The MagnumX family of single board computers brings a comprehensive feature set with ‘real world IO’ to a compact form factor of 111mm x 145mm (4.3” x 5.7”). The current range is available in 400MHz, 733MHz and 1GHz processor options, allowing you to scale board processing power to your target application. Blue Chip Technology are also planning to bring 1.4 - 2.0GHz options into the portfolio for 2006.
Onboard I/O support includes 10/100 baseT Ethernet, four USB ports, two serial ports, keyboard/mouse, CRT, LCD and LVDS display interfaces. The board also includes integrated GPIO – 16 TTL input/output signals.
More special function I/O expansion is possible via a Mini PCI connector – supporting optional functionality such as wireless connectivity, gigabit LAN, additional COM ports and video capture. The MagnumX also offers support for both rotational and solid state disks - dual UltraDMA 33/66/100 IDE drive and Compact Flash. Blue Chip Technology have designed the MagnumX with the option of booting from the LAN, ATA Flash or USB flash facilitating remote system management and data retrieval.
Initially based on the successful VIA C3 processor set, MagnumX has an impressive thermal profile. For example, the MagnumX 733 consumes a nominal 7watts, running at 0°C to +60°C without a fan. In Q1 2006, Blue Chip Technology will extend the range to include the new VIA C7 processor. Built on the advanced VIA CoolStream™ architecture, the Esther core further evolves ‘cool processing’ by delivering a robust performance of up to 2.0GHz at 12 watts.
Low power consumption also makes the MagnumX the ideal candidate for PoE (Power Over Ethernet) support, using a standard optional module to get power to your device over the LAN. A useful feature that can save on installation costs, enhance electrical safety and improve power redundancy.
Another unique aspect of the Via C3 family is that it contains the VIA Padlock™ Data encryption engine to enhance the confidentiality, integrity and authenticity of electronic data for secure communication systems.
With its display interfacing, wide-screen support and AGP graphics controller, the MagnumX range is a solid multimedia engine as well as an I/O-intensive solution for demanding applications in industrial automation, transport and analysis. It runs Windows® CE, Windows®XP embedded, Linux and QNX, a full BSP and technical consultation is included within the support package. This is the latest board to be designed and manufactured in the UK by Blue Chip Technology. The range goes into RoHS compliant volume production for 2006 and has a guaranteed minimum three year lifecycle.