SSV Embedded Systems has launched a new model in its tiny DIL/NetPC single-board computer (SBC) line that runs uClinux out of a 32-bit NIOS “soft-core” RISC processor in an Altera FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) instead of a hard-wired microprocessor. According to SSV, the module is ideal for Ethernet-enabled devices requiring very long product lifecycles.

(Click for larger view of SSV ADNP/ESC1)

ADNP/ESC1 components

SSV lists the following features and specs for the uClinux-based module:

• Altera 32-bit NIOS RISC Softcore with 512 internal Registers
• 50 MHz Operation
• 16 MByte SDRAM Memory with 32-bit Data Path
• 8 MByte Flash Memory with 16-bit Data Path
• 10/100 Mbps Ethernet LAN Interface
• Two asynchronous Serial Ports (one with Handshakes)
• 20-bit General Purpose high-speed Parallel I/O
• 16-bit ISA-like Expansion Bus
• IDE Interface with CompactFlash Support (True IDE Mode)
• Seven Interrupt Inputs
• Four Chip Select Outputs
• Programmable General Purpose Timers and Watchdog Timer
• JTAG IEEE 1149.1 Test Interface
• In-System Programming Features
• 128-pin QIL (Quad-In-Line) Connector, 2.54mm Centers
• 3.3 Volt Low Power Design, Supply Voltage 3.3 VDC (+- 5%)
• Supply Current 450 mA typ. at 50 MHz
• Size 82mm x 33mm

SSV offers a starter kit for the module that includes a networking and prototyping board, and several sample applications. uClinux is included as the embedded operating system, based on a 2.4 kernel. The operating system can be stored in Flash together with the TCP/IP protocol stack and the webserver, telnet daemon, and (T)FTP-server.

 
This article was originally published on LinuxDevices.com and has been donated to the open source community by QuinStreet Inc. Please visit LinuxToday.com for up-to-date news and articles about Linux and open source.