AMD is offering a free design for an embedded mini-motherboard incorporating its low-power Geode GX embedded processor. The Geode GX SBC RDK (single-board-computer reference design kit) includes schematics, board layout files, and documentation. It targets applications such as network appliances, kiosks, point-of-sale terminals, and thin-client terminals, according to the company.

(Click here for larger image of RDK board)

The SBC design is based on AMD's Geode GX [email protected] processor. The processor is complemented by the CS5536 companion chip, which provides USB 2.0, audio, ATA 100, and an LPC (low pin count) bus interface for “legacy” I/O expansion. The 4.7 x 5.3 inch, 4-layer board meets the latest international standards for lead-free components, according to AMD.

GX RDK block diagram
(Click image for larger view)

AMD lists the following key features and specifications for the GX-based SBC that is defined by the RDK:

• Processor — Geode GX [email protected] clocked at 333 MHz
• Display interface — supports CRT and TFT displays, at resolutions up to 1600×1200
• Memory — socket for DDR DRAM (sizes unspecified)
• 10-100Mbps Ethernet
• 4 USB 2.0 ports
• Mini IDE interface supports ATA 100
• Audio — connectors for headphone out, microphone in
• LPC expansion bus — LPC daughter card provides 2 serial ports and 1 parallel port
• JTAG connector
• Board size — 4.7 x 5.3 inches
• Power consumption — 6W typical, 1W standby (based on no fan, powered by 12V external adapter)
• BIOS support — available from Insyde Software and General Software
• Operating systems supported — Linux, Windows CE, Windows XP Embedded

(Click image to enlarge)

What's in the RDK?

AMD says the Geode GX SBC RDK comprises schematics, board layout, and “full documentation,” as well as a complete software driver package.

Although AMD has apparently also developed a 5.5 x 5 inch enclosure to accommodate the SBC, the RDK does not include design design details on the enclosure (pictured here), according to an AMD source.

Nonstandard form-factor

Interestingly, rather than making use of an existing industry standard form-factor such as mini-ITX (6.7 x 6.7 inches) and nano-ITX (4.7 x 4.7 inches), AMD has opted to roll its own intermediately-sized mini-motherboard format, measuring 4.7 x 5.3 inches. AMD used the identical board size for an earlier RDK based on a Geode GX [email protected]

Also noteworthy, is the absence of headers or slots for expansion buses and cards common to consumer electronic devices such as Mini PCI, PC Card (PCMCIA), SD/MMC, CompactFlash, etc. Instead, expansion is limited to devices connected via the SBC's external USB 2.0 connectors or onboard LPC header.

 
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