New performance levels for 15 watt class of fanless embedded systems achieved

Paul Boughton

congatec AG has introduced four new COM Express compact modules parallel to the launch of the new 6th generation Intel Core processors (codename Skylake).

The new modules are specially designed for challenging applications that demand high performance in sealed, fanless system designs. They feature a 15 watt configurable TDP and are equipped exclusively with the energy-saving ULV-SoC editions based on new 14nm microarchitecture. Compared to 15 watt modules with fifth generation processors (codename Broadwell), users benefit from improvements in graphics and processing performance, enhanced energy efficiency and more high-speed I/Os.

Typical fanless applications for congatec COM Express compact modules can be found in medical and industrial imaging, central control room technology, shop floor terminals, HMIs, robotics, professional gaming, infotainment, professional AV, smart video surveillance, autonomous vehicle control, computer-aided situational awareness as well as high-end digital signage applications. Graphics card free, triple-head systems - for example in the areas of retail and kiosks, where embedded systems control up to three independent cash or vending machines - present a further application example.

Users of the new computer modules will benefit from the high level of standardsation and scalability of the COM Express modules combined with congatec's extensive documentation, industry-grade driver implementations and extensive customer support, which enable OEMs to integrate the latest processor technology quickly and efficiently into their individual applications. All modules are offered with long-term availability and software support of at least seven years. The software support includes, for example, enhanced security features as well as regular UEFI/BIOS updates and BSP patches. Customers thus benefit from reliable support over the entire lifetime of their applications.