Versalogic has introduced an EBX format single-board computer (SBC) based on a 1.2 GHz Via Eden processor. Compatible with embedded Linux, the Sidewinder features modular PC/104-Plus expansion, but adds Versalogic's proprietary SPX-based serial expansion format to the mix, according to the company.

(Click here for larger view of the Sidewinder SBC)

The Sidewinder is said to be a fanless design that employs a Via Eden processor clocked at 1.2 GHz, plus a CX700M chipset. According to Versalogic, standard features on the Sidewinder include up to 1 GB of DDR2 RAM, a CompactFlash socket, and dual Ethernet ports. It also includes an integrated 18/24-bit LVDS flat-panel interface supporting CMOS-selectable TFT panel types.

System expansion is supported by the PC/104-Plus interface, for PCI add-on modules, and PC/104, for ISA expansion via a Low Pin Count (LPC) bridge. Also included is VersaLogic's SPX interface (Serial Peripheral eXpansion), which the company touts as a simple, low-cost method of I/O expansion.

According to Versalogic, up to four SPX modules (depicted at right) of identical or different functionality can be used per system. The SPX format operates at high speed on a simple 14-pin interconnect cable. Modules may be physically bolted to the host SBC, or attached via cable and located up to two feet away from the host, the company explains.

Coincident with the introduction of the RoHS-compliant Sidewinder, the company announced its two latest SPX modules. These are the VL-SPX-2, a 16-bit digital I/O module, and the VL-SPX-4, a 4-channel analog output module.

Key Sidewinder features listed by Versalogic include:

• Processor — Via Eden, clocked at 1.2 GHz
  
• Memory — 200-pin SODIMM socket, for up to 1 GB of 400-533 MHz DDR2 PC2-4200 RAM
  
• Video:
  • Up to 1280 x 1024 pixel resolution with 24-bit color
    
  • 18/24-bit LVDS interface with CMOS-selectable panel types
    
  • HDMI interface (video only)

• Audio — AC97 stereo in/out
  
• Networking — dual 10/100 Ethernet ports
  
• Other I/O ports:
  • 6 x USB 2.0
    
  • ATA 100-compatible IDE interface
    
  • 2 x vertical SATA connectors
    
  • 2 x serial ports — one RS-232, one RS-422/485
    
  • LPT interface, EPP/ECP/floppy mode compatible
    
  • 32-line digital I/O (TTL level)

  • 8-channel 12-bit analog input

• Expansion:
  • PC/104-Plus, with ISA and PCI buses
  • CompactFlash socket

• Power — +5 VDC @2 amps, 10W typical (assumes 256 KB RAM, keyboard, mouse, running Windows XP)
  
• Dimensions — EBX form-factor; 8 x 5.75 inches (203 x 146 mm)
  
• Operating temperature — 0 to 60 deg. C
  

Said to be designed to work with embedded operating systems including Linux, Windows CE, Windows XP Embedded, VxWorks, QNX, DOS, and others, the Sidewinder is scheduled to begin shipping this month. Pricing is “about $1,000 in low OEM quantities.”

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