
The Qseven embedded PC module conga-QA now allows any two OSs (operating systems) to be run in parallel, independently from one another and with real-time capability, even where space is at a premium. Based on the Intel Atom Z530 processor and the Intel system-controller hub US15W, the module also supports Intel hyper-threading and virtualisation. Tests with Real Time Systems' Hypervisor version 2.0 demonstrated that individual CPUs, devices, the memory and the I/O ports are allocated to the individual OS. This separation allows the OS to be started or rebooted in any order without affecting the function of any of the other systems. Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows CE, Linux, Pre-Emptive Linux, VxWorks, Microware OS-9, Ontime RTOS-32 and Pharlap ETS are all currently supported. Communication between the operating systems is provided either by shared memory or through a virtual network. The ability to use one low-cost embedded computer module for two independent applications can reduce system-solution hardware costs by up to 50%. The standard automation-control software runs on a real-time OS; visualisation and the user interface run in parallel on the same system under Windows or Linux, without a decrease in functionality or software changes. The modules incorporate low-power processor technology, have a power consumption of less than 5W and measure 70x70mm.