Kontron has introduced the first single-board computer (SBC) based on microETXexpress, a new Kontron-proposed 95x95mm computer-on-module (COM) format that merges industrial-grade mechanicals with PCI and PCI Express bus standards. The microETXexpress-PM module integrates a Celeron/Pentium M-based PC compatible core, and runs Linux, according to the company.

(Click here for larger image)

The microETXexpress form-factor, introduced last fall, has the same baseboard interface connector design and pinout as ETXexpress and PICMG's COM Express, but with a reduced footprint. COM Express already includes two module footprints — a “Basic” and an “Extended” form-factor, which measure 125x95mm and 155x110mm, respectively. Both share common connector and signaling definitions, and have overlapping mechanical assemblies. MicroETXexpress, at 95x95mm (3.7×3.7-inches), thus appears poised to add a third “Compact” option to COM Express.

microETXexpress is a subset, physically, of ETXexpress
(Source: Kontron whitepaper)
The new small COM format has mobile applications in mind, according to Kontron. The company says the new, smaller format has “farther reaching long-term prospects” thanks to its compact size and high-speed baseboard interface. A Kontron whitepaper on microETXexpress is available here (PDF download).

Kontron's microETXexpress-PM SBC is compliant with the RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) directive and is initially available with an 800 MHz or 1.4 GHz LV Pentium M, 600 MHz Mobile Celeron, or 1 GHz ULV Celeron M. The module includes Intel's Extreme Graphics 2 Video Controller with 2D and 3D accelerators, which supports resolutions up to 2048 x 1536 pixels (QXGA) for CRTs or 1600 x 1200 (UXGA) for LCDs. Other hardware features include:

• Intel 855GME chipset with 400 FSB
  
• Up to 1 GB of DDR-SDRAM memory
  
• Six USB 2.0 ports
  
• 10/100 Mbit/s Ethernet
  
• EIDE interface
  
• Parallel or Serial ATA
  
• Integrated AC97 audio

Pricing on the microETRXexpress-PM has not been disclosed.

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