This software provides essential startup and initialization routines for the CoNNeCT baseband processor module (BPM) hardware upon power-up. A command and data handling (C&DH) interface is provided via 1553 and diagnostic serial interfaces to invoke operational, reconfiguration, and test commands within the code.
The BCSW has features unique to the hardware it is responsible for managing. In this case, the CoNNeCT BPM is configured with an updated CPU (Atmel AT697 SPARC processor) and a unique set of memory and I/O peripherals that require customized software to operate. These features include configuration of new AT697 registers, interfacing to a new HouseKeeper with a flash controller interface, a new dual Xilinx configuration/scrub interface, and an updated 1553 remote terminal (RT) core.
The BCSW is intended to provide a “safe” mode for the BPM when initially powered on or when an unexpected trap occurs, causing the processor to reset. The BCSW allows the 1553 bus controller in the spacecraft or payload controller to operate the BPM over 1553 to upload code; upload Xilinx bit files; perform rudimentary tests; read, write, and copy the non-volatile flash memory; and configure the Xilinx interface. Commands also exist over 1553 to cause the CPU to jump or call a specified address to begin execution of user-supplied code. This may be in the form of a real-time operating system, test routine, or specific application code to run on the BPM.
This work was done by Clifford K. Yamamoto, David S. Orozco, D. J. Byrne, Steven J. Allen, Adit Sahasrabudhe, and Minh Lang of Caltech for NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
This software is available for commercial licensing. Please contact Daniel Broderick of the California Institute of Technology at
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
CoNNeCT Baseband Processor Module Boot Code SoftWare (BCSW)
(reference NPO-47778) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The Technical Support Package (TSP) for the CoNNeCT Baseband Processor Module Boot Code Software (BCSW), identified as NPO-47778, is a comprehensive document detailing the software's purpose, features, improvements, and operational capabilities. Developed by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) under the sponsorship of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the BCSW is designed to facilitate the start-up and initialization of the CoNNeCT Baseband Processor Module (BPM) hardware upon power-up.
The BCSW provides a Command and Data Handling (C&DH) interface through 1553 and diagnostic serial interfaces, enabling the invocation of operational, reconfiguration, and test commands. The software is tailored to manage the unique hardware configuration of the CoNNeCT BPM, which includes a new CPU, memory, and I/O peripherals. Key features of the BCSW include the configuration of new AT697 registers, interfacing with a new House Keeper and Flash controller, and support for dual Xilinx FPGA devices.
Significant improvements have been made to the inherited source code from MSL Electra, including the consolidation of multiple header and source files, removal of unused code, and the addition of a build variant for downloading code over the Debug Support Unit (DSU) of the AT697. The software now supports the configuration of Xilinx devices from integrated Flash storage or arbitrary memory locations and allows the Boot PROM to "call" user-specified code in RAM, enabling a graceful exit back to the Boot PROM.
The BCSW addresses specific software problems, notably the porting of existing TSC695-based MSL BPM code to the AT697-based CoNNeCT BPM while maintaining functional integrity. It also updates the 1553 driver code to support the new MSAP 1553 Remote Terminal core, correcting timing issues present in the previous version.
The BCSW is intended to provide a "safe" mode for the BPM during initial power-up or unexpected resets, allowing the 1553 Bus Controller to operate the BPM for code uploads, tests, and configuration tasks. This document serves as a vital resource for understanding the operational capabilities and technological advancements of the CoNNeCT Baseband Processor Module, highlighting its significance in aerospace applications.
