New program from Renesas provides three easy-to-use tools for fast certification

Renesas has released an RX Functional Safety Solution package that includes pre-certified diagnostic software, a self-diagnostic library for RX631 and RX63N microcontrollers (MCUs), and a safety manual, providing simple steps for engineers aiming for IEC61508 safety certification. This self-diagnostic software reduces development time for engineers’ designs that must adhere to safety regulations. Examples of projects include safety sensors, industrial motor drives, and programmable logic controllers.

A product must pass safety analysis tests from the system level to the device level to receive the IEC61508 certification. Tools with which the device was designed must also be certified to pass the safety tests.  

RX 631/63N MCUs are compatible with the Safety Solution software.  (Image via Renesas.)

Renesas’ safety solution works well with the RX631/63N group of MCUs, complying with industry standards. The RX631 and RX63N demonstrate high performativity with 32-bit MCUs that function at 1.65DMIPS/MHz. These MUCs include a floating-point unit (FPU), hardware multipliers and MAC, flash operation without wait states, memory size up to 2 Mbytes, and peripherals. These peripherals can include multiple timers, high-speed analog, Ethernet connectivity, and built-in safety functions. With these inclusive safety solutions, manufacturers can apply their safety methods to the RX631 and RX63N systems they use.

The included safety manual provides engineers with an analysis of the IEC61508 functional safety standard. The RX MCU’s hardware safety mechanism, diagnostic methods of software with its diagnostic coverage, and the safety parameters for each function of the MCU are explained in the manual.

Renesas’ line of safety solutions for the RX361 and RX63N were showcased at the recent SPS IPC Drives event in Germany. Renesas’ Functional Safety Solution will be available early next year.

Story via Renesas