Adapter offers easy CompactFlash interface

-- EDN, 11/23/2000

CompactFlash modules, available from a number of manufacturers, provide designers a solid-state storage medium that is ideal for program and data storage in embedded applications. VersaLogic has introduced the VL-CFA-1, a universal interface adapter that allows you to use CompactFlash modules with any system that includes a standard IDE hard-drive connector (Picture).

The CompactFlash adapter board measures 2.6x2.7 in. and accepts both Type I and the larger Type II modules.Type II modules include the IBM Microdrive, a tiny hard drive now available in capacities of 340 Mbytes to 1 Gbyte. Once you put the adapter in place, the CompactFlash or Microdrive module appears to the system hardware to be a standard disk drive. Unlike with other flash storage systems, operating the CompactFlash module requires no special drivers or operating-system modifications. The plug-in module can serve as the system boot device as well as store the operating system, application program, and program data.

The VL-CFA-1 is available in versions to interface with 40-pin, 0.1-in. and 44-pin, 2-mm IDE connectors. It costs $70 (100) and is available now.

VersaLogic Corp, 1-541-485-8575, www.versalogic.com.

at www.rscahners.ims.ca/ednmag/.

-by Warren Webb