New PCIe/104 Carrier Cards Host AcroPack Mini-PCIe I/O Modules for High-Performance Embedded Computing

Acromag now offers the Model APX4020 carrier cards to integrate their family of AcroPack I/O mezzanine modules into PC/104 computing systems. Available in PCIe/104 and PCI/104-Express formats, both versions provide two mezzanine module sites capable of hosting AcroPack or full-size PCIe mini cards. AcroPack modules offer a broad range of signal processing functions, including analog and discrete I/O, serial communication, avionics, and FPGA computing. Dual 50-pin connectors simplify the I/O interface between the modules and field signals without any loose internal wires. Designed for rugged applications, AcroPacks are well-suited for use in defense, aerospace, and industrial applications where size, weight, and power (SWaP) optimization is required. Common applications include data acquisition & control, test & measurement, simulation, and communication operations.

“With a more rugged design and advanced computing capabilities like an AMD Zynq UltraScale+ MPSoC, isolated communication, or multi-function I/O, AcroPacks bring a higher level of I/O performance to PC/104 computing stacks,” explains Robert Greenfield, Acromag’s Business Development Director.

Designed and manufactured in the USA, AcroPack products improve on the mini PCI Express architecture by adding a down-facing 100-pin connector that securely routes the I/O through a carrier card to its integrated external connectors, thus eliminating internal cables and metalwork modifications. An integrated conduction-cooling ring mates to an optional heat sink, enabling operation at higher temperatures. More than 25 I/O functions are available. Software tools support embedded applications running on Linux®, Windows®, or VxWorks® operating systems.