SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., 4 Nov. 2010. VITA, the open-standards embedded computing trade association in Scottsdale, Ariz., announced the ratification by ANSI and VITA of VPX REDI base standards that define mechanical specifications for cooling and maintenance for VPX embedded systems. VPX uses switch fabric technologies in 3U and 6U Eurocard format computer boards.

VPX REDI supports high-density electronics, increased power draw that requires more effective cooling strategies, and rugged and maintainable modules. VPX REDI targets the requirements of commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) embedded computing for defense and aerospace by defining mechanical design for embedded computing modules that accommodate forced-air, conduction, and liquid cooling; add features compatible with ESD covers required for two-level maintenance strategies; and facilitate module designs with components on the secondary side of the circuit board.

Several VPX REDI specifications have been ANSI/VITA ratified. First is the ANSI/VITA 48.0-2010: ruggedized enhanced design implementation mechanical base specification, which defines a mechanical implementation for plug-in units. Two types of plug-in units are defined: Type 1 and Type 2. Both take advantage of increased slot pitch t-- provide enhanced thermal performance and increased structural durability. Only Type 1 units support Level 2 maintenance.

Next is ANSI/VITA 48.2-2010: mechanical specification for microcomputers using conduction cooling applied to VPX, which defines the mechanical requirements necessary to ensure the mechanical interchangeability of conduction-cooled 3U and 6U plug-in units and defines the features required to achieve two-level maintenance compatibility.

ANSI/VITA 48.5-2010: Mechanical Specification Using Air Flow-through Cooling Applied to VPX establishes the design requirements for an air flow-through cooled plug-in unit with a 6U form factor using a compact core heat exchanger located within the central heat sink of the unit.

For more information contact VITA online at www.vita.com/vpx.