Lippert GmbH introduced what is claimed to be the first Mini-ITX form-factor motherboard to be based on an Intel Pentium M processor. The compact (6.7 x 6.7 in.) Thunderbird SBC supports up to 1GB of onboard SDRAM and runs Linux, the company said.

According to Lippert, the Thunderboard, which boasts a 1.6 GHz Pentium M processor, provides interfaces for 2D graphics XGA (1600 x 1200 pixels), dual LVDS for LCD connection, 10/100 Mbps Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, and six USB 2.0 ports, and AC97 sound. A mini-PCI slot enables additional onboard expansion. The SBC was implemented using Intel's 855GME chipset, and supports the next generation of Pentium M — the Dothan CPU in 90 nm technology.

Front view (above); rear view (below)

“Our solution is a Centrino-like design. With an onboard MiniPCI slot, we supply the Intel wireless solution like the Centrino notebooks have implemented,” said Lippert managing director Peter Lippert.

The Thunderbird is intended for OEMs developing gaming, entertainment, and other high performance embedded PC bases systems, Lippert said. In Q1 of 2004, an extended temperature version of the Thunderbird will be available to meet the environmental requirements of automotive, aircraft, and military applications, he added.

 
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