New MEN Micro 16-bit Analog Input M-ModuleTM Offers High Resolution, Precise Data Acquisition

AMBLER, Pa., November 2007 — MEN Micro Inc., a world-renowned provider of embedded computing and I/O solutions for demanding industrial, mobile and harsh environment applications, now offers the M36N M-Module, an analog input mezzanine board that provides high resolution and precise data acquisition for analog signals found throughout automation, measuring and simulation applications. Available in 16- or 18-bit versions, the new M36N can be used as an I/O extension for CompactPCI, PCI, PXI or VME embedded systems as well as on stand-alone single board computers (SBCs).

The numerous integrated functions of M-Modules make these cards especially useful for industrial I/O applications such as process data acquisition as well as in the motion, robotics and instrumentation markets.

This newest MEN Micro M-Module provides up to 16 single-pole grounded channels for voltage or current, or alternatively, eight channels for differential voltage or current. Each channel and input range is adjusted separately and is fully automatic giving users exceptional flexibility for specific data acquisition requirements.

The board’s 16-bit resolution provides an accuracy of at least 0.05% over the whole temperature range from -40°C to +85°C (-40°F to +185°F). A fast A/D converter and automatic increments of the multiplexer channel enables a total acquisition time of only 130µs for the full 16 bits. Separate supply voltages generated via a DC/DC converter are suited for the board’s extended temperature range.

A Cyclone II FPGA implemented on the M36N controls signal conditioning and offers space for application-specific function extensions of the assembly. The accompanying Altera Nios II Softcore processor can be implemented into the FPGA for intelligent pre-data-processing or additional functions, such as noise-shaping, enabling the incorporation of up to 32 MB DDR2 DRAM and up to 6 MB non-volatile memory.

M-Modules, first introduced in 1988 and ANSI-standardized since 1997, are flexible, modular I/O extensions for industrial bus systems (CompactPCI, PXI, VME etc.) and for busless SBCs. A 6U carrier board can accommodate up to four M-Modules. The M36N is the latest board to be added to MEN Micro’s M-Module product line, which is currently comprised of more than 100 versions.

In compliance with the RoHS directive (effective since July 1, 2006), all M-Modules, including the new M36N, have either been adapted or redesigned and will now be available for at least 10 more years.

Pricing for the M36N is $850. Delivery is six weeks ARO.

For additional information, visit http://www.menmicro.com/products/default.asp?prod=04M036N or contact Stephen Cunha, MEN Micro Inc., 24 North Main Street, Ambler, PA 19002; Phone: 215-542-9575;
Fax: 215-542-9577; E-mail: Stephen.Cunha@menmicro.com.

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About MEN Micro Inc.
Since 1982, MEN Micro has focused on innovation, reliability and flexibility to develop standard and custom board-level solutions that are used throughout industrial embedded applications and harsh environments.

The company provides a robust offering of highly reliable embedded computing and I/O solutions that employ the highest technology and innovations. In addition, MEN Micro offers exceptional custom development and environmental qualification services in accordance with industry standards. The company’s standard product range contains more than 100 different computer boards and systems with corresponding BIOS, BSP and driver software based on different PowerPC and Pentium platforms. The company has more than 180 employees and is a member of several industry associations, consortiums and alliances.