Modules embed latest STMicroelectronics processor

The ETX-e.lite and DIMM-PC/lite computer-on-module lines are the first fruits of Kontron's collaborative work with STMicroelectronics.

The ETX-e.lite and DIMM-PC/lite computer-on-module lines are the first fruits of Kontron's collaborative work with STMicroelectronics.

These COM products both use with the 100MHz STPC Elite processor, and are ideal for simple, high-volume embedded applications.

Thanks to the STPC Elite processor, DIMM-PC and ETX computer-on-module products can now make use of the advantages of module technology in cost-sensitive mass market applications in areas such as building security, low-end numerical control, SOHO applications, GPS/GPRS solutions, set-top boxes and low-power test and measurement equipment.

Instead of designing a complex system with STPC Elite processors from the ground up, developers can now concentrate on implementation of application-relevant functions on the baseboard.

Besides operating in embedded modules, 100MHz STPC Elite processors run on a PC/104 MOPS CPU board from Kontron.

The DIMM-PC/lite is available in lite-I, lite-IE and lite-IU versions.

Features on all versions include a processor with 486-class performance and an integrated floating point unit, 32Mbyte of SDRAM (running at 100MHz, like the processor) and 32Mbyte of IDE-compatible Flash.

The need for active cooling has been eliminated through the ultra-low-power design.

All of the usual - two serial, one parallel, keyboard and floppy - PC interfaces are standard on these lite DIMM-PCs.

Whereas the DIMM-PC/lite-I provides the basis for communications, DIMM-PC/lite-IU adds a USB 1.1 port.

The DIMM-PC/lite-IE replaces this with a 10Mbit Ethernet network interface.

On the ETX-e.lite, the STPC Elite processor is combined with 32Mbyte (optionally up to 128Mbyte) of low-cost soldered SDRAM.

A socket for CompactFlash is already on the module, and a vibration-proof Flash disk with up to 128Mbyte of storage capacity comes as an option.

Like its DIMM-PC cousins, the lite PC module can operate without active cooling due to its ultra-low-power design, making it ideal for use as a replacement microcontroller for networking without graphics when a fanless alternative is desired.

Despite its compact size, ETX-e.lite boasts all the standard PC interfaces: two serial interfaces, one parallel interface, two USB 1.1 ports and a 10/100Mbit Ethernet connection.

Up to four audio channels are optionally available.

STPC-based applications typically have lot sizes of up to 50,000 COM systems a year.

For even higher volumes, single-board designs are recommended.

STPC Elite processors, with their favourable combination of small size, low power consumption, good performance and true longevity (availability of 5 years or more), are ideal for space-critical modules such as ETX or DIMM-PC.

Besides being employed in classic x86 applications, these processors are increasingly being used as substitutes for proprietary embedded intelligence at the low-end range, where standard PC features such as Ethernet and embedded web services capability are embedded per se.

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