The ANTARES ICE 1U is a 1U high, 19inch rack mount computer intended for use as an industrial PC or embedded (discless) platform. Based on Eurotech's ANTARES single board computer, the ANTARES ICE is suitable for applications such as multimedia infotainment, machine control, digital signage, communications control and asset monitoring. The device offers new levels of performance using Intel Core i7 processors, providing features such as virtualisation, hyperthreading, remote system management via Intel's AMT feature (available even if the operating system has crashed), and disc encryption capability using Intel's AT-d technology. These features are coupled with a rugged chassis system and the longevity of supply. Following the format set by APOLLO ICE 1U, standard PC peripherals are broken out via the rear panel, together with the power connector for the universal AC or optional DC PSU, and an expansion card bay offering two PCI-E slots.
The front panel provides two USB ports, a recessed RESET button and a 256x64pixel monochrome LCD display, together with access to the DVD and optional removable hard drives. Hard drive arrangements (SATA) are flexible, with the ability to fit a single 3.5inch internal drive and up to two 2.5inch drives fitted into a removable caddy that sits behind an access cover in the front panel. A second 3.5inch internal drive can be fitted in place of the 2.5inch caddy. Options are also available to run embedded operating systems from flash memory directly on the embedded SBC, allowing critical data such as the operating system and application to be accessed without the need for rotating hard drives. Flash memory is provided via an SD card slot on the device, which is accessible from the rear panel of the ICE unit via a retaining access cover. Further expansion capability exists via two PCI Express MiniCard sockets (with SIM support) located on the embedded PC and accessed via panels on the unit. These are suitable for the addition of wireless communication modules such as 3G modems or WiFi cards, and mounting points exist on the rear panel for the fitting of SMA antenna connectors for this purpose.
