A multi-DSP based instrument on a VXI C-size module for real-time measurements

In this paper, the design and implementation of a high-performance measuring instrument based on multiple digital signal processors is discussed. This system can embody a number of special signal processing and analog I/O modules, specifically designed to obtain the flexibility and scalability to meet the needs of real-time measurement applications. It has been mounted on a prototyping card and interfaced with the VXIbus backplane. Some issues related to the hardware and software design are discussed. A first application, namely the on-line spectral measurement of two input signals, e.g., voltage and current in a power circuit is discussed, reporting the first experimental results.