Multi-core Rugged COM Uses PowerPC to Achieve Unprecedented Processing Speeds

AMBLER, PA, January 13, 2012 (Press-News.org) MEN Micro Inc., a world-renowned provider of embedded computing and I/O solutions for mission-critical industrial, mobile and harsh environment applications, now offers a PowerPC-based rugged computer-on-module (COM) that offers speeds up to 1.5 GHz via multi-core processing. Equipped with a Freescale QorIQ processor, the new XM51 is an extension on MEN Micro's family of ruggedized COMs based on the space-saving ESMexpress standard, currently in preparation with ANSI/VITA as RSE 59.

When coupled with an application-specific carrier board, the compact XM51 becomes a semi-custom solution for industrial, harsh, medical engineering, mobile and mission-critical environments. The COM is scalable as well, from an eight-core, high-end data processing unit to an energy- and cost-efficient four-core module. Regardless of configuration, all versions feature multi-core and advanced processing capabilities, including encryption.

The computer-on-module supports four USB 2.0 interfaces with host function and one USB client port, two Gigabit Ethernet channels, two 3 Gigabit SATA ("gen 2") and two PCI Express x1 links with 5 Gbits/s each (PCIe 2.x), which can be made accessible on any ESMexpress carrier.

The XM51 offers 16 GB of soldered DDR3 SDRAM memory with ECC, which - thanks to the QorIQ technology - is controlled by one or two controllers and can be assigned to the processor cores as desired. Up to 128 KB of onboard non-volatile FRAM and 256 MB of Flash provide more memory options, which can be expanded via USB on the carrier board.

As with all ESMexpress modules, the COM is installed in a closed, conduction-cooled housing that allows the module's high-performance operation in temperatures from -40°C to +85°C, while guaranteeing 100% EMC protection. All components are soldered against shock and vibration and prepared for coating against humidity or dust.

ESMexpress combines advanced cooling techniques, the latest serial buses and rugged components with the common COM concept. COMs are complete computers on a mezzanine board that use a standard CPU with I/O configuration only required on a carrier board to allow for individual functionality tailored to the specific application.

ESMexpress is designed for extreme resistance against shock and vibration. Modules are firmly secured to the board with eight screws and come with rugged industry-proven connectors supporting high frequency and differential signals. All ESMexpress modules use a single, space-saving 95 mm x 125 mm form factor.

Pricing for the XM51 is $3370. Delivery is six to eight weeks ARO.

For additional information, visit http://www.menmicro.com/15XM51-.html or contact Stephen Cunha, MEN Micro Inc., 24 N. Main Street, Ambler, Pa. 19002; Phone: 215-542-9575; Fax: 215-542-9577; E-mail: Stephen.Cunha@menmicro.com.

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UPCOMING TRADESHOWS: VITA's Embedded Tech Trends (ETT), Jan 16-17, 2012, Cocoa Beach, Fla.; Embedded World, Hall 2 Booth 2-220; Feb 28-Mar 1, 2012; Nuremberg, Germany.

READER SERVICE INQUIRIES: Please forward all reader service inquiries to Stephen Cunha, MEN Micro Inc., 24 N. Main Street, Ambler, Pa. 19002; E-mail: Stephen.Cunha@menmicro.com.

About MEN Micro Inc.
Since its inception, MEN Micro has focused on innovation, reliability and flexibility to develop standard and custom embedded boards and systems that employ the highest technology and innovations. The company provides a robust offering of highly reliable embedded computing and I/O solutions widely used in extreme environmental conditions found in industrial and safety-critical applications.

MEN Micro offers more than 100 standard boards and systems based on Intel and PowerPC with corresponding BIOS, BSP and driver software as well as a host of custom solutions. In addition to CompactPCI, CompactPCI PlusIO, CompactPCI Serial and VMEbus SBCs, the company's products include DAL and SIL certified safe computer assemblies; ESMexpress, ESMini and ESM Computer-On-Modules; PMC, XMC and M-Modules as system-independent mezzanine I/O standards; box and display computers; and network components, gateways and Ethernet switches.

Starting with development, through design-in and beyond, MEN Micro provides its customers with advice and support as well as environmental qualification services in accordance with industry standards. MEN Micro is the US subsidiary of MEN Mikro Elektronik in Germany, which has over 200 employees worldwide and is a member of several industry associations, consortiums and alliances.