Congatec has introduced five new modules to its Xeon D-2700 processor-based Server-on-Module portfolio. The modules will satisfy the industry demands for edge server performance in a small form factor. The rugged and outdoor capable modules come in a compact 160×160 COM-HPC Server Size D performance class. The module features processors with up to 20 cores making it suitable for tasks such as hosting multiple real-time applications simultaneously. Moreover, these modules provide double throughput per PCIe lane to Gen 4 speeds, as well as up to 100 GbE connectivity and TCC/TSN support.
According to the company, the launch underlines the massive industry demand for edge server performance in a small form factor that is rugged and outdoor capable. To reduce the size the modules have reduced the number of RAM slots from 8 to 4 bars, but the modules can support 512 GB of DDR4 RAM at 2,933 MT/s. Target applications of the new Intel Xeon D-2700 processor-based COM-HPC modules are deeply embedded, space-constrained edge server deployments with high data throughput but less memory-intensive workloads. These are suitable for IIoT-networked real-time environments of manufacturing units, warehouses, smart factories and other critical infrastructures.
“Our current launch is best described as ‘less is more’: Mixed-critical edge server applications don’t have to handle RAM-intensive server workloads. Rather, they need to host multiple real-time applications side-by-side and therefore require as many cores as possible. They also must meet the demands of industrial communications with many small message packets that need to be processed in real-time. Again, memory is not as critical compared to database-driven web servers that are used by thousands of people in parallel. It is true that customers can operate COM-HPC Server Size E modules with only 4 RAM bars. However, saving space is also very important for them. That’s why we now also offer the Intel Xeon processor in COM-HPC Server Size D,” explains Martin Danzer, Head of Product Management at congatec.
The new COM-HPC Server-on-Modules offers support for Windows, Linux and VxWorks. The modules have a wide target application which includes industrial workload consolidation servers for automation, robotics, etc. The modules can also be used for vision enabled applications such as autonomous vehicles and even in video infrastructure for safety and security. Furthermore, it can be employed for outdoor servers for utilities and critical infrastructures – such as smart grids for oil, gas and electricity as well as rail and communication networks.
