High performance embedded ARM9 core modules provide low power alternative to PCs and SBCs

Solid State Supplies to demonstrate capabilities of the Digi module at Embedded Masterclass 2009, Cambridge and Bristol

Digi's latest range of high performance, low power 32-bit ARM9 core processor modules is now available from Solid State Supplies. The Connect Core 9M2443 (with integrated Ethernet capability) and Connect Core Wi9M2443 (with integrated WiFi capability) are low-power alternatives to using a PC or embedded SBC (single board computer) in networked devices, medical devices, electronic point of sale terminals, energy management devices, building access control and other industrial applications. Typical power consumption for these extremely efficient devices is just 0.825W for the 9M2443 (3.3V, 250mA) and 1.815W for the WiFi enabled Wi9M2443 (3.3V, 550mA). The modules' small footprint coupled with their extremely power efficient nature mean they are also suitable for portable and handheld equipment.

The modules come with an easy to use development kit that works out of the box and is stocked by Solid State Supplies. Solid State Supplies will be demonstrating the capabilities and ease of use of this development kit at Embedded Masterclass 2009, Cambridge and Bristol, May 7th and 12th. The kit is a complete solution with a working BSP (board support package) with support for multiple external devices. It comes with complete platform support for either Windows CE 6.0 or Linux. The 9M2443's integrated Ethernet and 802.11a/b&g networking options are pre-tested and certified, reducing design risk. The pin-compatible modules use Digi's proprietary WLAN technology ensuring long-term availability for embedded applications.

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Both the 9M2443 and Wi9M2443 use the new high performance power efficient Samsung S3C2443 embedded ARM processor operating up to 533MHz. An important new feature is the multi-layer memory bus architecture that allows simultaneous data transfer between processor, memory and peripherals. This eliminates the traditional bus bandwidth bottlenecks common on other platforms. The manufacturer claims these modules are the fastest ARM9-based core modules available on the market.

The Samsung ARM9 processor is coupled with a wide range of external functionality, including: high capacity NAND Flash and DDR memory, 1024x1024 LCD display controller, 4096x4096 camera interface, 12S and AC97 Codec, USB2 device and USB1 host functionality, 4 UARTs, 12C, memory card interfaces, 10-bit ADC and touch screen interfaces, timer counters, memory bus interface, GPIO, Watchdog, RTC and a wide range of power management modes. Both parts also feature extended temperature range for industrial applications.