CPU and DS Module 2007-02-10
The project requires a module to collect and store sensor data inputs from the other modules for later processing. My initial idea was to use a mostly hardware based solution using something like a FPGA to act as an interface between the sensor modules and the hard disk. At this point I'm going to go with a software based solution with a embedded computer running Linux controlling the retrieving and storing the data to the hard disk.
After a fair bit of searching, I've ordered a SBC2410-III Single Board Computer from Embest, at about 200 USD it seems like a very good price. The SBC2410 includes many ports and interfaces like Ethernet, serial, USB, etc.; most importantly it includes a standard 2.5" hard disk interface. The CPU is a ARM920T which includes a Memory Management Unit which allows the use of Linux.