Kohler Power Systems

Nucleus RTOS Chosen for the MPAC 1500 Controller from Kohler

Developers at Kohler first looked at embedded operating system vendors that supported their chosen processor, the Nios II, an FPGA-based processor from Altera. Because the Nios II was a new processor, Kohler developers were happy to learn that Mentor Graphics was one of the first companies with an RTOS to provide support for it. They were also pleased with Mentor's wide variety of complementary middleware products including a networking, USB, file management, and more. Developers used several of these services to help shorten their development cycle.

Nucleus RTOS has a successful reputation for providing the foundation for many embedded applications in the industrial controls market. Other enticing features of the Nucleus software package include well-documented source code and a flexible business model.

 

The Kohler MPAC 1500

Kohler MPAC 1500The Kohler MPAC 1500 is an industrial controller that integrates flexibility and convenience into all of Kohler's transfer switches. Communication to critical power systems provides essential monitoring through Ethernet or RS-485 LAN line and both are standard with the MPAC 1500. This allows the user to interface to their own management system's or Kohler's Monitor III™ software program to see critical information essential to keeping their system optimal. Whether the power system is local, remote or connected directly to the customer's management system, the MPAC 1500 allows for a simple, integrated interface with the Kohler power system. The Kohler MPAC 1500 also features the industry's first USB port for convenient, inexpensive and simplified data loading and downloading capability.

Overall, our experience with Mentor Graphics has proven to be a positive and successful one, and we look forward to working with them again in the future.”

Zane Eaton, Manager, Control Electronics at Kohler

About Kohler Power

Kohler Power Systems is a division of Kohler Co., and provides complete power systems, including generators (stationary, mobile and marine), automatic transfer switches, switchgear, monitoring controls, and accessories for emergency, prime power and energy-management applications. Kohler Power Systems delivers energy solutions for markets worldwide. Founded in 1873 and headquartered in Kohler, Wis., USA, Kohler Co. is one of the nation's oldest and largest privately held companies. Kohler is a worldwide leader in the manufacturing of kitchen and bath products, utility engines and power generation systems, home interiors and hospitality services.

Kohler Power's MPAC 1500 Controller

Tools Used

  • Nucleus

    Nucleus OS is an efficient real-time operating system (RTOS) with storage and database management, USB, networking and connectivity, multimedia technology and advanced graphical user interface capabilities.

  • Nucleus Kernel

    Nucleus Kernel services are designed, but not limited to, embedded applications such as medical devices, consumer electronics, set-top boxes, cell phones, and other portable and handheld devices

  • Nucleus Storage and Database

    Nucleus OS offers a comprehensive set of storage and data management services to address this requirement.

  • Nucleus Networking

    The Nucleus Networking components of Mentor's Nucleus OS incorporate a wide range of networking and communication protocols, drivers, and utilities to ensure maximum throughput with low-resource usage.

  • Nucleus USB

    Nucleus OS provides a complete industry-certified USB solution to help eliminate the complexities of using USB technology in embedded devices.