Network Enabled Resource Devices (NERDs) combine the most common electronic components used in robotic applications into a standard electronics box with "plug-n-play" capabilities. Risk reduction efforts, systems testing and integration, and modifying the functionality of evolving systems becomes greatly simplified by standardizing core hardware and software components; in many cases, minimal software modifications are required to adapt an existing NERD for an emergent application. Internal components include an integral DC-DC converter, a wireless bridge and hub allowing point-to-multipoint communications, an audio/video hardware CODEC, a RISC-based processor with FPGA-based I/O, and a GPS receiver. NERDs can accept 12-36VDC to power all components and are compatible with standard military batteries. Two 8-pin input/output data ports connected directly to the embedded processor allow for a wide range of control flexibility in a variety of applications. Implementations to date include controlling a non-lethal weapons pod on the MDARS-Exterior robot, an intelligent garage-door opener for the exterior robot refueling area, a communications/GPS module for a security team response vehicle, and an embedded controller for intruder detection systems.
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