Kontron is readying a pair of SBCs (single board computers) based on Intel's new dual-processor Core Duo chips. The 986LCD-M mini-ITX motherboard is aimed at processor- and graphics-intensive applications such as gaming, medical technology, and high-end thin clients, while the ETXexpress-CD COM (computer on module) is… expected to be useful in a broad range of embedded applications, according to the company.

(Click here for larger image of Kontron's ETXexpress form-factor)

Earlier this month, Intel placed several of its Core Duo processors on its embedded roadmap. The move guarantees extended lifecycle availability for the parts, according to Intel, a key requirement for embedded and communications market design wins.

986LCD-M mini-ITX

The mini-ITX form-factor 986LCD-M will be offered with the Core Duo T2500 (2 GHz), Core Duo L2400 (1.6 GHz), or Intel Core Solo T1300 (1.6 GHz) processors, together with the 945GM and ICH7M embedded chipset. Additionally, an Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950 will provide enhanced graphics performance, according to the company. The board will include LVDS, S-Video out, and dual digital LCD out, as well as connections for 16x PCI Express graphics controller expansion.

Kontron lists the following additional features of the 986LCD-M:

• Storage
  • 2 parallel ATA
  • 2 serial ATA
• I/O ports:
  • 3 gigabit Ethernet
  • 8 USB 2.0
  • IEEE 1394 Firewire
  • 2 RS232
  • 7.1 channel audio with amplified stereo output
• Expansion:
  • 1 PCI Express x16 slot
  • 1 full 32-bit PCI slot
  • 2 mini-PCI connectors

ETXexpress-CD COM

Kontron claims the ETXexpress-CD will be the first COM Express module to have a dual-core processor, although Kontron competitor Lippert announced a similar board earlier this week.

Kontron says that compared to its Pentium M-based ETXexpress-PM, the -CD module, running the Core Duo T2500, will offer nearly twice the performance at the same clock frequency and power dissipation.

Like the 986LCD-M mini-ITX, the ETXexpress-CD will incorporate Intel's 945GM and ICH7M embedded chipset, together with the 950 media accelerator. Video functions will include CRT and LVDS outputs; component, S-video, and composite TV out with HDTV modes; and 16x PCI Express graphics expansion support.

Other listed features of the ETXexpress-CD include:

• Storage
  • 1 parallel ATA
  • 2 serial ATA
• I/O ports:
  • 1 gigabit Ethernet
  • 8 USB 2.0, UHCI/EHCI compliant
  • Intel high-definition audio
• Expansion:
  • PCI Express x1 lanes — 3 standard, 5 optional
  • PCI 2.3, 32-bit, 33 MHz

Availability

Sample quantities of the 986LCD-M mini-ITX are scheduled for the second quarter, according to Kontron. Availability of the ETXexpress-CD was not stated.

 
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