Lippert is shipping a rugged, low-power PC/104-Plus SBC (single-board computer) targeting harsh environment and extended temperature applications. The Linux-capable “Cool FrontRunner” is based on an AMD x86-compatible SoC, draws a claimed 6 Watts, and can operate from -40 to 185 degrees (-40 to 85 C).

(Click for larger view of the Cool FrontRunner)

The Cool FrontRunner is based on an AMD [email protected] processor, a 366MHz part that draws 1Watt. AMD acquired its GX line from National Semiconductor in August of 2003, later renaming the part when it adopted its benchmark-based naming scheme in May of last year.

In addition to the GX500, the Cool FrontRunner uses AMD's CS5535 companion chip, which together with the GX500 delivers a “Pentium-compatible” device, Lippert says, that “resembles a complete PC on a 3.55 x 3.775 inch board.”

Lippert lists the Cool FrontRunner's features and specs as follows:

• Processor: AMD Geode GX [email protected], no heatsink necessary
• Memory: 256MB soldered-on DRAM
• Storage:
  • DiskOnChip 2000 socket
  • ATA66 drive interface
• Display controller:
  • Supports up to 1600×1200 pixels
  • TFT display adapters
• I/O ports:
  • 10/100-BaseT Ethernet
  • 4 USB 1.1
  • 3 serial (2 x RS232/485, 1 x RS485)
  • 8 digital I/O signals, 5V
  • AC97 compatible sound
  • LEDs for power, watchdog, Ethernet, user-defined
• Expansion buses — stackable PC/104-Plus PCI and ISA connectors

Lippert says it offers support for the 2.4 and 2.6 Linux kernels, including Ethernet, graphics, audio, and a kernel patch for the GX processor.

Lippert CEO Petter Lippert said, “The Cool FrontRunner is ideally suited for outdoor applications requiring low power consumption, wide temperature range, and mechanical stability.”

Availability

The Cool FrontRunner is shipping now. In addition to Linux, it also supports Windows, Windows XP Embedded, Windows CE, and VxWorks.

Lippert's “Cool Runner” series of PC/104-Plus SBCs also includes:

• Cool LiteRunner (Geode GX [email protected])
• Cool RoadRunner III (Pentium III – 400…933 MHz)
• Cool RoadRunner II (Geode GX1 – 200…300 MHz)
• Cool EcoRunner (Geode GX1 – 300 MHz, Dual Ethernet)
• Cool SpaceRunner (Geode GX1 – 300 MHz, vibration resistant, extended temperature range)

The company has additionally promised a Cool RoadRunner IV based on the newest Intel Pentium M mobile chip.

 
This article was originally published on LinuxDevices.com and has been donated to the open source community by QuinStreet Inc. Please visit LinuxToday.com for up-to-date news and articles about Linux and open source.