1. Product Overview
Product Name: EC-5500
Model / Article Number: EC-5500
Series: Fanless Embedded Barebone System (Sandy Bridge Platform)
Manufacturer: Vecow Co., Ltd.
Product Type: Industrial-grade fanless embedded barebone computer system
Description: The Vecow EC-5500 is a rugged, fanless embedded barebone system designed for industrial and embedded computing applications. It supports Intel® Core™ i5/i7 processors based on the Sandy Bridge architecture and integrates multiple high-speed network interfaces, extensive I/O connectivity, and wide-range DC power input. Engineered for reliability in harsh environments, the EC-5500 delivers high performance, energy efficiency, and versatile connectivity in a compact, maintenance-free design.

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2. Key Features
- Processor Support: Compatible with Intel® Core™ i5 and i7 processors (Sandy Bridge platform) for high-performance computing in embedded and industrial applications.
- Chipset Options: Supports Intel® QM67 or HM65 Express Chipset, providing advanced I/O capabilities and stable platform support.
- Fanless Design: Completely fanless thermal solution for silent operation and enhanced reliability in dusty or vibration-prone environments.
- Multiple Gigabit Ethernet Ports: Equipped with five independent Gigabit Ethernet interfaces for network redundancy, data routing, or multi-LAN applications.
- LAN 1: Intel® 82579LM controller
- LAN 2–5: Intel® 82574IT / 82574L / 82583V controllers
- Dual Display Output: Supports dual independent displays via VGA and DVI/HDMI interfaces, enabling flexible visualization and monitoring setups.
- Rich I/O Connectivity:
- 6 × USB 2.0 ports for peripheral connectivity
- 2 × eSATA ports for high-speed external storage
- 4 × COM ports (3 × RS-232, 1 × configurable RS-232/422/485) for serial communication
- 8 × Digital Inputs (DI) and 8 × Digital Outputs (DO) for industrial control integration
- Power Flexibility: Wide-range DC power input from 6 to 36 VDC, supporting both AT and ATX power modes.
- Network Management Features: PXE (Preboot Execution Environment) and Wake-on-LAN (WOL) support for remote management and system deployment.
- Rugged Environmental Design: Operates reliably in extended temperature ranges from -20°C to +70°C, suitable for outdoor or industrial environments.
- Compact Form Factor: Space-efficient design with dimensions of 232 mm × 170 mm, optimized for embedded and space-constrained installations.
- Industrial Reliability: Designed for 24/7 operation, shock and vibration resistance, and long lifecycle support.

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3. Technical Specifications
- Processor Support: Intel® Core™ i5 / i7 (Sandy Bridge, 2nd Generation Intel® Core™ processors)
- Chipset: Intel® QM67 or HM65 Express Chipset
- Memory: (Dependent on configuration; typically supports DDR3 SO-DIMM modules up to 16 GB total capacity)
- Graphics: Integrated Intel® HD Graphics (from CPU), supporting dual display output
- Display Interfaces:
- 1 × VGA port
- 1 × DVI or HDMI port (depending on configuration)
- Ethernet:
- 5 × Gigabit Ethernet ports
- LAN 1: Intel® 82579LM
- LAN 2–5: Intel® 82574IT / 82574L / 82583V
- Serial Ports:
- 3 × RS-232
- 1 × RS-232/422/485 (configurable)
- USB Ports: 6 × USB 2.0
- Storage Interfaces:
- 2 × eSATA ports
- Internal SATA ports (for HDD/SSD, depending on configuration)
- Digital I/O: 8 × Digital Inputs, 8 × Digital Outputs
- Expansion Options: (Depending on variant, may include Mini PCIe slots for wireless or expansion modules)
- Power Input: 6–36 VDC wide-range input
- Power Modes: Supports AT and ATX power modes
- Power Management: PXE, Wake-on-LAN (WOL)
- Operating Temperature: -20°C to +70°C (fanless operation)
- Cooling System: Passive, fanless aluminum heat dissipation design
- Dimensions: 232 mm (W) × 170 mm (D)
- Weight: (Approx. 2–3 kg depending on configuration and mounting)
- Material: Rugged aluminum alloy chassis for enhanced heat dissipation and durability
- Mounting Options: Wall-mount, DIN-rail, or custom embedded mounting (depending on accessories)

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4. Functionality
The Vecow EC-5500 functions as a high-performance embedded computing platform for industrial automation, transportation, surveillance, and network applications. It integrates processing, networking, and control interfaces into a single compact unit.

Operational Concept:
- The system operates fanlessly, relying on its aluminum chassis for passive heat dissipation.
- The embedded Intel® Core™ i5/i7 processor provides computing power for data processing, control logic, and real-time analytics.
- Multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports enable network segmentation, redundancy, or multi-camera streaming in surveillance systems.
- Serial and digital I/O interfaces allow direct connection to sensors, controllers, and industrial equipment.
- Dual display outputs support simultaneous monitoring and control interfaces.
- The wide-range DC input allows deployment in vehicles, kiosks, or field installations without additional power conditioning.

Use Cases and Applications:
- Industrial automation and machine control
- Intelligent transportation systems (ITS)
- Digital signage and kiosk systems
- Network security appliances and firewalls
- Video surveillance and NVR applications
- Energy management and smart grid control
- Embedded control in robotics or manufacturing lines

Compatibility:
- Compatible with major operating systems such as Windows, Linux, and embedded OS distributions.
- Supports standard networking protocols and industrial communication standards (RS-232/422/485).
- PXE and WOL enable integration into managed IT and industrial networks.

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5. Components & Accessories
Included Items:
- EC-5500 main unit (barebone configuration)
- Power connector terminal block (for DC input)
- Mounting brackets (depending on order configuration)
- Quick installation guide and documentation

Optional Add-ons:
- Storage devices (HDD/SSD)
- Memory modules (DDR3 SO-DIMM)
- Wireless communication modules (Wi-Fi, 3G/4G via Mini PCIe)
- Additional mounting kits (wall-mount, DIN-rail)
- Power adapters (external AC/DC converter for 6–36 VDC input)

Connectors:
- Standard I/O connectors for USB, COM, LAN, VGA, DVI/HDMI, eSATA, and digital I/O
- Terminal block connectors for DI/DO and power input
- Optional antenna connectors for wireless modules

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6. Installation & Setup
Requirements:
- DC power source within 6–36 VDC range
- Compatible storage and memory modules (if not pre-installed)
- Appropriate mounting surface or enclosure

Mounting Options:
- Wall-mount brackets for fixed installations
- DIN-rail mounting for industrial cabinets
- Desktop or embedded integration within control panels

Configuration Steps:
1. Install memory and storage devices (if barebone).
2. Connect power input via terminal block or adapter.
3. Attach display, keyboard, and mouse for initial setup.
4. Configure BIOS settings for power mode (AT/ATX) and boot options.
5. Install operating system and drivers.
6. Connect network and peripheral devices.
7. Verify system operation and thermal performance.

Environmental Considerations:
- Ensure adequate airflow around the chassis for passive cooling.
- Avoid direct exposure to moisture or corrosive environments.
- Maintain ambient temperature within -20°C to +70°C range for optimal reliability.

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7. Performance & Capabilities
Processing Performance:
- Powered by Intel® Core™ i5/i7 Sandy Bridge CPUs, offering multi-core processing and integrated graphics acceleration.
- Suitable for compute-intensive tasks such as image processing, data acquisition, and real-time control.

Networking Performance:
- Five independent Gigabit Ethernet ports provide high-throughput data transfer and network segmentation.
- Ideal for multi-network applications such as firewalls, routers, or multi-camera systems.

Storage and Data Handling:
- Dual eSATA ports enable fast external storage connectivity.
- Internal SATA interfaces support SSD or HDD for system and data storage.

I/O Performance:
- Multiple serial ports support legacy and modern industrial communication protocols.
- Digital I/O enables direct control and monitoring of sensors, relays, and actuators.

Power Efficiency:
- Wide-range DC input and efficient power management minimize energy consumption.
- Fanless design reduces mechanical wear and power draw.

Limitations:
- Limited to USB 2.0 (no native USB 3.0 support due to chipset generation).
- Expansion options may be constrained by compact form factor.
- Graphics performance suitable for dual display and moderate multimedia, not for high-end 3D rendering.

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8. Standards & Compliance
Certifications and Compliance:
- Designed to meet industrial computing standards for reliability and safety.
- Compliant with CE and FCC Class A electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards.
- RoHS compliant (Restriction of Hazardous Substances).
- Meets industrial temperature and vibration standards for embedded systems.

Industry Standards Supported:
- IEEE 802.3 (Ethernet)
- RS-232/422/485 serial communication standards
- SATA and eSATA storage interfaces
- AT/ATX power control standards
- PXE and WOL network management protocols

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9. Additional Information
Warranty:
- Standard manufacturer warranty (typically 1–3 years, depending on region and configuration).
- Extended warranty and service contracts available upon request.

Support:
- Technical support provided by Vecow and authorized distributors.
- Online resources include drivers, BIOS updates, and documentation.

Maintenance:
- Fanless design minimizes maintenance requirements.
- Periodic inspection recommended for connectors and power terminals.
- Firmware and BIOS updates available for performance and security enhancements.

Product Lifecycle and Updates:
- Long-term availability and lifecycle support typical of industrial-grade systems.
- Compatible with legacy and current software environments for extended deployment.

Summary:
The Vecow EC-5500 is a robust, fanless embedded barebone system engineered for industrial and embedded computing applications requiring high reliability, multiple network interfaces, and wide environmental tolerance. With support for Intel® Core™ i5/i7 Sandy Bridge processors, five Gigabit Ethernet ports, dual display outputs, and extensive I/O options, it provides a versatile platform for automation, transportation, and surveillance systems. Its rugged design, wide-range DC input, and fanless operation ensure dependable performance in demanding conditions, making it a preferred choice for mission-critical embedded deployments.