Abstract: A compact modular embedded device. A base module includes a processor, a memory medium operable to store a bootloader for executing graphical programs, a bus, and a power input coupled to the processor, memory medium, and bus, for receiving power from a power source and providing the received power to the processor, memory medium, and bus. The base module can couple to a host computer via a transmission medium, receive a program from the host computer, and store the program in the memory medium. The base module may couple to extension modules via the bus in a stacked fashion, where the base module and the extension modules each include a respective substantially planar circuit board that when stacked are substantially parallel. Each extension module provides respective functionality for the device. The base module can execute the program to perform a function in conjunction with the extension modules.

Abstract: System and method for deploying and executing a program, e.g., a graphical program, on an embedded device, e.g., a compact sensor interface (CSI) that includes or is coupled to one or more sensors. The program is stored on a host mobile computer, e.g., a PDA, then downloaded to the CSI over a wired or wireless serial link, e.g., cable, infrared (IR), Bluetooth, etc. The embedded device executes the graphical program to perform the function, thereby generating data. The data is sent to the mobile computer over a wired or wireless serial link, e.g., via a Front Panel Protocol, where the data is displayed. Alternatively, the mobile computer executes a different program to perform a discovery operation to detect and establish communications with the embedded device, retrieves the data from the embedded device via a wireless serial transmission medium, e.g., IR link (e.g., IrDA), Bluetooth, etc., and displays the data.

Abstract: A compact modular embedded device. A base module includes a processor, a memory medium operable to store a bootloader for executing graphical programs, a buss and a power input coupled to the processor, memory medium, and bus, for receiving power from a power source and providing the received power to the processor, memory medium, and bus. The base module can couple to a host computer via a transmission medium, receive a program from the host computer, and store the program in the memory medium. The base module may couple to extension modules via the bus in a stacked fashion, where the base module and the extension modules each include a respective substantially planar circuit board that when stacked are substantially parallel. Each extension module provides respective functionality for the device. The base module can execute the program to perform a function in conjunction with the extension modules.

Abstract: System and method for deploying and executing a program, e.g., a graphical program, on an embedded device, e.g., a compact sensor interface (CSI) that includes or is coupled to one or more sensors. The program is stored on a host mobile computer, e.g., a PDA, then downloaded to the CSI over a wired or wireless serial link, e.g., cable, infrared (IR), Bluetooth, etc. The embedded device executes the graphical program to perform the function, thereby generating data. The data is sent to the mobile computer over a wired or wireless serial link, e.g., via a Front Panel Protocol, where the data is displayed. Alternatively, the mobile computer executes a different program to perform a discovery operation to detect and establish communications with the embedded device, retrieves the data from the embedded device via a wireless serial transmission medium, e.g., IR link (e.g., IrDA), Bluetooth, etc., and displays the data.