Computer-on-module boards often delegate expansion to a custom carrier board. Diamond Systems takes a different approach by including PC/104-Plus expansion on its Atom-based ETX Pluto, which is built around a 1.6-GHz Intel Atom ETX module with a 945GSE chipset (see the figure).
The ETX Pluto handles up to 2 Gbytes of small-outline dual-inline memory-module (SODIMM) DDR2. Its high-resolution display controller can drive low-voltage differential signal (LVDS) displays. Peripheral interfaces include dual 100-Mbit/s Ethernet, two SATA, IDE, four USB 2.0 ports, four serial ports, AC’97 audio, SMBus, I2C, IRDA, digital IO, PS/2 ports, a parallel port, and a Compact Flash socket.
The ETX processor module’s form factor matches the interface board. The module also has its own metal heatsink for fanless operation. Expansion is provided via the PC/104- Plus ISA and PCI bus connectors. Pricing starts at $599.
DIAMOND SYSTEMSwww.diamondsystems.com