2025 BLTPLANE (Backplane for L1 Telemetry and Power Limiting Authority with Networking via Ethernet)

Overview:

This is based on the 2025 Backplane. The BLTPLANE has power module 1.1.1 (with new shielded inductors) integrated on the main board and can fit in an Level 1 rocket with a 3 inch inner diameter.

This formfactor was made with the intention to be used to test launch the backplane more frequently. This would allow for more rapid prototyping of the backplane and its modules. Additionally, having power module integrated into the board opens up one of the module slots allowing for more modules to be tested per flight.

Current Modifications:

• Changing Power Module Inductors:

  • Because inductors sit right below the modules, large Eddy Currents will mess up signals on the modules. Therefore we’ve decided to use Vishay IHLE shielded inductors to mitigate the issue while not requiring a complete redesign of the PCB.

• Adding a real time clock to sync up all Modules with a central clock pulse:

  • Adding and RTC (model: RV-8263-C7) to BLTPLANE. A slow, reliable pulse will be relayed to all modules via address pin0 (which are currently not used) to sync the module clocks (including power module) to each other. This pulse will probably be once a second, but can be programed to any ware from 1 Hz to 32.768 kHz.

• Changing GPIO Connectors:

  • Replacing the two DB-9 Connectors on each side of the board with one 2x8 IDC Horn Buckle Connectors w/ a 2mm pin pitch.

  • CON: One of the GPIO(GPIO 7) for each module is connected to GND because there needs to be a GND pin for each set of GPIO coming from each module.

Possible Future Modifications:

• Possibly changing flash memory:

  • Memory runs at slow speeds limiting software