Next Generation of ESMexpress Modules with Intel Core 2 Duo Reach Faster Speeds; Provide Increased Data Integrity by Beth Smith

Next Generation of ESMexpress Modules with Intel Core 2 Duo Reach Faster Speeds; Provide Increased Data Integrity
by: Beth Smith

AMBLER, Pa. March 2009 – MEN Micro Inc., a world-renowned provider of embedded computing and I/O solutions for demanding industrial, mobile and harsh environment applications, now offers the next generation of ESMexpress products with the new XM2, based on the latest Intel Core 2 Duo SP9300 processor with a clock frequency of up to 2.26 GHz.

The advanced Intel processor combined with the ruggedization and low development costs of the ESMexpress standard make the new XM2 an extremely cost-effective choice for a variety of harsh, mobile and mission-critical environments found in the railway, avionics, industrial automation and medical engineering industries. The XM2 provides levels of processing speed and data integrity previously unobtainable by other system-on-modules (SOMs).

The XM2 is also equipped with the new Intel GS45 graphics controller that provides a x16 PCI Express graphics link or up to two SDVO interfaces, a DisplayPort or two HDMI ports. The new Core 2 Duo-based module also features a host of I/O functions, including four x1 or one x4 PCI Express links as well as two Gigabit Ethernet ports, eight USB ports, three SATA ports and one HD audio port.

The XM2’s standard 4 GB of DDR3 DRAM memory combined with other memory capacities, such as USB Flash on the carrier board, creates virtually unlimited space for data storage. Screened operating temperature is 0°C to +60°C (+32°F to +140°F) for both convection and conduction cooling.

The XM2 dissipates up to 40 Watts via the advanced fanless cooling system defined by the ESMexpress standard. Because the populated PCB is mounted to a frame and completely enclosed in an aluminum housing, the board provides 100 percent EMI protection.

The fixed pin assignment guarantees that ESMexpress modules remain interchangeable. A board management controller supervises temperature and power consumption. The included Insyde H2O EFI BIOS is configurable for the final application.

ESMexpress, currently in development as ANSI-VITA 59, RSE Rugged System-On-Module Express, combines advanced cooling techniques, the latest serial buses and rugged components with the SOMs model (also known as computers-on-modules or COMs). SOMs are complete computers on a mezzanine board that use a standard CPU with I/O configuration only required on a carrier board to allow for individual functionality tailored to the specific application.

ESMexpress is designed for extreme resistance against shock and vibration. Modules are firmly secured to the board with eight screws and come with rugged industry-proven connectors supporting high frequency and differential signals. All ESMexpress modules support a single 95 mm x 125 mm form factor.

Via an adapter board that complies with the COM.0 Basic Form Factor Type 2 and adapts the mechanics and pin-out, ESMexpress modules can be used on COM Express carrier boards and vice versa.

Pricing for the XM2 ESMexpress module starts at $ 1,911. Delivery is six weeks ARO.

For additional information, visit http://www.menmicro.com/products/15XM02-.html or contact Stephen Cunha, MEN Micro Inc., 24 N. Main Street, Ambler, Pa. 19002; Phone: 215-542-9575; Fax: 215-542-9577; E-mail: Stephen.Cunha@menmicro.com.

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UPCOMING TRADESHOWS: rts Embedded Systems 2009; Booth# 16-18, Hall 8; 3/31-4/2; Paris, France.

About MEN Micro Inc.

Since 1982, MEN Micro has focused on innovation, reliability and flexibility to develop standard and custom board-level solutions used throughout industrial embedded applications and harsh environments.

The company provides a robust offering of highly reliable embedded computing and I/O solutions that employ the highest technology and innovations. In addition, MEN Micro offers exceptional custom development and environmental qualification services in accordance with industry standards. The company’s standard product range contains more than 100 different computer boards and systems with corresponding BIOS, BSP and driver software based on different PowerPC and Pentium platforms.

The company has nearly 200 employees and is a member of several industry associations, consortiums and alliances.

About The Author

Since 1982, MEN Micro has focused on innovation, reliability and flexibility to develop standard and custom board-level solutions used throughout industrial embedded applications and harsh environments.