Backplanes and System Platform utilize ATCA standard.

Press Release Summary:



Backplanes employ differential ERmet ZD connectors and AdvancedTCA (ATCA) standard, which specifies telecom architecture for various applications. Connection structure supports switched fabric architectures, while integrated redundancy of fabrics, IPMBs, and power supply ensures high availability. Designed with dual star fabric topology, products incorporate 2 dedicated fabric slots and additional dual star base interface.



Original Press Release:



ERNI Introduces Advanced TCA Backplanes & Integrated System Platform



MORAGA, California - June 26, 2003 - ERNI has expanded its backplane portfolio with the introduction of backplanes for the new AdvancedTCA (ATCA) standard. High-performance differential ERmet ZD connectors are at the core of the new ATCA backplanes, allowing them to meet the ever-increasing demands of high broadband serial communication. A complete system platform based on the new backplanes was also unveiled. The AdvancedTCA standard specifies the new telecom architecture for such applications as mobile telephony base stations, telecom switches, crossbar distributors and platforms in data centres.

The backplanes' connection structure supports various state-of-the-art switched fabric architectures such as PCI Express, Infiniband and XAUI. The integrated redundancy of fabrics, IPMBs (intelligent platform management bus) and power supply ensures high availability. The backplanes are designed with dual star fabric topology, incorporating two dedicated fabric slots and an additional dual star base interface. In addition to the two fabric slots (hub slots), the available ATCA backplanes provide 12 and 14 node slots respectively. The dimensions are 426.42 mm (and 487.38 mm for the 16-slot version) x 205.95 mm x 4.3 mm.

The system platforms are supplied with two shelf management controllers (ShMCs). A version without shelf management controllers is available to accommodate ShMCs provided through slot cards. The platform is equipped with a fan rack, each one with three powerful diagonal fans that are controlled via the ShMCs. The power supply takes the form of four high-current terminal studs. The use of a 14 or 16-slot backplane governs the dimensions. The 14-slot shelf can be installed in a 19-inch rack, while the 16-slot shelf requires a 23-inch rack frame or an ETSI-600-mm rack. The height (12 U) and depth (383.14 mm) are identical in both cases.

Key Performance Features

- 18-layer PCB with dual-star topology

- Excellent current distribution

- Screwed connections for the power supply on copper rails

- Two optional RJ-45 connectors for controller-independent access to the base interface

- Updated channel interface and cost-effective production by using FR4 materials

About ERNI

ERNI is a global manufacturer of interconnects. ERNI was the first company to manufacture DIN connectors and today is the leading supplier of 2mm HM connectors and HM-ZD high-speed connectors. Recently introduced products include integrated Modular RJ-45 jacks for gigabit Ethernet, remote power and a new 10 Gb/s MicroSpeed(TM) family of SMT mezzanine connectors. ERNI offers world-class backplane assembly and optical backplane solutions. The ERNI group of interconnect companies is headquartered in Adelberg, Germany and has sales and manufacturing operations and subsidiaries throughout Europe, North America and Asia. For further information please visit www.erni.com.

Company Contact -- North America:

ERNI Electronics
Kevin Jones
12701 Kingston Avenue
Chester, VA 23836 USA
Phone +1 804-530-4454
Fax +1 804-530-5232
E-mail: KJones@erni.us

Agency Contact -- USA & Asia Pacific:

TechWire International
Leo Pot
Phone: +1 831-429-6288
Email: information@ezwire.com

Company Contact -- Europe:

ERNI Elektroapparate GmbH
Stefan Seiz
Seestrasse 9
73099 Adelberg
Germany
Tel.: +49 (0) 7166 50-329
Fax: +49 (0) 7166 50-55329
Email : info@erni.de

Agency Contact -- Europe:

MEXPERTS AG
Rolf Bach
Tel.: + 49-(0) 89 897361/14
Email : rolf.bach@mexperts.de

Company Contact -- Asia/Pacific:

ERNI Asia Holding Pte Ltd
Simon Cheng
Tel.: +65 6 555 5885
Fax +65 6 555 5995
Email : scheong@erni-asia.com

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