(Click for larger view of the Cool FrontRunner)The Cool FrontRunner is based on an AMD GX500@1.0W processor, a 366MHz part that draws 1 Watt. 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 500@1.0W, no heatsink necessary
- Memory: 256MB soldered-on DRAM
- Storage:
- DiskOnChip 2000 socket
- ATA66 drive interface
- Display controller:
- Supports up to 1600x1200 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 Windows CE 5.0 BSP for the SBC is "available and tested," and that support is also available for Windows XP Embedded.
Lippert CEO Petter Lippert said, "The Cool FrontRunner is ideally suited for outdoor applications requiring low power consumption, wide temperature range, and mechanical stability."
AvailabilityThe Cool FrontRunner is shipping now. In addition to Windows Embedded, it also supports Linux and VxWorks.
Lippert's "Cool Runner" series of PC/104-Plus SBCs also includes:
- Cool LiteRunner (Geode GX 466@0.9W)
- 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.
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