Board vendor MEN Micro and embedded Linux/tools distributor Sysgo will collaborate to deliver hardware and Linux software support, respectively, for two MEN SBCs (single board computers). The two ruggedized MEN SBCs target cost-sensitive, harsh industrial environments such as man-machine interfaces, embedded terminals, and… embedded Linux PCs.

(Click for larger view of MEN Micro EM04)

The boards

MEN's EM04 and EMO4N are both based on Freescale's MPC8245 system-on-chip, which integrates a PowerPC G2 core clocked at 400MHz. Both boards also include a field programmable gate array (FPGA) that enables system designers to implement application-specific hardware functions such as a TFT or touch-screen controllers, one or more CAN controllers, or various serial interfaces. The EM04 features a 100,000-gate FPGA, while the EM04N has the 250,000-gate Cyclone FPGA from Altera.

Additionally, the two boards include an SO-DIMM slot for DRAM, a CompactFlash slot for application software, two front-panel RS232 connectors and two front-panel Ethernet ports.

The Linux distribution

Sysgo will support version 3.0 of its ELinOS distribution, released in May, on both MEN Micro boards. ELinuxOS 3.0 includes CODEO, Sysgo's Eclipse-based IDE (integrated development environment) that provides plugins for project management and target communication. It also includes Cognito, Sysgo's graphical system browser for run-time performance analysis, and the ELK graphical configuration tool.

"This collaboration has brought about a total hardware and software solution," said Sysanne Kampgen, SYSGO's marketing manager.

MEN Micro President Ernest Godsey said, “For both of us, it is important to have a close working relationship with customers.”

Availability

The EM04 and EM04N with ELinOS are available now, with pricing starting at $568 for single units.

 
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