Embedded module uses power-saving notebook ICs

ETXexpress module is ideal for embedded applications that are temperature and power sensitive

Built around the Intel Core 2 Duo processor (up to 2.2GHz) and Intel's latest 965GM Express chipset that is part of the fourth generation of Intel's Centrino notebook platform, the new Kontron ETXexpress-MC is optimised for graphics applications and is billed as the most robust and power-efficient COM Express solution.

The Kontron ETXexpress-MC will feature up to 800MHz FSB for outstanding performance.

The clock speed can be dynamically reduced, as required by the operating workload.

Thus, this module offers an improved fit for a multitude of embedded applications including those that are temperature and power sensitive.

Additionally, the Kontron ETXexpress-MC design allows the processor to go into a deeper sleep state for even enhanced power efficiency.

The chipset logic recognises whether data is stored on the processor's on-chip cache memory or in RAM.

Consequently, the chipset does not have to wake up the processor to check the on-chip cache memory and unnecessarily draw on battery power.

The inclusion of onboard TPM 1.2 ensures that the Kontron ETXexpress-MC will be a superior fit for applications that call for enhanced security options.

Along with these eco-friendly features, the Kontron ETXexpress-MC will offer support for GEN4 graphics to meet the requirements of embedded applications that require advanced video capabilities.

It contains Intel's Direct-X9 compliant Graphics Media Accelerator (GMA) X3100 for piping video data through the pixel shaders.

The integrated DPST 3.0 display power saving technology saves up to 400mW of additional power by switching between progressive and interlaced display modes.

Planned for initial launch later this summer, the Kontron ETXexpress-MC will be one of the first COM Express pin-out type 2 compliant modules supporting fast dual-channel memory up to 4Gbyte via two 533MHz or 667MHZ DDR2 SO-DIMM sockets positioned on the top side of the module.

This latest COM Express solution has five PCI Express x1 lanes, three SerialATA ports, and eight USB 2.0 ports along with gigabit Ethernet to round out the list of standard features.

All Kontron ETXexpress COMs provide PCI Express, PCI 32, USB 2.0 and SerialATA that remain in the same physical positions on each module, guaranteeing scalability within the product family.

An Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) for optimised power management is standard on all Kontron ETXexpress modules.

Kontron's ETXexpress family of COM Express Computer-On-Modules are fully compliant with the industry standard controlled by the PCI Industrial Computer Manufacturer's Group.

The ETXexpress format represents a more cost-effective replacement versus time and resource-hungry full custom designs.

Time to market is dramatically reduced and future upgrades are as simple as choosing a new ETXexpress CPU module.

Therefore, the total cost of ownership of the end design is improved as well.

Samples of the Kontron ETXexpress-MC supporting Windows XP, 2000, XPe, CE and Linux will be available from Q3 2007.