Product category: Embedded Computing and Control
News Release from: Arcobel Embedded Solutions | Subject: EM07
Edited by the Electronicstalk Editorial Team on 14 February 2005

Module embeds FPGA
for applications flexibility

The EM07 embedded system module from MEN Mikro Elektronik is based on Intel's mobile low-power/low-voltage Pentium III processors

Combined with the Cyclone FPGA by Altera, the EM07 is claimed to be much more flexible than any conventional PC as the system input/output required for each individual application is available in the form of IP cores. The EM07 is an ideal computer platform for embedded industrial PCs running Windows or Linux, eg for infotainment applications right through to train control.

Accordingly, Celeron/Pentium III low-power models keep heat build-up to a relatively moderate level; a specially developed heatsink ensures effective heat reduction in systems without a fan or in extreme temperature ranges.

The processors used on the EM07 have a clock rate of between 400 and 933MHz, are from Intel's embedded line and will be available for at least five years.

Two Fast Ethernet and one or two RS232 interfaces, which can be accessed either via RJ45 or D-sub plug on the front, are located directly on the EM07.

There is also a SO-DIMM and a CompactFlash slot on the board.

The chipset functions - including graphics - and additional input/output from the FPGA, for example two other serial interfaces, (E)IDE, two 1.1 USBs, LPC and a codec connection for AC97 audio are routed to the carrier board via the J2 rear I/O plug.

Other application-specific functions can be performed flexibly and individually in the Cyclone FPGA on the EM07 and are also physically routed to the carrier board.

These include - for PCs in particular - typical serial connections, CAN controllers, touch controllers etc.

These IP cores can be assembled from the MEN function library and reconfigured, combined with IP cores by other providers or even completely redeveloped as required.

MEN's IP cores are described in VHDL and connected internally via the standard wishbone bus.

The FPGA's external bus is the CPU's PCIbus.

The new FPGA content is downloaded from the boot Flash before the system is booted.

FPGA updates are also possible in the boot Flash during operation and are then available once the system is rebooted.

A starter kit is available for evaluating the EM07 functions.

The kit comprises the standard ESM EM07, a preconfigured FPGA, a carrier board with input/output plugs, an external mains adapter and an adapter for assembling a PCI-104 module.

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