EPSON expands CARDIO "computer on a card" family with 486-based credit card-sized motherboards

Business Wire, Nov 14, 1994

LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 14, 1994--EPSON Monday reset the standard for miniature motherboard performance with the introduction of the EPSON CARDIO-486, a credit card-sized motherboard featuring 486 microprocessor performance and IBM PC/AT-compatible functions.

The new card is the third in a family of CARDIO products from EPSON, including the CARDIO-386 and the CARDIO-X86, featuring respective PC/AT- and PC/XT-compatible functions.

The EPSON CARDIO-486 contains all the controllers, memory and I/O interaces OEMs need to easily incorporate high-performance PC functionality into a wide range of innovative new systems, including point-of-sale (POS) terminals, portable and handheld equipment, medical equipment, VCRs, facsimile machines and factory automation and navigation equipment.

"With the introduction of the CARDIO-486, EPSON has once again redefined the standards for performance and size for miniaturized computing technology," said Bob Porooshani, technical marketing manager, Component Sales, EPSON.

"Like the CARDIO-386, the CARDIO-486 allows OEMs to increase their design possibilities by enabling easily built, customized systems for new and existing applications."

Measuring just 85.6 mm x 54.0 mm x 5.5 mm, the new CARDIO-486 is available in the 3.3-volt and 5-volt version featuring an Intel 486 SL super set; 4, 8 or 16MB of RAM and 256 kilobytes of ROM. In addition, the motherboard contains a coprocessor, controllers for a VGA display, floppy disk drive and keyboard controller.

An IBM PC/AT-compatible system BIOS with set-up utility and VGA and power management BIOS are also included. A 236-pin card connector enables the CARDIO-486 to connect with a variety of ISA-based external devices and peripherals.

Miniaturization is CARDIO's Key

CARDIO embodies EPSON's expertise in working with IBM-compatible PCs and micro-assembly packaging technology. The Intel 80486SL is assembled using chip-on-board (COB) technology while the I/O controller in a tape carrier pack (TCP) is mounted to the motherboard using a form of tape automated bonding (TAB).

The memory devices are packed in thin small outline packaging (TSOP), while other integrated circuits are assembled only with COB technology. A new, 236-pin connector interface was developed to support the entire range of functions on CARDIO, including industry- standard architecture (ISA) and I/O ports. The result is an extremely compact computer with IBM PC/AT compatibility.

CARDIO's size makes handling easy and brings cost benefits in manufacturing and on-site service. Because all main motherboard components are housed in a single card, systems incorporating this technology are easily and quickly reconfigured simply by replacing the card.

This package design also enables OEM system manufacturers and vendors to concentrate on the development of system I/O ports and dedicated circuits, significantly reducing product development time and resources.

Price and Availability

Evaluation samples of the CARDIO-486 will be available from EPSON in the first quarter of 1995. The CARDIO-486 is expected to be available in production quantities in the second quarter of 1995. The cards are priced at $1,000 each in quantities of 1,000 or more. Evaluation samples, with 8MB of DRAM, are priced at $1,800 each.

For information on evaluation samples, contact EPSON at 800/433-3597.

EPSON offers an extensive array of technology products including full lines of ink jet, laser and dot matrix printers, color flatbed scanners, portable and desktop computers, PCMCIA products and, for the OEM market, a variety of component and electronic devices.

Founded in 1975, Epson America Inc. is an affiliate of Seiko Epson Corp., a global manufacturer and supplier of high-quality technology products that meet customer demands for increased functionality, compactness, systems integration and energy efficiency.

-0- NOTE TO EDITORS: Brands or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

COMDEX/Fall '94, Las Vegas Convention Center, Booth 2090.

CONTACT: EPSON, Torrance, Calif.

              Susie Mitchell, 310/782-5174
                   or
              Walt & Sommerhauser Communications Inc.
              John T. Evans or Cynthia Lempert, 408/496-0900