Kontron Embedded Computers V Panel Express User manual

V Box Express
User’s Manual
Version 1.0
Kontron Embedded Computers GmbH
0-0096-4045

Table of Contents
V Box Express – User’s Manual 1
Table of Contents
Table of Contents.................................................................................................1
Introduction ..........................................................................................................3
Symbols used in this Manual..................................................................................4
Important Instructions.........................................................................................5
Warranty Note........................................................................................................5
Exclusion of Accident Liability Obligation...............................................................5
Liability Limitation / Exemption from the Warranty Obligation.................................5
Safety Instructions...............................................................................................6
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)................................................................................8
Grounding Methods...........................................................................................8
Instructions for the Lithium Battery.........................................................................9
FCC Statement.....................................................................................................10
Electromagnetic Compatibility ..............................................................................10
Scope of Delivery .............................................................................................. 11
Optional Parts.......................................................................................................11
Type Label and Product Identification..................................................................11
Product Description........................................................................................... 12
Back Side view.....................................................................................................13
Front Side view (with Interfaces)..........................................................................14
Interfaces on the Bottom Side..........................................................................15
Power Button...................................................................................................16
LED Control Indicators.....................................................................................16
Power LED Error codes This function display four important fail conditions:..17
CompactFlash™ Slot (Option)........................................................................18
Removable HDD Drive Cage (Option).............................................................18
Air intake and exhaust openings........................................................................... 19
Integrated ETXexpress®Module ..........................................................................20
Riser Card........................................................................................................20
Starting Up.......................................................................................................... 21
DC-Connection................................................................................................21
Accessing Internal Components...................................................................... 22
Installing/Removing the Expansion Cards............................................................ 23
Maintenance and Prevention............................................................................ 24
Replacing the Lithium Battery............................................................................... 24

Table of Contents
2 V Box Express – User’ Manual
Installation Instructions.....................................................................................26
Operating System and Hardware Component Drivers..........................................27
Main Specifications............................................................................................28
Power Specifications ............................................................................................29
Electrical Specifications........................................................................................29
Mechanical Specifications ....................................................................................29
Environmental Specifications................................................................................30
CE Directives and Standards................................................................................31
Technical Appendix - Interfaces.......................................................................32
Power Supply Connector......................................................................................32
Serial Port (COM1, COM2) RS232.......................................................................32
Serial Port (COM3, COM4) RS422 (Option).........................................................33
Serial Port (COM3, COM4) RS485 (Option).........................................................33
USB Port...............................................................................................................34
LAN Port ...............................................................................................................34
DVI-I Connector (Single Link)................................................................................35
Technical Support..............................................................................................36
Returning Defective Material ................................................................................37

Introduction
V Box Express – User’s Manual 3
Introduction
Kontron Embedded Computers would like to point out that the information
contained in this manual may be subject to technical alteration, particularly as a
result of the constant upgrading of Kontron Embedded Computers products. The
attached documentation does not entail any guarantee on the part of Kontron
Embedded Computers with respect to the technical processes described in the
manual or any product characteristics set out. Kontron Embedded Computers
does not accept any liability for any printing errors or other inaccuracies in the
manual unless it can be proven that Kontron Embedded Computers is aware of
such errors or inaccuracies or that Kontron Embedded Computers is unaware of
these as a result of gross negligence and Kontron Embedded Computers has
failed to eliminate these errors or inaccuracies for this reason. Kontron Embedded
Computers expressly informs the user that this manual only contains a general
description of technical processes and instructions which may not be applicable in
every individual case. In cases of doubt, please contact Kontron Embedded
Computers.
This manual is protected by copyright. All rights are reserved by Kontron
Embedded Computers. Copies of all or part of this manual or translations into a
another language may only be made with the prior written consent of Kontron
Embedded Computers. Kontron Embedded Computers points out that the
information contained in this manual is constantly being updated in line with the
technical alterations and improvements made by Kontron Embedded Computers
to the products and thus this manual only reflects the technical status of the
products by Kontron Embedded Computers at the time of printing.
© 2007 by Kontron Embedded Computers
Printing and duplication, even of sections, is only permissible with the express
approval of
Kontron Embedded Computers GmbH
Oskar-von-Miller-Str. 1
85385 Eching
Germany

Introduction
4 V Box Express – User’ Manual
Symbols used in this Manual
Symbol Meaning
This symbol indicates the danger of injury to the user or the risk of
damage to the product if the corresponding warning notices are
not observed.
This symbol indicates that the product or parts thereof may be
damaged if the corresponding warning notices are not observed.
This symbol indicates general information about the product and
the user manual.
This symbol indicates detail information about the specific product
configuration.
This symbol precedes helpful hints and tips for daily use.

Important Instructions
V Box Express – User’s Manual 5
Important Instructions
This chapter contains instructions which must be observed when using the
V Box Express.
The manufacturer’s instructions provide useful information on the
V Box Express.
Warranty Note
Due to their limited service life, parts which by their nature are subject to a
particularly high degree of wear (wearing parts) are excluded from the warranty
beyond that provided by law. This applies to batteries and display, for example.
Exclusion of Accident Liability Obligation
Kontron Embedded Computers shall be exempted from the statutory accident
liability obligation if the user fails to observe the safety instructions.
Liability Limitation / Exemption from the
Warranty Obligation
In the event of damage to the device caused by failure to observe the hints in this
manual and on the device (especially the safety instructions), Kontron Embedded
Computers shall not be required to honor the warranty even during the warranty
period and shall be exempted from the statutory accident liability obligation.

Safety Instructions
6 V Box Express – User’ Manual
Safety Instructions
Please read this section carefully and observe the instructions for your own safety
and correct use of the device.
The chapter also contains information on approval and interference suppression
of your device.
Observe the warnings and instructions on the device and in the manual.
The device has been built and tested by Kontron Embedded Computers in
accordance to EN 60950-1 and left the company in a perfectly safe condition.
In order to maintain this condition and ensure safe operation, the user must
observe the instructions and warnings contained in this manual.
 The device must be used in accordance with the instructions for use.
 The electrical installations in the room must correspond to the requirements of
the respective regulations.
 Take care that there are no cables, particularly power cables, in areas where
persons can trip over them.
 Do not use a power cable in sockets shared by a number of other power
consumers. Do not use an extension cable.
 Only use the power cord supplied.
 Do not place the device in direct sunlight, near heat sources or in a damp
place. Make sure the device has adequate ventilation.
 Only devices and components which fulfill the requirements of an SELV circuit
(safety extra low voltage) in accordance with EN60950 may be connected to
the interfaces of the system.
 All plugs on the connection cables must be screwed or locked to the housing.
 The device is designed to be used in vertical position with the interfaces to the
front.

Safety Instructions
V Box Express – User’s Manual 7

Repairs may only be carried out by a person authorized by Kontron Embedded
Computers.

Maintenance or repair on the open device may only be done out by qualified
personnel authorized by Kontron Embedded Computers which is aware of with
the associated dangers.

The device may only be opened for the installation and removal of PCI cards
in accordance with the description in this manual. These procedures have to
be carried-out only by qualified specialist personnel.

If extensions are made to the device the legal stipulations and the device
specifications must be observed.

The device must be switched off before installation and removal of any PCI
and CompactFlash™ cards.

Only original accessories approved by Kontron Embedded Computers may be
used.

It must be assumed that safe operation is no longer possible,
•if the device has visible damage or
•if the device no longer functions.
In these cases the device must be shut down and secured against
unintentional operation.
For DC Powered Systems

The DC-input must fulfill SELV requirements of EN60950-1 standard.

DC/DC-supplies do not fulfill the requirements for centralized DC power
systems as required for use in the USA.

Safety Instructions
8 V Box Express – User’ Manual
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)
A sudden discharge of electrostatic electricity can destroy static-sensitive devices
or micro-circuitry. Therefore proper packaging and grounding techniques are
necessary precautions to prevent damage. Always take the following precautions:
1. Transport boards in ESD-safe containers such as boxes or bags.
2. Keep electrostatic sensitive parts in their containers until they arrive at the
ESD-safe workplace.
3. Always be properly grounded when touching a sensitive board, component, or
assembly.
4. Store electrostatic-sensitive boards in protective packaging or on antistatic
mats.
Grounding Methods
The following measures help to avoid electrostatic damages to the device:
1. Cover workstations with approved antistatic material. Always wear a wrist
strap connected to workplace as well as properly grounded tools and
equipment.
2. Use antistatic mats, heel straps, or air ionizers for more protection.
3. Always handle electrostatic sensitive components by their edge or by their
casing.
4. Avoid contact with pins, leads, or circuitry.
5. Turn off power and input signals before inserting and removing connectors or
connecting test equipment.
6. Keep work area free of non-conductive materials such as ordinary plastic
assembly aids and Styrofoam.
7. Use field service tools such as cutters, screwdrivers, and vacuum cleaners
which are conductive.
8. Always place drives and boards PCB-assembly-side down on the foam.

Safety Instructions
V Box Express – User’s Manual 9
Instructions for the Lithium Battery
The installed board is equipped with a lithium battery. To replace this battery refer
to the instructions described in the chapter
“Replacing the Lithium Battery ”
Warning
There is a danger of explosion if the wrong type of battery is used
for replacement. Replace only with the same or equivalent type of
battery as recommended by the manufacturer. Dispose of used
batteries according to the manufacturers instructions.

Safety Instructions
10 V Box Express – User’ Manual
FCC Statement
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is
operated in commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with
the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
Operation of this equipment in residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at
his own expense.
Electromagnetic Compatibility
This product has been designed for industrial, commercial and office use,
including small business use. The most recent version of the EMC guidelines
(2004/108/EC) and/or the German EMC laws apply. If the user modifies and/or
adds to the equipment (e.g. installation of add-on cards), the prerequisites for the
CE conformity declaration (safety requirements) may no longer apply.

Scope of Delivery
V Box Express – User’s Manual 11
Scope of Delivery
 V BoxExpress
 V BoxExpress - User’s Manual
Optional Parts

CF Card

DC Power Cable
Type Label and Product Identification
The type label with the corresponding Kontron product part number is at the rear
right hand side of the system.
Type Label for Systems Kontron
Product Identification
V Box Express 2-AOH8-xxxx
for VBox Express with ETXexpress-PM Module
V Box Express 2-AOH8-xxxx
for VBoxExpress with ETXexpress-CD Module
On the type label of your system, the "XXXX" group is replaced by Arabic
numerals combination according to the ordered system configuration.

Product Description
12 V Box Express – User’ Manual
Product Description
The V Box Express is a industrial machine designed for high industrial application.
The system is designed for:
 Installation in control cabinet or control desk
The hardware of the V Box Express systemcan be flexibly configured
corresponding to customized requirements. The rugged design offers excellent
mechanical stability. The V Box Express provides the demanding characteristics
required for a computer that is very suitable for using in harsh industrial
environment.
The systemaccommodates a baseboard with an ETXexpress®module.
Depending on the ordered systemconfiguration, your V Box Express can be
equipped with the ETXexpress®-PM or ETXexpress®-CD module.
The V Box Express accommodates two connector side accessible drive bays:
 drive bay (removable) for 2.5" SATA (I or II) HDD) and
 Compact Flash™-drive for CF card, type I.
Fig 1:V Box Express (total view) Fig 1a:V Box Express (interface side)

Product Description
V Box Express – User’s Manual 13
The power button, the RESET button, the LED control indicators and user
interfaces such as DVI-I/VGA, USB (2.0) LANs (10/100Mbps or 1Gbps) and serial
ports (RS232) are accessible on the connector side of the system.
The V Box Express is designed to be powered from a AC/DC high voltage external
power sources with an output of 24VDC
When powering on the VBox Express, make sure that the
air intake and exhaust openings are not obstructed.
Back Side view
At the back side of the V Box Express are the 4 mounting holes and the air
convection holes for the heat sink.
1 1
2
Fig.3:V Box Express (back side)
1 Mounting holes (panel mount)
2 Exhaust openings

Product Description
14 V Box Express – User’ Manual
Front Side view (with Interfaces)
1
4
5
6
7
8910
11
2 3
12
1314
15
16
17
18
Fig.4: V Box Express (interface side)
1 2xUSB (2.0) connector (option)
2 Power button (ATX)
3 LED control indicators
4 HDD drive cage with knurled
screws (option)
5 4x Free expansion slots for PCI
cards 32bit@33MHz (half size)
6 DC power plug (shown with DC
terminal for the power cord)
7 Reset switch
8 COM2 (RS232) port connector
9 COM1 (RS232) port connector
10 CF2 slot (shown with installed CF
card (type I) (option)
11 LAN1 interface connector
12 LAN2 interface connector
13 4 x USB (2.0) connector
14 CF1 slot (shown with installed CF
card (type I) (option)
15 DVI-I/VGA connector
16 DVI-D connector
17 COM3 RS 232/422/485 (option)
18 COM4 RS 232/422/485 (option)

Product Description
V Box Express – User’s Manual 15
Interfaces on the Bottom Side
USB 2.0 Connectors
The system is equipped at the front side with 4x USB 2.0 interface connectors.
These connectors and provide connections for USB-compatible devices.
DVI-I Interface Connector
The DVI-I interface (Single Link) supports both digital and analog connections.
Digital devices can be connected directly to this interface of the V Box Express but
analog devices should be connected to this interface via a DVIto VGA adapter
(not included).
Serial Interface Connectors (COM1, COM2 and COM3,COM4 )
These RS232 connections are available as 9-pin D-SUB plugs and provide
connection for serial devices.
Ethernet Interface Connectors
These interface connectors are provided as RJ45 sockets with integrated LEDs.
The data transfer rate depends on the installed ETXexpress module (see below):
Data Transfer Rate for System Configuration with:
Ethernet Port ETXexpress-PM Module ETXexpress-CD Module
LAN1 10/100 Mbps 10/100/1000 Mbps
LAN2 10/100/1000 Mbps 10/100/1000 Mbps
LED States:
Left LED State Link Speed Right LED State Link Activity State
off 10 Base-T Off Link not active
green 100 Base-T Green Link active
yellow 1000 Base-T

Product Description
16 V Box Express – User’ Manual
Power Button
Fig.5:Power button and LED indicators
The power button “PWR ON“ is located on the bottom side of the system.
Press this button in order to turn the system on or off. The power button behavior
can be set in the BIOS Setup.
Even the systemis turned off via the ATXpower button
there is still a standby-voltage of 5 V on the ETXexpress
baseboard.
The systemis not completely disconnected from the main
power source by turning it off via the ATXpower button.
The unit is only completely disconnected from the main
power source, when the power cord is disconnected either
from the power source or the unit.
Therefore, the power cord and its connectors must always
remain easily accessible.
LED Control Indicators
The V Box Express is equipped with two LED indicators.
Lights up green when the system is powered on via the power
button.
Power LED
Lights up red when the system is in standby (depends on the
behavior of the power button (BIOS Setup setting).
HDD LED Lights up red for hard disk activity.
1 Power button
2 HDD LED
3 Power LED
1 3
2

Product Description
V Box Express – User’s Manual 17
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
OK
Voltage Error
Temperature Error
Battery Error
Fan Error
Power LED Error codes
This function display four important fail conditions:
• Voltage Error
• Temperature Error
• Fan Error
• Battery Error
All these errors will be notified by the status led and by a beeper. The following
illustration shows the blink/beep for different conditions:
If more than one fail condition occurs simultaneously, only the highest priority
error code will be shown.
The priority order is:
1. most Voltage Error
2. less Temperature Error
3. less Fan Error
4. at least Battery Error
E.g. is there a temperature error and a fan error, only the temperature error will be
displayed.
Error Good: Error
12V 0..<11,4V 11,4V..12.6V >12.6V..
5V 0..<4.7V 4.7V..5.2V >5.2V
Voltage Error
3.3V 0..<3.1V 3.1V..3.5V >3.5V
Temperature Error …<-10°C -10°C… +79°C >79°C
1 …<900
1/min 900 1/min...20000 1/min >20000 1/minFan Error
2 …<900
1/min 900 1/min...20000 1/min >20000 1/min
Battery Error 0..<2.5V 2.5V … 3.5V >3.5V

Product Description
18 V Box Express – User’ Manual
CompactFlash™ Slot (Option)
The V Box Express is equipped with a bottom side accessible CompactFlash™
slot. The CF slot will accept only CF cards type I.
The systemmust be powered down before the
Compact Flash™ card can be installed or removed.
Removable HDD Drive Cage (Option)
The V Box Express is equipped with two removable drive cage for a 2.5” SATA
HDD. The drive cage is secured to the systemwith knurled screws.
It is allowed to remove/replace the hard disk while the systemis powered-up.
In order to prevent the loss of data do not remove the hard
disk during HDD read or write activities.
System operation is allowed only with closed HDD drive
cage and secured by the knurled screws.
1
2
3
Fig. 6:SATA Drive of V Box Express (shown with opened removable drive cage)
1 2.5” SATA hard disk
2 Removable drive cage
3 Knurled screws

Product Description
V Box Express – User’s Manual 19
Air intake and exhaust openings
When powering on the VBox Express, make sure that the
air intake and exhaust openings are not covered.
1
1
2
Fig.7:Total viewV Box Express
1 Exhaust holes
2 Air intake holes