Modularity in New Rugged Compact PC Enhances Functionality in Low Power Embedded Systems

CHATSWORTH, Calif., Oct. 12, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Aitech Defense Systems Inc., has released a low profile rugged compact PC (RCP) that provides exceptional design flexibility in a low power, high performance computing system.  Developed around a standard Type 6 COM Express module, the new A172 features an industry standard pinout and the ability to support multiple processor options for easy system integration as well as cost effective technology insertion upgrades.

Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20151012/276003

Weighing under 5 lbs (2.25 kg) with dimensions of only 10.24" x 7.09" x 1.8" (260 mm x 180 mm x 46 mm), the A172 maximizes SWaP (size, weight and power) for applications with limited space requirements.  

The RCP also features multiple I/O options that make the rugged, Intel Core i7-based unit ideal for high impact, high performance military applications.  These include ground and airborne environments such as manned and unmanned robotic ground vehicles (UGV) as well as manned and unmanned fixed- and rotary-wing airborne (UAV) platforms. 

With the addition of an optional frame grabber, applications for the new RCP include image capture and stabilization, with or without graphics overlays for ISR red/blue force tracking and threat assessment.  The rugged RCP can be used in complete mission computers for unmanned vehicles, and optional solid state drives (SSDs) provide data capture and sensor logging. 

The A172 offers exceptional speed and performance for its 1.7 GHz Intel Core i7 processor through high speed, fast access memory capacities with up to 16 GB of DDR3L SDRAM as well as two internal mSATA SSD slots for standard mini Flash drives, totaling up to 128 GB, and two mini PCIe slots for standard mini PCIe modules to further increase system functionality.

Multiple I/O options include up to four independent Gigabit Ethernet interfaces, four USB 2.0 interfaces and eight serial ports with multiple RS232, RS422, or RS485 configurations as well as two CANbus and eight single-ended, buffered LVTTL discrete digital I/O ports. 

Two single link DVI outputs and an audio line with stereo in/out round out the unit's available I/O.  The optional frame grabber provides up to 8 channels of DVI inputs, capturing all eight channels simultaneously.  Wi-Fi connectivity is also available by plugging in a USB Wi-Fi antenna into the front panel's USB 3.0 port. 

In addition to the robust, configurable I/O, the A172's modular structure significantly increases design flexibility for a custom tailored system that can handle a number of data processing environments, depending on application requirements.  Other COM Express processors can be accommodated as required. 

Operating systems include both Windows (7, 64-bit) and Linux preinstalled as ordering options.

The IP65 environmental sealing and natural convection cooling contribute to the A172's ability to withstand harsh, rugged environments. 

With an integrated power input line filter and supporting a wide input voltage range from 12 VDC to 32 VDC, the A172 provides the integrator greater flexibility for system power.  The input is also MIL-STD-704 and MIL-STD-1275 compliant for power and electrical integrity across the entire voltage range.  Operating temperature range is -40 degrees C to +70 degrees C (-40 degrees F to +158 degrees F).

An optional developer's kit is available providing a universal AC/DC power supply, all fully terminated cables with industry standard connectors and CD-ROM with software drivers to facilitate an immediate out-of-the-box development.  Fully tested and military environmentally qualified, the A172 is in stock and ready for immediate delivery.

Technical Specifications

• Rugged: VITA 47 vibration and shock resistance; MIL-STD-810G rain, dust, salt fog resistance
• Compact: 10.24" x 7.09" x 1.8" (260 mm x 180 mm x 46 mm); weighing less than 5 lbs (2.25 kg)
• Operating temperature: -40 degrees C to +70 degrees C (-40 degrees F to +158 degrees F); low power: 30W typical
• Flexible COM Express processor and I/O options for cost-effective enhancements or upgrades
• Multiple I/O interfaces: Gigabit Ethernet, serial ports, USB 2.0, discrete I/O, CANbus, DVI inputs and outputs.

For more information please call 888-Aitech-8 (888-248-3248), visit http://rugged.com/a172-rugged-core%E2%84%A2-i7-compact-pc or e-mail [email protected].

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UPCOMING TRADESHOWS: AUSA 2015; Booth # 6317; Oct. 12-14, 2015; Washington DC

ABOUT AITECH:
Established in 1983, Aitech offers military and space-qualified, commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) embedded computing products for rugged defense, aerospace and astronautics (space) applications as well as provides radiation tolerant and full MIL-SPEC solutions. 

The company provides industry-standard, open architecture VMEbus, CompactPCI and high speed serial fabric-based boards, power subsystems, mass memory, enclosures and hardware subsystem integration along with logistics, configuration control, component obsolescence and earned-value management services.

Having pioneered the development of true military VMEbus products for use in mainstream defense and aerospace applications, Aitech utilizes its broad base of off-the-shelf products and technologies to also develop customer-specific solutions, deliver superior cost-performance and reliability, and expedite time to market. 

Applications for its products range from mission processors, fire control, mission control and autonomous robotic subsystems for ground vehicles as well as surface and subsurface naval platforms to tactical and strategic fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft, and low- to high-earth orbit and deep space vehicles.

Editorial Contact:
The Simon Group, Inc.
Beth Smith or Christina Sanchez
Phone: (215) 453-8700
E-mail: [email protected]

SOURCE Aitech Defense Systems Inc.

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