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About Compact PCI
Compact PCI, also known as cPCI, is a high-density expansion bus standard that is widely used in industrial computer systems and embedded applications. It is based on the Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) standard and offers a robust and reliable platform for connecting various components in a system.
History of Compact PCI
Introduced in the mid-1990s, Compact PCI was developed as a successor to the earlier PCI bus architecture. The aim was to meet the demands of industries such as telecommunications, aerospace, and defense, where high-performance computing with increased reliability and ruggedness was required.
Compact PCI quickly gained popularity due to its versatility, scalability, and compatibility with PCI devices. It became widely adopted in applications that required a compact and reliable form factor, such as telecom switches, industrial control systems, and data acquisition equipment.
Features and Benefits
Compact PCI provides a number of features that make it a preferred choice in many industrial and embedded applications. Here are some key benefits:
1. High Density: Compact PCI allows for densely packed system designs, making efficient use of space in small form factor enclosures. This is important, particularly in applications where space is limited.
2. Modular Design: The bus standard supports a modular architecture, enabling easy scalability and flexibility. It allows system designers to add or remove components without disrupting the entire system.
3. Robust Connectivity: Compact PCI provides a robust and reliable connection platform for various peripherals and add-on cards. It ensures high-speed data transfer and low latency communication between components.
4. Hot-Swap Capabilities: One of the standout features of Compact PCI is its hot-swap capability. This allows for the replacement or addition of cards without the need to power down the system, reducing downtime and increasing reliability.
5. Ruggedness: Compact PCI was designed to meet the demands of rugged environments. It offers resistance to shock, vibration, and extreme temperature conditions, making it suitable for industrial and military applications.
Future Developments
While newer bus standards like PCI Express (PCIe) have gained prominence in recent years, Compact PCI still has a strong presence in specific industries. It continues to evolve to meet the emerging requirements of embedded systems, with advancements such as Compact PCI Serial (cPCI-S) and Compact PCI PlusIO (cPCI PlusIO).
In conclusion, Compact PCI is a high-density expansion bus standard that provides a reliable and robust platform for industrial and embedded applications. Its versatility, modularity, and ruggedness make it a popular choice for systems that require connectivity, scalability, and reliability in challenging environments.
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