Kontron AdvancedMC has Intel quad-core performance

Design for the Kontron AM5030 AdvancedMC processor module is powered by the new quad-core Intel Xeon processor LC5518.

Share

Kontron announced the introduction of the Kontron AM5030, one of the first Advanced Mezzanine Cards designed with a quad-core processor, at the Mobile World Congress on Feb. 15.

This new Kontron double-wide, full-size AMC module, features the new Intel Xeon processor LC5518, which is based on the latest Intel microarchitecture and delivers with its 45nm process technology even lower power consumption and higher integration, the company said.

This makes the Kontron AM5030 an attractive solution for MicroTCA platforms designed for dense server environments deployed in storage, military/aerospace and communications networks such as IPTV, VoIP, NAS, SAN and wireless radio network controllers, the company said.

Kontron AM5030 supports RedHat Linux, Windows 7, Windows XP and Windows 2008 Server. Kontron expects the AM5030 to be in serial production by second-quarter 2010 and offers samples upon request. Kontron is listed on the German TecDAX stock exchange under the symbol "KBC."

The 45 nm Intel Xeon processor LC5518 with integrated I/O Hub features a 4-to-1 consolidation of workload functions for greater real estate and power savings. This includes, for the first time, the integration of PCIe Gen 2.0 I/O within the processor. In addition, the new embedded processor offers up to 8MB shared Last Level Cache, Intel Hyper-Threading technology support and Intel Turbo Boost technology. Thanks to the accompanying Intel 3420 platform controller hub (PCH) and Direct Media Interface (DMI), the Kontron AM5030 takes full advantage of reduced component count and streamlined data-paths between CPU, PCH and peripherals for overall greater performance. An integrated redundant array of independent disks (RAID) acceleration, which is advantageous for storage customers migrating to Intel architecture or transitioning RAID for core optimization, complements the unique technical feature set, Kontron said.

The module hosts up to 24 GB ECC memory (DDR3) at 1066 MHz implemented as 3-channel interface for the highest memory access, and is built with two 10GbE (XAUI) interfaces in accordance with AMC.2 for comprehensive networking capabilities. When used in conjunction with a 10GbE MicroTCA Carrier Hub (MCH), such as the Kontron AM4910, system designers can achieve exceptionally high performance multi-core MicroTCA platforms built for massive data throughput. Four GbE interfaces, two available on the front panel, two in accordance with AMC.2, provide additional networking capabilities. The Kontron AM5030 also offers connectivity in accordance with AMC.1 (PCIe x4) and AMC.3 (2x SATA) plus 2x SATA at the extended AMC connector - providing overall 4x SATA for demanding RAID applications. Two USB 2.0 ports, one VGA (D-SUB) and one COM (RJ45) port on the front panel round out the extensive feature set.

The AMC.1/.2/.3 compliant Kontron AM5030 AdvancedMC processor module has full hot-swap capabilities for replacing, monitoring and controlling the module without the need to shut down the MicroTCA system. A dedicated Module Management Controller (MMC) is used to manage the board and to support a defined subset of Intelligent Platform Management Interface (IPMI) commands. IPMI enhances the board's availability while reducing the overall operating costs and mean-time-to-repair. For mechanical reliability, the front panel is designed to meet the MircoTCA.1 requirements.

www.kontron.com/AdvancedMC

www.kontron.com/MicroTCA

Also read:
- Kontron Micro Client IIA Panel PC series based on the Intel Atom processor ;
- How to Choose a Controller - article by Control Engineering ; and
- PLC/PAC product channel from Control Engineering .
- Edited by Mark T. Hoske, editor in chief, Control Engineering , www.controleng.com.