Rugged embedded computer that combines CPU and GPU processing introduced by MEN Micro
AMBLER, Pa., 1 March 2013. MEN Micro Inc. in Ambler, Pa., is introducing the BC50I rugged modular embedded computer based on the AMC Embedded G-Series microprocessor for applications in demanding environments such as surveillance, robotics, machine control, and commercial vehicles.
The box computer can function as an independent unit or with a display. The AMD Embedded G-Series processor combines low power central processing units (CPUs) and advanced graphics processing units (GPUs) in one embedded device.
The BC50I is extremely flexible in design. It’s scalable CPU comes in either single or dual core, and graphics parameters ranges from various Radeon GPUs to none at all, based on system requirements, company officials say.
The standard BC50I features an integrated 1.4 GHz T48N accelerated processing unit (APU) and an advanced Radeon HD 6310 GPU.
Two DisplayPort interfaces, with a maximum resolution of 2560 by 1600 pixels each, two Gigabit Ethernet ports, two USB 2.0 ports, and two SA-Adapter slots for serial interfaces are available on the front panel, and one of the SA-adapters can function as an optional CAN Bus interface.
The front also features eight LEDs for power, status, Ethernet activity, and user-defined purposes.
Inside the system is one PCI Express Mini card slot with a SIM card slot that enables WLAN, UNTS, GPS, GSM, HSDPA, EDGE, or LTE. The necessary antenna connectors can be made available on the front panel.
The BC50I is equipped with 2 gigabytes of DDR3 SDRAM and offers SD card and mSATA slots. A SATA hard disk or solid state drive can be installed within the housing as an option.
The system operates without a fan in temperatures from -40 to 70 degrees Celsius, in part due to its special aluminum housing with cooling fins that serves as a heat sink for the internal electronics.
The box computer comes with its own integrated 24-volt DC nominal power supply that can be switched on and off using an ignition signal on the power connector. The run-down time after switching off the power can be adjusted by software.
For more information contact MEN Micro online at www.menmicro.com.
John Keller | Editor
John Keller is editor-in-chief of Military & Aerospace Electronics magazine, which provides extensive coverage and analysis of enabling electronic and optoelectronic technologies in military, space, and commercial aviation applications. A member of the Military & Aerospace Electronics staff since the magazine's founding in 1989, Mr. Keller took over as chief editor in 1995.
