(Click here for a larger view of the VarTech SuperCube)

According to Louisiana-based VarTech, its SuperCube operates fanlessly, thanks to the computer's rugged aluminum enclosure and extruded heat exchanger. The device is aimed at mobile, embedded control, digital signage, interactive kiosks, and HMI (human machine interface) applications, the company says.


IEI's Wafer Atom mainboard, used by VarTech's SuperCube
(Click either image to enlarge)
VarTech says the SuperCube employs a "Wafer Atom" mainboard (pictured above) sourced from IEI Technology Corp. This board, which apparently sports PCI Express Mini Card and CompactFlash slots -- not highlighted by Vartec, so we're not listing them in the spec table below -- includes Intel's 1.6GHz Atom N270 CPU, 945GSE northbridge, and ICH7M southbridge. Mounted with its single SODIMM slot facing downwards, the board is thermally coupled to the top of the SuperCube's case.

Edge connectors on the mainboard itself supply the SuperCube with dual gigabit Ethernet ports, a serial port, and two USB 2.0 ports. Below, VarTech has added realworld connectors for four additional serial ports, four more USB ports, microphone and line inputs, and an audio output. Inside the SuperCube, of course, these connectors are attached via cables to pin headers on the Wafer Atom.

VarTech says the SuperCube comes with 1GB of DDR2 RAM -- IEI actually says the Wafer Atom can support 2GB -- plus a 7200rpm, 160GB Seagate Momentus HDD, presumably connected to one of the Water Atom's SATA ports. Options include a SSD (solid state disk) and a wireless networking adapter with antennae, the company adds.

Features and specifications listed by VarTech for the SuperCube include:

• Processor -- Intel Atom N270 clocked at 1.6GHz
  
• Memory -- 1GB of DDR2 RAM (mainboard apparently supports 2GB)
  
• Storage -- 160GB, 7200rpm HDD or optional SSD
  
• Networking -- 2 x gigabit Ethernet
  
• Other I/O:
  • VGA output
    
  • 6 x USB 2.0
    
  • 5 x RS232
    
  • Audio mic in, line in, and line out
    
  • 12VDC power input
• Power requirements -- 12VDC via external 80 Watt adapter
  
• Operating temperature -- 32 to 122 deg. F (0 to 50 deg. C)
  
• Dimensions, including heat sink and mounting bracket -- 7.5 x 6.5 x 4.5 inches

Further information

According to VarTech, the SuperCube is available now with either Windows XP Embedded or Windows XP Profesional. Pricing was not released, but more information may be found on the company's website, here.

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