Compact, rugged high capacity SBC for embedded OEM work

Paul Boughton

Lisa Duckett outlines the benefits and features of a new single board computer designed for embedded OEM applications.

VersaLogic Corp is shipping a new PC/104-Plus single board computer (SBC) for embedded OEM applications. The Manx is a mid-range single board computer (SBC) featuring a highly efficient AMD Geode LX 800 processor. The product is function and pin-out compatible with VersaLogic's older Puma SBC, offering customers a higher performance migration path from that popular product. The new Manx incorporates mid-range processing speed (500 MHz) with very low power consumption (less than 5 watts).

The ACPI suspend-to-RAM state feature reduces power draw to an incredible 0.2 watts between active sessions.

This high-reliability fanless design is available in both standard (0° to 60°C) and extended (-40° to 85°C) temperature versions. The low power consumption, compact design, and soldered-on RAMmake the Manx an ideal choice for demanding embedded computing applications in markets including defense, aerospace, medical equipment, and industrial automation.

The Manx has standard on-board features that include 256 MB of soldered-on DRAM, 10/100 Ethernet, four USB 2.0 ports, LPT port, IDE interface, three COM ports, and analogue audio. A CompactFlash socket provides reliable, high-capacity on-board storage with no moving parts. Integrated high-performance video capabilities support simultaneous analogue VGA and LVDS output at resolutions up to 1600x1200 with 32-bit color and MMX + 3DNow! graphics for video-intensive applications. The PC/104-Plus expansion interface supports both ISA and PCI add-on modules.

As with other VersaLogic embedded computer boards, the Manx features a Phoenix Software (formerly General Software) reprogrammable BIOS which supports custom defaults and the addition of firmbase security applications, remote booting, and other pre-OS software functions.

The Manx is fully RoHS-compliant and compatible with a variety of popular embedded operating systems, including Windows CE/XP, Linux, VxWorks, and QNX.

Customisation of the Manx is available, even in low OEM quantities. Options include conformal coating, BIOS customisations, revision locks, custom labelling, high-G shock and vibration treatment, custom testing and screening, etc.

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Lisa Duckett is Directcor of Marketing with VersaLogic Corp based in Eugene, Oregon, USA. www.VersaLogic.com