Mini PCIe: A Modern Standard for Rugged Environments
Introduction to Mini PCIe
Mini PCIe, also known as mPCIe or PCI Express Mini Card, represents the evolution of PCI Express technology. Designed to meet the rigorous demands of the defence industry, researchers, and manufacturers of rugged and MIL-STD products. Mini PCIe stands out for its resilience to shock and vibration. It supports standard PCI Express and USB 2.0 signals, catering to a wide range of applications.
Acromag’s Innovative Solution: AcroPack® Series
Acromag, a leader in embedded I/O and processing solutions, introduces the AcroPack® series. This line revamps their well-regarded Industry Pack I/O Modules with an mPCIe interface, offering a compact, cost-effective, and robust solution with unchanged functionality.
Key Features of AcroPack Mini PCIe I/O Series
- Compact Design: With dimensions of 70mm x 30mm, the series is ideal for integration into constrained spaces. Often found in rugged workstations, embedded computers, and industrial PCs.
- Lightweight: Each module weighs approximately 14 grams, ensuring minimal addition to system weight.
- Energy Efficient: The modules consume less than 5 watts each, contributing to overall power savings.
- Affordable: Prices start at USD $395, offering a cost-effective solution without sacrificing quality or functionality.
- Temperature Resilient: Designed for extreme conditions. Operating temperatures range from -40° to 70° C, with both air-cooled and conduction-cooled variants available.
- Versatile Compatibility: The series includes 33 I/O modules and 14 carrier cards in various form factors. Therefore, enabling extensive customisation and functionality.
Applications and Advantages
Diverse Applications: AcroPack® modules have been deployed in critical Defence applications. Including aircraft testing and support systems, and naval mine sweepers, showcasing their reliability and adaptability.
Enhanced Versatility and I/O Density: AcroPack® mPCIe-based rugged mezzanine modules are designed for maximum I/O density. Therefore, they can be used with carrier cards. Such as CompactPCI® Serial, Mini-ITX Com Express Type 10, PCIe, XMC, or VPX-based systems. This mix-and-match capability enables the creation of custom applications tailored to specific needs.
Low Power and Wide Temperature Range: The modules are low-power and operate reliably within a -40 to 70°C temperature range. Therefore, catering to environments requiring energy efficiency and durability.
Comprehensive Software Support: Acromag provides extensive software support for Linux, Windows, or VxWorks operating systems. Including generic routines for basic operations and demonstration programs to facilitate development.
Conclusion
Acromag’s AcroPack® series merges durability with versatility, making it an ideal choice for military, aerospace, industrial, and scientific applications. These COTS products are distinguished by their solid-state components, robust connectors, and comprehensive software support. Therefore, ensuring reliability and ease of integration in demanding environments.
Finally, Metromatics sell, support and service the Acromag Product range including AcroPack in Australia and New Zealand. Should you require any further information, contact us.
