News and New Products

Fanless PC/104-Plus computer runs cool and quiet

By Warren Webb, Technical Editor -- EDN, 4/12/2007

Targeting space- and power-limited embedded designs in the industrial, security, transportation, communications, military, and information-appliance markets, WinSystems recently introduced the PPM-GX single board computer in the PC/104-Plus form factor. The board integrates the CPU, video, Ethernet, USB, COM, LPT, mouse, audio, and keyboard controllers onto a single 3.6×3.8-in. module. The company based the PPM-GX on the 500-MHz, low-power AMD GX500@1W processor and operates throughout the temperature range of –40 to +85°C without the need for a fan. The Pentium-class GX500@1W CPU runs Windows CE, Windows XP embedded, Linux, and other x86-compatible operating systems, such as VxWorks and QNX.

The PPM-GX supports as much as 512 Mbytes of SDRAM and supports both rotational and solid-state disks. The onboard CompactFlash card socket supports devices with capacities as large as 8 Gbytes. The processor features a graphics controller that drives both CRT and flat-panel displays. Along with the typical keyboard/mouse/printer interfaces, the PPM-GX also includes a 10/100 Ethernet controller, four 16C550-compatible UARTs, and two USB ports. The PPM-GX draws typically 1.5 A at 5V during normal operation. The unit sells for $495.