Transportation Display Versatility: All A-Board!

When picturing mass transport in the U.K. and Hong Kong, the ubiquitous double-decker bus first comes to mind. But with almost twice as many passengers as an ordinary bus, this means that system integrators need to utilize twice the amount of space to provide all passengers with pertinent information. NEXCOM’s client needed an embedded board that was versatile enough for different types and sizes of passenger information and advertising displays in buses, yet adaptable for other modes of transportation, such as ferries. As multiple boards were required for each vehicle, they needed to be easily installed, power efficient, and cost effective. 

NEXCOM recommended the X100-N3350 3.5” embedded board. Simple but powerful, and onboard with Intel^® Celeron^® N3350 processor, its price-performance ratio was best in its class to fulfill basic client requirements at a reasonable cost. It also satisfied the client’s need to connect other peripheral devices.

The double-decker buses required a computer that was adaptable for various spatial requirements. Because the X100 was an embedded board, it was flexible and small enough to connect to different size and bar-type panels via LVDS for information displays. It also easily provided real-time bus stop information by linking to a central telematics computer through LAN. This also meant that signage was easily updated and customizable based on location.

The X100 avoided unexpected power loss, as the power jack utilized a lockable design. The watchdog timer connected via RS232 port and central power supply to automatically detect and recover from potential malfunctions. Additionally, in order to optimize operations and measure occupancy, the client utilized the multiple USB ports for cameras and their people counting function. Finally, E13 compliance offered assurance that the smart city embedded board was a safe and suitable for vehicular operations.

Application Diagram

Key Features for Application Needs

• Onboard Intel^® Celeron^® N3350/J3455 processor
• Two displays: 1 x HDMI and 1 x LVDS
• 2 x RJ45 LAN with LED for Gigabit Ethernet
• 2 x USB 3.0, 2 x USB 2.0, Line-out
• Serial port: 1 x RS232, 1 x RS232/422/485 port
• E13 mark conformity