Manufacturers agree to ‘hot swap’ CompactPCI industrial computers

PCI Industrial Computer Manufacturers Group (PICMG) approved and released the CompactPCI Hot Swap Specification (Rev. 1.0) on Aug. 17. The PICMG 2.1 document details how to implement “hot swapping” components—hardware and software—in nonproprietary, CompactPCI systems. Hot swapping allows users to remove and replace components without turning off the system. Members get the spec free; nonmembers pay a “nominal fee.” CompactPCI industrial computer platform based on the standard PCI electrical specification in rugged Eurocard packaging, with a 2 mm pin-and-socket connector. Technical subcommittee that developed the specification includes Compaq (formerly Digital Equipment), Dialogic, Force Computers, Lucent, Motorola (chair, formerly Pro-Log), NCR, Natural Microsystems, PLX, Pigeon Point Systems, Radisys, Texas Micro, and Ziatech. “This is the industry’s first open, interoperable specification. Now board, platform, and software suppliers can independently develop products that will work together,” said Joe Pavlat, director, Motorola Computer Group and PICMG president.

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