Chapter 2 Product Overview
This introduction presents general information about the Mini-ITX form factor and the MightyBoard 821 single board computer (SBC). After reading this chapter you should understand:
•MightyBoard 821 architecture
•MightyBoard 821 features
•Major components
•Connectors
•Specifications
MightyBoard Architecture
Ampro’s MightyBoard™ is based on the Mini-ITX form factor, which uses the smallest motherboard size, measuring a mere 170mm x 170mm (6.7" x 6.7"). The MightyBoard size complies with the ATX mechanical standard in terms of mounting holes, PCI slot placement, and I/O connector placement. The MightyBoard can be used in any enclosure, which supports ATX, MicroATX or FlexATX motherboards. Unlike Ampro’s other SBCs (single board computers), which support the PC/104, PC/104-Plus, and PCI-104 standards, the MightyBoard provides a single PCI slot for I/O expansion.
The MightyBoard form-factor is small enough for deeply embedded applications, yet large enough to contain the functions of a complete embedded SBC including CPU, memory, mass storage interfaces, display controller, serial/parallel ports, today’s advanced operating systems, and other system functions. This new embedded form factor boasts a highly flexible and adaptable system expansion, allowing easy PCI board addition of functions such as IEEE 1394 FireWire™, video capture, or wireless networking not usually contained in embedded motherboards.
This new MightyBoard SBC ensures that embedded system OEMs can standardize their designs and that embedded computing solutions can be designed into space constrained environments with off-the-shelf components. The MightyBoard SBC is open to continuing technology advancements, since it is both processor and I/O independent. It creates opportunity for economies of scale in chassis, power supply, and peripheral devices.
