OpenVPX is an effort by a joint group of companies to provide definitions for system interoperability. VPX is a highly flexible architecture, allowing a wide range of configurations and topology options. OpenVPX provides an easier way to ensure interoperability between VPX systems. The VPX Modules and Slots across the backplanes have been given definitions so that similar Modules will work within certain Slot configurations. The backplane Configurations have been defined to show the collection of Slot profiles it entails, including information on the data rate, routing topology, and fabric used. Now, the integrator can determine that a daughter card Module from “X” company can be used in the same backplane slot as “Y” company’s, when both Module Profiles specify the same Slot Profile.

The OpenVPX efforts have been sent to the VITA 65 Working Group within the VITA Standards Organization (VSO) for voting on its ratification in VITA. Elma was a co-sponsor of the VITA 65 specification. 

The stated target for the completion of the VITA 65 specification is Q1 2010. Elma is a member of the steering committee and also participates in a number of sub-committees.