Ultra compact, low profile networking modules from Rabbit
Rabbit released the MiniCore series of easy to use ultra compact, low profile, low-cost networking modules. Available in pin-compatible wired and Wi-Fi versions, the MiniCore series is optimized for real-time control, communications and networking applications such as energy management and intelligent building automation.
Smaller than a packet of sugar, it offers users extreme flexibility to easily place wired or wireless network connectivity anywhere on a mother board. It also features 32 GPIO and a Rabbit 5000 microprocessor. This makes it the most cost effective network connectivity solution available for both networking and control in such a small form factor.
With a miniscule footprint of only 31 mm x 51 mm (1.2″ x 2″), and at 3 mm (0.1″) in height, the MiniCore family provides a rich embedded feature set on an ultra-compact mini PCI Express form factor. The family includes the pin compatible and interchangeable wired RCM5700 and Wi-Fi RCM5600W. Pin-compatible versions that support ZigBee and USB are also in development. Systems developers can easily interchange MiniCore family products to tailor connectivity for any given application.
The RCM5700 features a 50 MHz Rabbit 5000 microprocessor, on-chip 10/100 Ethernet, 1MB serial flash, 36 digital I/O ports and five serial ports. The RCM5600W features a 78 MHz Rabbit 5000 microprocessor, Wi-Fi, 1MB serial flash, 36 digital I/O ports and five serial ports. The Rabbit 5000 microprocessor is Rabbit’s latest processor and features Ethernet, Wi-Fi and SRAM providing a high level of integration to enable the MiniCore’s small footprint.
Low-cost development kits are available featuring all of the software and tools necessary to make development easy. The RCM5700 Development Kit includes the RCM5700 module, interface board with standoffs and connectors, prototyping board with standoffs and connectors, USB cable, and Dynamic C CD-ROM with complete development documentation for a promotional price of $49 ($99 MSRP). Deluxe Kits including an additional universal AC adapter, digital I/O and serial communication accessory boards with sample programs, and CAT 5/6 Ethernet cable are available now for a promotional price of $99 ($199 MSRP). The RCM5700 is also available now for $24.99 in 2,500+ volume orders. The RCM5600W will be available in Q1 2009 for $49.99 in 2,500+ volume orders.