USER GUIDE
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KBox A-250
Doc. User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
Doc. ID: 1064-9561
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
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KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
KBOX A
-250 - USER GUIDE
Disclaimer
Kontron would like to point out that the information contained in this user guide may be subject to alteration,
particularly as a result of the constant upgrading of Kontron products. This document does not entail any guarantee
on the part of Kontron with respect to technical processes described in the user guide or any product characteristics
set out in the user guide. Kontron assumes no responsibility or liability for the use of the described product(s),
conveys no license or title under any patent, copyright or mask work rights to these products and makes no
representations or warranties that these products are free from patent, copyright or mask work right infringement
unless otherwise specified. Applications that are described in this user guide are for illustration purposes only.
Kontron makes no representation or warranty that such application will be suitable for the specified use without
further testing or modification. Kontron expressly informs the user that this user guide only contains a general
description of processes and instructions which may not be applicable in every individual case. In cases of doubt,
please contact Kontron.
This user guide is protected by copyright. All rights are reserved by Kontron. No part of this document may be
reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language or computer
language, in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise), without the
express written permission of Kontron. Kontron points out that the information contained in this user guide is
constantly being updated in line with the technical alterations and improvements made by Kontron to the products
and thus this user guide only reflects the technical status of the products by Kontron at the time of publishing.
Brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
©2019 by Kontron S&T AG
Kontron S&T AG
Lise-Meitner-Str. 3-5
86156 Augsburg
Germany
www.kontron.com
www.kontron.com // 3
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
Intended Use
THIS DEVICE AND ASSOCIATED SOFTWARE ARE NOT DESIGNED, MANUFACTURED OR INTENDED FOR USE
OR RESALE FOR THE OPERATION OF NUCLEAR FACILITIES, THE NAVIGATION, CONTROL OR
COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS FOR AIRCRAFT OR OTHER TRANSPORTATION, AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL, LIFE
SUPPORT OR LIFE SUSTAINING APPLICATIONS, WEAPONS SYSTEMS, OR ANY OTHER APPLICATION IN A
HAZARDOUS ENVIRONMENT, OR REQUIRING FAIL-SAFE PERFORMANCE, OR IN WHICH THE FAILURE OF
PRODUCTS COULD LEAD DIRECTLY TO DEATH, PERSONAL INJURY, OR SEVERE PHYSICAL OR
ENVIRONMENTAL DAMAGE (COLLECTIVELY, "HIGH RISK APPLICATIONS").
You understand and agree that your use of Kontron devices as a component in High Risk Applications is entirely at
your risk. To minimize the risks associated with your products and applications, you should provide adequate design
and operating safeguards. You are solely responsible for compliance with all legal, regulatory, safety, and security
related requirements concerning your products. You are responsible to ensure that your systems (and any Kontron
hardware or software components incorporated in your systems) meet all applicable requirements. Unless otherwise
stated in the product documentation, the Kontron device is not provided with error-tolerance capabilities and cannot
therefore be deemed as being engineered, manufactured or setup to be compliant for implementation or for resale as
device in High Risk Applications. All application and safety related information in this document (including application
descriptions, suggested safety measures, suggested Kontron products, and other materials) is provided for reference
only
.
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KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
Revision History
Revision Brief Description of Changes Date of Issue Author/
Editor
0.1 Preliminary Version 2018-Jun-12 MK
0.2 Updated preliminary Version 2018-Aug-27 MK
0.3 UL remark 2018-Sep-18 HJS
0.4 BIOS chapter added 2018-Oct-29 MK
0.5 New front bezel; photos replaced; several
corrections
0.6 New printing on front bezel; photos replaced;
several corrections
2019-Feb-01 MK
2019-Aug-28 MK
Terms and Conditions
Kontron warrants products in accordance with defined regional warranty periods. For more information about
warranty compliance and conformity, and the warranty period in your region, visit http://www.kontron.com/termsand-conditions.
Kontron sells products worldwide and declares regional General Terms & Conditions of Sale, and Purchase Order
Terms & Conditions. Visit http://www.kontron.com/terms-and-conditions
For contact information, refer to the corporate offices contact information on the last page of this user guide or visit
our website CONTACT US.
.
Customer Support
Find Kontron contacts by visiting: http://www.kontron.com/support.
Customer Service
As a trusted technology innovator and global solutions provider, Kontron extends its embedded market strengths into
a services portfolio allowing companies to break the barriers of traditional product lifecycles. Proven product
expertise coupled with collaborative and highly-experienced support enables Kontron to provide exceptional peace of
mind to build and maintain successful products.
For more details on Kontron’s service offerings such as: enhanced repair services, extended warranty, Kontron
training academy, and more visit http://www.kontron.com/support-and-services/services
.
Customer Comments
If you have any difficulties using this user guide, discover an error, or just want to provide some feedback, contact
Kontron support
revised user guide on our website.
. Detail any errors you find. We will correct the errors or problems as soon as possible and post the
www.kontron.com // 5
Symbols
V) when touching
. Failure to observe the precautions indicated and/or
This symbol and title inform that the electronic boards and their components are sensitive
be taken during all handling operations and
The following symbols may be used in this user guide
DANGER indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
NOTICE indicates a property damage message.
CAUTION indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
may result in minor or moderate injury.
Electric Shock!
This symbol and title warn of hazards due to electrical shocks (> 60
products or parts of products
prescribed by the law may endanger your life/health and/or result in damage to your
material.
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
ESD Sensitive Device!
to static electricity. Care must therefore
inspections of this product in order to ensure product integrity at all times.
HOT Surface!
Do NOT touch! Allow to cool before servicing.
Laser!
This symbol inform of the risk of exposure to laser beam and light emitting devices (LEDs)
from an electrical device. Eye protection per manufacturer notice shall review before
servicing.
This symbol indicates general information about the product and the user guide.
This symbol also indicates detail information about the specific product configuration.
This symbol precedes helpful hints and tips for daily use.
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KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
For Your Safety
Your new Kontron product was developed and tested carefully to provide all features necessary to ensure its
compliance with electrical safety requirements. It was also designed for a long fault-free life. However, the life
expectancy of your product can be drastically reduced by improper treatment during unpacking and installation.
Therefore, in the interest of your own safety and of the correct operation of your new Kontron product, you are
requested to conform with the following guidelines.
High Voltage Safety Instructions
As a precaution and in case of danger, the power connector must be easily accessible. The power connector is the
product’s main disconnect device.
Warning
All operations on this product must be carried out by sufficiently skilled personnel only.
Electric Shock!
Before installing a non hot-swappable Kontron product into a system always ensure that
your mains power is switched off. This also applies to the installation of piggybacks. Serious
electrical shock hazards can exist during all installation, repair, and maintenance operations
on this product. Therefore, always unplug the power cable and any other cables which
provide external voltages before performing any work on this product.
Earth ground connection to vehicle’s chassis or a central grounding point shall remain
connected. The earth ground cable shall be the last cable to be disconnected or the first
cable to be connected when performing installation or removal procedures on this product.
Special Handling and Unpacking Instruction
ESD Sensitive Device!
Electronic boards and their components are sensitive to static electricity. Therefore, care
must be taken during all handling operations and inspections of this product, in order to
ensure product integrity at all times.
Do not handle this product out of its protective enclosure while it is not used for operational purposes unless it is
otherwise protected.
Whenever possible, unpack or pack this product only at EOS/ESD safe work stations. Where a safe work station is not
guaranteed, it is important for the user to be electrically discharged before touching the product with his/her hands
or tools. This is most easily done by touching a metal part of your system housing.
It is particularly important to observe standard anti-static precautions when changing piggybacks, ROM devices,
jumper settings etc. If the product contains batteries for RTC or memory backup, ensure that the product is not placed
on conductive surfaces, including anti-static plastics or sponges. They can cause short circuits and damage the
batteries or conductive circuits on the product.
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KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
Lithium Battery Precautions
If your product is equipped with a lithium battery, take the following precautions when replacing the battery.
Danger of explosion if the battery is replaced incorrectly.
Replace only with same or equivalent battery type recommended by the manufacturer.
Dispose of used batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
General Instructions on Usage
In order to maintain Kontron’s product warranty, this product must not be altered or modified in any way. Changes or
modifications to the product, that are not explicitly approved by Kontron and described in this user guide or received
from Kontron Support as a special handling instruction, will void your warranty.
This product should only be installed in or connected to systems that fulfill all necessary technical and specific
environmental requirements. This also applies to the operational temperature range of the specific board version
that must not be exceeded. If batteries are present, their temperature restrictions must be taken into account.
In performing all necessary installation and application operations, only follow the instructions supplied by the
present user guide.
Keep all the original packaging material for future storage or warranty shipments. If it is necessary to store or ship
the product then re-pack it in the same manner as it was delivered.
Special care is necessary when handling or unpacking the product. See Special Handling and Unpacking Instruction.
Quality and Environmental Management
Kontron aims to deliver reliable high-end products designed and built for quality, and aims to complying with
environmental laws, regulations, and other environmentally oriented requirements. For more information regarding
Kontron’s quality and environmental responsibilities, visit http://www.kontron.com/about-kontron/corporateresponsibility/quality-management.
Disposal and Recycling
Kontron’s products are manufactured to satisfy environmental protection requirements where possible. Many of the
components used are capable of being recycled. Final disposal of this product after its service life must be
accomplished in accordance with applicable country, state, or local laws or regulations.
WEEE Compliance
The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive aims to:
Reduce waste arising from electrical and electronic equipment (EEE)
Make producers of EEE responsible for the environmental impact of their products, especially when the product
become waste
Encourage separate collection and subsequent treatment, reuse, recovery, recycling and sound environmental
disposal of EEE
Improve the environmental performance of all those involved during the lifecycle of EEE
Environmental protection is a high priority with Kontron.
Kontron follows the WEEE directive
www.kontron.com // 8
You are encouraged to return our products for proper disposal.
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
Table of Contents
Symbols ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 6
For Your Safety ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 7
High Voltage Safety Instructions .................................................................................................................................................................. 7
Special Handling and Unpacking Instruction ............................................................................................................................................ 7
Lithium Battery Precautions .......................................................................................................................................................................... 8
General Instructions on Usage ..................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Quality and Environmental Management ................................................................................................................................................ 8
Disposal and Recycling .................................................................................................................................................................................... 8
WEEE Compliance.............................................................................................................................................................................................. 8
Table of Contents............................................................................................................................................................................................... 9
List of Tables ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 11
List of Figures ..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 11
1/ General Safety Instructions for IT Equipment ......................................................................................................................... 12
1.1. Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) ................................................................................................................................................................ 14
1.1.1. Grounding Methods ................................................................................................................................................................................ 14
2/ Electromagnetic Compatibility ..................................................................................................................................................... 15
2.1. Electromagnetic Compatibility (EU) .................................................................................................................................................... 15
2.2. FCC Statement (USA) ............................................................................................................................................................................... 15
2.3. EMC Compliance (Canada) .................................................................................................................................................................... 15
3/ Shipment and Unpacking ................................................................................................................................................................ 16
3.1. Unpacking .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 16
3.2. Scope of Delivery ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 16
3.2.1. Standard ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 16
3.2.2. Optional Parts ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 16
3.3. Type Label and Product Identification ............................................................................................................................................... 17
4/ System Overview ............................................................................................................................................................................... 18
4.1. RTC ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 19
4.1.1. RTC Buffer Time ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 19
4.2. System Expansion Capabilities ............................................................................................................................................................ 19
4.3. Block Diagram of the KBox A-250 ...................................................................................................................................................... 20
4.4. Front Side .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 21
4.5. Front Interfaces of the KBox A-250 .................................................................................................................................................. 22
101 - Power Input Connector........................................................................................................................................................................ 22
4.5.1. Controls and LED Indicators .............................................................................................................................................................. 22
4.5.2. X102/X103 - Ethernet Connectors (ETH) ..................................................................................................................................... 23
4.5.3. X105/X106 - USB 3.0 ........................................................................................................................................................................... 23
4.5.4. X109 - DisplayPort ............................................................................................................................................................................... 23
4.5.5. X110 – Serial Port COM 1 ..................................................................................................................................................................... 23
4.5.6. GPIO Interface (optional) ................................................................................................................................................................... 23
4.6. Left and Right Side View ....................................................................................................................................................................... 24
4.7. Top and Bottom Side View ................................................................................................................................................................... 24
4.8. Rear Side View .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 25
4.8.1. Rear Side View of the KBox A-250 with Vertical Mounting Bracket .................................................................................... 25
4.8.2. Rear Side View of the KBox A-250 as Desktop with Rubber Feet ...................................................................................... 26
4.8.3. Rear Side View of the KBox A-250 with Wallmount Brackets .............................................................................................. 26
4.9. Optional Parts ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 27
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KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
4.9.1. DIN Rail Clip (Option) ........................................................................................................................................................................... 27
4.9.2. WiFi/WLAN (Option) ........................................................................................................................................................................... 27
5/ Thermal Considerations ................................................................................................................................................................. 28
5.1. Available Processors ............................................................................................................................................................................... 28
5.2. Convection Cooling .................................................................................................................................................................................. 28
5.3. Minimum System Clearance ................................................................................................................................................................ 28
5.4. Maximum Temperatures ...................................................................................................................................................................... 28
6/ Installation Instructions ................................................................................................................................................................. 29
6.1. System Mounting ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 30
6.2. DC Power Connection ............................................................................................................................................................................. 32
6.2.1. Cabling ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 32
7/ Starting Up........................................................................................................................................................................................... 33
7.1. Connecting to DC Main Power Supply ............................................................................................................................................... 33
7.2. Operating System and Hardware Component Drivers ................................................................................................................ 34
8/ Maintenance and Cleaning ............................................................................................................................................................ 35
9/ Technical Specifications ................................................................................................................................................................. 36
9.1. Mechanical Specifications ..................................................................................................................................................................... 37
9.1.1. Mechanical Specifications of the KBox A-250 as Desktop ...................................................................................................... 37
9.1.2. Mechanical Specifications of the KBox A-250 with Vertical Mounting Plate ................................................................... 38
9.1.3. Mechanical Specifications of the KBox A-250 Wall/Table Mounting Brackets .............................................................. 39
9.2. Environmental Specifications ............................................................................................................................................................. 40
9.3. CE Directives and Standards ................................................................................................................................................................. 41
10/ Standard Interfaces – Pin Assignments ................................................................................................................................... 42
10.1.1. (X101) Power Input Connector ......................................................................................................................................................... 42
10.1.2. (X102 as ETH 1 and X103 as ETH 2) Ethernet Connectors ...................................................................................................... 42
10.1.3. (X105, X106) USB 3.0 Ports ............................................................................................................................................................... 43
10.1.4. (X109) DisplayPort .............................................................................................................................................................................. 43
10.1.5. (X110) Serial Interface COM 1 (RS232) .......................................................................................................................................... 44
10.1.6. GPIO Interface ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 44
11/ uEFI BIOS .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 45
11.1. Starting the uEFI BIOS ............................................................................................................................................................................ 45
11.2. Setup Menus ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 46
11.2.1. Main Setup Menu ................................................................................................................................................................................. 46
11.2.2. Advanced Setup Menu ....................................................................................................................................................................... 48
11.2.3. Chipset Setup Menu ........................................................................................................................................................................... 53
11.2.4. Security Setup Menu .......................................................................................................................................................................... 56
11.2.5. Boot Setup Menu ................................................................................................................................................................................. 58
11.2.6. Exit Setup Menu ................................................................................................................................................................................... 60
11.3. The uEFI Shell ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 61
11.3.1. Basic Operation of the uEFI Shell .................................................................................................................................................... 61
11.4. uEFI Shell Scripting ................................................................................................................................................................................ 62
11.4.1. Startup Scripting .................................................................................................................................................................................. 62
11.4.2. Create a Startup Script ...................................................................................................................................................................... 62
11.4.3. Examples of Startup Scripts ........................................................................................................................................................... 62
11.5. Firmware Update .................................................................................................................................................................................... 62
11.5.1. Updating Procedure ............................................................................................................................................................................ 62
Appendix A: List of Acronyms ..................................................................................................................................................................... 64
About Kontron .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 65
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KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
List of Tables
Table 1: Technical Specifications ................................................................................................................................................................ 36
Table 2: Mechanical Specifications ........................................................................................................................................................... 37
Table 3: Environmental Specifications ..................................................................................................................................................... 40
Table 4: CE Directives and Standards ........................................................................................................................................................ 41
Table 5: (X101) Power Input Connector .................................................................................................................................................... 42
Table 6: (X102, X103) Ethernet Connectors ............................................................................................................................................. 42
Table 7: (X105, X106) USB 3.0 Port ............................................................................................................................................................. 43
Table 8: (X109) DisplayPort .......................................................................................................................................................................... 43
Table 9: (X110) Serial Interface COM 1 (RS232) ...................................................................................................................................... 44
Table 10: GPIO Interface ................................................................................................................................................................................ 44
Table 11: Navigation Hot Keys Available in the Legend Bar ............................................................................................................... 45
Table 12: Main Setup Menu Sub-screens ................................................................................................................................................ 47
Table 13: Advanced Setup menu Sub-screens and Functions .......................................................................................................... 49
Table 14: Chipset Setup menu Sub-screens and Functions .............................................................................................................. 53
Table 15: Security Setup Menu Functions ................................................................................................................................................ 56
Table 16: Boot Setup Menu Functions ...................................................................................................................................................... 58
Table 17: Save and Exit Setup Menu Functions ...................................................................................................................................... 60
Table 18: List of Acronyms (Example) ...................................................................................................................................................... 64
List of Figures
Figure 1: Type Label.......................................................................................................................................................................................... 17
Figure 2: Block Diagram of the KBox A-250 ............................................................................................................................................ 20
Figure 3: KBox A-250 – Front View ............................................................................................................................................................. 21
Figure 4: X101 - 24VDC power input connector ..................................................................................................................................... 22
Figure 5: Detail - Power button and LED indicators ............................................................................................................................. 22
Figure 6: Optional GPIO interface ............................................................................................................................................................... 23
Figure 7: Right side of the KBox A-250 system ..................................................................................................................................... 24
Figure 8: Left side of the KBox A-250 system ....................................................................................................................................... 24
Figure 9: Top side of the KBox A-250 system ........................................................................................................................................ 24
Figure 10: Bottom side of the KBox A-250 system ............................................................................................................................... 24
Figure 11: Rear side of the KBox A-250 system with vertical mounting plate ............................................................................ 25
Figure 12: Rear side of the KBox A-250 (shown as desktop unit) ................................................................................................... 26
Figure 13: Rear side of the KBox A-250 (shown with vertical/horizontal mounting brackets) ............................................ 26
Figure 14: DIN rail ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 27
Figure 15: WLAN (WiFi) antenna ................................................................................................................................................................. 27
Figure 16: Restricted area for mounting around KBox A-250 (desktop side view with antenna) ........................................ 30
Figure 17: Restricted area for mounting around KBox A-250 (front view with vert./horiz. mounting brakets) .............. 31
Figure 18: Power plug terminal ................................................................................................................................................................... 32
Figure 19: Dimensions: Front as desktop ................................................................................................................................................. 37
Figure 20: Dimensions: Front side with antennas and wall/table mounting brackets ........................................................... 37
Figure 21: Dimensions: Left side ................................................................................................................................................................. 38
Figure 22: Dimensions: Rear side with vertical mounting plate ..................................................................................................... 38
Figure 23: Dimensions: Detail key hole .................................................................................................................................................... 38
Figure 24: Dimensions: Top side (with wall/table mounting brackets) ....................................................................................... 39
Figure 25: Dimensions: front side (with wall/table mounting brackets) ..................................................................................... 39
Figure 26: Detail mounting slide hole (wall/table mounting brackets) ........................................................................................ 39
Figure 27: Main Setup Menu Initial Screen .............................................................................................................................................. 46
Figure 28: Advanced Setup Menu Initial Screen .................................................................................................................................... 48
Figure 29: Chipset Setup Menu Initial Screen......................................................................................................................................... 53
Figure 30: Security Setup Menu Initial Screen ....................................................................................................................................... 56
Figure 31: Boot Setup Menu Initial Screen ............................................................................................................................................... 58
Figure 32: Save and Exit Setup Menu Initial Screen ............................................................................................................................. 60
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KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
1/ General Safety Instructions for IT Equipment
Please read this chapter carefully and take careful note of the instructions, which have been
compiled for your safety and to ensure to apply in accordance with intended regulations. If
the following general safety instructions are not observed, it could lead to injuries to the
The product has been built and tested according to the basic safety requirements for low voltage (LVD) applications
and has left the manufacturer in safety-related, flawless condition. To maintain this condition and also to ensure safe
operation, the operator must not only observe the correct operating conditions for the product but also the following
general safety instructions:
The product must be used as specified in the product documentation, in which the instructions for safety for the
product and for the operator are described. These contain guidelines for setting up, installation and assembly,
maintenance, transport or storage.
The on-site electrical installation must meet the requirements of the country's specific local regulations.
If a power cable comes with the product, only this cable should be used. Do not use an extension cable to connect
the product.
To guarantee that sufficient air circulation is available to cool the product, please ensure that the ventilation
openings are not covered or blocked. If an air filter is provided, this should be cleaned regularly. Do not place the
system close to heat sources or damp places. Make sure the system is well ventilated.
operator and/or damage of the product; in cases of nonobservance of the instructions
Kontron is exempt from accident liability, this also applies during the warranty period.
Only devices or parts which fulfill the requirements of SELV circuits (Safety Extra Low Voltage) as stipulated by
IEC 60950-1 may be connected to the available interfaces.
The 24VDC power supply voltage for the device must meet the requirements of a SELV Circuit according to
UL/IEC 61010-2-201 Clause 3.11 and the "Limited Energy" according to UL/IEC 61010-1; Section 9.4. “Limitedenergy circuits”.
The device should only be installed and operated indoors, in a dry environment.
Both resistive and inductive loads can be connected to the GPIO interface.
Before opening the device, make sure that the device is disconnected from the mains.
Switching off the device by its power button does not disconnect it from the mains. Complete disconnection is
only possible if the power cable is removed from the wall plug or from the device. Ensure that there is free and
easy access to enable disconnection.
The device may only be opened for the insertion or removal of add-on cards (depending on the configuration of
the system). This may only be carried out by qualified operators.
If extensions are being carried out, the following must be observed:
All effective legal regulations and all technical data are adhered to.
The power consumption of any add-on card does not exceed the specified limitations.
The current consumption of the system does not exceed the value stated on the product label.
Only original accessories that have been approved by Kontron can be used.
Please note: safe operation is no longer possible when any of the following applies:
The device has visible damages.
The device is no longer functioning.
In this case the device must be switched off and it must be ensured that the device can no longer be operated.
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KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
Additional safety instructions for DC power supply circuits
To guarantee safe operation of devices with DC power supply voltages larger than 60 volts DC or a power
consumption larger than 240 VA, please observe that:
the device is set up, installed and operated in a room or enclosure marked with “RESTRICTED ACCESS”, if
there are no safety messages on product as safety signs and labels on the device itself.
no cables or parts without insulation in electrical circuits with dangerous voltage or power should be
touched directly or indirectly
a reliable protective earthing connection is provided
a suitable, easily accessible disconnecting device is used in the application (e.g. overcurrent protective
device), if the device itself is not disconnectable
a disconnect device, if provided in or as part of the equipment, shall disconnect both poles simultaneously
interconnecting power circuits of different devices cause no electrical hazards
A sufficient dimensioning of the power cable wires must be selected – according to the maximum electrical
specifications on the product label – as stipulated by IEC 61010-1, IEC 61010-2-201, IEC60950-1 or VDE0100 or
UL508 regulations.
The devices do not generally fulfill the requirements for "centralized DC power systems“ (UL 60950-1, Annex
NAB; D2) and therefore may not be connected to such devices!
Only certified at least IEC 60950-1 compliant main power supply unit shall be connected!
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KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
1.
2.
3.
4.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
1.1. Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)
A sudden discharge of electrostatic electricity can destroy static-sensitive devices or microcircuitry.
Therefore proper packaging and grounding techniques are necessary precautions to prevent damage. Always take the
following precautions:
Transport boards in ESD-safe containers such as boxes or bags.
Keep electrostatic sensitive parts in their containers until they arrive at the ESD-safe workplace.
Always be properly grounded when touching a sensitive board, component, or assembly.
Store electrostatic-sensitive boards in protective packaging or on antistatic mats.
1.1.1. Grounding Methods
By adhering to the guidelines below, electrostatic damage to the device can be avoided:
Cover workstations with approved antistatic material. Always wear a wrist strap connected to workplace. Always
use properly grounded tools and equipment.
Use antistatic mats, heel straps, or air ionizers for more protection.
Always handle electrostatically sensitive components by their edge or by their casing.
Avoid contact with pins, leads, or circuitry.
Turn off power and input signals before inserting and removing connectors or connecting test equipment.
Keep work area free of non-conductive materials such as ordinary plastic assembly aids and Styrofoam.
Use only field service tools which are conductive, such as cutters, screwdrivers, and vacuum cleaners.
Always place drives and boards PCB-assembly-side down on the foam.
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KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
2/ Electromagnetic Compatibility
For detailed information refer to section 9.3 “CE Directives and Standards”.
2.1. Electromagnetic Compatibility (EU)
This product is intended only for use in industrial areas. The most recent version of the EMC guidelines (EMC Directive
2014/30/EU) and/or the German EMC laws apply. If the user modifies and/or adds to the equipment (e.g. installation
of add-on cards) the prerequisites for the CE conformity declaration (safety requirements) may no longer apply.
2.2. FCC Statement (USA)
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of
the FCC Rules.
2.3. EMC Compliance (Canada)
The method of compliance is self-declaration to Canadian standard ICES-003:
(English): This Class B digital apparatus complies with the Canadian ICES-003.
(French): Cet appareil numérique de la class B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
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KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
3/ Shipment and Unpacking
Please check that your package is complete, and contains the items below (according to the ordered unit
configuration). If you discover damaged or missing items, please contact your dealer.
3.1. Unpacking
Proceed as follows to unpack the unit:
1. Remove packaging.
2. Do not discard the original packaging. Keep it for future relocation.
3. Check the delivery for completeness by comparing it with your order.
4. Please keep the associated paperwork. It contains important information for handling the unit.
5. Check the contents for visible shipping damage.
6. If you notice any shipping damage or inconsistencies between the contents and your order, please contact
Kontron for help and information.
3.2. Scope of Delivery
3.2.1. Standard
KBox A-250 (corresponding to the ordered system configuration)
Power connector, 2-pin plug
General Safety Instructions for IT Equipment
(TE Connectivity 796859-2)
3.2.2. Optional Parts
DIN rail mounting clip
Mini PCIe WiFI card (always factory-installed if orderd) with two antennas (enclosed)
KBox A-250 can optionally be ordered with a factory-installed SSD Kit (mSAta [instead of WiFi] and/or M.2)
Mini PCIe LTE card (always factory-installed if orderd) with two antennas (enclosed)
SD card
Two brackets for wall/table mounting
Vertical mounting plate for control cabinet mounting
Rubber feet (self-adhesive)
Printed-circuit board connector - MC 1,5/ 9-ST-3,5 for GPIO
www.kontron.com // 16
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
KBox A-250
2-A0DM-XXXX
3.3. Type Label and Product Identification
The type label (product name, serial number) of your KBox A-250 system are located on the bottom side of the device
(refer to Figure 1 and Figure 7 pos. 1).
Figure 1: Type Label
www.kontron.com // 17
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
Standard front panel:
The device is designed to be operated in:
4/ System Overview
The KBox A-250 expands the Kontron line of computers - KBox Series. It is a highly scalable and flexible industrial
computer. Based on the pITX-2.5” SBC with Intel Atom® processors of the E3900 series the KBox A-250 was
developed as a cost optimized gateway for data intensive IoT edge applications.
For local data collection, e.g. link to sensor and machine level, it offers one serial port (RS232).The KBox A-250 is one
of the first Kontron products which is Microsoft® Azure certified. This means the hardware is tested and verified and
can be integrated into Microsoft® Azure IoT Services.
Refer to the information and technical data in the user manual of the installed pITX-APL
Module.
The connection to the IT infrastructure in general can be implemented through integrated Gigabit/Fast Ethernet
interfaces or optional WiFi support.
Additional wireless technologies such as integrated LTE (4G) and GSM (2G/3G) are a further option.
The KBox A-250 supports Security Solution Kontron APPROTECT. It combines a software framework with an
integrated security chip in addition to the TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module) chip to provide comprehensive
protection for the application software.
The KBox A-250 hardware system configuration and the robust construction with excellent mechanical stability offer
the superior qualities of a computer designed for operation in harsh industrial environment. It is a fanless system
based on a compact U-shaped aluminum chassis with cooling fins.
The user’s manual of the installed pITX-APL Module can be downloaded from our web page
http://www.kontron.com
. Search for the name of the installed module.
The rated voltage of the mains (+24 V DC) can be found on the type label. The type label is located at the bottom side
of the device (on the rear side, when a DIN rail clip is factory-mounted). The KBox A-250 may be optionally factoryequipped with an mPCIe WLAN card for two antennas. For the configuration of your KBox A-250 please follow the
ordering options specified in “Configuration Guides – KBox Series“ on our web site www.kontron.com
The following interfaces are available with the KBox A-250:
24 V DC input power (X101)
DisplayPort (X109)
2x USB 3.0 (X103, X104)
2x Ethernet (X105, X106) : 1x Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000) and 1x Fast Ethernet (10/100)
COM 1 (X201), RS232 (X110)
Power/Reset button PWR and power LED
SSD or/and mSATA drive status LED
Vertical position: (KBox A-250 configuration with vertical mounting plate) mounted inside a control cabinet or
Vertical/horizontal: wall mounted (KBox A-250 configuration with wall mounting brackets) or
Horizontal position: KBox A-250 as desktop unit (equipped with the supplied rubber feet) or
Vertical/horizontal: KBox A-250 DIN Rail mounting (with DIN Rail mounting clip)
When powering on the KBox A-250, make sure that the cooling fins of the chassis (Figure 8,
Figure 9 and Figure 10, pos. 6) are not obstructed (covered) by any objects.
To provide sufficient heat dissipation by the cooling of the device, do not cover the cooling
fins of the
KBox A-250. Do not place any objects on the device. When installing the system, please note
www.kontron.com // 18
the clearance recommendation in the section 6.1 “System Mounting”.
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
4.1. RTC
The KBox A-250 comprises a chipset internal RTC. To provide a valid date and time when no power is connected to the
KBox A-250, the RTC is buffered by the CMOS battery.
4.1.1. RTC Buffer Time
The RTC buffer time is depending of the ambient temperature.
If the time is not valid this is indicated by a status bit in the RTC registers.
The buffer time depends on the ambient temperature and on how long the box is connected
to its power supply.
4.2. System Expansion Capabilities
The KBox A-250 is available in the configurations described in this manual.
If you are interested in a different, customer-specific configuration, feel free to contact Kontron and ask for your
requirements. Contact information can be found on our web site www.kontron.com.
www.kontron.com // 19
4.3. Block Diagram of the KBox A-250
Figure 2: Block Diagram of the KBox A-250
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
www.kontron.com // 20
4.4. Front Side
X101
Antenna 2
X105, X106
USB 3.0
X102
ETH 1
X109
Power LED
GPIO
X103
Antenna 1
(WLAN)
SSD/WLAN
LEDs
Power/Reset
Button
Antenna 3
Antenna 4
X110
Figure 3: KBox A-250 – Front View
(WLAN)
DisplayPort
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
(LTE)
COM1
(LTE)
ETH 2
24V DC
www.kontron.com // 21
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
Prerequisite:
disconnected from the DC mains, when the power
Pin 1
Pin 2
3
2
4.5. Front Interfaces of the KBox A-250
101 - Power Input Connector
The 2-pin connector (X101, Figure 3) provides the power connection of the KBox A-250 to the appropriate DC main
power supply. For pin assignments refer to the subsection 10.1.1.
The external cable connector is a “TE Connectivity 796859-2” 2-pin plug. This power plug is provided along with the
KBox A-250. Please observe the section 7.1 “Connecting to DC Main Power Supply”.
Figure 4: X101 - 24VDC power input connector
Pin Signal Name
1 +24 VDC (input)
2 0 V (input)
4.5.1. Controls and LED Indicators
Figure 5: Detail - Power button and LED indicators
1
SSD LED (green) The SSD LED (Figure 3 and Figure 5, pos. 1) indicates storage (SSD/mSATA/M.2) activity.
WLAN LED (green) The WLAN LED (Figure 3 and Figure 5, pos. 2) indicates WLAN activity.
Power Button Press this button (Figure 5, pos. 4) to turn the system on or off. Pressing the power button
for more than 4 seconds will lead to a hardware reset. Please observe the setting options
for the power button in the BIOS-Setup.
Power LED (green) The power LED (marked PWR, Figure 3 and Figure 5, pos. 3) lights up green if the system
powered on.
The system must be attached by means of the power cord to an appropriate mains (DC).
Even when the system is turned off via the power button there is still a standby voltage on
the baseboard. The unit is only completely
is removed.
4
1 SSD activitiy LED
2 WLAN activitiy LED
3 Power LED
4 Power/Reset button
For preparing the power cable for the KBox A-250 by connecting appropriate wires to the
Phoenix power terminal, refer to subsection 6.2.1 “Cabling”
www.kontron.com // 22
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
This interface (GPIO, Figure 6) is provided as a 9-pin Phoenix connector. The mating
4.5.2. X102/X103 - Ethernet Connectors (ETH)
These connectors (X102 as ETH 1 and X103 as ETH 2, Figure 3) are Gigabit Ethernet 10/100/1000 Mbit/s, IEEE 1588
(ETH2) and Fast Ethernet 10/100 Mbit/s (ETH1) capable interfaces. The connectors are standard 8-pin RJ45 type
connectors with status LEDs:
Activity/link: green = link up; green blinking = activity.
Speed: off, green, yellow (10/100/1000 MBit/s).
For pin assignment refer to subsection 10.1.2.
4.5.3. X105/X106 - USB 3.0
The KBox A-250 provides two USB 3.0 interfaces. This connectors (X105, X106, Figure 3) allows connection of USB 3.0
or USB 2.0 compatible devices to the system. For pin assignment refer to subsection 10.1.3.
4.5.4. X109 - DisplayPort
This is a DisplayPort compliant interface realized using a standard DisplayPort connector. An external (digital) display
can be connected to the DisplayPort connector (X…, Figure 3). For pin assignment refer to subsection 10.1.4.
4.5.5. X110 – Serial Port COM 1
This interface (X110, Figure 3) is provided as a 9-pin D-SUB connector; it is RS232 configured and allows the
connection of a serial peripheral. For pin assignment refer to subsection 10.1.5.
4.5.6. GPIO Interface (optional)
Figure 6: Optional GPIO interface
connector for the GPIO interface is not supplied with the system.
Both resistive and inductive loads can be connected to the GPIO interface.
www.kontron.com // 23
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
1 Type label
6 Cooling fins on the left side of the U-shaped chassis
2
2 5 6
7 3 7 4 1
4
5
8
6
4.6. Left and Right Side View
Figure 7: Right side of the KBox A-250 system Figure 8: Left side of the KBox A-250 system
0
2 4x torx screws (3x8) that secure the access cover
3 Upper side of the mounting plate with key holes
4 Lower side of the mounting plate with key holes
5 Access cover
7 Threaded holes for mounting the DIN rail mounting clip
8 Cooling fins on the top side of the U-shaped chassis
9 Cooling fins on the bottom side of the U-shaped chassis
4.7. Top and Bottom Side View
Figure 9: Top side of the KBox A-250 system Figure 10: Bottom side of the KBox A-250 system
9
6
To provide sufficient heat dissipation for the cooling of the KBox A-250 platform, never
cover the cooling fins of the chassis. Do not place any objects onto the device.
www.kontron.com // 24
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
4
2
1
3
4.8. Rear Side View
4.8.1. Rear Side View of the KBox A-250 with Vertical Mounting Bracket
The KBox A-250 is designed for wall mounting, in vertical position inside of a control cabinet or as desktop.
Please observe the mounting instructions included in the section 6/ “Installation Instructions”, and the outline
dimensions in the subsection 9.1.2 “Mechanical Specifications of the KBox A-250 with Vertical Mounting Plate”.
Figure 11: Rear side of the KBox A-250 system with vertical mounting plate
1 Vertical mounting plate
2 Key holes on the mounting plate
3 Screws that secure the mounting plate to the chassis
of the KBox A-250
3
2
The vertical mounting plate is factory-installed (when KBox A-250 was ordered with vertical
mounting plate).
If the vertical mounting plate was ordered later and is to be mounted subsequently, first
remove the rear panel of the KBox A-250.
Do not mount the vertical mounting plate on top of the rear panel!
www.kontron.com // 25
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
3 2 2
1
3
3
4
4.8.2. Rear Side View of the KBox A-250 as Desktop with Rubber Feet
Figure 12: Rear side of the KBox A-250 (shown as desktop unit)
1
3
4.8.3. Rear Side View of the KBox A-250 with Wallmount Brackets
Figure 13: Rear side of the KBox A-250 (shown with vertical/horizontal mounting brackets)
1 Cooling fins on the top side of the chassis
2 Rubber feet
4
3 Countersunk screws M3x8 ISO14581 torx
4 Wall/table mount brackets with key holes (left and
right) for horizontal or vertical (with interface sides
downwards or upwards) mounting position
www.kontron.com // 26
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
2
1
4.9. Optional Parts
4.9.1. DIN Rail Clip (Option)
For DIN Rail mounting of the KBox A-250 a DIN Rail clip can be ordered (refer to subsection 3.2.2 “Optional Parts”).
If ordered, you can adopt your system for mounting to a DIN rail. Tapped holes are provided on the access cover
(Figure 7, pos. 8) for mounting the optional DIN Rail clip in vertical or horizontal orientation (Figure 14).
Figure 14: DIN rail
4.9.2. WiFi/WLAN (Option)
Depending on the ordered system configuration, the KBox A-250 system (only KBox A-250 used as desktop or KBox
A-250 with vertical/horizontal wallmount brackets or with DIN Rail clip) can be equipped with WiFi hardware.
4.9.2.1. WLAN/WiFi Antenna
Depending on the ordered system configuration, the KBox A-250system can be equipped with WiFi hardware. If you
have ordered a system configuration including WLAN, a Reverse (RP) SMA-connector for screwing on the provided
WLAN antenna is installed at the front side (Figure 3; “Antenna 1, Antenna 2”). The “Antenna 2” connector is intended
for future use only.
Figure 15: WLAN (WiFi) antenna
1 Reverse (RP) SMA antenna connector
2 Hinge for positioning the antenna
4.9.2.2. LTE (Option)
The KBox A-250 can optionally be equipped with cellular technology LTE (G4) to meet GCF or PTCRB. Please request
this option if required.
www.kontron.com // 27
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
5/ Thermal Considerations
5.1. Available Processors
Please refer to the chapter 9/ “Technical Specifications”.
The list of processors is not complete and may be extended over the product lifetime.
5.2. Convection Cooling
The applied cooling method provides adequate cooling of the device during operation and performs a one-way
thermal transfer to the chassis. Three sides of the KBox A-250 consist of a compact aluminum U-shaped chassis are
with cooling fins. The cooling fins provide heat dissipation during operation.
To provide sufficient heat dissipation for the cooling of the KBox A-250, never cover the
5.3. Minimum System Clearance
cooling fins of the chassis. Do not place any objects on the device.
To provide a maximum of airflow through and around the box, minimum distances to surrounding parts must be
observed (please refer to the chapter 6.1 “System Mounting” and
Figure 16).
5.4. Maximum Temperatures
The maximum system ambient temperature depends mostly on the power consumption of
For the temperature evaluation a specialised tool from Intel
Depending on the power consumption one or more cores were set to 75% workload. This includes the graphics core.
The tool also handles the usage of the "Turbo Mode" of certain processor types.
the processor and the chipset.
®
was used to set the processor to a defined workload.
The processor utilisation depends highly on the software used. Software using multicore
feature will run on several cores whereas standard software will only utilise one core.
www.kontron.com // 28
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
6/ Installation Instructions
The KBox A-250 system is designed for operating:
installed onto a wall or within a control cabinet by use of the vertical mounting plate
installed within a control cabinet by use of the DIN Rail mounting clip
Whenever possible, unpack or pack this product only at EOS/ESD safe work stations. Where
a safe work station is not guaranteed, it is important for the user to be electrically
discharged before touching the product with his/her hands or tools. This is most easily done
by touching a metal part of the system chassis.
Do not handle this product out of its protective enclosure while it is not used for operational
purposes unless it is otherwise protected.
Prior any installation work, ensure that there are no live wires on the installation site.
Do not handle the device if there is any damage visible.
Do not operate the KBox A-250 with foreign objects inside the chassis.
Further do not insert any retrieval device into the device while it is connected to power.
Kontron rejects all liability for any and all damages resulting from operation of the unit with
foreign objects inside the chassis.
The device should only be installed and operated indoors, in a dry environment.
The KBox A-250 has to be installed and operated only by trained and qualified personnel.
Only personnel with appropriate qualifications, trainings and authorization are permitted to
install and work with the Kontron KBox A-250.
This device shall only be installed in or connected to systems that fulfill all necessary
technical and specific environmental requirements.
The unit must be placed such that there is sufficient space in front of it for connecting the
cables to the
I/O interface connectors and for operating the power button.
Leave sufficient free space around the unit to prevent the device from possibly overheating!
To ensure proper operation, we recommended free space as specified in
Figure 16 and
Figure 17.
Refer also to section 9.1.2 “Mechanical Specifications”.
The KBox A-250 must be firmly attached to a clean flat and solid mounting surface. Use
proper fastening materials suitable for the mounting surface. Ensure that the mounting
surface type and the used mounting solution safely support the load of the KBox A-250 and
the attached components.
Please follow the local/national regulations for grounding.
The voltage feeds must not be overloaded. Adjust the cabling and the overcurrent protection
to correspond with the electrical figures indicated on the type label.
The type label is located on the access cover of the system.
It is recommended that the last cable attached to the system should be the power cable!
Refer to the section 6.2 “DC Power Connection” and chapter 7/ “Starting Up”.
www.kontron.com // 29
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
(Anschlüsse)
99.5
146
(for cable connections)
6.1. System Mounting
In order to adapt the KBox A-250 for mounting Kontron offers different mounting solution such as:
KBox A-250 configuration with vertical mounting plate for installation into a control cabinet or to a wall
KBox A-250 for DIN Rail mounting into a control cabinet
KBox A-250 configuration with horizontal mounting brackets for installation into a control cabinet or to a wall
KBox A-250 for desktop operation without mounting (with rubber feet)
Depending on the ordered KBox A-250 configuration, your system is supplied with the corresponding mounting plate,
mounting brackets and/or DIN Rail clip.
The key holes of the vertical mounting plate (Figure 11, pos. 2) allow you to mount the KBox A-250 inside the control
cabinet in vertical position.
The key holes of the mounting brackets (Figure 11, pos. 2) allow you to mount the KBox A-250 to a wall or table in
vertical as well as in horizontal position.
Prepare the mounting surface with four screws and if necessary anchors corresponding to the mounting surface type
(fire-resistant material). Please refer to the information for mounting in the section 9.1.2, “Mechanical Specifications
of the KBox A-250 with Vertical Mounting Plate”, 9.1.3 “Mechanical Specifications of the KBox A-250 Wall/Table
Mounting Brackets”, 9.1.1 “Mechanical Specifications of the KBox A-250 as Desktop” or refer to the drawings for KBox
A-250 on our web site. The drawings can be downloaded from our web site www.kontron.com
product name.
by selecting the
For a sufficient air circulation around the device, we recommend not mount or operate any
other devices within the “Restricted Area” around the KBox A-250; refer to the red marked
area in
Figure 16, Figure 17.
Figure 16: Restricted area for mounting around KBox A-250 (desktop side view with antenna)
GESPERRTER BEREICH
KEEP OUT AREA
www.kontron.com // 30
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
KEEP OUT AREA
150
50
50
150
58
Figure 17: Restricted area for mounting around KBox A-250 (front view with vert./horiz. mounting brakets)
(air circulation)
www.kontron.com // 31
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
1 2-pin power plug terminal
4 Location for inserting the “+24V” wire
3
4
5
6.2. DC Power Connection
The KBox A-250 is connected by a power plug terminal (“TE Connectivity 796859-2”) connector to a DC power source
via a DC power supply wiring (only the power plug terminal is included).
The KBox A-250 is delivered with a DC power plug terminal (2-pin power connector). For DC connection, prepare the
connecting wires using the supplied TE Connectivity plug terminal: 796859-2.
Figure 18: Power plug terminal
2 Slotted pan head screws
3 Screws for securing the power plug terminal
1
2
3
5 Location for inserting the “0V” wire
6.2.1. Cabling
For the pin assignment Phoenix power plug terminal refer to the subsection 4.5 “Front Interfaces of the KBox A-250
101 - Power Input Connector”.
1. Cut the required length three isolated wires (1 mm2) AWG18 and strip each end 5 –7 mm.
2. Twist the striped wire-ends and provide them with ferrules.
3. Loosen the two slotted pan head screws (Figure 18, pos. 2) of the DC plug terminal far enough so that you can
insert the end of the prepared wires.
4. Insert the wires into the corresponding clamp of the power plug terminal. Make sure that you have the right
polarity of the connection [refer to Figure 18, Figure 4 or subsection 10.1.1, “(X101) Power Input Connector”].
5. Fasten the screws to secure the wires into the clamps of the plug terminal.
www.kontron.com // 32
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
7/ Starting Up
The KBox A-250 must be only operated with the nominal voltage of 24V DC of type SELV. For
7.1. Connecting to DC Main Power Supply
The DC input connector (Figure 3 and Figure 4, marked X101) is located on the front side of the KBox A-250. The KBox
A-250 will be connected to a DC main power supply via the supplied power plug terminal (see Figure 18) and
corresponding power wires (not included).
details refer to the chapter 9/ “Technical Specifications”.
Before using your system, become familiar with the system components and check that
everything is connected properly. Following a proper cabling procedure will prevent a false
power-on condition, which could result in unit operational failure.
When you install/disconnect the unit, the functional earth connection must always be made
first and disconnected last.
Also, it is recommended that the last connections attached to the system should be the
power wires!
The KBox A-250 may not be connected to a central DC power supply.
The KBox A-250 must be connected DC mains power supply complying with the SELV (Safety
Extra Low Voltage) requirements of EN 60950-1 standard.
It must be observed that wiring and short-circuit/overcurrent protection is performed
according to the applicable standards, regulations and respect to the electrical specification
of the KBox A-250.
Even when the system is turned off via the power button (Figure 3 and Figure 5, marked
PWR) parts of the system are still energized.
The disconnecting device (fuse/circuit backer) rating must be in accordance with the wire
cross-section and the rated current of the KBox A-250.
When powered on, the KBox A-250 starts up automatically.
The wires used for power connections must be clearly marked (+/-/functional earth) to
ensure that they will be proper connected to the DC IN connector of the KBox A-250 and to
the main power source, corresponding to signals marked. Refer to Figure 4 and Figure 18.
To connect the KBox A-250 to a corresponding DC main power supply, please perform the following steps:
1. Ensure that the DC power source is switched off via a disconnecting device (circuit breaker), in order to ensure
that no power is flowing from the external DC power source during the connection procedure.
In addition, the cables must have some form of support so as to minimize the strain on the
unit’s connectors.
2. Connect the power terminal prepared as described in the subsection 6.2.1 “Cabling” to the DC input connector
(Figure 3 and Figure 4 marked X101) of the KBox A-250. The DC input connector is located on the front side and is
marked “24VDC”.
3. Connect the other ends of the DC power wires to the connections of the DC main power supply. Pay attention to
the polarity of the connections.
4. Switch on the disconnecting device (circuit breaker) in order to apply voltage to the terminals of the power wires.
www.kontron.com // 33
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
7.2. Operating System and Hardware Component Drivers
Your system can be supplied optionally with a pre-installed operating system.
If you have ordered your KBox A-250 with a pre-installed operating system, all drivers are installed in accordance
with the system configuration ordered (optional hardware components). Your system is fully operational when you
switch it on for the first time. Please pay attention to the following note.
Important information on the use of the pre-installed “WINDOWS 10 IOT FOR
EMBEDDED SYSTEMS” operating system:
The terms and conditions for the use of the pre-installed operating systems are specified in
If you have ordered The KBox A-250 without a pre-installed operating system, you will need to install the operating
system and the appropriate drivers for the system configuration you have ordered (optional hardware components)
yourself.
the document “MICROSOFT SOFTWARE LICENSE TERMS”.
You can download this document from our web site www.kontron.com by selecting Product/
Downloads tab/Windows.
You can download the relevant drivers for the installed hardware from our web site at
https://www.kontron.com/support-and-services/support/customer-section
.
Pay attention to the manufacturer specifications of the operating system and the integrated
hardware components.
Latest Linux Distribution and Kernel shall be used in order to properly support the APL
architecture (e.g. for Yocto)
www.kontron.com // 34
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
8/ Maintenance and Cleaning
Equipment from Kontron requires only minimum servicing and maintenance for proper operation.
For light soiling, clean the KBox A-250 with a dry cloth.
Carefully remove dust from the surface of the cooling fins of the chassis using a clean, soft brush.
Stubborn dirt should be removed using a mild detergent and a soft cloth.
Do not use steel wool, metallic threads or solvents like abrasives, alcohol, acetone or
benzene for cleaning the KBox A-250.
www.kontron.com // 35
9/ Technical Specifications
Table 1: Technical Specifications
KBox A-250
Installed Module and
Baseboard
RAM up to 8 GB DDR3L
BIOS AMI® BIOS
Interfaces
(front side accessible)
Free Expansion Sockets
(e.g. for Storage Media)
Controls
(at the front side)
Indicators
(at the front side)
DC IN Connector (at the front
side)
Protection Class IP20
Rated Voltage (tolerance) 24 VDC (+20%/-15%), 1 A max.
Baseboard with pITX SBC
Intel Atom® x5-E3930/E3940/E3950
1x Ethernet (10/100 Mbit/s)
1x Ethernet (10/100/1000 Mbit/s)
2x USB 3.0
1x DisplayPort
1x COM 1 (RS232)
1x GPIO Port
1x mSATA socket, full-size with SIM card socket
1x mSATA, half-size
1x M.2 socket (2240, 2260, 2280)
1x SD card socket
Power/Reset button (PWR)
PWR (power LED)
SSD (SSD activity LED)
WLAN (WLAN activity LED)
2-pin DC input connector
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
www.kontron.com // 36
9.1. Mechanical Specifications
150
58
99.5
Table 2: Mechanical Specifications
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
Dimensions KBox A-250 with
vertical mounting plate
Height 266 mm (10.47") 135.5 mm (5.33") 65.6 mm (2.58")
Width 58 mm (2.28") 270 mm (10.63") 210 mm (8.27")
Depth 138 mm (5.43") 65 mm (2.56") 140 mm (5.51")
Weight
(without packaging,
without expansions)
Chassis Cooling fins, black
Approx. 1.02 kg (2.25 lbs.) Approx. 1.02 kg (2.25 lbs.) Approx. 1 kg (2.20 lbs.)
Chassis: steel sheet, light grey (RAL 7035)
Side with External Interfaces : trim strips, traffic grey (RAL 7043)
KBox A-250 with
vert./horiz. mounting
brackets
KBox A-250
as desktop
9.1.1. Mechanical Specifications of the KBox A-250 as Desktop
Figure 19: Dimensions: Front as desktop
Figure 20: Dimensions: Front side with antennas and wall/table mounting brackets
www.kontron.com // 37
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
99.5
58
32
180
9.1.2. Mechanical Specifications of the KBox A-250 with Vertical Mounting Plate
Figure 21: Dimensions: Left side Figure 22: Dimensions: Rear side with vertical
mounting plate
192
Figure 23: Dimensions: Detail key hole
www.kontron.com // 38
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
95
60
192
175
24VDC
9.1.3. Mechanical Specifications of the KBox A-250 Wall/Table Mounting Brackets
Figure 24: Dimensions: Top side (with wall/table mounting brackets)
Figure 25: Dimensions: front side (with wall/table mounting brackets)
Figure 26: Detail mounting slide hole (wall/table mounting brackets)
www.kontron.com // 39
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
9.2. Environmental Specifications
Table 3: Environmental Specifications
KBox A-250 (Standard Version)
Thermal Management Fanless cooling
Operating Temperature 0°C … +40°C (32 … 104°F)
Storage / Transit Temperature -40°C … +85°C (-40°F … +185°F)
Relative Humidity (Operating/Transit) 93 % @ 40 °C (non-condensing) acc. to IEC 60068-2-78
Max. Operation Altitude 2,000 m (6,560 ft)
Max. Storage / Transit Altitude 10,000 m (32,810 ft)
Operating Shock 15 G, 11 ms, half sine, acc. to IEC 60068-2-27
Non-operating/Transit Shock 30 G, 11 ms, half sine (IEC 60068-2-27) no HDD and add on cards
Operating Vibration 5 - 150 Hz, 1 G (IEC 60068-2-6)
Non-operating/Transit Vibration 5 - 150 Hz, 2 G (IEC 60068-2-6)
www.kontron.com // 40
9.3. CE Directives and Standards
Table 4: CE Directives and Standards
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
CE-Mark
Compliant
with EU
Directives
EMC
2014/30/EU
Emission
EMC
2014/30/EU
Immunity
EMC
2014/53/EU
EMC
2014/53/EU
RF Spectrum
Efficiency &
Spurious
Emission
2014/53/EU
EMC
CFR 47 Part
15, Subpart B
Safety
2014/35/EU
Safety and
Health
2014/35/EU
WEEE
2002/96/EC
Electromagnetic
Directive 2014/30/EU
Compatibility
Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU
Radio Equipment
Directive 2014/53/EU
Directive (RED)
RoHS II Directive 2011/65/EU
CISPR 11
EN 55011
Industrial, scientific and medical equipment - Radio-frequency
disturbance characteristics - Limits and methods of measurement
EN 61000-6-2 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), part 6-2: Generic standards-
Immunity for industrial environment
EN 301 489-1 V2.2.0 ElectroMagnetic Compatibility (EMC) standard for radio equipment
and services; Part 1: Common technical requirements; Harmonised
Standard covering the essential requirements of article 3.1(b) of
Directive 2014/53/EU and the essential requirements of article 6 of
Directive 2014/30/EU
EN 301 489-17 V3.1.1
ElectroMagnetic Compatibility (EMC) standard for radio equipment
and services; Part 17: Specific conditions for Broadband Data
Transmission Systems; Harmonised Standard covering the essential
requirements of article 3.1(b) of Directive 2014/53/EU
EN 300 328 V2.1.1 Wideband transmission systems; Data transmission equipment
operating in the 2,4 GHz ISM band and using wide band modulation
techniques; Harmonised Standard covering the essential
requirements of article 3.2 of Directive 2014/53/EU
ANSI C63.4
CISPR 16
ICES-003
IEC 61010-1
EN 61010-1
UL 61010-1
The American National Standards Institute standard ANSI C63.4 is the
key standard for measuring electrical and electronic equipment for
showing compliance to FCC and Industry Canada regulations.
Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement,
control and laboratory use - Part 1: General requirements
Minimum temperature rating of the cable to be connected to the field
wiring terminals: 80°C
IEC 61010-2-201
EN 61010-2-201
UL 61010-2-201
Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement,
control and laboratory use - Part 2-201: Particular requirements for
control equipment
Minimum temperature rating of the cable to be connected to the field
wiring terminals: 80°C
EN 62311 Assessment of the compliance of low power electronic and electrical
equipment with the basic restrictions related to human exposure to
electromagnetic fields (10 MHz to 300 GHz)
The Waste Electrical
and Electronic
Equipment
Directive (WEEE
Compliant with the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment
(WEEE) directive to reduce waste of electrical and electronic
equipment, encourage recycling and environmental disposal and
increase the environmental awareness of producers
Directive)
www.kontron.com // 41
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
10/ Standard Interfaces – Pin Assignments
Low-active signals are indicated by a minus sign.
10.1.1. (X101) Power Input Connector
Table 5: (X101) Power Input Connector
Pin Signal Name 2-pin POWER SUBCON (male)
1 +24 VDC (input)
2 0V (input )
10.1.2. (X102 as ETH 1 and X103 as ETH 2) Ethernet Connectors
Table 6: (X102, X103) Ethernet Connectors
Pin
1 MDI0+
2 MDI0-
3 MDI1+
4 MDI2+
5 MDI2-
6 MDI1-
7 MDI3+
8 MDI3-
10 off on orange on (blinking)
100 green on orange on (blinking)
1000 orange on orange on (blinking)
Signal Name X2, X3, X10LAN1, LAN2,LAN3 (RJ45)
Speed (Mbps)
LINK ACTIVE
LINK/ACT
www.kontron.com // 42
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
10.1.3. (X105, X106) USB 3.0 Ports
Table 7: (X105, X106) USB 3.0 Port
Pin Signal Name Pin Signal Name 9-pin USB Connector
USB 2.0 contact pins USB 3.0 contact pins
1 VCC, fused (900 mA max.) 5 StdA_SSRX-
2 Data- 6 StdA_SSRX+
3 Data+ 7 GND_DRAIN
4 GND 8 StdA_SSTX-
9 StdA_SSTX+
Type A Version 3.0/2.0
10.1.4. (X109) DisplayPort
Table 8: (X109) DisplayPort
Pin Signal Name DisplayPort Signal Name Pin
1 ML Lane 0 (p)
3 ML Lane 0 (n) Lane 1 (p) 4
5 GND (ML Lane 1) Lane 1 (n) 6
7 Lane 2 (p) GND (ML Lane 2) 8
9 Lane 2 (n) Lane 3 (p) 10
11 GND (ML Lane 3) Lane 3 (n) 12
13 AUX SEL# Pull-down to GND 14
15 AUX CH (p) GND (AUX CH) 16
17 AUX CH (n) Hot Plug 18
19 GND (GND_DDC)
GND (ML Lane 0) 2
3.3V (DDC EEPROM
power
500 mA fused
20
www.kontron.com // 43
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
10.1.5. (X110) Serial Interface COM 1 (RS232)
Table 9: (X110) Serial Interface COM 1 (RS232)
Pin Signal Name 9-pin D-SUB Connector (male)
1 NC
2 RXD (Receive Data)
3 TXD (Transmit Data)
4 NC
5 GND (Signal Ground)
6 NC
7 NC
8 NC
9 NC
10.1.6. GPIO Interface
Table 10: GPIO Interface
Pin Signal Name 9-pin GPIO Connector (male)
1 GND
2 GPIO1
3 GPIO2
4 GPIO3
5 GPIO4
6 GPIO5
7 GPIO6
8 GPIO7
9 GPIO8
The GPIO interface is equipped with a TP4707L GPIO driver. The maximum total current of all GPIOs used depends on
the temperature. We recommend 32 mA per GPIO (pin) in a temperature-controlled environment (e.g. a switch
cabinet).
The maximum GPIO input voltage must not exceed the current operating voltage of the KBox A-250
(e.g., when the KBox A-250 is operated with 22 V, the voltage applied to the GPIO pins must not exceed 22 V).
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
www.kontron.com // 44
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
Table
11/ uEFI BIOS
11.1. Starting the uEFI BIOS
The pITX-APL is provided with a Kontron-customized, pre-installed and configured version of American Megatrends,
Inc. (AMI). It is based on the Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (uEFI) specification and the Intel® Platform
Innovation Framework for EFI. This uEFI BIOS provides a variety of new and enhanced functions specifically tailored to
the hardware features of the pITX-APL.
The BIOS version covered in this document might not be the latest version. The latest
version might have certain differences to the BIOS options and features described in this
The uEFI BIOS comes with a Setup program which provides quick and easy access to the individual function settings
for control or modification of the uEFI BIOS configuration. The Setup program allows the accessing of various menus
which provide functions or access to sub-menus with more specific functions of their own.
To start the uEFI BIOS Setup program, follow the steps below:
1. Power on the board.
2. Wait until the first characters appear on the screen (POST messages or splash screen).
chapter.
3. Press the <F2> key.
4. If the uEFI BIOS is password-protected, a request for password will appear. Enter either the User Password or the
Supervisor Password (see Security menu), press <RETURN>, and proceed with step 5.
5. A Setup menu will appear.
The pITX-APL uEFI BIOS Setup program uses a hot key-based navigation system. A hot key legend bar is located on
the bottom of the Setup screens.
The following table provides information concerning the usage of these hot keys.
11: Navigation Hot Keys Available in the Legend Bar
Hotkeys Description
<F1> The <F1> key is used to invoke the General Help window.
<-> The<Minus> key is used to select the next lower value within a field.
<+> The <Plus> key is used to select the next higher value within a field.
<F4> The <F4> key is used to Exit saving Changes.
<F3> The <F3> key is used to load Optimized Defaults.
<→> or <←>
The <Left/Right> arrows are used to select major Setup menus on the menu bar.
For example: Main screen, Advanced screen, Security screen, etc.
<↑> or <↓>
The <Up/Down> arrows are used to select fields in the current menu.
For example a Setup function or a sub-screen.
<ESC> The <ESC> key is used to exit a Setup menu.
<ENTER> The <ENTER> key is used to execute a command or select a submenu.
www.kontron.com // 45
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
bold
11.2. Setup Menus
The Setup utility features a selection bar at the top of the screen that lists the available menus:
Main
Advanced
Chipset
Security
Boot
Save & Exit
The currently active menu and the currently active uEFI BIOS Setup item are highlighted in white. Use the left and right
arrow keys to select the Setup menus.
Each Setup menu provides two main frames. The left frame displays all available functions. Configurable functions
are displayed in blue. Functions displayed in black provide information about the status or the operational
configuration. The right frame displays a Help window providing an explanation of the respective function.
11.2.1. Main Setup Menu
On entering the uEFI BIOS, the Setup program displays the Main Setup menu. This screen lists basic system and board
information.
Figure 27: Main Setup Menu Initial Screen
The following table shows Main sub-screens and functions, and describes the content. Default settings are in
www.kontron.com // 46
.
Table 12: Main Setup Menu Sub-screens
Sub-Screen Function Second level Sub-Screen / Description
BIOS
Information
Board
Information
On-board
LAN
Information
CPU
Information
Memory
Information
Platform
firmware
Information
Read only field
Displays BIOS Information
Board Vendor, BIOS Version, Build Date and Time, Access Level
Read only field
Displays Board Information
Manufacturer, Product Name, PCB Version, Serial Number, Part Number, Boot Count
Read only field
Displays LAN MAC Address of pITX board
Read only field
Displays CPU Information
Read only field
Displays Memory Information
Read only field
Displays Platform firmware Information
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
System
Date>
System
Time>
Sets the system date
[mm/dd/yyyy]
Sets the system time
[hh:mm:ss]
www.kontron.com // 47
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
bold
11.2.2. Advanced Setup Menu
The Advanced Setup menu provides sub-screens and second level sub-screens with functions, for advanced
configuration and Kontron specific configurations.
Setting items, on this screen, to incorrect values may cause system malfunctions.
Figure 28: Advanced Setup Menu Initial Screen
The following table shows the Advanced sub-screens and functions and describes the content. Default settings are in
and some functions include additional information. The function / submenu in italic indicate either status display
or submenu string that cannot be selected. The underlined statement indicates the condition for the availability of the
second-level submenu in reference to submenu.
www.kontron.com // 48
[Enable]
[Enabled]
[Enabled]
[None]
[Enabled]
[Enabled]
[Enabled]
[TCG_2]
[1.3]
[Auto]
(Disabled)
[Enabled]
[S3 (Suspend to RAM)]
[Disabled]
[Disabled]
[Disabled]
[ANSI]
[115200]
[None]
[1]
[None]
[Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Disabled]
[80x24]
[VT100]
[Always Enable]
[Disabled]
[VT-UTF8]
[115200]
[None]
[8]
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
Table 13: Advanced Setup menu Sub-screens and Functions
Sub-Screen Function Second level Sub-Screen / Description
Intel® PRO/1000 7.0.06 PCI-E
Driver Health
When set to Enable:
Active PCR banks
Available PCR banks
Trusted
Computing
TPM20 Device Status,
Vendor and Firmware
Version.
Security Device Support
SHA-1 PCR Bank
SHA256 PCR Bank
Pending operation
Platform Hierarchy
Storage Hierarchy
Endorsement Hierarchy
TPM2.0 UEFI Spec Version
Physical Presence Spec Version
TPM 20 InterfaceType [TIS]
Device Select
When set to Disable:
Enable Hibernation
ACPI Settings
Enable ACPI Auto
Configuration
ACPI Sleep State
Lock Legacy Resources
SMART
Settings
SMART Self Test
When set to Enabled:
Serial Port
Console
Redirection
Console Redirection
(COM0) >
Legacy Console
Redirection Settings >
Serial Port for Out-ofBand Management /
Windows Emergency
Management Services
(EMS)
Console Redirection >
COM# Console Redirection Settings
Bits per second
Data Bits
Stop Bits
Flow Control
VT-UTF8 Combo Key Support
Recorder Mode
Resolution 100x31
Legacy OS Redirection Resolution
Putty KeyPad
Redirection After BIOS POST
Legacy Serial Redirection Port [COM0]
When set to Enabled:
Console Redirection Settings >
Out-of-Band Mgmt Port [COM0]
Terminal Type
Bits per second
Flow Control
Data Bits
www.kontron.com // 49
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
[None]
[1]
[Enabled]
[Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Disabled]
[DP1]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
[Upon Request]
[Immediate]
[UEFI and Legacy]
[UEFI]
[UEFI]
[UEFI]
[UEFI]
[Auto]
[Enabled]
[Enabled]
[Enabled]
[20 sec]
[20 sec]
[Auto]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
Sub-Screen Function Second level Sub-Screen / Description
CPU
Turbo Mode
Intel Virtualization Technology
Parity
Stop Bits
Configuration
AMI Graphic
Output
Control Policy
PCI
Subsystem
Settings
Network Stack
Configuration
VT-d
Monitor Mwait
Intel ® Graphics Controller
Intel ® GOP Driver
Output select
AMI PCI Driver Version
Above 4G Decoding
Hot-Plug Support
Network Stack
When set to Enabled:
CSM16 Module Version 07.79
CSM
Configuration
CSM Support
GateA20 Active
INT19 Trap Response
Boot option filter
Option ROM execution
Network
NVMe
Configuration
SDIO
Configuration
Storage
Video
Other PCI devices
NVME controller and Drive information
SDIO Access Mode
Mass Storage Devices:
Legacy USB Support
XHCI Hand-off
USB Mass Storage Driver Support
USB transfer time-out
USB
Configuration
Device reset time-out
Device power-up delay
Security
Configuration
TXE HMRFPO
TXE EOP Message
www.kontron.com // 50
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
[Disabled]
[Standard]
[1024 x 768]
[24-Bit VESA]
[3.3V]
[Dual]
[Normal]
[Disabled]
[300 mV]
[Enable]
[Disable]
[200 Hz]
[80%]
[SMART FAN IV]
[Enabled]
[3E8]
[10]
[Disabled]
[Disabled]
[Disabled]
[Disabled]
[Disabled]
[Disabled]
[125 C]
[95 C]
[Cold Reset]
[Enable]
[-0.5%]
Sub-Screen Function Second level Sub-Screen / Description
When set to Enabled:
Panel Type
Resolution
Panel Color Depth
LVDS
Configuration
LVDS Flat Panel Display
Support
Panel Voltage
Channel
Bus Swapping
Clock Frequency Center Spread
Differential Output Swing Level
Backlight
Backlight Signal Inversion
Backlight PWM Frequency
Brightness Level
Hardware Monitoring:
CPU DTS Temperature (CPU MSR)
PCB Temperature (TD1)
NCT7802Y Temperature (LTD)
Hardware
Monitor
LM75B Temperature (I2C0)
NCT7802Y Voltage (VCC)
RTC Voltage (VCORE)
DDR Voltage (VSENS2)
Input Voltage (VSENS3)
CPU Fan:
CPU Fan Pulse
CPU Fan Control Mode
Fan Trip Point
Trip Point Speed
When set to Enabled:
CPLD
Configuration
Serial Port 0
GPIO IRQ
I2C IRQ
Base Address
IRQ
Auto-reload
Watchdog
Global Lock
Stage 1 mode
When set to Disabled:
Automatic Thermal
Thermal
Reporting
System
Component
www.kontron.com // 51
OS Reset Select
Spread Spectrum Clocking Configuration
DDR SSC
Critical Trip Point
Passive Trip Point
Passive TC1 value 1
Passive TC2 value 5
Passive TSP value 10
When set to Enable:
DDR SSC Selection Table
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
[0% (No Clock Bending)]
[Enable]
[-0.5%]
[Disabled]
[Enable]
[Disable]
[Disable]
[Disable]
[Disable]
[Enable]
[Disable]
[Disable]
[Disable]
[Disable]
[Enable]
[Auto]
[Enable]
[PTI]
[Disable]
[None]
[Wrap]
[None]
[Wrap]
[X4]
[Off]
[Quarter Speed]
Sub-Screen Function Second level Sub-Screen / Description
DDR SSC Bending Selection Table
HighSpeed SerialIO SSC
When set to Enable:
HighSpeed SerialIO SSC Selection Table
Kernel Debugger Configuration
Kernel Debugger Enable
APEI BERT Configuration
APEI BERT
ACPI Memory Debug
Switch
ACPI Memory Debug
TXE Debug Option
End of Post
Lock Directory
PTT Debug Option
Suppress PTT
Commands
TDO GPIO Pin Switch
TDO GPIO Pin
Max Memory 2G
Persistent RAM Size
Debug
Configuration
OS DnX
OS DnX focus entry
Processor Trace Configuration
Processor Trace memory allocation
CSE Data Clear Option
CSE Data Clear (Yes /
No)
Option to clear Data region during IFWI Update
Capsule Data Clear
North Peak Enable
FW Trace Enable
FW Trace Destination
NPK Recovery Dump
NPK Debug Configuration >
www.kontron.com // 52
Memory Region 0 Buffer Size
Memory Region 0 Buffer WrapAround
Memory Region 1 Buffer Size
Memory Region 1 Buffer WrapAround
PTI Mode
PTI Training
PTI Speed
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
[LEVEL LOW]
[LEVEL LOW]
[Enable]
[Enable]
[Disable]
[2 GB]
[Disable]
[Continuous]
[Enabled]
[Windows 10 (Ver>=167)]
Sub-Screen Function Second level Sub-Screen / Description
RC ACPI
Settings
Punit Message Level
PMC Message Level
Native PCIE Enable
Native ASPM
RTD3 Settings RTD3 Support
11.2.3. Chipset Setup Menu
The Chipset Setup menu provides sub-screens, second level and third level sub-screens with functions, for Intel
Chipset configurations.
Figure 29: Chipset Setup Menu Initial Screen
Table 14: Chipset Setup menu Sub-screens and Functions
Sub-Screen Function Second level Sub-Screen / Description
North Bridge Max TOLUD
PCIE VGA Workaround
South Bridge Serial IRQ Mode
SMBus Support
OS Selection
www.kontron.com // 53
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
[Enable]
[RT Disable]
GOP Configuration
[Enable]
[Disable]
GOP Brightness Level [140]
IGD Configuration
[Enable]
[IGD]
[Disable]
[8MB]
[256MB]
[64M]
[256M]
[624 MHz]
[Enable]
PAVP Enable [Enable]
[Auto]
[Enable]
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
GMCH BLC Control [PWM-Inverted]
HD-Audio Configuration >
HD-Audio Support [Enable]
LPSS Configuration >
[Enable]
[Enable]
LPSS IOSF PMCTL SOix Enable [Enable]
PCI Express Configuration >
[Enable]
[Disable]
[Disable]
[Disable]
[Auto]
[Disable]
[L1.1 & L1.2]
[Enable]
[Disable]
[Disable]
[Disable]
[Disable]
[Default Setting]
[Disable]
[Disable]
[Disable]
[Enable]
[Disable]
[Auto]
[Disable]
[Enable]
Snoop Latency Override [Auto]
Sub-Screen Function Second level Sub-Screen / Description
PCI Clock Run
Real Time Option
Uncore
Configuration
GOP Driver
Intel Graphics Pei Display PEIM
Integrated Graphics Device
Primary Display
RC6 (Render Standby)
GTT Size
Aperture Size
DVMT Pre-Allocated
DVMT Total Gfx Mem
Cd Clock Frequency
GT PM Support
IGD – LCD Control
BIA
ALS Support
IGD Flat Panel
IGD Boot Type
Panel scaling
South Cluster
Configuration
www.kontron.com // 54
Low Power Sub System
LPSS HSUART #3 Support (D24:F2)
LPSS SPI #1 Support (D25:F0)
PCI Express Configuration
PCI Express Clock Gating
Port8xh Decode
Peer Memory Write Enable
Compliance Mode
> PCIe #0 BDF[00:13:00] LAN 1
> PCIe #1 BDF[00:13:01] mPCIe
When PCIE #X is enabled:
PCIe #X BDF[XX:XX:XX]
ASPM
L1 Substates
ACS
URR
FER
NFER
CER
CTO
SEFE
SENFE
SECE
PME SCI
Hot Plug
PCIE Speed
Transmitter Half Swing
Extra Bus Reserved 0
Reserved Memory 10
Reserved I/O 4
PCH PCIE LTR
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
[Auto]
[Disable]
[Enable]
SATA Drives >
SATA Drives
[Enable]
[Disable]
[Enable]
SATA Port 0 Hot Plug Capability [Disable]
SCC Configuration >
SCC SD Card Support (D27:F0) [Enable]
USB Configuration >
[Disable]
XHCI Disable Compliance Mode [FALSE]
Miscellaneous Configuration >
[S0 State]
[Enable]
[Disable]
[Disable]
[Enable]
[Disable]
[Disable]
[Enable]
GPIO Lock [Disable]
Sub-Screen Function Second level Sub-Screen / Description
Non Snoop Latency Override
PCIE LTR Lock
PCIE Selectable De-emphasis
Chipset-SATA Controller Configuration
SATA Port 0
Port 0
SATA Port 0 Hot Plug Capability
SATA Port 1 (mSATA)
Port 0
USB Port Disable Override
State After G3
Power Button Debounce Mode
Wake on LAN
BIOS Lock
RTC Lock
TCO Lock
DCI Enable (HDCIEN)
DCI Auto Detect Enable
www.kontron.com // 55
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
[Disable]
11.2.4. Security Setup Menu
The Security Setup menu provides information about the passwords and functions for specifying the security
settings. The passwords are case-sensitive.
Figure 30: Security Setup Menu Initial Screen
The following table shows Security sub-screens and functions.
Table 15: Security Setup Menu Functions
Function Description
Setup Administrator Password
Create / change password to enter Setup
User Password
HDD Security Configuration Create / change password to allow access to Set, Modify and
Clear HardDisk User and Master Passwords for Enabling Security.
Attempt Secure Boot
Enable or Disable the Secure Boot support.
Please also set Secure Boot Mode to “Standard” to install
standard Microsoft Platform Key (PK).
Secure Boot Mode
Set Secure Boot Mode to “Standard” to boot standard Windows or
Linux boot loader signed with Microsoft’s platform key. Select
“Customized” mode only if you have a custom OS with OS boot
loader signed with your own platform key. Kontron provide
services for Customized Secure Boot, visit Kontron SEC-Line home
www.kontron.com // 56
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
Function Description
page
https://www.kontron.com/products/solutions/security/secline.html for more information.
Key Management Enables expert users to modify Secure Boot Policy Variables
without full authentication.
If only the administrator’s password is set, then only access to the setup is limited and is
requested when entering the setup.
If the user’s password is set, then the password is a power on password and must be
entered to boot or enter setup. In the setup the user has restricted rights.
11.2.4.1. Remember the Password
It is highly recommended to keep a record of all passwords in a safe place. Forgotten passwords result in the user
being locked out of the system.
If the system cannot be booted because the User Password or the Supervisor Password are not known, contact
Kontron Support for further assistance.
www.kontron.com // 57
11.2.5. Boot Setup Menu
bold
[On]
[Enabled]
[Enable]
The Boot Setup menu lists dynamically generated boot device priority order.
Figure 31: Boot Setup Menu Initial Screen
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
The following table shows Boot sub-screens and functions, and describes the content. Default settings are in
Table 16: Boot Setup Menu Functions
Function Description
Boot Configuration
Setup Prompt Timeout 1
Bootup NumLock State
Quiet Boot
Boot Option Priorities
Boot Option #1
Boot Option #2
Boot Option #3
Boot Option #4
Fast Boot
To set the system boot order. Use +/- keys to change option.
When Fast Boot is Enabled, SATA, VGA, USB, PS2 support, devices
initialization, Network Stack driver can be customized.
SATA Support
VGA Support
USB Support
www.kontron.com // 58
.
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
Function Description
PS2 Support
Network Stack Driver Support
Redirection Support
New Boot Option Policy Controls the placement of newly detected UEFI boot options
Hard Drive BBS Priotities Sets the placement of legacy boot options
www.kontron.com // 59
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
11.2.6. Exit Setup Menu
The Save and Exit Setup menu provides functions for handling changes made to the uEFI BIOS settings and exiting the
Setup program.
If system cannot boot or work properly due to incorrect setting, shorting Pin-1 and Pin-2 on
J15 jumper will load the default setting of BIOS upon power cycle. Once safely booted with
Figure 32: Save and Exit Setup Menu Initial Screen
default setting, you may undo the jumper setting to save new changes on BIOS Setup Menu.
The following table shows the Exit menu sub-screens and functions, and describes the content.
Table 17: Save and Exit Setup Menu Functions
Function Description
Save Options
Save Changes and Exit
Discard Changes and Exit
Save Changes and Reset
Discard Changes and Reset
Default Options
Restore Defaults
Save as User Defaults
www.kontron.com // 60
Function Description
EFI Shell version 2.50 [5.12]
PciRoot(0x0)/Pci(0x15,0x0)/USB(0x2,0x0)
Shell>
Restore User Defaults
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
Boot Override
UEFI: Built-in EFI Shell
Launce EFI Shell from filesystem
device
11.3. The uEFI Shell
The Kontron uEFI BIOS features a built-in and enhanced version of the uEFI Shell. For a detailed description of the
available standard shell scripting, refer to the EFI Shell User Guide. For a detailed description of the available
standard shell commands, refer to the EFI Shell Command Manual. Both documents can be downloaded from the EFI
and Framework Open Source Community homepage (http://sourceforge.net/projects/efi-shell/files/documents/).
Kontron uEFI BIOS does not provide all shell commands described in the EFI Shell Command
Manual. If Secure Boot is enabled, the UEFI shell may not be able to be entered.
11.3.1. Basic Operation of the uEFI Shell
11.3.1.1. Entering the uEFI Shell
To enter the uEFI Shell, follow the steps below:
1. Power on the board.
2. Press the <F7> key (instead of <DEL>) to display a choice of boot devices.
3. Choose ‘UEFI: Built-in EFI Shell’.
Current running mode 1.1.2
Device mapping table
fs0 :Removable HardDisk – Alias hd18c0b blk0
PciRoot(0x0)/Pci(0x15,0x0)/USB(0x2,0x0)/HD(1,MBR,0x0002B27D,0x3F,0x785BEC)
blk0 :Removable HardDisk – Alias hd18c0b fs0
PciRoot(0x0)/Pci(0x15,0x0)/USB(0x2,0x0)/HD(1,MBR,0x0002B27D,0x3F,0x785BEC)
blk1 :Removable BlockDevice – Alias (null)
Press the ESC key within 5 seconds to skip startup.nsh, and any other key to continue.
4. The output produced by the device-mapping table can vary depending on the board’s configuration.
5. If the ESC key is pressed before the 5 second timeout elapses, the shell prompt is shown:
11.3.1.2. Exiting the uEFI Shell
To exit the uEFI Shell, follow one of the steps below:
1. Use the exit uEFI Shell command to select the boot device, in the Boot menu, that the OS will boot from.
2. Reset the board using the reset uEFI Shell command.
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KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
fs0:
bootme.nsh
fsx: (x = 0,1,2,etc. represents the USB stick)
cd <your_directory>
11.4. uEFI Shell Scripting
11.4.1. Startup Scripting
If the ESC key is not pressed and the timeout has run out then the uEFI Shell tries to execute some startup scripts
automatically. It searches for scripts and executes them in the following order:
1. Initially searches for Kontron flash-stored startup script.
2. If there is no Kontron flash-stored startup script present then the uEFI-specified startup.nsh script is used. This
script must be located on the root of any of the attached FAT formatted disk drive.
3. If none of the startup scripts are present or the startup script terminates then the default boot order is
continued.
11.4.2. Create a Startup Script
Startup scripts can be created using the uEFI Shell built-in editor edit or under any OS with a plain text editor of your
choice. To create a startup shell script, simply save the script on the root of any FAT-formatted drive attached to the
system.
11.4.3. Examples of Startup Scripts
11.4.3.1. Execute Shell Script on other Harddrive
This example (startup.nsh) executes the shell script named bootme.nsh located in the root of the first detected disc
drive (fs0).
11.5. Firmware Update
Firmware updates are typically delivered as a ZIP archive containing only the firmware images. The content of the
archive with the directory structure must be copied onto a data storage device with FAT partition.
11.5.1. Updating Procedure
BIOS can be updated with the Intel tool fpt64.efi using the procedure below:
1. Copy these files to an USB stick.
flash.nsh or flash_with_fpt.nsh (if available)
fpt.efi
fparts.txt
pITX_APL_BIOS_Ver_<xxx>……bin (where xxx stands for the version #)
2. Start the system into the uEFI shell (see chapter 11.3.1.1 “Entering the uEFI Shell”).
3. Change to the drive representing the USB stick.
Change to the directory where you copied the flash tool.
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4. Start flash.nsh or flash_with_fpt.nsh (if available)
fpt –y –f pITX_APL_BIOS_Ver_<xxx>……bin
OR type
5. Wait until flashing is successful and then power cycle the board.
Do not switch off the power during the flash process!
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Appendix A: List of Acronyms
Table 18: List of Acronyms (Example)
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
API Application Programming Interface
BMC Base Management Controller
CLI Command-Line Interface
COM Computer-on-Module
ECC Error Checking and Correction
FRU Field Replaceable Unit
GPU Graphics Processing Unit
HD/HDD Hard Disk /Drive
HPM PICMG Hardware Platform Management
specification family
IOL IPMI-Over-LAN
IOT Internet of Things
IPMI Intelligent Platform Management
Interface
KCS Keyboard Controller Style
KVM Keyboard Video Mouse
MEI Management Engine Interface
NCSI Network Communications Services
Interface
PCIe PCI-Express
PECI Platform Environment Control Interface
PICMG® PCI Industrial Computer Manufacturers
Group
RTC Real Time Clock
SEL System Event Log
ShMC Shelf Management Controller
SMBus System Management Bus
SMWI System Monitor Web Interface
SOL Serial Over LAN
SSH Secure Shell
TPM Trusted Platform Module
UEFI Unified Extensible Firmware Interface
VLP Very Low Profile
www.kontron.com // 64
www.kontron.com
Global Headquarters
Lise-Meitner-Str. 3-5
info@kontron.com
About Kontron
KBox A-250 – User Guide, Preliminary Rev. 0.6
Kontron is a global leader in embedded computing technology (ECT). As a part of technology group
S&T, Kontron offers a combined portfolio of secure hardware, middleware and services for Internet
of Things (IoT) and Industry 4.0 applications. With its standard products and tailor-made solutions
based on highly reliable state-of-the-art embedded technologies, Kontron provides secure and
innovative applications for a variety of industries. As a result, customers benefit from accelerated
time-to-market, reduced total cost of ownership, product longevity and the best fully integrated
applications overall. For more information, please visit:
Kontron S&T AG
86156 Augsburg
Germany
Tel.: + 49 821 4086-0
49 821 4086-111
Fax: +
www.kontron.com // 65
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