Digi Core Module Speeds Development of Low Power Wireless Multimedia Devices

(Product News, 9 Nov 2009)

Digi International has introduced the ConnectCore Wi-MX51, the “industry's first” core module designed specifically for low power, wireless multimedia applications. It is the “industry's first” wireless enabled core module based on Freescale's new high-performance i.MX51 processor, first to offer 802.11 a/b/g/n Wi-Fi and first to support Microsoft's new Windows CE 6.0 R3. The ConnectCore Wi-MX51 enables wired and Wi-Fi networking for low power embedded applications with demanding performance requirements such as displays within medical devices, digital signage, security/access control devices, point-of-sale equipment and industrial automation technology.

"The ConnectCore Wi-MX51 features three industry firsts that make it ideal for low power, wireless multimedia applications," said Larry Kraft, senior vice president of global sales and marketing, Digi International. "First, it offers connectivity on the newest 'n' Wi-Fi band for faster and more reliable wireless connectivity of display devices. Second, it features new high performance, power efficient technology from Freescale. Third, it includes the latest tools from Microsoft for display technology development."

"The i.MX51 features high performance processing, advanced multimedia features and low power consumption ideal for a multitude of industrial and consumer applications," said Ken Obuszewski, Director of Product Management, Multimedia Applications Division, Freescale Semiconductor. "Integrated with Digi's ConnectCore Wi-MX51, customers can now enjoy a fast time to market for network enabled display devices."

The ConnectCore Wi-MX51 is a 32-bit module featuring a high-performance ARM Cortex-A8 processor with 600 and 800 MHz processor speeds. With Freescale's 10-year processor availability guarantee and Digi's five-year product warranty, it is the best long-term availability solution in the industry.

The ConnectCore Wi-MX51 features 10/100 MBit Ethernet networking and a pre-certified 802.11 a/b/g/n wireless interface. Pre-certification eliminates the need to certify wireless products which can be costly and time consuming. It also includes powerful dual-display and multimedia capabilities, an on-chip hardware encryption accelerator, an industrial temperature rating, ZigBee connectivity support and Windows CE 6.0 R3 operating system.