Advantech's
new PCM-3346 has all the functions and power of a standard, full-size
PC applied into the form factor of an industry-standard PC/104
module. In the tradition of expanding it's product line to meet
customer needs, Advantech took it's industry-proven PCM-3345 486-based
PC/104 CPU module and added an on-board LCD controller (C&T 69000)
as well as 10/100Base-T Ethernet. The on-board LCD controller
supports 36-bit video and has 2 MB display memory on chip. These
additional features give our customers a small, complete and cost
effective board solution that allows a myriad of possible embedded
applications which require network or LCD panel support in a limited
space application. The PC/104 form factor also helps customers
avoid some mechanical problems in their system assembling that
they might face using larger form factor SBCs.
Small
Size, Big on Features
The PCM-3346 is the PCM-3345's big
brother. With dimensions of only (90 x 96 mm), it is one of the
smallest and most complete PC/104 SBCs on the market. Both models
include a 486-class embedded PC and slots for both SO DIMM and
CompactFlash cards. Both boards also support VGA with up to 4
MB shared memory. The PCM-3346 supports ATX power (allowing for
remote power-on) and watchdog timer protection. The number of
ports or connectors is not limited by the small size either. On
board are two serial ports and one parallel port, one FDD connector
and one EIDE connector. This allows for as much peripheral expansion
as most larger size SBCs.
A Solid
Foundation for Expansion
Although the PCM-3346 is small, the
PC/104 industry standard ensures module updates that will increase
the number of useful applications available to the PCM-3346. For
example, Advantech offers a LVDS transmitting and receiving module
(PCM-3540T/R) for ranges of up to 12 meters. Increasing the range
of LCD displays from 30 cm to 12 meters opens up a whole new range
of application possibilities. In the future we can only expect
more features and add-ons to become available for the PC/104 form
factor.
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