Neptune EPIC SBC EPIC Form-Factor Embedded-Ready Subsystem with Integrated Data Acquisition and Configurable CPU

FEATURES Integrates the functions of up to six PC/104 modules within the compact EPIC SBC form-factor ETX CPU core provides price/performance flexibility, reduces costs, and protects against product obsolescence Choice among Intel® Atom N270, Celeron, CoreDuo, or Core2Duo CPUs to match application requirements Fully featured: 10/100Mbps and Gigabit Ethernet, VGA and LVDS support, 4 USB, 6 serial, IDE, and SATA interfaces Best-in-class data acquisition featuring 32 16-bit A/D with autocalibration, 4 12-bit D/A, 24 programmable digital I/O lines, 8 optically isolated inputs, 8 optically isolated outputs, and 2 counter/timers Stackable PC/104-Plus expansion maximizes system flexibility 5VDC input or 40W 8-28V DC-to-DC power supply Selected models available with -20°C to +71°C or -40°C to +85°C operating temperature RoHS compliant

Description

Neptune introduces a new concept in small form-factor embedded-ready subsystems.

Neptune SBC Side View

Neptune's CPU core consists of an ETX module mounted its bottom side, an approach that improves thermal management and increases the space for I/O functions and connections. By utilizing conduction cooling, Neptune features improved ruggedness and reliability through the use of a heatspreader. This innovative design has enabled Neptune to integrate CPU, system I/O, industry-leading data acquisition, both 10/100Mbps and gigabit Ethernet, and a wide-input DC/DC power supply within the compact and modularly expandable EPIC single-board computer (SBC) form-factor.

Choice of CPUs

Thanks to Neptune's flexible architecture, you can select from a wide range of ETX-based CPUs to meet each application's specific performance, power, and cost requirements. Available processors include Intel's Atom, Celeron, Core Duo, and Core2D uo -- in both LV and ULV technologies. A choice of ETX COMs offers scalable performance for your application as well as protection from obsolescence through plug compatible CPU modules.

What's more, Neptune's on-board PC/104-Plus expansion socket facilitates the addition of custom or off-the-shelf ISA and PCI interfaced add-on modules, helping you satisfy your application's precise requirements.

Benefits of 6-in-1 Integration

• Less Space: Smaller and thinner than a stack of PC/104 boards

• Lower Cost: An integrated solution eliminates extra PCBs and connectors to lower the unit cost

• Higher Reliability: Less interconnects and components, resulting in higher reliability

• More Rugged: The flatter profile and reduction in connectors makes Neptune far more rugged in mobile applications

• Single Vendor: Purchasing and stocking are easier with a single board

• Saves Time: Assembly effort is dramatically reduced, shortening your total system integration time

                         
                    Reduces a stack of 6 PC/104 I/O modules into one Single Board Computer

System I/O Features

All models of Neptune include the following standard system I/O features:

* These features depend on ETX module.

Industry-Leading Data Acquisition Subsystem

In addition to its comprehensive embedded-PC system core, Neptune also optionally integrates Diamond's industry-leading data acquisition I/O subsystem and DC/DC power supply, featuring:

• 32 16-bit analog inputs with 250KHz sample rate
• 4 12-bit analog outputs
• 24 digital I/O lines, 3.3V/5V compatible
• 8 opto-isolated digital inputs, 3-24V range
• 8 opto-isolated digital outputs, 3-24V range
• 2 counter/timers for A/D sample rate control, event counting/timing, and programmable interrupts

To simplify the task of putting this advanced data acquisition functionality to work in real-world applications Neptune comes with Diamond's Universal Driver software for C programming under Linux, Windows XP, Windows CE, and DOS.

Benefits of an ETX Processor Core

• Choice of price/performance: Neptune is available with a range of CPUs, from a low-power Intel Atom N270 up to a high-performance Core2Duo, so you can obtain exactly the performance and cost required
• Protection from obsolescence: Easily switch processor modules in case of processor end of life
• Easy upgrade: ETX CPUs are interchangeable, allowing you to easily upgrade your system with minimal or no redesign
• Low Cost: ETX modules cost less than their equivalent SBC, resulting in a lower total cost for Neptune

Autocalibration for Best Measurement Accuracy

Diamond’s top-performing autocalibration circuitry lets you calibrate the analog circuits under software control at any time, maintaining best accuracy despite varying conditions. Temperature- and time-dependent measurement drift is eliminated, since the system can be calibrated as often as desired in just a few seconds, to ensure accurate readings in all environmental conditions.

Thermal Management

Neptune's ETX processor module is located on its bottom side. An integrated heatspreader makes thermal contact with the heat generating components and provides a flat surface on the bottom of the assembly for mating to the system enclosure. This technique facilitates efficient removal of heat from the CPU without the need for a fan. Four mounting holes on the bottom of the conduction cooled heatspreader are provided to mount Neptune in an enclosure or to a bulkhead. These mounting holes are #6-32 threaded holes on 2.8" centers.

Operating System Support

Neptune Block Diagram

Click on the image to enlarge

Development Kits and Accessories

Development Kits

A quick-start development kit includes everything you need to get started with your application development, including:

• Neptune computer with integrated ETX CPU
• 1GB memory installed
• Heatspreader installed
• 512MB Flashdisk with Linux
• Panel I/O Board
• Cable Kit
• CD containing User Manual and Support Software
• Quick Start Guide

Memory

Neptune uses SO-DIMM modules (located on the ETX CPU module) with capacities ranging from 1GB to 2GB depending on the choice of ETX CPU module.

Panel I/O Board

This accessory plugs onto the front row of pin headers to provide cable-free access to the standard system I/O: Serial ports, USB, Ethernet, PS/2, VGA, Power input.

Neptune panel I/O board	Neptune with panel I/O board attached

Neptune Cable Kit

This comprehensive cable kit provides access to all I/O features on Neptune, including the features on the panel I/O board.

Neptune Specifications

Notes to Specifications:

     * These functions depend on specific ETX CPU module

     ** These CPUs are available by special order only