Tuesday, April 21, 2015

A Quick Overview of PCIE Interfaces


A pcie interface is a great tool, whether you know what it is, or not. Even the fastest computer isn’t much use without a way to interact with it or extract information from it, which is what it means to interface. The way you do that is through peripherals, also known as the monitor, keyboard, mouse, extra drives, printers, speakers, microphones, cameras, and any other kind of equipment you might plug into the computer to work it.

In the past, when these devices were attached to the computer, there was one main address, or point of connection, into which everything was plugged. This meant that everything had to compete for bandwidth, which affected the speed of the computer to work. If one needed to function, it affected the speed and effectiveness of all of them. This is called latency. That is the speed it takes the computer to be given a request, process that request, and provide the answer. The longer the latency, the slower the computer.

A pcie interface gives each device its own lane to connect to the computer. This means that they no longer have to fight for power. Each device is independently supplied. It increases the computers performance and increases the data transfer rates. It can also save space, which is helpful in today’s world of faster computers in smaller packages.

One of the major benefits of a pcie interface is the ability of the user to easily update and change devices. Hot swapping and hot plugging are both terms used to describe changing or adding devices while the computer is still on. With previous technologies, trying to update without turning off the computer would result in a malfunction or error. Now, things can be easily added or exchanged without interrupting computer usage.

If you would like to learn more about  pcie intervace, click here.

5 Key Selection Guidelines for Rugged Servers

Convection Cooled Air Transport Rack Electronic Equipment Enclosure

1. Durability of the rugged server
Sometimes, servers are needed in harsh conditions. They can be subject to any number of elements or disturbances that normal equipment simply can not withstand. In order to make sure your information is safe and accurate, find the equipment that has been approved for use in corrosive areas, such as water, wind, and salt, dirty areas, and spaces that receive shocks and vibrations.

2. Technical Readiness Level
If you are investing in high-quality equipment, you want to make sure it has been through all of the research and development possible. You don’t want to be the Guinea pig on which the limitations are tested. The higher the TRA number, the better, with 9 being the best option.

3. EMI Testing
Electromagnetic fields can wreak havoc on electronic equipment without the right protection. Ask your rugged server vendor for the EMI testing information, to ensure that the product you select can reliably function in the environment in which it needs to be placed. The testing will take into account the proper structure, installation process, and wiring.

4. Size options
Different applications require different rugged server needs. Not every rack mount server is the same size. Review what size options are available and make sure that they will not only perform well in the conditions you have, but are also of adequate size for the application.

5. Customization options
Chances are that your need for a rugged server already means you aren’t a typical customer with typical needs. You probably have a highly specific use for the product. Ask your provider about options for customizing the product to be exactly what you need, rather than trying to simply make something work.

If you would like to learn more about a rugged server, visit Aventas, Inc.