Abaco Systems / Ramix PMC243 High Capacity Disk Storage

The Abaco Systems / Ramix PMC243 is a high-capacity disk storage module in PCI Mezzanine Card form factor, designed for embedded systems requiring performant storage in space-constrained environments. It connects directly to host processors or Single Board Computers via a 32-bit PCI interface operating at 33 MHz or 66 MHz, utilizing a Promise Technology PDC20269 controller to deliver ATA 100 bus speeds. The PMC243 supports multiple media types—2.5″ rotating media, solid state drives, and CompactFlash—enabling flexible capacity configurations from 512 MB to 160 GB depending on technology choice. Operating in physically demanding environments, the module boots and runs any operating system from a single slot, eliminating reliance on legacy SCSI infrastructure while reducing total system cost. Software handles all initialization and functional configuration automatically, with drivers available for most popular RTOS and UNIX environments. Commercial and rugged versions are available for varying deployment scenarios.

Technical Specifications

• Form Factor: PCI Mezzanine Card (PMC), compliant with Common Mezzanine Card (CMC) specification
• Host Interface: 32-bit PCI at 33 MHz or 66 MHz
• Storage Controller: Promise Technology PDC20269
• Disk Bus Speed: ATA 100
• Storage Media Support: 2.5″ rotating media, solid state media (SSD), CompactFlash
• Storage Capacity: Rotating media 40–160 GB; SSD up to 16–32 GB; CompactFlash 512 MB to 16 GB

– Key Features

• Single-slot operating system boot and execution capability
• Automatic software-driven initialization and configuration
• High data rate performance optimized for embedded computing
• Ruggedized construction for demanding operational environments
• Driver support across RTOS and UNIX platforms

– Typical Applications

• Embedded computing systems with stringent space and weight constraints
• Military and aerospace platforms requiring rugged, field-deployable storage
• Industrial automation and control systems
• Mobile and transportable computing platforms

– Compatibility & Integration

The PMC243 integrates with any host system featuring a PMC slot on the processor card or SBC. For rapid prototyping and development with card edge PCI systems, the optional PMC239 adapter bridges non-PMC PCI environments. The product is noted as not recommended for new designs.