Eurotech Vector, User Manual

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Vector - User Manual
14 110124-7000A
Memory
The Vector provides a variety of storage capabilities, both on-board and external. The following
sections describe the different types of memory supported by the Vector.
Synchronous DRAM
A Double Data Rate Synchronous DRAM (DDR-2) small outline dual in-line memory module
(SODIMM) is used on the Vector for system main memory and frame buffer memory. The module is
installed in J32 , page 35 . Standard Vector boards include a 1 GB module. At boot, the BIOS reads a
Serial Presence-Detect (SPD) flash memory device on the SODIMM through the SMBus to identify the
installed module. Eurotech has pretested and approved several SODIMMs for use with the Vector.
For the latest list of memory modules, contact your local Eurotech sales representative.
The data bus supports 64-bit accesses with a maximum burst bandwidth of 4.2 GBps
(8 B @ 533 MHz). The memory bus operates at the same frequency as the front side bus. For
performance specifications, see Processor , page 37 .
The Intel Atom processor supports unified memory architecture in which the integrated 2D/3D graphics
controller memory is “unified” with the system main memory. The default frame buffer is 4 MB with an
8 MB option. BIOS Setup settings select the frame buffer size. Extended graphics memory space is
available up to 256 MB. The graphics driver controls this size based on usage.
Non-volatile Memory
The Vector includes non-volatile memory for system BIOS storage and a real-time clock (RTC)
functionality.
BIOS and Configuration Data
A serial interface flash memory device stores the BIOS boot firmware, BIOS Setup settings, and
configuration data on the Vector. Standard configuration is 1 MB. The flash device performs logically
as a firmware hub (FWH) and connects to the on-board embedded controller using a serial peripheral
interface (SPI).
Real-Time Clock
The Vector includes a RTC function. It retains the system date and time when the system is powered
down as long as backup power is provided to the board. To supply backup power, the Vector includes
a long-life battery. For general specifications, see Real-Time Clock , page 40 .
PATA Solid State Drive (option)
A Parallel ATA (PATA) Solid State Drive (SSD) is available as a volume production option. Options of
2 Gb, 4 GB, and 8GB are available. The processor controls the write-protection and can reset the
drive using the SMBus. For details about these control signals, see System Management I/O ,
page 21 . In addition to providing mass storage, this memory is a system boot option. For a list of the
storage devices from which the system can boot, see Boot Options , page 12 .
External Memory Interfaces
Four types of external memory interfaces provide mass storage and boot options for the Vector. The
following sections describe these external memory options.
CompactFlash
®
Card or Secure Digital Card
The Vector includes a CompactFlash (CF) card slot on J29 , page 35 . This slot supports a 3.3 V
CF card operating in fixed mode only (true IDE mode). As a volume production option, a Secure
Digital (SD) card slot on J31 , page 35 can replace the CF card slot. Both media provide mass storage
in a wide variety of capacities and can be a cost-effective means to expand system storage.
Notes:
The CF card slot and the SD card slot are mutually exclusive. Only one socket can be
installed. This option is set at time of production. The CF card slot is the default.