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What Is The DSPACE MicroLabBox

The dSPACE MicroLabBox is a compact real-time development system designed for rapid control prototyping and hardware-in-the-loop simulation, featuring a high-performance processor and extensive I/O capabilities. It integrates seamlessly with MATLAB/Simulink for real-time control applications across various fields such as automotive systems and robotics. Key advantages include standalone operation, high channel count, and precise control, making it suitable for advanced research and industry applications.

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34 views3 pages

What Is The DSPACE MicroLabBox

The dSPACE MicroLabBox is a compact real-time development system designed for rapid control prototyping and hardware-in-the-loop simulation, featuring a high-performance processor and extensive I/O capabilities. It integrates seamlessly with MATLAB/Simulink for real-time control applications across various fields such as automotive systems and robotics. Key advantages include standalone operation, high channel count, and precise control, making it suitable for advanced research and industry applications.

Uploaded by

ily
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
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What is the dSPACE MicroLabBox?

The dSPACE MicroLabBox is a compact real-time development system used for rapid
control prototyping (RCP) and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation. It's a more modern
and powerful replacement for older boards like the DSP 1104.

It integrates a high-performance processor, extensive I/O, and tight integration with


MATLAB/Simulink, making it ideal for real-time control applications in mechatronics,
automotive systems, robotics, renewable energy, and power electronics.

Key Features
Component Description
Real-time processor (e.g., quad-core PowerPC or ARM Cortex A9,
Processor
depending on version)
Real-Time
Runs a real-time operating system for deterministic control
OS
Over 100 channels: analog, digital, encoder, PWM, CAN, Ethernet, UART,
I/O Interfaces
etc.
Software Fully integrated with MATLAB/Simulink via RTI (Real-Time Interface)
Programming Model-based design with automatic code generation from Simulink

Common I/O Types


I/O Type Use
Analog In/Out Read sensors / send analog control signals
Digital In/Out Logic signals and switching
PWM Motor or converter control
Encoder Inputs Motor position/speed feedback
CAN, LIN, Ethernet Vehicle and industrial communication
UART, SPI, I2C Serial peripheral communication

Workflow
1. Design your control system in Simulink.
2. Use dSPACE RTI blocks to map Simulink signals to physical I/O.
3. Automatically generate C code using Simulink Coder.
4. Download and run in real-time on the MicroLabBox.
5. Use ControlDesk to monitor variables, tune parameters, and visualize data.
✅ Advantages
• Standalone real-time operation
• High channel count and versatility
• Precise real-time control, down to microsecond time steps
• Modern CPU and I/O standards
• Eliminates the need for an external PC in many applications
• Portable and robust (used in labs and on test benches)

Typical Applications
• Advanced motor control (vector control, FOC)
• Renewable energy systems (solar inverters, battery management)
• Vehicle dynamics and ECUs
• Robotics and automation
• HIL testing and R&D

Software Ecosystem
• Simulink
• Simulink Coder
• dSPACE RTI
• ControlDesk (for real-time visualization and tuning)
• Optional: AutomationDesk, ConfigurationDesk (for HIL setups)

Front Panel Example


Some models have a user-accessible front panel with:

• BNC connectors (analog I/O)


• D-sub connectors (digital I/O, encoders)
• LEDs for diagnostics
• USB and Ethernet ports

Comparison: MicroLabBox vs. DSP 1104


Feature MicroLabBox DSP 1104
Release Year ~2015+ ~1990s
I/O Channels 100+ ~40
Processor Multicore modern CPU TMS320F240 DSP
Form Factor Standalone PCI card (requires PC)
Communication CAN, LIN, UART, Ethernet Limited
Software RTI, ControlDesk RTI, ControlDesk
Speed & Precision Much higher Lower
Ideal For Advanced research & industry Teaching/basic R&D

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