VMNet Backplane Network

Posted February 29th, 2008 by Toc Reporter

Twin Oaks Computing is developing software for the Linux(tm) Operating System that will enable high-performance network communications over the VME and Compact PCI backplanes. This work is performed in support of a contract with the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR).

The VMNet module is designed to provide network (Internet Protocol, IPv4 and IPv6, and RDMA) data transfer over a Compact PCI (cPCI) or Versa Module Eurocard (VME) backplane thereby reducing hardware and cabling requirements. This reduction in hardware components lowers initial product cost and reduces the logistics costs over the lifetime of the system. It may also result in decreased size, weight, and power requirements - critical parameters in many of the tactical systems deployed today.

By supporting IP, existing applications can immediately take advantage of the backplane network. Furthermore, support for RDMA provides advanced high-throughput, low-latency network communications found in High-Performance Computing facilities and data-centers.