Kontron´s new E²Brain Computer-On-Module with Freescale´s PowerQUICC III MPC8540 Processor

COM with a whopping 1850 MIPS at a mere 800 MHz

Kaufbeuren, Germany, June 24, 2004 - Based on the MPC8540 PowerQUICC III RISC processor from Freescale (formerly Motorola), Kontron AG´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. EB8540 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 1 Fast and 2 Gigabit Ethernet interfaces, up to 6 serial interfaces - 2 terminal interfaces (Rx/Tx) and 4 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 EB8540 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.

E²Brain EB8540 will be available in September 2004. Evaluation baseboards will also be made available at this time.


Reader inqiries:
Kontron Modular Computers GmbH
Sudetenstr. 7
87600 Kaufbeuren, Germany
[email protected]
Tel: +49(8341)803-0
Fax: +49(8341)803-499

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