At only the size of a industry-standard PC/104 module, Advantech's new PCM-3345 486-based SBC is a fully-featured, industrial-strength SBC fit for the most space critical embedded applications one can think of. Its small size gives it a solid structure, while its PC/104 form factor is small, simple and reliable. It is also easy to expand and rugged enough to function well in harsh environments.

Small, but Packed with Features

Even though this card measures in at only 96 x 90 mm, it still features all of the standard capabilities of its much larger SBC card and board competitors. An on-board 486-level CPU simplifies configuration (no need to set voltage or speed jumpers). Also on board is a VGA chip which utilizes 64-bit shared memory, both IDE and FDD connectors, and two RS-232 ports. Easy on-board expansion is also possible with one EDO SO DIMM slot (16 or 32 MB option), a CompactFlash disk socket (4 to 40 MB), and, of course, PC/104 modules. A customized Windows CE version of this board is also available, which includes the board and a 10 MB CompactFlash card preloaded with Windows CE programed with all of the necessary hardware drivers needed for this board, which greatly simplifies the systems integrators job.

Simple Configuration

Besides having a nearly pain-free Windows CE solution option, the PCM-3345 boasts a jumper-free configuration (since the CPU is on-board and the voltage and speed need not be selected or adjusted). Also, with the standard package, all basic cableing is included, thus, simplifying and hastening the systems integrating process. Slots for SO DIMM and CompactFlash also conserve precious space. Moreover, the CompactFlash interface frees the CPU from the software emulation task of DiskOnChip and further increases the PCM-3345's performance, which might be critical for a 486-level 66 MHz CPU. Also space conscious are connectors for industry-standard PC/104 expansion modules. Instead of having to use a backplane or space-wasting expansion cards, one can simply "stack" whatever PC/104 expansion module they desire onto the PCM-3345, keeping space use to a minimum, and opening up a whole new range of application possibilities.