Concurrent Technologies RCIM, User Manual

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Chapter 1
Introduction
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This chapter provides an overview and specifications for the Real-Time Clock and
Interrupt Module (RCIM).
NOTE
Two RCIM models are described in this guide: RCIM III and
RCIM IV. The use of the term “RCIM” refers to functionality
common to both boards. “RCIM III” and “RCIM IV” refer to the
specific boards. The section “Specifications” provides specifica-
tions for each of the boards.
NOTE
Both the RCIM III and RCIM IV are PCI Express boards. For
information covering the older RCIM I (PCI) and RCIM II (PCI-
X) boards, refer to the Legacy RCIM User’s Guide which can be
found in Concurrent’s Documentation Library at this location:
https://redhawk.concurrent-rt.com/docs/
Overview
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The Real-Time Clock and Interrupt Module (RCIM) is a PCI-based card that supports
time-critical applications that require rapid response to external events, synchronized
clocks and/or synchronized interrupts.
When RCIM boards of various systems are chained together, an interrupt can be
simultaneously distributed to all connected RCIMs, and from the RCIMs to all the
associated host systems.
A synchronized high-resolution clock is provided so that all the RCIMs in an RCIM chain
on multiple systems can share a common time base. It also provides a local POSIX 1003.1
compliant high resolution clock. An optional GPS module allows alignment of the clock
to GPS standard time. Multiple RCIMs equipped with the GPS module can provide a
common time base without cable connections. A high stability oscillator is standard.
Optional oscillators improve the accuracy of times measured with the RCIM.
In addition to the clocks, this multi-purpose PCI-based card has the following
functionality:
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connection of external device interrupts
•
real-time clock timers that can interrupt the system