Computer-On-Module with MPC8540 offers 1850 MIPs, Dual Gigabit Ethernet interfaces for Application Specific Designs

Kontron´s new E2Brain Computer-On-Module with Freescale´s PowerQUICC III MPC8540 Processor offers high performance, high feature-integration and low power to power a broad range of embedded designs.

LONG BEACH, CA-January 17, 2005-Kontron, a market leader in embedded computing technology, today announced the introduction of a Computer-On-Module based on the MPC8540 PowerQUICC III RISC processor from Freescale (formerly Motorola), Kontron´s new E2Brain EB8540 Computer-On-Module (COM) offers pure, fanless computing power with a multitude of I/O connection options at minimum power consumption and is integrated as an add-on component into customized embedded systems. EB8450 provides a generous 1850 MIPS (based on Dhrystone 2.1) at a clock speed of just 800 MHz - performance achieved by x86es only in the GHz range and only at a much higher power dissipation.

With a single Fast Ethernet and dual Gigabit Ethernet interfaces, up to six serial interfaces - two terminal interfaces (Rx/Tx) and four asynchronous 16550-compatible interfaces - and optional CAN bus, as well as watchdog timer and real-time clock, EB8540 is a universal computer module for demanding real-time applications in the fields of industrial automation, transportation, medical technology and defense. Individual expansions are easily done via the 32-bit, 33/66 PCI bus and/or the LPC bus. Like all other interfaces, the two buses are connected to the baseboard via 4 standard SMD connectors. For security-critical applications, the module can alternatively be equipped with the MPC8541, which provides an additional security engine for IPSec, DES, 3DES and AES encryption.

Apart from extensive interfaces, up to 512 MB of directly soldered, very fast DDR SDRAM, up to 32 MB of Flash memory and 1 MB of battery-buffered SRAM, as well as E2Prom for configuration and user data and an interface for CompactFlash memory cards, are mounted on the compact E2Brain EB8450 module, with dimensions of just 75 mm x 115 mm. The physical slot for the CompactFlash memory media is placed on the baseboard. Debugging and onboard programming is done via the implemented JTAG/BDM interface.

Power supply is designed as a single-source 3.3V supply. The standard version of the E²Brain EB8540 is designed for use at temperatures ranging from 0°C to 70°C. An optional version with an extended operating temperature range from -40°C to +85°C is also available. Due to its thermally and mechanically robust design, this module is suitable for use in extremely harsh environments.

Software support is provided by an OS-independent boot loader with network support as well as a Linux and VxWorks board support package.

About E2Brain modules
In the world of embedded computers, it has been common up to now for the user to have to develop a new processor core for every new device development due to differences in design and space requirements between the devices. With standardized E²Brain modules, the user can concentrate on the tasks at hand - design of the device and development of a customized solution.

The E2Brain (Embedded Electronic Brain) product line has a modular design that is open for all types of processor architectures, communications interfaces and I/O interfaces. E²Brain modules with dimensions of 75 mm x 115 mm can be divided into 2 categories:

Communications Engines: Processor cores with high communications loads and numerous interfaces (e.g., Ethernet, serial interfaces with multiprotocol support and UTOPIA)
Advanced Computing Cores: Processor cores characterized by a high computing power and a broad I/O range

About Kontron: A leading global embedded computer technology company, Kontron supplies a diversified customer base of OEMs, system integrators and application providers in the communications, automation, transportation, medical, military, aerospace, and test

and measurement markets. The company helps its customers to considerably reduce their time-to-market and to gain a competitive advantage with products including high-performance open computer platforms and systems, single board computers, man-machine interfaces and mobile computers. Kontron employs more than 1,500 people worldwide and has manufacturing facilities in Europe, North America and Asia Pacific. The company is listed on the German TecDAX 30 stock exchange under the symbol "KBC". Kontron is a member of the Intel Communications Alliance. For additional information on Kontron, please visit: .

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Richard Moore
Kontron America
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richard.moore@us.kontron.com

Lisa Baker
Kontron America
Phone: 858-405-3010
lisa.baker@us.kontron.com

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