In autonomous systems like drones and robots, real-time communication between processing units, sensors, and actuators is crucial for smooth operation. JetCore, a high-performance carrier board for NVIDIA Jetson modules, provides the necessary hardware interfaces to connect AI computing with flight controllers, motor drivers, and sensors.
JetCore enables sensor fusion, data processing, and communication between the Jetson module and external hardware using PWM, CAN, and UART. These interfaces allow seamless integration of motors, servos, and sensors, making JetCore an essential component in AI-powered autonomous systems.
1. Understanding JetCore’s Communication Interfaces
JetCore acts as a bridge between the Jetson module and external hardware, enabling drones and robots to communicate with flight controllers, motor controllers, and sensors. It facilitates this communication through the following interfaces:
🔹 PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) – Used by flight controllers and motor drivers to control motors and servos.
🔹 CAN (Controller Area Network) – Ensures real-time, low-latency data exchange between sensors, motor controllers, and other peripherals.
🔹 UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter) – Handles telemetry, debugging, and communication with flight controllers and sensors.
Since JetCore itself does not generate PWM signals, it relies on flight controllers (like PX4, ArduPilot) and motor drivers to handle motor control.
2. How JetCore Enables Motor & Servo Control via PWM
What is PWM?
Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) is a technique used to control motors, servos, and ESCs (Electronic Speed Controllers) by adjusting the duty cycle of a signal. This regulates motor speed, servo position, and actuator response.
How JetCore Works with PWM-Based Systems
JetCore does not generate PWM signals, but it plays a crucial role in AI-based navigation and sensor fusion, allowing for intelligent motor control by:
✔ Processing sensor data using the Jetson module (e.g., LiDAR, depth cameras, GPS, IMU).
✔ Sending navigation insights to the flight controller via CAN, UART, or Ethernet.
✔ Flight controller then generates PWM signals to adjust motor speed and servo position.
🔹 Example:
A drone detects an obstacle using LiDAR and vision-based AI running on Jetson. JetCore transmits this detection data to the flight controller over UART or CAN, allowing the flight controller to modify PWM signals and adjust motor speeds to avoid the obstacle.
3. CAN Bus: Reliable Communication for Autonomous Systems
What is CAN Bus?
CAN (Controller Area Network) is a fault-tolerant, high-speed communication protocol used in automotive, robotics, and industrial automation to exchange data between devices.
How JetCore Uses CAN for Motor & Sensor Communication
✔ Connects to flight controllers, motor controllers, and industrial automation systems.
✔ Receives real-time sensor data from LiDARs, GPS, IMUs, and other peripherals.
✔ Provides a reliable, low-latency communication channel for AI-driven navigation.
🔹 Example:
A CAN-enabled LiDAR module sends real-time 3D point cloud data to JetCore. The Jetson module processes this data and sends refined navigation insights to the flight controller over CAN.
4. UART: Essential for Telemetry & Peripheral Communication
What is UART?
Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter (UART) is a serial communication protocol used for transmitting and receiving data between devices without requiring a clock signal.
How JetCore Uses UART
✔ Communicates with flight controllers (PX4, ArduPilot) for telemetry and mission updates.
✔ Receives data from GPS, IMU, and other serial sensors.
✔ Interfaces with debugging tools and external communication modules.
🔹 Example:
A ground control station sends a waypoint update to the drone via a telemetry module connected to JetCore’s UART port. The flight controller then adjusts navigation based on this data.
5. Why JetCore’s Communication Capabilities Matter
JetCore is an essential AI processing hub for autonomous drones and robotics, enabling seamless communication between sensors, flight controllers, and motor controllers.
✔ Seamless Flight Controller Integration – Works with PX4, ArduPilot, and industrial motor controllers.
✔ Multi-Sensor Support – Interfaces with LiDAR, depth cameras, GPS, IMU, and radar.
✔ AI-Driven Decision Making – Runs deep learning inference onboard using the Jetson module.
✔ Low-Latency Communication – Ensures real-time data exchange with peripherals.
✔ Scalable & Versatile – Ideal for industrial UAVs, robotics, and automation systems.
Unlock the Full Potential of JetCore in Robotics & Drones
JetCore provides seamless hardware integration and AI processing support, enabling real-time sensor fusion, autonomous navigation insights, and AI-powered automation.
🔗 Power your autonomous system with JetCore – Order Now
