Tech Brief
Using NANDrive™ in x86-based Systems
Processors with the x86 architecture have a well established ecosystem of software and driver support, making them an
excellent choice for embedded systems. With each generation, x86 processors introduce new features and improvementsin performance efficiency and power consumption. The flexibility, reliability and scalability of x86 platforms support therequirements of many demanding applications, such as high-performance servers, networking and industrial systems.

Memory Subsystem
In the embedded space, while the adoption of a specific processor may be application dependent, the memory must be tailoredto the specific use case. There are many choices to consider when designing in the memory subsystem, such as volatile or nonvolatile, size and persistence of data, and managed or non-managed mass storage.
x86 platforms support standard memory types and the choice of Greenliant NANDrive™ as a managed memory subsystem means
there is no requirement to customize the memory interface. NANDrive uses industry-standard protocols and interfaces—Paralleland Serial ATA (IDE/PATA, SATA), and Embedded Multi Media Card (eMMC)—simplifying memory subsystem implementation andaccelerating the time to market. Furthermore, if the system design goals change and more (or less) storage is required, NANDrive
has a common footprint to enable various capacities to be used on the same board.
Because of the wide choice of capacities and interfaces supported by NANDrive, it is compatible with many popular x86 chipsets.
The table on the next page includes examples of AMD and Intel x86 chipsets most commonly found in embedded systems.

Implementation Considerations
Adopting the x86 architecture for embedded systems allows the designer to leverage existing operating systems and applications
that have been developed for the PC environment. NANDrive simplifies this type of implementation because it looks like a traditional
hard disk drive to the system, while offering the additional advantages of being surface mounted and solid state. NANDrive istherefore more robust mechanically and occupies a much smaller footprint. It also consumes much lower power than a traditionaldisk, which is a real benefit for energy-efficient embedded systems. Furthermore, NANDrive uses advanced wear-leveling algorithmsand maintains data integrity in the event of a power failure.
Any specific implementation will depend on the processor. Embedded SSD design may require additional optimization based onprocessor functionality and compatibility.
Applications

Typical x86 Design Using NANDrive

DRAM

www.NANDrive.com

PMIC

Display
CamerasAudio CODEC
Sensorsx86
Platform

WiFi / Bluetooth
WWANUSB— In-vehicle infotainment— GPS and telematics— Data recorder— Video conferencing— Rugged tablet PC— Multi-function printer— Point-of-Sale terminal— VoIP system / PBX— Wireless base station— Router / Gateway / Switch— Set-top box— Industrial PC / Single-board computer— Ultrasound and medical imaging— Industrial automation and control— Test and measurement equipment— Video surveillance / ID terminal
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Example of Typical x86 Chipsets with NANDrive Support
FamilyCode Name

Processor

NANDrive Series

AMD EPYC
Embedded SoC

Snowy Owl

3xxx

eMMC – GLS85VM
SATA – GLS85LSAMD Ryzen
Embedded SoC

Great HornedOwl

V1xxx

eMMC – GLS85VM
SATA – GLS85LSAMD Embedded
G-Series SoC

Prairie Falcon

GX2xxxxSATA – GLS85LSAMD Embedded
R-Series APU

Bald Eagle

RX22xxx / 42xxx

SATA – GLS85LS

Rangeley

C2xxx

SATA – GLS85LS

Denverton

C3000

SATA – GLS85LS

Apollo Lake

E3900

eMMC – GLS85VM
SATA – GLS85LSSoFIA 3G-R

X3-C3200

eMMC – GLS85VM

Cherry Trail

Z8000, Z8350

eMMC – GLS85VM

Bay Trail

Z3600 / 3700 E38xx

eMMC – GLS85VM

Intel 5th Gen Core
Processor Families

Broadwell

Mobile U-Processor LineSATA – GLS85LSIntel 6th Gen Core
Processor Families

Skylake

100 Series Chipsets

SATA – GLS85LSIntel 7th Gen Core
Processor Families

Kaby Lake

iX-7x00

SATA – GLS85LSIntel Quark SoC
Host Controller

Clanton

SOC-X1xxx

eMMC – GLS85VM

Intel Xeon
Processor E5Grantley

E5-2600

SATA – GLS85LSIntel Atom

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Greenliant, the Greenliant logo and NANDrive are registered trademarks or trademarks of Greenliant.
All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
These specifications are subject to change without notice. 05/2020