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        EPIC SBC specializes in data acquisition

        Jonathan Angel | Date: Nov 16, 2007 | Comments: 1


        Diamond Systems says it is now shipping an EPIC form-factor single-board computer (SBC) with integrated data acquisition capabilities. The Poseidon features Via's C7 or Eden processors, and supports both Windows XP Embedded and Windows CE-based operation, according to the company.



        (Click here for a larger view of the Diamond Poseidon)

        Diamond says the SBC, designed for harsh environments, is available with a 1 GHz Via Eden ULV processor, or a 2 GHz Via C7. It also features Via's CX 700, a combined northbridge/southbridge chip that saves board area and design complexity.


        Poseidon block diagram
        (Click to enlarge)

        The SBC features 256 MB or 512 MB of soldered-on 533 MHz DDR2 DRAM, along with a 400 MHz front-side bus. The CX700's built-in graphics capability is derived from Via's 128-bit UniChrome Pro IGP core, which provides 2D, 3D, and MPEG-2 acceleration; the board also supports simultaneous CRT and LVDS flat-panel displays.

        According to the company, the Poseidon offers an optional integrated data acquisition section. This has 32 analog inputs with 16-bit A/D and 250 KHz sample rate, 4 12-bit analog outputs with 100 KHz waveform output capability, 24 digital I/O lines, and 2 counter/timers.


        Poseidon's data acquisition subsystem

        The analog circuitry uses Diamond's "patented automatic autocallibration" technology to calibrate its A/D and D/A intervention, according to the company. It supports both interrupt and DMA A/D transfers, and uses an enhanced 1,024-sample FIFO with programmable threshold.

        Features and specifications listed by Diamond for the Poseidon include:
        • Processor -- 1 GHz Via Eden ULV or 2 GHz Via C7
        • Memory -- 256 or 512 MB of soldered-on RAM
        • Graphics capabilities:
          • 2048 x 1536 pixel CRT resolution
          • 1600 x 1200 flat-panel resolution
          • 128 MB of shared video memory
        • Networking -- 10/100/1000 Ethernet
        • Other I/O:
          • 4 x USB 2.0
          • 4 x serial ports (2 x RS-232; 2 x RS-232/422/485)
          • PS/2 keyboard/mouse port
          • SATA
          • IDE UDMA 100
          • "flash disk interface"
          • Audio in/out; mic; amplified speaker interface
        • Expansion -- PC/104-Plus stack location
        • Dimensions -- 6.5 x 4.5 inches (165 x 115 mm)
        • Weight -- approx. 9 ounces
        Diamond says that in order to enhance the use of the Poseidon SBC in harsh environments, it is engineered with all on-board I/O brought to pin headers within the I/O zones identified in the EPIC specification. However, I/O that can utilize PC-style connectors is placed adjacent to an optional panel I/O board, allowing use in a suitably equipped enclosure. This panel I/O board is included in a development kit that also includes the Poseidon, cables, and a software CD. The development kit also includes a flash-disk module with Linux pre-loaded, Diamond said.

        Availability

        The Poseidon SBC is available now, with prices starting at $695, according to the company.


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