Month: July 2013

Quick review for 4th generation Intel® Core™ processors

The 4th generation Intel® Core™  processors

The 4th generation Intel® Core™ processors serve the embedded computing space with a new microarchitecture which Kontron will implement on a broad range of embedded computing platforms. Based on the 22 nm Intel® 3D processor technology already used in the predecessor generation, the processors, formerly codenamed ‘Haswell’, have experienced a performance increase which will doubtlessly benefit applications. Beside a 15% increased CPU performance especially the graphics has improved by its doubled performance in comparison to solutions based on the previous generation processors. At the same time, the thermal footprint has remained practically the same or has even shrunk.

With improved processing and graphics performance as well as energy efficiency and broad scalability, the 4th generation Intel® Core™ processors with its new microarchitecture provide an attractive solution for a broad array of mid-range to high-end embedded applications in target markets such as medical,  embedded computing, industrial automation, infotainment and military. This whitepaper gives engineers a closer look into the architectural improvements of the new microarchitecture and delivers the answers as to how they can integrate these most efficiently into their appliances.

refer to: http://embedded-computing.com/white-papers/white-intelr-coretm-processors/

Remote tele-health advancements

This is just one example of why telehealth strategies are poised solutions to revolutionize medicine. Telehealth not only provides quick access to specialists, but can also remotely monitor patients and reduce clinical expenses. Many of the systems needed to realize these benefits will operate on the edge, and require technology with the portability and price point of commercial mobile platforms, as well as the flexibility to perform multiple functions securely and in real time. All of this must be provided in a package that can meet the rigors of certification and scale over long lifecycle deployments.

The ability to transition between x86 and ARM processors is critical for low-volume medical applications because a single carrier board solutions – often the most costly component of a COM architecture – can suit the needs of both graphics-intensive systems and platforms that require more mobility and lower power. In addition to reducing Time-To-Market (TTM), this decreases Bill Of Materials (BOM) costs and eases Board Support Package (BSP) implementation, says Christoph Budelmann, General Manager, Budelmann Elektronik GmbH in Münster, Germany (www.budelmann-elektronik.com).

refer to: http://smallformfactors.com/articles/qseven-coms-healthcare-mobile/

New advancements supply embedded module memory design

Embedded OEMs are looking to the latest memory technologies to solve their specific design needs and market demands. But which memory modules provide the most optimal solution for excessive shock and vibration or increased thermal dissipation? And what new testing and validation techniques are being used to reduce overall design risks and increase reliability? Designers must evaluate these factors and other key embedded considerations when specifying memory devices for embedded systems in rugged environments.

refer to: http://embedded-computing.com/articles/ruggedization-memory-module-design/

Woman in embedded industry

Victoria (Vicki) Mitchell would like to share her experience in managing an embedded computer company. 2 points of view from her perspective:

MITCHELL: For women in technology fields, success requires fostering two personal attributes that nullify stereotyping and demonstrate significant advantage to the organization:

1. Leadership: It cannot be taught, but it can be mentored. As Sheryl Sandberg writes, “Female leaders are key to the solution.” It is up to today’s leaders to set an example and to inspire. There are practical aspects of leadership applicable to anyone, but women can leverage our innate abilities to nurture and build community.

2. Fearless creativity: This is hard to foster when preparing for a tech career because applied science is not fantasy science embedded computer. An active interest in literature, art, music, and dance helps inspire out-of-the-box thinking and provides a little bravado when voicing ideas.

refer to: http://embedded-computing.com/articles/2013-influential-engineering-altera-corporation/

About in-vehicle infotainment

Infotainment is one of the key megatrends fueling the pervasiveness of microelectronics in cars. Users want to be connected and conveniently access their personal content anywhere, anytime, on all of their devices. The in-vehicle becomes just another node in the network, an extension of the user’s digital and social lifestyle (see this article’s lead-in photo). A “connected” car is also more comfortable, safer, and energy efficient, having early access to important information such as weather reports, traffic jams, or road accidents. According to a recent study, 60 percent of new cars will be connected by 2017. Given this scenario, in-vehicle electronics are dictating features in the car, and the innovation cycle time is becoming shorter and shorter. Meanwhile, a key to this automotive infotainment innovation is the system’s enabler: memory.

 

refer to: http://embedded-computing.com/articles/automotive-industry-innovation-driven-electronics/#at_pco=cfd-1.0