Posted to News on 4th Mar 2007, 15:56
Multimedia computer-on-module uses CN800 chipset
Kontron is introducing the RoHS-compliant Kontron ETX-CN8 multimedia Computer-On-Module, the company's third ETX 3.0-compliant module since the official launch of the ETX 3.0 specification. The long-term available Kontron ETX-CN8 module is based on VIA C7 or the new Eden processors scalable from 400MHz up to 1,5GHz, as well as the latest and future-proved VIA CN800 and VIA VT8237R+ chipset.
As compared to the CN700 chipset, the CN800 chipset delivers the latest, highly integrated graphics offering dual display support (VGA/DVI/LVDS) and optimised power efficiency. This is said to make the Kontron ETX-CN8 unique compared to other ETX designs based on the predecessor CN700 chipset. The Kontron ETX-CN8 is especially designed for applications in markets such as infotainment, gaming, medical and smart battery-powered devices, all of which require high-end dual graphics up to WUXGA as well as PCI, ISA, SATA and USB 2.0 in addition to all of the standard ETX interfaces at an optimised price/performance ratio.
The Kontron ETX-CN8 carries a comprehensive range of integrated storage, multimedia and connectivity options, including 2x Serial ATA and support for RAID 0, RAID 1 and RAID 0+1 arrays. AC97-compliant audio also is supported. For demanding dual graphics, the new Kontron COM offers dual VGA and dual DVI/LVDS support including TV-out options and has an integrated MPEG-2 video decoding accelerator.
Uncompromising security performance is ensured by the VIA PadLock Security Engine working in concert with leading-edge security software. Features include a Random Number Generator and an Advanced Cryptography Engine supporting AES encryption, secure hash SHA-1/SHA-256 encryption and accelerated RSA algorithm computation (through the inclusion of a Montgomery Multiplier).
Memory up to 2GB of fast DDR2-SDRAM can be implemented. If required by a customer application, a VIA Eden 7 Low Power processor with 400 MHz (TDP 2,5 W) also is available.
All of this fits on a 95 x 114mm footprint. Additional extensive software add-ons bundled with all Kontron COMs facilitate the custom baseboard design.
Board support packages for the most current operating systems such as Windows XP Embedded, Windows CE and Linux are available for download. In the near future, additional modules for high-performance processors from Intel and AMD will further expand Kontron's wide spread portfolio of ETX 3.0 modules.
