UniJack is a versatile development platform designed to support the entire lifecycle of embedded systems, from development and testing to production. Its modular architecture enables developers to work across multiple technologies on a single platform. Whether using microcontrollers, application processors, or FPGAs, UniJack provides a consistent and flexible hardware environment.

At the core of the system is the integrated ERAU (Emulation Routing and Advanced-Application Unit), which enables advanced signal routing and manipulation. This allows engineers to thoroughly test and validate their applications without redesigning hardware, significantly accelerating development cycles. Our first computing module, Mercury Module is based on the Infineon AURIX TC356, an automotive-grade microcontroller featuring three processing cores and two checker cores. This architecture makes it suitable for demanding applications such as motor control, FMCW radar (Frequency-Modulated Continuous Wave), and other high-reliability embedded systems.

A New, Versatile Development Platform

UniJack together with the Mercury Module can be used in a wide range of scenarios, including education, hardware and software development, as well as testing and even production environments. Once the Mercury Module is connected to the UniJack, the next step is to connect a vendor-specific programming device or hardware debugger in order to begin development. In the simplest setup, this is done by connecting the MiniWiggler, which is included as part of the package. As most developers already know, programming a microcontroller can be performed in many different ways.

UniJack is designed as a new kind of standard development platform, one that bridges different technologies, modules, and vendors within a single, flexible environment. Instead of being tied to one specific ecosystem, UniJack allows engineers to integrate and experiment with a wide range of modules, which in the future could include different FPGA chips.

Currently, UniJack hosts the Mercury Module, which features an AURIX TC356 microcontroller from Infineon Technologies. With this module equipped, developers can immediately begin building and testing their applications without the need for complex custom hardware. The board is built to encourage experimentation and rapid iteration. At the center of this flexibility lies the embedded ERAU, which acts as an intelligent signal routing fabric. It allows digital signals, both incoming and outgoing, to be routed dynamically wherever they are needed within the system.

Features & Specifications

UniJack

• DIMM-260 Slot (PeriBoard)
• ERAU Routing Core: freely route signals to peripheral outputs and module inputs
• 24 Configurable Groups of 8 channels each: precise and granular signal control
• Digital Signal Handling: route, multiply out, multiply in, multiplex in, loop back, logically link, test
• Analog Path: dedicated high-fidelity analog line directly from output to module
• Bidirectional Flow: signals run both ways between modules and platform

Mercury Module

• Infineon AURIX TC356
• Computation Units: 3 Cores, 2 Checker Cores
• Max. Frequency: 300 MHz
• Program Flash: 4 MB
• Data Flash: 128 KB
• Static Random Access Memory : 1472 KB SRAM
• Extension Memory: 2048 KB EMEM
• Data Scratch Pad RAM: 240 KB for CPU 0, 96 KB for CPU 1 and CPU 2
• Distributed LMU Memory: 64 KB per CPU DLMU
• Program Scratchpad SRAM: 64 KB per CPU PSPR
• Local Memory Unit: 512 KB
• Digital Input/Output: 25 freely configurable pins available
• Analog Inputs – 8 channels (SAR (EVADC))
• Communication: CAN TX/RX, UART_1_TX/RX, UART_2_TX/RX, SPI, QSPI, I2C
• Hardware Security: HSM (Hardware Security Module)
• DIMM-260 Module Form Factor (PeriBoard)

Open Source

For passionate professional hardware developers or companies interested in building their own ecosystem around the UniJack platform, it is also possible to design and develop custom modules. These modules must, however, comply fully with the mechanical and electrical interface specifications defined for the UniJack system. In addition, every custom module must undergo a rigorous validation and integration process conducted by our team to ensure reliability, safety, and full compatibility with the platform. The associated engineering effort, testing, and licensing costs must be covered by the interested party.

While the module interface itself is controlled, the PeriBoard (Peripheral Board) concept is designed to be open and flexible. The PeriBoard interface is fully documented, enabling developers and companies to design and build their own peripheral boards that can be connected directly to the UniJack system. This makes it possible to tailor hardware extensions for specific applications, research projects, or product prototypes.

From a software perspective, the platform is closed but highly flexible. All software tools provided as part of the UniJack ecosystem can be freely configured to suit specific application requirements. This allows developers to extend the functionality of the platform while maintaining compatibility with the UniJack hardware environment. Module specific example programs are provided freely as well and can be modified to your needs.

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