Arrow’s EPC program goes far beyond conventional reference designs and traditional starter kits by allowing designers to combine various hardware, software and service modules according to specific application needs. The program is built around hardware modules that feature semiconductor, passive, electromechanical and interconnect technologies from the extensive Arrow linecard; software and intellectual property (IP) blocks developed by Arrow and selected partner organizations; and dedicated services including design-in and engineering support and access to documentation, seminars and workshops.
EPC-based applications are quickly built by combining a base board fitted with common standard interfaces – for example Ethernet, USB, UART and SD – with processor modules, DC/DC boards and other relevant modules. These range from display adapters and memory to extension boards for specific applications such as LED lighting, industrial field bus connectivity and wireless functionality.
In addition to the hardware, customers can choose a variety of design ideas and IP and receive support for identification and selection of complementary components – including high performance analogue devices and programmable logic technologies. Customers also have access to in-depth technical consultation, design and engineering support and services such as performance tests, simulations, provision of board support packages (BSPs), programming and prototype creation.
Among the semiconductor suppliers actively engaged with Arrow’s EPC program are Analog Devices, Atmel, Fairchild Semiconductor, Freescale Semiconductor, Intel, International Rectifier, National Semiconductor, NXP, ON Semiconductor, STMicroelectronics, Texas Instruments and Toshiba. Bourns, EPCOS, Panasonic, Samtec and Tyco are among the featured PEMCO (Passive, Electromechanical, Connector) companies, while EPC solutions are available with both Windows Embedded and Linux operating system options.
“The EPC program has been very well received since its launch in Germany last year,” says David Spragg, vice president engineering and marketing, Arrow Technology Solutions. “Making the program available to Northern Europe is in line with our integrated European strategy and means that we can now provide embedded systems designers in the UK, the Nordic region and the Baltic States with comprehensively pre-tested and full ‘close-to-production’ turnkey systems that are technically optimised for their target applications.”
For further information on the Arrow Electronics EPC program, visit: www.embedded-platform.com.