High-performance data-streaming modules at show

Adlink Technology is showing two members of its new line of Computers on Module (COMs) called ETXexpress-IW400 and ETXexpress-DW400 at the Embedded World 2007 in Nuremberg, Germany. The ETXexpress-IW400 and ETXexpress-DW400 modules are based on the PCI Express bus and are intended for high-performance data-streaming applications such as data communications, telecommunications, storage, display processing and video acquisition. The ETXexpress-IW400, is based on a Dothan Intel Celeron M or Pentium M processor and Intel's new 3100 chipset for high-bandwidth applications.

The ETXexpress-DW400, offers identical functions but will be able to support higher performance processors such as the Intel Core Duo and Intel Core2 Duo.

The form factor and pinout of both modules are fully compliant with the PICMG COM Express Basic form factor, type 2 specification.

Both modules are based on Intel's new 3100 chipset for embedded applications which combines server-class memory and I/O controller functions.

This chipset is specifically optimised for embedded applications requiring high bandwidth.

The ETXexpress-IW400 and ETXexpress-DW400 can support either a single PCI Express x8 lane with four x1 lanes or two PCI Express x4 lanes with four x1 lanes.

The modules provide both PCI and LPC buses, four Serial ATA and one PATA port, one Intel gigabit Ethernet port, four USB 2.0 ports, and a serial debug port.

Memory is either supported as a single horizontal SODIMM socket, or two vertical SODIMM sockets to achieve a maximum capacity of 4Gbyte of DDR2 memory.

PICMG COM Express modules, facilitate the convergence of the latest technology standards based on serial differential signalling such as PCI Express, USB 2.0, SATA, LVDS and Serial DVO.

These standards are implemented on a compact, 95 x 125mm, Computer on Module.

Signals are brought out through two 220-pin board-to-board connectors that permit data transmission rates up to 5GHz.

Six mounting holes connect the module with a custom-made, application specific carrier board which provides protection from shock and vibration.