104-Express Based Data Acquisition (DAQ) and Control
SMALL FORM FACTOR EMBEDDED COMPUTER BOARDS
104-Express boards are typically intended for use in small, space-constrained industrial control or vehicles systems. The standard size of these modules is just 3.550 × 3.775 inches (90 × 96 mm).
The name PC/104 comes from the original IBM computer known as the “PC”, and the number of pins used to connect the cards together (104). 104-Express boards, like PC/104 boards, are typically stacked on top of each other using stackable bus connectors and mounting holes at the corner of each module. This provides a much more rugged, embedded computer that can be used in harsh environments such as those found in military or industrial applications.
These rugged, self-stacking modules, allow for an expandable system without the burden of a motherboard or backplane with a fixed number of slots. Additionally, since 104-Express is basically PCI Express with a different form factor, most of the program development tools used for PCs can be used for a 104-Express system. This reduces the cost of purchasing new tools and also greatly reduces the learning curve for programmers and hardware designers.
Almost anything you can think of is available as a 104-Express module. This includes common functions like CPUs, Analog, Digital, and Serial I/O ports, and Video Controllers; in addition to more special function modules like GPS receivers, vehicle power supplies, and wireless communications. A 104-Express stack can be attached as a component of a larger circuit board, or simply put in a small enclosure for stand-alone operation.
Since 104-Express systems are small and usually have low power requirements, they are traditionally used in applications that simply don’t have the space for a standard industrial computer or desktop PC. Some sample applications for this type of technology include the following: military applications, industrial control systems, vehicular systems, data loggers, aviation, vending machines, test equipment, medical instruments, and communications devices.
ACCES offers 104-Express I/O boards that include analog in, analog out, serial RS232, RS422, RS485, digital I/O, relay I/O and more. Additionally, ACCES has partnered with leading PC/104 CPU vendors to offer complete system solutions. By using 104-Express, design and application engineers can easily and economically provide numerous configurations to customers requiring the strong and rugged characteristics of 104-Express.
