| AMD offers free Geode-based mini-mobo design |
Oct. 03, 2005
 AMD is offering a free design for an embedded mini-motherboard incorporating its low-power Geode GX embedded processor. The Geode GX SBC RDK (single-board-computer reference design kit) includes schematics, board layout files, and documentation. It targets applications such as network appliances, kiosks, point-of-sale terminals, and thin-client terminals, according to the company.
(Click here for larger image of RDK board)
The SBC design is based on AMD's Geode GX 466@0.9W processor. The processor is complemented by the CS5536 companion chip, which provides USB 2.0, audio, ATA 100, and an LPC (low pin count) bus interface for "legacy" I/O expansion. The 4.7 x 5.3 inch, 4-layer board meets the latest international standards for lead-free components, according to AMD.
GX RDK block diagram
(Click image for larger view)
Summary of SBC specs
AMD lists the following key features and specifications for the GX-based SBC that is defined by the RDK: - Processor -- Geode GX 466@0.9W clocked at 333 MHz
- Display interface -- supports CRT and TFT displays, at resolutions up to 1600x1200
- Memory -- socket for DDR DRAM (sizes unspecified)
- 10-100Mbps Ethernet
- 4 USB 2.0 ports
- Mini IDE interface supports ATA 100
- Audio -- connectors for headphone out, microphone in
- LPC expansion bus -- LPC daughter card provides 2 serial ports and 1 parallel port
- JTAG connector
- Board size -- 4.7 x 5.3 inches
- Power consumption -- 6W typical, 1W standby (based on no fan, powered by 12V external adapter)
- BIOS support -- available from Insyde Software and General Software
- Operating systems supported -- Linux, Windows CE, Windows XP Embedded
 | | (Click image to enlarge) |
What's in the RDK?
AMD says the Geode GX SBC RDK comprises schematics, board layout, and "full documentation," as well as a complete software driver package.
Although AMD has apparently also developed a 5.5 x 5 inch enclosure to accommodate the SBC, the RDK does not include design design details on the enclosure (pictured here), according to an AMD source.
Nonstandard form-factor
Interestingly, rather than making use of an existing industry standard form-factor such as mini-ITX (6.7 x 6.7 inches) and nano-ITX (4.7 x 4.7 inches), AMD has opted to roll its own intermediately-sized mini-motherboard format, measuring 4.7 x 5.3 inches. AMD used the identical board size for an earlier RDK based on a Geode GX 533@1.1W.
Also noteworthy, is the absence of headers or slots for expansion buses and cards common to consumer electronic devices such as Mini PCI, PC Card (PCMCIA), SD/MMC, CompactFlash, etc. Instead, expansion is limited to devices connected via the SBC's external USB 2.0 connectors or onboard LPC header.
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