COT’S PICKS

High-performance single-board computer designed for graphicsintensive tasks

Embedded computing platform supports up to four 4K resolution displays

Embedded systems and display solutions provider, Review Display Systems Inc. (RDS) has announced the introduction of an AMD-powered mini-STX single-board computer (SBC) from a leading global provider of embedded technology, Kontron. The new high-performance Kontron D3724-R mini-STX industrial motherboard supports the AMD Ryzen Embedded R2000 series processors with integrated AMD Radeon Vega graphics and is available in three versions.

Developed and engineered in Germany, the compact, highly integrated mini-STX SBC is designed for use in a wide range of embed-

APEM, Inc. Low-Profile Joystick is Tough and Precise

The expanded availability of APEM’s XS Series low-profile joystick/thumbstick provides designers with more industrial-grade precision control options.

APEM announces expanded availability of the XS Series low-profile joystick/thumbstick, ideal for robust applications requiring precise control of industrial equipment, construction vehicles, and marine vessels.

Many of the most challenging industrial, commercial, and marine applications incorporate extensive operator control interfaces, via wired or wireless consoles, armrests, belly boxes, and pendants. Users need responsive multi-axis devices supporting precise control, designed to survive the harsh environment. Because these installations have limited space, APEM has developed the XS Series with these manufacturers, OEMs, and end users in mind.

XS Series joysticks are three-axis—X, Y, plus Z center tap—with a minimized yet very usable height. The compact size of just 47mm overall height above the panel face is one of the lowest available, making the joystick less vulnerable to impact, and allowing it to be located on dense control arrays without restricting access to other ded applications with demanding graphic-intensive tasks such as digital signage, ticketing terminals, information kiosks, medical displays, and industrial-use PCs.

The fanless, industrial D3724-R motherboard series is based on the AMD Ryzen Embedded R2000 series processors and offers significantly higher performance than its predecessor R1000 series. Exceptional graphics performance is delivered with the integrated AMD Radeon Vega GPU providing support for up to three DisplayPorts, one HDMI port, one Embedded DisplayPort V1.4, and one dual-channel LVDS (24bit) and drives up to four independent displays in 4K resolution (4096 x 2160 pixels).

Peter Marchant, embedded business manager, RDS said, “The new D3724-R provides a step-up in processing and graphics performance over the pin-compatible Kontron D3714 SBC by using the newer, more powerful AMD Ryzen 2000 series processors. The D3724-R series provides a comprehensive feature and toolset which enables customers to easily offer different performance options for their products without the need for additional design and development.”

Review Display Systems Inc. review-displays.com devices. The minimal height means that guarding provisions can also be lower on control panels, providing suitable drop protection while avoiding interference with user actions.

Nylon covering a stainless-steel shaft provides a durable and easily gripped surface, and the entire assembly is rated IP66 at operating tempera tures from -22 to 185DegF. The two-convolution gaiter is designed so that self-alignment is guaran teed, and no sealing washer is needed.

XS joysticks can be installed as a drop-in or rear-mounted for best design flexibility, and they are tested to survive a 1m free fall, along with vibra tion resistance following IEC 60068. The joystick is designed to meet industrial-grade EMC and ESD ratings under IEC 61000. The expected lifetime of 10 million cycles in such a trim form factor is made possible with an updated metal gimbal/base pivot mechanism and limiter for the Hall ef fect sensor, and improved wire routing. A comprehensive validation plan ensures adherence to all performance requirements.

With a standard operating voltage of 3.3 or 5VDC, the Hall effect sensor can operate as a sin gle- or dual-axis, with dual and dual-inverse out puts available. Outputs can be analog or PWM, each including center-detect and center-tap sig naling.

A straightforward part number configurator lets users easily select among five signaling options, five gain levels, four-movement limiter types, two handle shapes, and four spring force levels. Other customization options, including color, are available.