Rugged 12G-SDI Video Capture Module for Defence Video Processing

The WOLF-N180 is a rugged 12G-SDI video capture module.  Designed for defence, aerospace and embedded computing applications that demand reliable, high-bandwidth video acquisition in harsh environments. Built around WOLF’s second-generation FGX2 Frame Grabber technology.  Plus Xilinx Kintex UltraScale+ FPGA architecture.

The module captures, converts and transmits high-resolution video while supporting extremely low-latency data transfer to compatible NVIDIA-powered compute platforms.

Supporting up to two 12G-SDI or up to four 6G/3G/HD-SDI video inputs and outputs, the WOLF-N180 delivers a compact VNX+ solution for machine vision, synthetic vision and real-time video processing where Size, Weight and Power (SWaP) are critical design considerations.

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The WOLF VNXP-FGX2-VIO (WOLF-N180) is a rugged 12G-SDI video capture module.  Important to modern Defence systems because they rely on high-speed video acquisition.  In order to support ISR platforms, mission computing, autonomous systems, targeting, sensor fusion and advanced image processing.

The WOLF-N180 combines FPGA-based video capture, conversion and transmission.  All into a compact rugged module designed for these demanding embedded environments.

Integrated FGX2 technology provides 4K-capable digital frame grabbing and video conversion.  Whilst the PCIe Gen3 x4 connectivity enables efficient streaming to a host processor or GPU.  However, when paired with a compatible WOLF NVIDIA-powered SBC or GPU module.  The architecture supports extremely low-latency peer-to-peer communication that reduces CPU overhead during video processing or encoding.

The module is available with configurable power profiles between 12 W and 25 W and supports optional DDR4 memory to accommodate application-specific requirements.


Key Features

  • Rugged 12G-SDI video capture module for embedded defence applications
  • Integrated WOLF Frame Grabber eXtreme 2 (FGX2)
  • 4K-capable digital frame grabbing, video conversion and transmission
  • Up to two 12G-SDI inputs and outputs
  • Up to four 6G/3G/HD-SDI inputs and outputs
  • PCIe Gen3 x4 host interface
  • Built on Xilinx Kintex UltraScale+ FPGA technology
  • Low-latency peer-to-peer communication with compatible NVIDIA GPU and SBC modules
  • Optional DDR4 memory
  • Linux and Windows driver support
  • Optional VxWorks RTOS drivers
  • Rugged conduction-cooled VNX+ architecture
  • Operating temperature from -40°C to +85°C
  • Extended product lifecycle
  • MCOTS interface options supporting additional analogue and digital video standards

Designed for SWaP-Constrained Defence Platforms

The WOLF-N180 is designed for applications with limited space, weight, and power budgets, without compromising processing capability.

Its compact VNX+ form factor makes it suitable for embedded defence and aerospace platforms.  Especially, where traditional VPX solutions may be too large, including airborne, unmanned and space-constrained systems.

The conduction-cooled design supports operation across harsh environmental conditions while maintaining reliable video acquisition performance.


Flexible Video Interface Options

Beyond standard SDI connectivity, the WOLF-N180 supports Modular Commercial Off-The-Shelf (MCOTS) interface options.  Therefore, enabling deployment across a wide range of video standards.

Available interface options include support for:

  • 12G-SDI
  • 6G-SDI
  • 3G-SDI
  • ARINC 818
  • CoaXPress
  • DisplayPort
  • Custom analogue and digital video interfaces

This flexibility allows system designers to tailor the module to specific mission requirements.


Applications

The WOLF-N180 is designed for demanding embedded video applications including:

  • Defence mission computing
  • ISR systems
  • Machine vision
  • Synthetic vision
  • Real-time video processing
  • Video acquisition and distribution
  • FPGA-based video conversion
  • Embedded GPU processing platforms
  • Harsh environment computing

Technical Specifications

SpecificationDetails
ProductWOLF-N180
ArchitectureVNX+ Video I/O Module
FPGAXilinx Kintex UltraScale+
Video Capture4K-capable FGX2 Frame Grabber
Video InterfacesUp to 2 × 12G-SDI or up to 4 × 6G/3G/HD-SDI
Host InterfacePCIe Gen3 x4
Power12–25 W (configuration dependent)
CoolingRugged conduction cooled
Operating Temperature-40°C to +85°C
WeightApprox. 280 g
Dimensions101.6 × 78.1 × 19 mm
DriversLinux, Windows, optional VxWorks

Frequently Asked Questions

What video interfaces does the WOLF-N180 support?

The standard module supports up to two 12G-SDI or up to four 6G/3G/HD-SDI inputs and outputs. MCOTS options are available for additional video standards including ARINC 818, CoaXPress and DisplayPort.

Can the WOLF-N180 be integrated with NVIDIA-based embedded systems?

Yes. The module is designed to pair with compatible WOLF NVIDIA-powered SBC and GPU modules.  Enable extremely low-latency peer-to-peer communication for video processing and encoding workloads.

Is the WOLF-N180 suitable for harsh operating environments?

Yes. The module features a rugged conduction-cooled design.  Along with an operating temperature range of -40°C to +85°C.  Therefore, intended for deployment in demanding defence and aerospace environments.


Local Support

Metromatics supplies rugged solutions for defence and aerospace applications throughout Australia and New Zealand. Our engineering team can assist with product selection, system integration and application-specific configuration for WOLF rugged platforms.


Request Technical Information

Looking for a rugged 12G-SDI video capture module for your next defence project?

Contact the Metromatics engineering team to discuss system requirements, interface options for the WOLF-N180.

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