PC/104+ Module Reduces System Size

Integrating Ethernet and digital I/O to eliminate the need for an additional board, the Mercury (MRC-224-XT) PC/104+ module promises to reduce the size and cost of embedded systems. It provides two PCI-based, NE2000-compatible 10/100 Ethernet ports employing National Semiconductor's DP83815 Mac + Phy PCI controller chip and 24 digital I/O lines, based on an 82C55 chip. The I/O lines feature programmable direction in 4- and 8-bit groups and include user-configurable, 10 kW pull-up resistors. Software support for the module is via the company's Universal Driver application for Linux, Windows 98/NT/2000/XP, QNX, and DOS. Single-unit price is $190 each. DIAMOND SYSTEMS CORP., Newark, CA. (800) 367-2104.