Garz & Fricke is readying a tiny, low-cost, ARM11-based SBC (single-board computer) that will be offered with a Linux BSP (board support package). The Adelaide is based on a Freescale i.MX31 processor, and targets harsh environments, such as industrial handhelds, marine applications, and special purpose vehicles, the company says.

(Click here for slightly larger image)

The Adelaide's i.MX31 processor is clocked at 532 MHz. The SBC is available with up to 128 MB of SDRAM, 8 MB of NOR flash, and 1 GB of NAND flash. A Freescale MC13783 companion chip enables direct connection of audio devices, and handles power management functions in a manner that keeps typical power dissipation to about 1 W, according to the company.

Adelaide Function diagram (Click to enlarge)

Garz & Fricke lists the following key features and specifications for the Adelaide SBC:

• Processor — Freescale i.MX31, clocked at 532 MHz
• Memory:
  • 32, 64, or 128 MB SDRAM
  • up to 8 MB NOR flash for bootloader
  • 32 MB to 1 GB NAND flash
• Graphics:
  • up to 1024 x 1024 at 16-bit color
  • supports STN, color STN, and “all TFT” LCDs
  • 3D accelerator, MPEG4 encoder, camera interface
• Other I/O ports:
  • 10/100 Ethernet
  • 3 USB 2.0 ports — 1 high speed (480 Mb/s); 1 OTG high speed (480 Mb/s); 1 full speed (12 Mb/s)
  • 5 serial ports — up to 115 kbaud; two shared with camera and USB
  • 10-bit A-to-D converter for touchscreen controller
  • AC)7 audio — line in/out, mic out, headphone/speaker out
  • 8 GPIO lines shared with peripheral functions
• Expansion:
  • PCMCIA V2.1 card
  • 4-bit MMC/SDIO card
• Dimensions — 2.1 x 3.4 inches (54 x 86 mm)
• Power — 3.3 VDC at 270 mA typical

In addition to its Linux BSP, the Adelaide will also support Windows CE 6.0, the company says.

According to Garz & Fricke, the Adelaide represents the high-end of its “Downunder” SBC family. Like the other members of the line, the Adelaide plugs into an application baseboard via four shrouded connectors (two 100-pin, two 80-pin). According to Garz & Fricke, this arrangement is more rugged than the connection mechanisms found on other low-cost SBCs.

Founder and CEO Manfred Garz stated, “With the i.MX31 we've found the perfect processor to extend our product line. It fulfills all requirements of industrial applications and provides excellent multimedia features. As a member of our Downunder family, the Adelaide will fuel lots of innovative industrial and mobile applications.”

Availability

Evaluation quantities of the Adelaide are expected to be available in Q2 of this year, with production quantities following in Q3.

Pricing is about $185 (EUR 140) for 1 to 500 units, with larger quantity discounts available, according to the company. A “starter kit” that includes company's “Europa” 5.7-inch VGA open-frame touchpanel is offered for about EUR 700.

 
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