Compact computer puts processor on CompactFlash

Based on the Analog Devices BF533 Blackfin processor, entry-level CoCo systems are clocked at 500MHz with 32Mbyte SDRAM and 8Mbyte Flash

C Data Solutions, the company that developed a complete ucLinux SBC in CompactFlash format, has released its successor, the CoCo (compact computer) which has been designed in line with customer feedback. The new unit maintains the CompactFlash format (42 x 37 x 5mm) but adds new features and improved performance to address many new application areas.
Based on the Analog Devices BF533 Blackfin processor, entry-level CoCo systems are clocked at 500MHz with 32Mbyte SDRAM and 8Mbyte Flash.

The systems can be upgraded to 600 or 750MHz processors, 64Mbyte SDRAM and 16Mbyte Flash.

The CoCo has two 50-way connectors, one of which provides access to all the Blackfin peripherals, including: a parallel peripheral interface supporting ITU-R 656 video data formats; a dual-channel full-duplex synchronous serial port supporting eight stereo I2S channels; an SPI-compatible port; three timer/counters with PWM support; a UART with support for IrDA; and a debug/JTAG interface.
What makes CoCo different is the second (bottom) connector.

This provides 46 digital I/O lines from an onboard FPGA, which is programmed as a CompactFlash COM port.

This allows the CoCo to be plugged directly into a CF slot on any host computer.

This could be a laptop, PDA or legacy equipment, and opens up new markets, such as: secure applications/encryption on laptops or PDAs; software acceleration for existing products and legacy equipment nearing the end of life; adding additional I/O; and FPGA acceleration.

The interface also supports a host mode, which allows the CoCo to drive the CompactFlash and control other CompactFlash cards.

This allows miniature systems to be constructed.

The FPGA can also be reprogrammed to provide any interface.

Whether this is used to mop up system glue logic, provide proprietary buses or build multiprocessor systems using shared memory or message passing is completely up to the user.

The CoCo FPGA can be reprogrammed to mimic any CF interface.

It can be programmed to be a storage card.