Diamond Systems Low-Power PC/104 CPU Board With ZFx86 Processor

6.3Console Redirection to a Serial Port

Prometheus-LC provides keyboard and terminal emulation by means of console redirection, or serial console. This involves redirecting keyboard input and character output to a serial port (console redirection). A serial port on another PC can be connected to the serial port on Prometheus-LC with a null modem cable, and a terminal emulation program (such as Hyperterminal) can be used to establish the connection. The terminal program must be capable of transmitting special characters including F2 (some programs or configurations trap special characters or may require special configuration).

The default Prometheus-LC BIOS setting enables console redirection onto COM2 during POST (power on self-test). The communication parameters are 115.2Kbaud, N, 8, 1. When the CPU is powered up, the BIOS will output POST information to COM2 and monitor it for any keyboard activity. You can enter the BIOS by pressing F2 during this time. In the default configuration, after POST is finished and the CPU boots, console redirection is disabled.

There are three possible configurations for console redirection:

♦POST only (default)

♦Always On

♦Disabled

To modify the console redirection settings, enter the BIOS, select the Advanced menu, and then select Console Redirection. In Com Port Address, select Disabled to disable the function, On- board COM A for COM1, or On-board COM B for COM2 (default).

If you select Disabled, you will not be able to enter BIOS again during power-up through the serial port. To reenter BIOS when console redirection is disabled, you must either install a PC/104 video board and use a keyboard and terminal or erase the CMOS RAM, which will return the BIOS to its default settings. CMOS RAM may be erased by moving a jumper. See page 14 for instructions.

Before erasing CMOS RAM, write down any custom BIOS settings you have made!

If you erase the CMOS RAM, the next time the CPU powers up COM2 will return to the default settings of 115.2Kbaud, N, 8, 1 and operate only during POST.

If you selected COMA or COMB, then continue with the configuration:

For Console Type select PC ANSI. You can modify the baud rate and flow control here if desired.

At the bottom, for Continue C.R. after POST, select Off (default) to turn off after POST or select On to remain on always. (C.R. = Console Redirection)

Exit the BIOS and save your settings.

Prometheus-LC CPU User Manual V1.0

Page 17

Low-Power PC/104 CPU Board With ZFx86 Processor, PR-Z16-LC-ST specifications

The Diamond Systems Low-Power PC/104 CPU Board featuring the ZFx86 Processor, specifically the PR-Z16-LC-ST model, represents a significant advancement in embedded computing technology. This CPU board is designed to deliver robust performance while maintaining low power consumption, making it ideal for a wide array of industrial and embedded applications.

One of the standout features of the PR-Z16-LC-ST board is its ZFx86 Processor. This processor family is built with a focus on energy efficiency and low thermal output, which is crucial for applications where heat dissipation can be a challenge. The ZFx86 provides an excellent balance between processing power and energy consumption, featuring a 16-bit instruction set that facilitates compatibility with many existing software applications.

This board supports a variety of operating environments, including DOS, Linux, and Windows, ensuring versatility for developers. Its design includes a compact PC/104 form factor, which allows for streamlined stacking of multiple boards. This modularity is beneficial for system integrators looking to create customized solutions with limited space.

In terms of connectivity, the PR-Z16-LC-ST is equipped with a wide range of I/O ports. This includes digital and analog inputs and outputs, serial communication ports, and support for various peripheral devices. Such features make it a suitable choice for tasks such as data acquisition, control systems, and automation processes.

Additionally, the Diamond Systems board is designed with an onboard memory expansion capability, allowing users to enhance performance based on specific application needs. The support for both DRAM and flash memory options provides flexibility in memory configuration.

The board also emphasizes reliability and longevity, with rugged construction suitable for harsh environments. This durability is essential for applications in sectors such as transportation, telecommunications, and factory automation, where systems must withstand extreme conditions.

In summary, the Diamond Systems PR-Z16-LC-ST Low-Power PC/104 CPU Board with ZFx86 Processor combines efficiency with a robust feature set. Its low power consumption, modular design, and extensive connectivity options make it an attractive solution for developers in the embedded computing space seeking reliable performance in compact configurations.