SwiftLite enables rapid module-based turnaround

Speedy-baseboard service completes system-on-module solution

Direct Insight's new SwiftLite speedy-baseboard service simplifies specification of a production breakout board to complete a customer-specific solution based on the SwiftModule system-on-module (SOM), permitting a low-power, Windows CE-based product to be brought to market in less than a month.

Called SwiftLite, the service allows customers to select from a range of popular interfaces. Most of these are already implemented on the SwiftModule, and their selection selects the inclusion of the corresponding connector on the "custom" baseboard. Interfaces available include Ethernet, USB, 802.11b/g, RS232, SD Card, Audio and LCD touch screen with LVDS. An extension header allows connection of further interfaces in modular form, such as GPRS modem, GPS receiver, A/D converter, CANbus controller.

Once the required interfaces are selected, a price and specification for any given quantity of SwiftLite baseboard and SwiftModule SOM are instantly available along with the lead time, which may be as little as 4 weeks. A comprehensive Windows CE 6.0 BSP provides drivers for all interfaces so that a production BSP (Board Support Package) suited to the SwiftLite specification can also be instantly generated.

At the heart of the system, the SwiftModule SOM is powered by a 806MHz PXA320 microcontroller, which combines high performance with handheld-class power consumption. The module also provides up to 256MB of SDRAM, up to 1GB NAND Flash, as well as audio and Wi-Fi connectivity. Two 120-pin connectors join the SwiftModule to the SwiftLite baseboard.

Many system-on-module customers choose to create their own breakout board, and we plan to continue to provide full schematics of the established SwiftKit development baseboard for this purpose. Alongside SwiftLite, we continue to offer our full custom baseboard service, which is especially focused on handheld form-factor, and battery powered solutions.

SwiftLite is available immediately with unit prices starting from $43 / €30 (based on 1K units). For further information, see our Swiftmodule baseboard page.