Nowadays, new and powerful algorithms are developed by telecom engineers to enhance the communication link capacity and robustness. However, the step to build a demonstrator in order to validate the performance of the algorithm is huge. Therefore, we conceived a generic platform that closes this know-how gap by defining reusable modular hardware concepts and Linux driver development software. The hardware concepts feature dedicated high-speed data links, flexible configurable hardware, integration of Intellectual Property (IP) cores and built-in debug facilities. The boards are Compact PCI compliant and can be plugged in a standard shelf to build a system. These platform concepts will find a first application in the demonstration of a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) system.