Ampro Computers Introduces Entry-Level PC.104 CPU for Cost-Driven Embedded Applications
AMPRO COMPUTERS INTRODUCES ENTRY-LEVEL PC/104 CPU FOR COST-DRIVEN EMBEDDED APPLICATIONS
Embedded Computer Pioneer's CoreModule 4Gn Opens New Opportunities
for Low-Power, Controller-only Solutions
SAN JOSE, CALIF. – February 25, 2002. Ampro Computers, Inc., the inventor and leading supplier of PC/104 and EBX form-factor single board computers for embedded applications, today introduced the CoreModule 4Gn PC/104-based single board computer. It provides entry-level functionality for embedded applications that require a low-cost x86 processor.
Like all CoreModule 4G series modules, the CoreModule 4Gn includes a high-integration 100MHz 486DX4-compatible processor. It has 16MB of onboard DRAM expandable to 48MB, two RS232 serial ports (one with RS485 capability), bidirectional parallel port, EIDE interface to hard disk or CD-ROM drives and floppy support. It also includes a 32-pin bytewide socket with support for DiskOnChip 2000 or DiskOnChip Millennium devices. The CoreModule 4Gn is fully compliant with the PC/104 Specification, Version 2.3.
"Ampro now offers OEM designers a choice of available 486-based PC/104 modules based on price and functionality to fill their specific application needs", said Paul Rosenfeld, vice president of marketing for Ampro Computers, Inc. "Now designers can purchase an off-the-shelf board that closely matches their design requirements."
The CoreModule 4Gn (along with its sister products, the CoreModule 4Ge with built-in Ethernet and CoreModule 4Gv with built-in video controller) also serves as an immediately available and highly compatible migration path for embedded designs using PC/104 modules based on the soon-to-be-discontinued AMD 486DX series of microprocessors. Ampro has recently notified its customers using such products that, while it will continue to supply AMD 486DX based products through the middle of 2003, customers should start down the migration path as quickly as possible. Ampro is among a very few PC/104 suppliers shipping migration products in volume today.
CoreModule 4Gn qualification units are available now with production volumes available in 60 days. The CoreModule 4Gn is priced under $300 in volume. For more information, visit www.ampro.com or call 800-966-5200.
About the CoreModule 4Gn PC/104-Based System
The CoreModule 4Gn is a low-cost 100MHz 486-based PC/104 single board system. The processor includes customary PC system controllers, real time clock with CMOS setup and battery-free option, watchdog timer and 2Kb-configuration EEPROM with 512 bits available for OEM use supported through Ampro Enhanced BIOS services. It also has 16MB onboard DRAM expandable to 32 or 48MB via socketed DRAM module and bytewide socket for DiskOnChip 2000 or Millennium bootable flash disk. The I/O supports 1 or 2 Fast IDE disk drives, two RS232 serial ports (one with RS485 option), bidirectional parallel port, floppy, PC/AT keyboard/mouse interface. Software support includes Board Support Packages (BSPs) for popular operating systems (OSs) and Award ROM-BIOS with Ampro Enhancements. The CoreModule 4Gn is fully PC/104 compliant, has power requirements at 5V of 0.80A and runs at 0 to 70C operating temperature with optional -40 to +85C extended temperature support.
About Ampro Computers, Inc.
Ampro Computers, Inc. is the leading global provider of modular embedded computing solutions for OEM applications. Ampro's mission is to provide time saving solutions for embedded systems designers that accelerate the product deployment process. Ampro pioneered the embedded PC industry creating the popular PC/104 and EBX standards. The new EnCore family enables designers to obtain all the benefits of an off-the-shelf CPU solution while maintaining the flexibility of a full custom design. In addition to EnCore, Ampro offers three product lines; PC/104-compatible CoreModule CPUs and MiniModule expansion products, and EBX form factor LittleBoard single board computers. Ampro was awarded EDN magazine's "Innovation 2000" for computers, boards and buses for the initial EnCore announcement. For more information on Ampro Computers, visit http://www.ampro.com.
AMPRO is a registered trademark and EnCore, CoreModule, MiniModule, and LittleBoard are trademarks of Ampro Computers, Inc. All other trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Media Contacts:
Ampro Computers, Inc.
Victoria Kostka
Tel: 1-408-360-4324
Email: vkostka@ampro.com
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