I am using the Aardvark I2C/SPI Host Adapter for developing related SMBus functions, including (ARP). I found some information about using the Aardvark adapter with SMBus protocols, but I could use more details. Is additional information available?
Response from Technical Support:Thank you for your question! We have information to help you get started and to better understand why the Aardvark I2C/SPI Host Adapter can interact with SMBus. The Promira Serial Platform with the I2C Active Application, Level 1 or Level 2, can also work with SMBus.
Setting up the Host Adapter with SMBus Devices
To get started, we recommend using Control Center Serial Software, a free application that provides easy access to all the features of the Aardvark adapter. You can enter commands and view interactions as they occur, as well as create batch scripts for running a large or repetitive series of commands. Refer to this document for a set of instructions for launching Control Center Serial Software for interacting with SMBus devices.
We also have an article about using the Aardvark adapter to prototype and present SMBus devices:
- Using Control Center Serial Software to emulate SMBus interactions
- Setting the parameters for communicating with an SMBus slave device
- Using the I2C/SPI Activity Board as the slave device – this is an effective tool for developing, testing, and debugging a new design
For more detailed control of the interface, you can use the Aardvark Software API to develop scripts that are specific for your setup requirements. Several programming languages are supported and functional scripts are provided that can be used as is or modified as needed.
Why I2C is Compatible with SMBus
SMBus is a constrained I2C protocol and is compatible with I2C devices. This enables an Aardvark adapter to implement the SMBus. If needed, the GPIO function can be used to send the SMBALERT# signal, which is used for requesting attention from the Controller.
Please note – the Aardvark adapter, as well as the Promira platform can emulate a SMBus slave, but neither can act as an active slave.
We hope this answers your question. Additional resources that you may find helpful include the following:
- Aardvark I2C/SPI Host Adapter User Manual
- Data Center Software User Manual
- SMBus Protocol
- Differences between I2C and SMBus
- SMBus – I2C
If you want more information, feel free to contact us with your questions, or request a demo that applies to your application.