Abstract: Infrared communications scheme for use in an embedded system. According to a preferred embodiment, the invention comprises the use of an infrared communications scheme, according to IrDA protocol, which is utilized to transmit and receive data optically between circuit cards housed within an enclosed, embedded system. Preferably, each respective circuit card is provided with an LED and photodiode to respectively transmit and receive data optically. As such, wire connections are eliminated and allows the systems and methods of the present invention to withstand a greater degree of vibration and shock than that of the prior-art systems and methods. Moreover, the systems and methods of the present invention provide increased reliability and provide greater electrical isolation between modules than prior-art systems and methods.

Abstract: An unattended ground sensor for the monitoring of a remote area. The unattended ground sensor comprises a housing that supports a power source, a communications module, at least one sensor module and a mainframe module. Additionally, the unattended ground sensor includes a common electrical bus in electrical communication with the power source, the communications module, the at least one sensor module, and the mainframe module. The common electrical bus is operative to provide a communications pathway between the power source, the communications module, the at least one sensor, and the mainframe module. Accordingly, the mainframe module is operative to control the operation of the unattended ground sensor through the common electrical bus.