Many embedded systems use dual processors to split operating system tasks and regulate power consumption. This method exists across most computers, with a single operating system creating processes that split tasks across different cores.
The VEX2-6415 from Taiwan-based manufacturer ICOP is a unique single-board computer (SBC). It features the Vortex86EX2 system on chip (SoC), which runs independent BIOS and operating system instances on each of its dual cores.
New Hardware, New Approach
The VEX2-6415, announced in a post on the ICOP website, is the first to feature the new Vortex86EX2 SoC from chipmakers DM&P. As the name suggests, it's an x86 chipset, allowing for two Intel-based operating systems to run simultaneously, each with an independent BIOS.
The "master" core runs at 600 MHz and is suggested as a user interface driver, while the 400 MHz "slave" core takes care of real-time input /output (I/O) of sensor data and hardware feedback. Both memory and I/O can be assigned to either core, giving many options for configuration.
This hardware setup isn't anything new, but running isolated environments without any kind of hypervisor or multi-core solution is a novel approach.
There are several notable features of the VEX2-6415 development board, but the ability to run two separate operating systems, even mixing embedded Linux and Windows builds, is both unusual and compelling.
The fact that it's x86 is also a bonus, as it will run Windows Embedded Compact 6 and 7 natively, saving you from the incompatibility issues faced when installing Windows 10 on the Raspberry Pi or other Arm Cortex-based computers.
A New Kind of Low-Powered x86 SBC
The chipset on the VEX2-6415 sets it aside as something new in the embedded hardware world. It may not be the first to feature dual independent CPUs, but it certainly is the first to encase it in a 100 x 66 mm development board ready for broader use.
The only coastline connector featured on the board is an RJ45 connector attached to one of the VEX2-6415's two 10/100 Ethernet interfaces. Everything else is exposed via headers or its dual mini-PCIe slots.
The full lineup of specs gives developers a lot of options to work with:
- CPU: DM&P Vortex86EX2 600MHz/400MHz dual-processors
- Power Consumption: 2.4 Watts
- Operating Temperatures: -20°C ~ +70°C, -40°C ~ +85°C (Optional)
- RAM: 512MB/1GB DDR3
- Operating system support: Windows Embedded Compact 7, Windows Embedded Compact 6, Linux, QNX, DOS
- I/O: 4 x COM Port (2 x RS232/485), 1 x 16-bit GPIO, 1 x LPT, 3 x USB 2.0, 2 x LAN, 2 x MiniPCIe
A Multi-Purpose SBC for Tough Environments
There's currently no pricing information listed on the ICOP product page for the VEX2-6415.
However, price permitting, its low power consumption, wide operating temperatures, and extensive configuration options will make it a welcome addition to developers of industrial and internet of things (IoT) applications.
