Kontron develops nanoETXexpress module

Developed by Kontron, the credit-card sized, open-standard nanoETXexpress computer-on-module for developing mini-computer devices now has its first second-source partner, Aaeon.

Aaeon will be presenting its first nano-ETXexpress computer-on-module at the Electronica trade fair in Munich.

Aaeon has already implemented the Intel Atom processor on its Com-U15 Com Express computer-on-module.

The Com perfectly fits the requirements of small mobile internet devices (MID) and similar-sized embedded computer solutions.

'Above all, for our OEM customers nanoETXexpress means maximum investment security for their designs,' said Peter Yang, Aaeon product manager ECD, responsible for computer-on-modules at Aaeon.

Ever since the availability of the 45nm Intel Atom processor OEM customers have been exploring the possibilities opened up by this processor and the new form factor technology.

As a result, the demand for nanoETXexpress is growing rapidly.

'With Aaeon on board, more companies will soon follow to give nanoETXexpress a big push towards adoption in the PICMG specification,' said Joseph Behammer, director of marketing of Kontron's Embedded Modules division.

The PICMG Com Express specification currently incorporates the basic and extended form factors.

Kontron is now heading an initiative to incorporate the nanoETXexpress (84mm x 55mm) and slightly larger microETXexpress (95 x 95mm) form factor, which is already supported by five different manufacturers, into the Com Express specification.

Upon successful acceptance, these will be known as Com Express ultra and Com Express compact respectively.

The nanoETXexpress form factor was derived from the guidelines of the PICMG Com Express specification and follows the specification 100 per cent (as far as the dimensions permit).

The only differences are the size of the form factor and some of the mounting holes.

This enables scalability with Com Express modules of different sizes.

More important for nanoETXexpress customers, however, is the high reliability and wide-spread know how for Com Express conforming designs, as well as a recognised standard that allows customers to meet 80 per cent of all market requirements with one major form factor specification.

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