Table of Contents
Advertisement
2.5
COM Express® Benefits
Computer on modules express (COM Express) modules in compact formfactor are very compact (95 x 95 mm), highly
integrated computers. All (micro)ETXexpress® modules feature a standardized form factor and a standardized
connector layout that carry a specified set of signals. Each microETXexpress module is based on connector type 2 of
the COM Express specification. This standardization allows designers to create a single-system baseboard that can
accept present and future (micro)ETXexpress® modules.
microETXexpress modules include common personal computer (PC) peripheral functions such as:
»
Graphics
»
USB ports
»
Ethernet
»
Sound
»
IDE and SATA
The baseboard designer can optimize exactly how each of these functions implements physically. Designers can place
connectors precisely where needed for the application on a baseboard designed to optimally fit a system's packaging.
A peripheral PCI bus can be implemented directly on the baseboard rather than on mechanically unwieldy expansion
cards. The ability to build a system on a single baseboard using the computer as one plug-in component simplifies
packaging, eliminates cabling, and significantly reduces system-level cost.
A single baseboard design can use a range of ETXexpress®, microETXexpress® and nanoETXexpress modules. This
flexibility can differentiate products at various price/performance points, or to design future proof systems that have
a built-in upgrade path. The modularity of a COM Express® solution also ensures against obsolescence as computer
technology evolves. A properly designed COM Express® baseboard can work with several successive generations of
COM Express® modules.
A COM Express® baseboard design offers many of the advantages of a custom, computer board design, but delivers
better obsolescence protection, greatly reduced engineering effort, and faster time to market.
5
microETXexpress®-SP / Introduction
Advertisement
Table of Contents
