Network-optimised 32-bit core modules released

Believed to be the industry's first network-optimised ARM9-based core module, it is intended for access control systems, RFID readers, networked displays, and many more.
Digi International has announced the introduction of the ConnectCore 9C, the industry's first network-optimised ARM9-based core module targeted for products including, access control systems, point-of-sale systems, RFID readers, medical devices and instrumentation, networked displays, and many more. Digi's ConnectCore 9C is a powerful, compact 32-bit core module in a universal SO-DIMM form factor that enables customers to easily design in main processing functionality with Ethernet networking capabilities in a single high-performance solution. Future wireless and cellular versions will be fully interchangeable; customers will be able to design their products once for multiple network technologies.

'Digi's ConnectCore 9C extends our embedded family of products to include a true core module built on our powerful NS9360 microprocessor' said Joel Young, vice president of engineering, Digi International.

'The ConnectCore 9C series enables customers to focus on higher level I/O interfaces specific to their application instead of getting bogged down in the complexities of high-end microcontroller design.' Based on the NS9360 processor, Digi's ConnectCore 9C provides an outstanding level of functionality including 10/100Base-T Ethernet, 4MB Flash, 16MB RAM and up to four high-speed TTL serial ports.

It also features an integrated LCD controller, a mix of up to four high-speed serial ports and SPI Interfaces, USB 2.0 host/device interfaces with full-speed support, an I'C bus interface, and up to 55 GPIOs to meet broad application needs.

The NET+Works package helps companies to network embedded devices by eliminating the burden of software sourcing, integration and maintenance.

The kit includes a development board, hardware or software debugging options, GNU tools, a board support package, the ThreadX real-time operating system, a TCP/IP stack and a rich set of device networking applications software and sample code.

'In utilising our common software platform and development tools, product design time can be cut in half while allowing customers to re-use a design across multiple network technologies' added Young.

'In addition, Digi's ConnectCore 9C offers processor speed grade, memory, and connector population options allowing customers to choose tailored solutions that best fit their specific application environment.' At ESC, Digi's ConnectCore 9C is being demonstrated in a thin client application.

Utilising Virtual Network Computer (VNC) technology, NET+OS 6.2, USB attached keyboard and mouse, and an LCD display, the Connect 9C functions as a thin client while significantly reducing the costs associated with traditional thin clients or dedicated computer/terminals.

General availability of the ConnectCore 9C development kits and modules will be June 2005.

About Digi International Digi International, based in Minneapolis makes device networking easy by developing products and technologies that are cost effective and easy to use.

Digi markets its products through a global network of distributors and resellers, systems integrators and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).