Kontron to support ARM architecture in new range of embedded ‘building blocks’
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Embedded system specialist Kontron has made what it calls a strategic entry into ARM architecture. The move is said to enable a new range of scalable building blocks with low power consumption.
"Our strategic focus was mainly x86 processor technology," said Kontron's chief technology officer Dirk Finstel, pictured. "Now we are extending our product range significantly with the addition of ARM. By doing this, we are creating building blocks which will enable us to serve our embedded computing customers even more comprehensively. Along with energy efficient, stationary solutions, we will be placing a special focus on mobile solutions."
The first products from the new range are likely to appear later this year. The company says it is also developing a new module format, optimised for use with ARM SoC processors. The modules will enable single, dual and quad core ARM processors to be used in most vertical market applications. Kontron is also planning to expand its single board computer family.
Kontron will also be looking at the software aspects. "Due to the increase in software support beyond the boundaries of x86 technology by companies such as Microsoft, many of our customers also want to branch out on the processor technology they use," said Finstel. "The actual processor architecture is becoming less relevant as a decision criterion; price, power consumption and performance per watt are now amongst the most important factors. The boundaries of processor technology are disappearing as the software ecosystem has been extended to further technology platforms. This is why it is a logical step for us to launch solutions for ARM and risc technologies, which are closely related."
