Chapter 2 | Product Overview |
This introduction presents general information about the XTX Architecture and the XTX 820 Computer- On-Module (COM). After reading this chapter you should understand:
•XTX Computer-On-Module concept
•XTX 820 architecture and features
•Major components
•Connectors
•Specifications
ETX→ Concept and XTX™ Extension
The Embedded Technology eXtended (ETX) module concept is an off the shelf, multi vendor, single- board-computer that integrates all the core components of a common PC and is mounted onto an application specific baseboard. ETX modules have a standardized form factor of just 95 mm x 114 mm and use an identical pin compatible connector on the four system connectors. The ETX module provides most of the PC functional requirements for any application. These functions include, but are not limited to, graphics, sound, keyboard/mouse, IDE, Ethernet, parallel, serial and USB ports. Four ruggedized connectors provide the baseboard interface and carry all the I/O signals to and from the ETX module.
Baseboard designers can utilize as little or as many of the I/O interfaces as deemed necessary. The baseboard can therefore provide all the interface connectors required to attach the system to the application specific peripherals. This versatility allows the designer to create a dense and optimized package, which results in a more reliable product while simplifying system integration. Most importantly ETX applications are scalable, which means once a product has been created there is the ability to diversify the product range through the use of different performance class ETX modules. Simply unplug one module and replace it with another, no redesign is necessary.
XTX™ is an expansion and continuation of the well-established and highly successful ETX standard. XTX offers the newest I/O technologies on this proven form factor. Currently, the ISA bus is found less often in modern embedded applications that offer a greater array of features. Consequently, the X2 connector for XTX replaces ISA with features that are currently not found on the ETX platform. These features include new serial high speed buses such as PCI Express™, ExpressCard, AC'97 HD audio, and Serial ATA®. XTX also provides the AC'97 High Definition Audio (HDA) and two additional USB 2.0 ports, bringing the USB total to six USB ports. The USB 2.0 and PCI Express interfaces can also support the next generation PCMCIA card in the ExpressCard. All the other signals found on the X1, X3, and X4 connectors remain the same in accordance with the ETX standard (Rev. 2.7) and therefore will be completely compatible. If the embedded application still requires the ISA bus, then a PCI-ISA bridge can be implemented on the application specific baseboard. If this solution is too costly then the readily available XTX LPC bus located the Ampro XTX module can be used.
ETX or XTX modules work like a high-integration chip, plugging into your custom circuit board design to provide specific control for your logic application. See Figure 2-1.
Stack Connectors (4 pairs)