U.K.-based startup TriMetrix has announced a tiny single-board computer (SBC) designed for use in devices requiring biometric scanners, including time/attendence, access control, and POS (point-of-sales) equipment. The TMX1000 has a powerful ARM9 processor, and comes with an open-source software stack based on Linux 2.6.

(Click for larger view of the TMX1000)

Spokesperson Quentin Farrow said TriMetrix's goal was to create a tiny board capable of running both application software and biometric software. He said, “Most [biometric module customers] were using an older design SBC, and purchasing a separate OEM module for their biometric application. We [are] offering them an SBC that could [replace both].”

The TMX1000 measures 2.5 x 1.7 x 0.3mm (63 x 42 x 9mm). It is based on a 240MHz ARM9 processor, with a speed increase to 400MHz promised in a future release. The board can be configured with 16MB to 32MB of RAM, and 4MB to 16MB of flash memory onboard.

The TMX1000 appears to have an RJ-45 connector for its 10/100 Ethernet interface; other than that, all I/O is exposed via board-to-wire and board-to-board connectors:

• Board-to-wire:
  • RS-232 serial
  • RS-485 serial (optional)
  • Weigand
  • 1 x USB host port
  • 1 x USB device port
  • smart card interface
  • audio
  • 4 general purpose I/O lines
• Board-to-board connector:
  • monochrome and color STN, CSTN, and TFT LCD interface; up to VGA resolution with 16-bit color
  • camera Interface
  • 12 general purpose I/O lines
  • 16 addressable SPI slave ports
  • SD memory card interface

Additionally, according to the company, the TMX1000 interfaces with fingerprint sensors said to include:

• UPEK T1/T2 (flat flexible cable)
• Authentec 8600 (flat flexible cable)
• Atmel Swipe (flat flexible cable)
• Futronic optical (USB)
• Algorithm — Innovatrics (available as standard)

Along with the board, a developer kit was announced, with contents that include a carrier board, embedded development tools, and technical documentation.

Pricing and availability were not disclosed. Further details may be available on TriMetrix's website.

 
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