MicroTCA Shelf measures 1U high.

Press Release Summary:



MicroBox(TM) features up to 10 mid-size, single width modules and measures 45 x 465 x 210 mm. Five module bays can be filled with range of module configurations in single or double modules or full, mid, or compact sizes. Side-to-side cooling configuration has no bends in airflow path and it dissipates 35 W per module with use of 8 fans providing 20 cfm each. Backplane features slots for 6 AMC, 1 power module, 1 MCH, 1 JSM, and connections to 2 cooling units.



Original Press Release:



Elma Announces 1U MicroTCA Deployable Solution



Unit Offers Advanced Cooling and Features in Compact Size

FREMONT, California, June 2007 - Elma Electronic Inc., a global manufacturer of electronic packaging products, has announced a new 1U MicroTCA solution called MicroBox(TM). Created in cooperation with the company MicroBlade(TM), an early developer of MicroTCA infrastructure products, the MicroBox features right-sized performance with advanced cooling and module options. MicroBox and MicroTCA are expected to see rapid acceptance in Communications, Medical, Mil/Aero, Industrial, Networking, and Commercial applications.

The MicroBox has the smallest form factor of any deployable MicroTCA unit in the industry. Most applications today do not require the full 14 or more slots in typical subrack system. The MicroBox features up to 10 modules (mid-size, single width) in a compact 45mm height x 465mm width x 210mm depth. The 5 module bays can be filled with a wide range of module configurations in single or double modules or full, mid, or compact sizes.

Cooling is a critical element in MicroTCA solutions. The side-to-side cooling configuration of the MicroBox does not have any bends in the airflow path and offers the most efficient use of space. While a typical MicroTCA subrack chassis may use up to 3U of vertical space for fan trays, the MicroBox can cool the chassis with fans on the side of the unit within the overall 1U height. Thermal studies show that it dissipates 35W per module (mid-size, single width) and has 8 (2 x 4) fans providing 20CFM each at 1.5" of water.

The MicroBox features a highly efficient 384 Watt Power Module (PM), and a J-TAG Switch Module (JSM) from MicroBlade, and 1 MicroTCA Carrier Hub (MCH). However, the enclosure can accept any standard MicroTCA modules. The JSM is unique testing and diagnostics module that provides a remote connection for programming FPGAs, loading test vectors, upgrading software, and much more. The Power Module features individual-channel control, monitoring and shutdown for each AMC. It also has a much better airflow path than other modules in the industry, eliminating the cooling issue that other PMs can bring.

The MicroBox features hot-swap pluggable fan trays and filters. They are separately removable and managed and the fans detect if the filter is removed. The air filter provides uniform airflow distribution and can be located either to the inside or outside of the fan. (Standardly located inside the fan location for more uniform airflow). The fans also feature 100 KHz multi-phase Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) with individual speed control.

The backplane for the MicroBox features slots for 6 AMC, 1 power module, 1 MCH, 1 JSM, and connections to 2 cooling units. Compression-mount connectors are used in the backplane for increased reliability and superior (easier and more flexible) routing. If a connector is damaged in the field, it has two screws securing it in place that can be easily removed for replacing the connector. Various backplane topologies and configurations are available.

The lead-time is 4-6 weeks.

About Elma Electronic
Elma Electronic Inc. is a leading manufacturer and supplier of enclosures, backplanes, cabinets, cases, and "ready-to-run" packaging for ATCA, CPCI, MicroTCA, Rugged COTS, VME/64x, VXS, VPX, and custom bus structures.. Elma's component product line offers a wide selection of top quality switches knobs and LED arrays. The company has been a worldwide supplier of dependable, high performance products for over 35 years. Elma operates three facilities in the continental United States plus has locations in Switzerland, Germany, France, the United Kingdom and Israel.

Elma Electronic Inc. is located at 44350 Grimmer Blvd., Fremont, CA 94538 USA. Telephone (510) 656-3400 - Fax (510) 656-3783. www.elma.com

Company Contact: Justin Moll, Elma Electronic510.490.7388 510.490.1853 fax e-mail: jmoll@Bustronic.com

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