Introduction; Com Express™ Concept; Conga-Meval - Congatec COM Express conga-MEVAL Manual

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Introduction

1.1 COM Express™ Concept
COM Express™ is an open industry standard defined specifically for COMs (computer on modules). Its creation makes it possible to smoothly
transition from legacy interfaces to the newest technologies available today.
A Computer On Module integrates all the core components and standard I/O interfaces of a common PC onto an application specific carrier
board. The key advantage of the COM in the embedded computer industries is that all the highly integrated, high speed components such as
CPU, chipsets and memory are combined on a small module form factor for easy adaptation into different applications across multiple market
segments.
COM Express™ modules have standardized form factors and specified pinouts on the two system connectors that remain the same regardless
of the vendor. The COM Express™ module reflects the functional requirements for a wide range of embedded applications. These functions
include, but are not limited to, PCI Express, PCI, Graphics, High Definition Audio, serial ATA, Gigabit Ethernet and USB ports. One ruggedized,
shielded connector provide the carrier board interface and carry all the I/O signals to and from the COM Express™ module.
Carrier board designers can use as little or as many of the I/O interfaces as deemed necessary. The carrier board can therefore provide all
the interface connectors required to attach the system to the application specific peripherals. This versatility allows the designer to create a
dense and optimized package, which results in a more reliable product while simplifying system integration. Most importantly, COM Express™
modules are scalable, which means once an application has been created there is the ability to diversify the product range through the use
of different performance class or form factor size modules. Simply unplug one module and replace it with another; no redesign is necessary.
1.2

conga-MEVAL

The conga-MEVAL carrier board is designed based on the Type 10 pinout definition and it complies with COM Express Specification 3.0. The
conga-MEVAL provides most of the functional requirements for any embedded PC application. These functions include, but are not limited to
a rich complement of contemporary high bandwidth serial interfaces such as PCI Express, Serial ATA, USB 2.0, and Gigabit Ethernet. To ensure
stable data throughput, the carrier board is equipped with a high performance connector in accordance with the COM Express specification.
By combining the scalability of COM Express modules, the conga-MEVAL carrier board provides manufacturers and developers with a platform
to jump-start the development of systems and applications based on COM Express specification. This helps to reduce product design cycle
and encourages rapid innovation in system design, to meet the ever-changing needs of the market.
The various features and capabilities offered by the conga-MEVAL makes it ideal for integrating mini form factor modules.
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