trust for secure system architectures.

The platform supports commercial and real-time operating environments including Wind River® VxWorks®, Wind River® Linux, Xilinx PetaLinux, and DDC-I Deos™, enabling applications such as mission computing, avionics subsystem control, embedded data acquisition, and system health monitoring.

Features

• Preconfigured embedded I/O Functions: 16-Ch Discrete I/O (8 DI, 8 configurable DIO), 4-Ch isolated discrete switching, 10-Ch Serial Interfaces (RS-232 / RS-422 / RS-485) 8 async + 2 async (configurable as 1 sync), 1-Ch MIL-STD-1760 interface, Pulse Timer input and output with timestamping, Differential Time Mark output
• Self-contained, single LRU design; inboard-only I/O implementation
• Minimized SWaP Footprint
• Xilinx Zynq® UltraScale+™ ZU9 MPSoC Quad ARM® Cortex®-A53 MPCore™
• 28 VDC Input Power Supply (50+ ms Hold-up Option)
• DO-178C & DO-254 DAL A (Contact Factory)
• Cybersecurity & Anti-Tamper (Contact Factory)