Embedded Solutions AG announced a new hardware/software kit for developers creating Linux-based embedded systems with Ethernet connectivity. The kit includes a small ARM7-based processor module, a baseboard for evaluation and development/debug purposes, and a uCLinux-based embedded Linux software package.

Features of the UNC20 module, which provides the “brains” of the setup, include a 55MHz 32-bit RISC processor, 16MB SDRAM and up to 8MB Flash memory, and a built-in Ethernet MAC/PHY, serial EEPROM, I2C port, up to 16 digital I/O (multiplexed with other functions), JTAG Interface, and an 8-bit data bus — all in a compact 48-pin DIP form-factor, the company said. The onboard microcontroller is NetSilicon's NS7520, which includes a 32-bit RISC ARM7TDMI core, built-in 10/100BaseT Ethernet MAC, and dual serial ports, among other functions.

Baseboard with UNC20 module (DIP form-factor) plugged in

The embedded Linux software package is said to include . . .

• uCLinux v2.4.290 kernel for the ARM7TDMI
• uClibc v0.9.16
  BusyBox v0.60.3
• Dynamic loading of modules
• Supported filesystems: CRAMFS, JFFS2, NFS
• Support for on-chip 10/100 Ethernet
• Debugging via gdbserver over serial or Ethernet
• Embedded web server (thttpd)
• Flash programming utilities
• EEPROM support

Additionally, the LxNET ES comes with a complete GNU toolchain, including C and C++ compilers (GCC v2.95.3) and debugger (GDB v5.2.1) and DDD graphical user interface. All sources are included, and can be used royalty-free.

The baseboard includes connectors for Ethernet and one serial port, plus a JTAG interface, along with a wire-wrap area and headers for various signals and for use with a user-added 20 x 4 character display (LCD not included). Schematics for the baseboard, showing how to implement a 10/100baseT Ethernet reference design, are provided.

The UNC20 Developer's Kit, which includes a module, baseboard, serial and parallel cables, power supply, and CDROM with documentation and softare sources, is available immediately for $299 (USD).

 
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