RE: [Gumstix-users] Next gen gumstix question

[Seth C. <se...@ca...>]

> Did you calculate area (LxW)? Gumstix was quite a bit smaller in total =

> area when I compared with other PXA255 modules with onboard codec

Fair enough. The Triton UCB, for example, is shorter in length (67x35 =
mm) but slightly larger in total area.

> How is a carrier board with socket for CPU module different that what=20
> you suggest? It's more flexible, together they are what you want, but =
the CPU module=20
> can also fit into custom designs. So if people want an SBC, which I =
assume many=20
> do, then gumstix should make a carrier for their CPU module that =
provides this.

The way I see it, to make a functioning portable unit, you'll need 3+ =
modules - the cpu core, a battery board (when it exists), a battery =
pack, and 1 or more boards such as audio, video, WiFi, etc...  At this =
rate, the stick of gum form factor quickly becomes a mechanically =
unstable large pack of cigarettes.  With reasonable power management on =
the CPU module, then one could, for example, make an MP3 player with two =
boards and a thin dual-cell polymer Li-Ion battery.

I don't think that onboard rechargeable battery support precludes other =
developers from adding custom external power management as well. It =
does, however, provide a more complete compact solution to those who do =
not want to design and build custom boards.

- Seth=20