Energy-efficient SBC targets rugged apps

Based on the energy-efficient single and dual core Intel Atom processors, Kontron PCI/104-Express SBC MICROSPACE MSM-LP provides a range of interfaces and an expansion options for applications. OEMs benefit from simplified integration in I/O-intensive applications. Additionally, its performance makes it an ideal substitute for previous Intel Pentium M designs.

Kontron PCI/104-Express SBC MICROSPACE MSM-LP is also compatible with the single-core Intel Atom processor D425 or the dual core Intel Atom D525 processor. A version for the extended temperature range of -40°C to +85°C is also present. It is said to be the ideal solution both for the upgrade of existing applications with the discontinued Intel 855 chip sets as well as new applications in the automation and transportation markets and other markets that rely on energy-efficient designs.

OEMs who want to upgrade existing applications also benefit from Kontron's extensive software services. As needed, they can outsource the porting, validation and migration of software to symmetric or asymmetric multi-processing and dual core architectures. This allows designers to focus valuable development resources on their core competencies.

All versions of the Kontron PCI/104-Express SBC MICROSPACE MSM-LP are said to provide hyper-threading for multi-processing applications. With up to 4GB DDR3 single channel system memory, Kontron MICROSPACE MSM-LP has resources to speed up even memory-intensive applications. 2Gb Ethernet connections, executed through the compatible Intel 82547L and 82567 controllers, allow reliable vertical networking, even in complex factory or transportation networks, without additional expansion cards. Four USB 2.0 and four serial interfaces (RS232/422/485) allow the direct connection of numerous application-specific peripheral devices.

With one IDE and two SATA ports, Kontron MICROSPACE MSM-LP enables the connection of up to three storage media devices. For especially space-saving and rugged applications, there is also an on-board SSD with up to 16GB capacity. The Kontron MSM-LP SBC allows for the integration of two displays through VGA (2048 x 1536 @ 60Hz) and LVDS. HD audio (HDA) rounds out the feature set.

Kontron PCI/104-Express SBC MICROSPACE MSM-LP supports Windows, Linux, VxWorks and others on request. Sample boards will be available in May 2011 and general availability serial production will begin in Q3 of 2011.