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        Scalable embedded boardsets support PoE, run Windows Embedded

        Doug | Date: Oct 14, 2005 | Comments: 1


        Blue Chip Technologies has introduced a series of embedded computer boardsets based on x86-compatible processors ranging from 400MHz to 1GHz. The MagnumX two-board sandwiches are based on the company's ETX modules, run Windows XP Embedded and Windows CE, and can be powered through their Ethernet connectors, according to the company.



        (Click here for larger image)

        The MagnumX boardsets appear to be based on BlueChip's ETX form-factor (3.74 x 4.48 in.; 95 x 114 mm) ETX-C3 modules running Via C3 processors (based on Via's Nehemiah core), with 16 MB to 512 MB of onboard SDRAM. The C3 processor family includes the VIA Padlock data encryption engine for enhanced security. The boardsets' compact, 4.4 x 5.7 inch (111 x 145 mm) non-standard format is slightly smaller than the EPIC SBC form-factor (4.5 x 6.5 in.; 115 x 165 mm).

        Blue Chip lists the following key features and specifications for the new MagnumX series boardsets:
        • Processor options -- VIA C3 at 400 MHz, 733 MHz, and 1 GHz (2 GHz planned for the future)
        • Memory -- 16 to 512 MB of PC100/133 SDRAM in SODIMM socket
        • Display:
          • Integrated AGP (x4) S3 Savage 4 graphics controller
          • Resolution to 1600 x 1200. Supports widescreen resolutions, 800 x 480, 848 x 480, and 1024 x 512
          • 8 to 32 MB of video memory shared with system memory
          • Dual channel LVDS for up to 18 bit panels. Choice of direct LCD or LVDS is a build option
        • Storage options:
          • ATA100/66/33 EIDE port
          • CompactFlash socket
          • ATA Flash socket for onboard storage (optional, height impact)
        • Expansion -- PCI and Mini PCI
        • I/O ports:
          • 10/100 Base-T Ethernet, boot ROM option for remote booting using PXE
          • 4 USB 1.x
          • 2 serial
          • PS/2 keyboard and mouse
          • AC97 Soundblaster audio, mic in, line/CD in, line out
        • Power -- 6 W typical

        About Power Over Ethernet

        According to the PowerOverEthernet.com website, Power Over Ethernet (PoE) is the first truly international standard for power distribution. IEEE standard 802.3af, approved in June 2003, provides the ability to power smart devices over a twisted pair Ethernet cable -- hence, the term "Power Over Ethernet" (PoE).

        PowerOverEthernet.com has published a PoE whitepaper that provides a brief summary and overview of the technology. The whitepaper is available for download, here (1MB PDF file, reproduced with permission of PowerOverEthernet.com).


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