The I/O Behind Many of the World’s Critical Systems

There are many different computing and embedded computing applications that require a broad mix of I/O options. Applications and use cases that benefit from a large variety of I/O connections typically involve complex and high-demand tasks, integration with diverse peripherals, or environments where flexibility and scalability are crucial.

COM Express architecture provides an excellent framework to support a diverse array of I/O and has the added benefit of providing flexibility, scalability, and performance. COM Express systems offer an off-the-shelf computer module combined with a custom, application-specific carrier board. By addressing the more standardized computing functions with COM modules, engineers and designers can focus their efforts on the carrier board, which is used to address the unique I/O requirements of the application.

Systems Integration

Systems integration by its very nature incorporates a wide variety of I/O connections, depending on the type and/or manufacturer of the sensor. The specified I/O can include general-purpose input/output (GPIO), serial connections such as Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) or RS-232, or other connections like USB, PCI Express, or SATA. For communication between devices, these systems rely on I/O like Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth among others.

Medical Devices

A large percentage of diagnostic equipment requires modern and legacy I/O options to connect sensors, imaging devices, and computers for data processing and display. Further, diagnostic equipment often necessitates medical-grade isolation, used to isolate the patient and the equipment operator from potential electric shock, as well as to isolate the equipment from power surges and malfunctioning components. Patient monitoring systems also connect to sensors, displays, and data storage systems.

Media Production and Graphic Design

Graphic designers, video editors, animators, audio producers, and other creative professionals often use a variety of I/O connections to support their specialized workflows and equipment.

Video editing, 3D rendering, and audio production benefit from multiple high-speed connections such as Thunderbolt, USB, or HDMI for external drives, monitors, and audio interfaces. High-resolution displays – such as 4K or 8K displays – need high-bandwidth connections like DisplayPort or HDMI to ensure sharp, clear images and smooth video playback. Editing large files – things like video files or high-resolution images – relies on fast data transfer rates. Connections like Thunderbolt, USB 3.2, and SATA provide the necessary speed.

Automotive

Automotive and transportation systems have become increasingly complex and have incorporated more and more advanced technology, requiring a wide variety of I/O connections to support numerous functions and ensure seamless operation.

Infotainment systems connect to various multimedia devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and media players, requiring USB, Bluetooth, HDMI, and auxiliary audio inputs. In-vehicle displays utilize several different video outputs (HDMI, DisplayPort) to connect screens within the vehicle – like dashboard, rear-seat entertainment, and heads-up displays. Modern vehicles use telematics systems for a variety of applications like remote diagnostics, navigation, and communication with external servers. All of these use different communications, from cellular like LTE and 5G, to Wi-Fi, and GPS connections.

Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) rely on a network of sensors, including radar, lidar, ultrasonic sensors, and cameras. These all use different I/O connections like CAN bus, Ethernet, and other Fieldbus communications.

Flexibility, Reliability, and Unmatched I/O from Sealevel

To meet the widest variety of applications and support a limitless number of devices and peripherals, Sealevel has developed the 12010 carrier board. The standard I/O on the 12010 includes Ethernet, serial, USB, and digital interfaces, as well as an mPCIe expansion slot, and also includes integrated DisplayPort, power, touchscreen, LVDS, and backlight connectors.

By focusing on a diverse mix of I/O, the 12010 can accommodate future upgrades and expansions, allowing for increased functionality and performance as needs evolve. The modular nature of the COM Express architecture makes it easy to swap out and upgrade the COM module without replacing the entire system, facilitating cost-effective scalability. The I/O mix ensures that the 12010 has optimal connectivity for high-performance tasks, such as data processing, storage, and communication. Further, the diversity of the I/O connections also provides a great deal of redundancy, ensuring continuous operation even if one interface fails. In short, the 12010 provides flexibility, scalability, and enhanced performance, making it an excellent choice for applications that require diverse connectivity options and robust, reliable performance.