Kontron COM Express Computer-on-Module accelerates individual implementation of 4th generation Intel Core processors

Up to three independent, daisy-chained displays with up to 4K resolution are supported to create stunning user experiences. Further to this, DirectX 11.1 and OpenGL 4.x support paves the way for compelling visuals when videos, graphics and interactive content are being displayed. By integrating the new Intel AVX2 and OpenCL 1.2, Kontron’s new Computer-on-Modules additionally not only provide an increase in floating-point performance they also possess improved parallel processing capacities. Typical application areas can be found in markets such as digital signage, professional gaming and entertainment, medical imaging and surveillance and security as well as industrial plant and machine line control on shop floor- and control room-level.

Engineers can immediately commence with evaluating these new benchmark Computer-on-Modules on all Kontron COM Express pin-out type 6-compliant starter kits. For customers wanting to instantly leverage the new graphics and computing power in their existing designs based on individual carrier boards, Kontron also offers standardized migration support services to accelerate the design-in phase and thus achieve fastest field deployment. Due to the fact that these new benchmark processor modules stay within the thermal envelop of their predecessors, engineers developing demanding mid-range to high-end embedded applications can immediately benefit from the improved processing and graphics performance – in most cases without having to alter the thermal system design.

The feature set in detail
The Kontron COM Express pin-out type 6 COMe-bHL6 module is available in several different variants ranging from the cost-optimized low-power processor versions up to quad-core Intel Core i7 processors with up to 4x 2.4 GHz. The modules are designed with the Intel Mobile QM87 chipset, host up to 8 GB DDR3 RAM and support 7 PCI Express x1 lanes and 1 PEG x16 interface which is also compatible to standard PCI Express devices. Less complex peripherals can be connected via SPI and LPC. Additional dedicated features include 4 SATA 3 ports, as well as Gigabit Ethernet, 4 USB 3.0 ports, 4 USB 2.0 and 2 serial ports. The Kontron COMe-cbHL6 features comprehensive display support with 3x dual mode DisplayPort++ which can also output, HDMI, DVI and DisplayPort 1.2. Industrial applications benefit from the watchdog and real-time clock. The module supports an 8.5-20V wide-range power supply. The support of smart batteries via MARS and the standardized embedded application programming interface EAPI round off the feature set and provide engineers with a comprehensive service package that eases system development as well as system programming.

The Kontron COM Express basic Computer-on-Module COMe-bHL6 supports the full Windows OS portfolio along with Linux and VxWorks. The product is available now in EFT quantities. Series production with full software support is scheduled to start in Q3 2012.