| Tiny X86 module runs Linux |
Dec. 18, 2007
 Icop Technology has announced a "low-power embedded controller" that is effectively a complete headless PC crammed onto a board measuring just 4 x 2.6 inches. The VSX-6115 runs Linux on a 32-bit x86-compatible system-on-chip (SoC) clocked at 300MHz.
(Click here for a larger view of the VSX-6115)
The VSX-6115 is based on the Vortex86SX SoC introduced in October by Icop's parent company, DM&P Electronics. While DM&P has previously employed the Vortex86SX SoC in its VSX-6190 and VSX-6190S boards, and its eBox-2300SX mini-PC, the tiny new VSX-6115 board really shows off the SoC's high level of integration to best dramatic advantage.
Produced via a 0.13 micron process, the Vortex86SX is said to consume only 0.9W at 300MHz, and 0.2W at 66MHz. It packs numerous functions into its tight 27 x 27 mm package, including a 32-bit, x86-compatible CPU, plus extensive northbridge and southbridge functions. On-chip controllers include serial, parallel, USB, GPIO (general purpose I/O lines), watchdog timer, counter, and a 10/100Mbps Ethernet controller (NE2000 compatible) -- see block diagram, below.
Vortex86 SoC block diagram
(Click to enlarge)
In addition to the SoC, the new Icop module includes an AMI BIOS, lithium backup battery, and 128MB of power-efficient DDR2 RAM. The tiny board literally bristles with pin headers, as detailed by the callouts in the picture below. The only typical PC functionality the module doesn't offer is graphics output, but this can be added via its ISA interface and an optional Icop-2720 module, according to the company.
The VSX-6115 has a wide range of interfaces
Icop says the VSX-6155 can also provide mass storage via the option of either a 2MB flash disk or a 16MB EmbedDisk module from MSTI (yet another DM&P company). Additional VSX-6115 features and specifications listed by Icop include:- Processor -- Vortex86SX SoC clocked at 300MHz
- Memory -- 128MB DDR2 RAM
- Storage -- 2MB flash or 16MB EmbedDisk (optional)
- Networking -- 10/100 Ethernet
- Other I/O:
- 1 x EIDE (UltraDMA 100/66/33)
- 3 x RS232
- 1 x RS232/485
- 1 x USB 2.0
- 1 x parallel
- keyboard/mouse
- 1 x 32-bit GPIO
- JTAG
- Expansion -- 16-bit ISA via Icop's x-ISA interface
- Dimensions -- 4 x 2.6 inches (100 x 66 mm)
- Weight -- 2.7 ounces (76g)
- Operating temperature -- -20 to 70 deg. C
- Power requirements -- 5VDC @ 300mA
Pricing and availability information for the VSX-6115 was not released by Icop, but the board appears to be available from several distributors for approximately $110.
In addition to Linux, the VSX-6115 runs Windows CE and DOS, according to Icop.
Related Stories:
(Click here for further information)
|
|
|
7 Advantages of D2D Backup
For decades, tape has been the backup medium of choice. But, now, disk-to-disk (D2D) backup is gaining in favor. Learn why you should make the move in this whitepaper.
4 Legal Reasons to Control Internet Access
The Internet is obviously a valuable resource for many organizations. However, many are exposed to legal liability concerns because they fail to control Internet access. Learn if you're safe in this white paper.
Rapidly Resolve J2EE Application Problems
Whether you are in the process of building J2EE applications or have J2EE applications already running in production, you must ensure that they deliver the expected ROI. Learn how in this white paper.
Load Testing 2.0 for Web 2.0
There are many unknowns in stress testing Web 2.0 applications. Find out how to test the performance of Web 2.0 in this white paper.
Build Better Games Online
For the game infrastructure providers, life is complex. Making money from games has become more complicated. Why? Find out in this white paper.
Building a Virtual Infrastructure from Servers to Storage
This white paper discusses the virtual storage solutions that reduce cost, increase storage utilization, and address the challenges of backing up and restoring Server environments.
Gaining Faster Wireless Connections with WiMAX
Welcome to what is quickly becoming the hyperconnected world where anything that would benefit from being connected to the network will be connected. Learn more in this white paper.
Is Your Desktop a Security Threat?
The new wave of sophisticated crimeware not only targets specific companies, but also targets desktops and laptops as backdoor entryways into those business’ operations and resources. Learn how to stay safe in this white paper.
Increasing SAN Reliability by 100 Percent
Storage area networks (SAN) are a strong part of storage plans. Learn how to increase your reliability and uptime by 100 percent in this case study.
|
|
|
|
|
news feed