VersaLogic, one of the originators of the 4.5 x 6.5 inch EPIC standard for single board computers (SBCs), has announced an EPIC SBC targeting medical, homeland security, semiconductor, and industrial control applications. The “Gecko” SBC integrates a full embedded PC — including processor, CRT/LCD video, networking, and data acquisition and control subsystems — and is compatible with Windows XP, Windows XP Embedded, and other popular operating systems.

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Gecko is based on AMD's low-power Geode GX-500 x86 processor. The board consumes just 5 watts (typical) under normal operating conditions, and does not require a CPU fan, VersaLogic says.

Gecko's key features and specifications include:

• Processor — 366MHz AMD GX-500
• Memory:
  • One SODIMM socket for up to 512 MB of DDR PC2100 or PC2700 RAM
  • Latching CompactFlash Type I/II socket
• Video:
  • AGP
  • Standard monitor support
  • Jumper-selectable flat panel support
  • LVDS and analog interfaces
• Network:
  • 10BaseT/100BaseTX Ethernet port
  • Argon managed boot agent; supports PXE, RPL, NetWare, TCP/IP (DHCP, BOOTP) remote boot protocols
• Analog and digital I/O:
  • A-to-D converter — 8-channel, 12-bit, 6µs A/D with interrupt capability (optional)
  • 16-line digital I/O port; 2 lines routable to IRQs via CMOS options
• Other input/output ports:
  • Audio — AC '97 PCI compatible audio; stereo in/out
  • Four USB 1.1 ports
  • ATA-5, UDMA66 IDE interface
  • COM1 and COM2 — RS-232 compatible
  • COM3 and COM4 — RS-422/485 selectable
  • Standard PC parallel LPT port
  • Keyboard and PS/2 mouse port
• Expansion — PC/104-Plus; supports 3.3V and 5V modules

Gecko will be available from stock in Q4 of 2004, priced below $650 in “OEM quantities,” VersaLogic says.

SBCs based on the EPIC standard have previously been launched by WinSystems, Octagon, Ampro, and Micro/sys.

 
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