Computer-on-module spec approved

Parallel to the nanoETXexpress industrial group, Kontron has approved and released the nanoETXexpress 2.0 specification for ultra-small COM Express computer-on-modules.

The PCI Industrial Manufacturers Group (PICMG) identified the need to adopt the COM Express specification to the new capabilities for ultra-sized modules with latest processor technology. With the COM Express specification rev 2.0, PICMG laid the groundwork for ultra-sized modules by adding the Type 10 pinout, a next generation to the previously introduced Type 1 pinout.

Keeping in line with the COM Express specification, the nanoETXexpress specification rev 2.0 implements all relevant parts of the current COM Express specification.

The definition of the new pinout Type 10, which provides another evolutionary path for modular solutions in addition to Type 1, puts more capabilities within reach for embedded application developers.

Consistent with the COM Express specification rev 2.0, the nanoETXexpress specification 2.0 calls out the same Type 1 and Type 10 pinouts and keeps the overall footprint of the modules and the corresponding cooling solutions compatible to those called out for the COM Express basic and compact form factors.

The most important addition to the nanoETXexpress specification is the introduction of the new COM Express Type 10 pinout. It explicitly addresses the requirements of new and highly compact processors families.

COMs adhering to the nanoETXexpress specification using the COM Express Type 10 pinout support one digital display interface with SDVO port or, alternatively, DisplayPort or HDMI/DVI.

As a result, developers get more design freedom and performance in display connectivity and still maintain backward compatibility to pinout Type 1 designs.

New, for both the Type 1 and Type 10 pinouts defined in the nanoETXexpress specification, is the support of PCI Express Gen 2 as well as the addition of dedicated pins for serial interfaces or CAN bus.