SDK simplifies USB device networking

Silex Technology America Inc. has launched a suite of software developer kits (SDKs) that enable device manufacturers to add functionality to their product for easily connecting and sharing virtually any USB device, including multifunction printers, storage and iPods, on a home or office network.

The SDK allows any type of USB device to connect with full compatibility. Since the USB products work across the network the same way as when connected directly via USB, the device manufacturer can offer their customers a very easy to use solution, with low support costs.

The SX Virtual USB SDK for Linux allows manufacturers to easily implement Silex "Virtual Link" functionality, which enables USB devices to communicate and be shared seamlessly on a network using USB over IP technology, into virtually any embedded network device that has a USB Host port.

The SDK has a very small memory footprint and only uses about 50Kbyte of ROM with low RAM requirements, and is designed to be very efficient. It can be used with any version of Linux compiler. The SDK code included is optimized for Linux 2.6.x and can be implemented in as little as 1 week.

"There are more and more homes with multiple computers and networks, making centralized access to USB devices an important application," said Keith Sugawara, general manager of Silex. "Silex Virtual Link technology allows device manufacturers to combine multiple functions into their network device, saving cost and offering distinct product differentiation."

The SX Virtual Link SDK for Windows and SX Virtual Link SDK for Macintosh allow manufacturers and system integrators to easily implement Silex "Virtual Link" functionality into Windows and Macintosh applications and communicate across the network with devices connected to Silex USB Device Servers or with devices which have integrated the SX Virtual USB SDK. It allows discovery, connection, disconnection, and other features to be available in Windows and Macintosh applications.

This software is the latest addition to Silex's family of connectivity products. Device manufacturers who do not have network connectivity hardware built in to their products can choose among external and internal hardware OEM solutions. These solutions offer the same features and capabilities, while providing time to market advantage in the hardware design.

The SX Virtual USB SDK for Linux and the SX Virtual Link SDK for Windows and Macintosh are available immediately.