Table of Contents.............................................................................................................................................................................i
VIA EPIA ML-Series Overview.................................................................................................................................................... 1
VIA EPIA ML-Series Layout ........................................................................................................................................................2
VIA EPIA ML-Series Specifications............................................................................................................................................. 3
VIA EPIA ML Processor SKUs.....................................................................................................................................................4
VIA CLE266 Chipset Overview.....................................................................................................................................................5
VIA EPIA ML-Series I/O Back Panel Layout..............................................................................................................................6
VIA EPIA ML-Series Layout Diagram & Mounting Holes........................................................................................................7
VIA EPIA ML-Series Layout Diagram & Height Distribution .................................................................................................. 8
Noise Level Data .............................................................................................................................................................................9
Power Consumption .....................................................................................................................................................................10
Power Specifications.....................................................................................................................................................................13
VIA EPIA ML-Series Microsoft and Linux Driver Support.....................................................................................................14
MICROSOFT DRIVER SUPPORT...................................................................................................................................................... 14
LINUX DRIVER SUPPORT..............................................................................................................................................................14
The VIA EPIA ML-Series Mini-ITX Mainboard is an ultra compact native x86 platform optimized for
today's demanding embedded and productivity applications. The mainboard is based on the VIA CLE266
chipset featuring an embedded hardware MPEG-2 accelerator and integrated VIA UniChrome™ 2D/3D
graphics for rich digital media performance. With the sizable memory bandwidth of DDR266 SDRAM
DIMM and the high data transfer speeds of ATA-133 and further enhanced by support of 6-Channel
AC’97 codec for Smart 5.1 surround sound, the VIA EPIA ML-Series delivers the increased performance
levels required by today’s embedded digital media applications.
The latest in high-bandwidth connectivity is supported with four USB 2.0 ports, as well as one Parallel
port, two COM ports and 10/100 Fast Ethernet port for extended broadband connectivity. The VIA EPIA
ML-Series also has one PCI slot for expandability options. The VIA EPIA ML-Series is compatible with a
full range of Mini-ITX chassis as well as FlexATX and MicroATX enclosures and power supplies.
The VIA EPIA ML-Series is fully compatible with Microsoft® and Linux operating systems and is available
in a variety of configurations, including the fanless VIA Eden™ ESP processor for silent system designs
and the highly efficient VIA C3™ processor for more demanding multimedia applications.
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VIA EPIA ML-Series Layout
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VIA EPIA ML-Series Specifications
VIA EPIA ML Specifications
Processor - VIA C3™/ VIA Eden™ EBGA processor
Chipset
System Memory
VGA - Integrated VIA UniChrome AGP Graphics
Expansion Slots - 1 PCI
Onboard IDE - 2 X UltraDMA 133/100/66 Connectors
Onboard LAN - VIA VT6103 10/100 Base-T Ethernet PHY
Onboard Audio - VIA VT1616 6 channel AC’97 Codec
The VIA EPIA ML-Series is available in two different speed grades. The VIA EPIA ML5000EA utilizes
VIA’s ultra low power VIA Eden™ ESP processor while the VIA EPIA ML8000A utilizes the robust VIA
C3™ processor.
EPIA ML5000EA
VIA Eden™ ESP 5000 processor
533 MHz
Fanless Operation
Suitable for compact systems
running multimedia
applications
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VIA CLE266 Chipset Overview
The VIA CLE266 Chipset is designed to enable high quality digital video streaming and DVD playback in
a new generation of fanless, small form factor PCs and IA devices. The
VIA UniChrome™ 2D/3D MPEG-2 accelerator, DDR266 support, motion compensation and duo-view
support to ensure a rich overall entertainment experience. Outstanding connectivity features include USB
2.0, 10/100 LAN and ATA/133.
CLE266 features the embedded
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e
VIA EPIA ML-Series I/O Back Panel Layout
The EPIA ML’s ultra compact 17cm x 17cm, integrated design supports all the standard legacy x86
connectivity options as well as VGA port, RJ45 LAN port, USB 2.0 ports, Parallel port, COM port, and VIA
6-Channel C’97 audio.
PS2_MS
RJ45
Parallel (LPT1)
Line-In
Line-Out
Microphon
PS2_KB
VGA Out
USB
COM1
42.31
35.31
29.21
22.81
44.4500
25.5600
10.08
3.8100
Datum (0,0)
10.3100
2.4400
14.4400
38.8472
64.1822
108.2048
126.6721
150.4775
158.7500
10.31
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VIA EPIA ML-Series Layout Diagram & Mounting Holes
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VIA EPIA ML-Series Layout Diagram & Height Distribution
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EPIA ML-Series Operating Guide
Noise Level Data
VIA and the EPIA series have been at the forefront of the quiet computing initiative. The VIA EPIA MLSeries has been designed to be totally non-obtrusive with noise levels equivalent to a person whispering.
With noise levels ranging from the totally silent VIA EPIA ML5000EA to 25dBA for the VIA EPIA ML8000A,
a new wave of system design innovation and exciting opportunities are being created in an almost
limitless number of emerging new market segments - ranging from fanless thin clients, flat panel small
form factor desktop replacement systems, LCD PCs and a host of other space and power saving systems.
Common Sounds dBA Level
Threshold of hearing 0 dBA
VIA EPIA ML5000EA 0 dBA
Normal breathing 10 dBA
Whispering at 1 meter 20 dBA
VIA EPIA ML8000A 25 dBA
Conventional PC 35 – 50 dBA
Rainfall 50 dBA
Normal speech 60 dBA
The dBA scale is logarithmic, i.e. 10 dBA represents a doubling in volume. dBA values are measured at a
distance of one meter.
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Power Consumption
Power consumption tests were carried out comparing the VIA EPIA ML8000A (running the 800MHz VIA
C3™ processor) and the VIA EPIA ML5000EA (running with the 533MHz). The following tables are a
comprehensive breakdown of the EPIA platform’s voltage, amp and wattage values while running
common system applications.
VIA EPIA ML 8000A
A. Playing DVD – Power DVD 4.0
Measured VoltageMeasured Amp.Watts
Main Board +3.3V3.1942.4317.765
Main Board +5V4.8293.56917.235
Main Board 5VSB4.8300.0510.246
Main Board +12V11.8620.1832.171
Main Board Power Consumption
B. Playing MP3 – Media Player
Measured VoltageMeasured Amp.Watts
Main Board +3.3V3.1842.1416.817
Main Board +5V4.8133.23215.556
Main Board 5VSB4.8250.0530.256
Main Board +12V11.8710.1832.172
Main Board Power Consumption
C. Running Network Application – Files Copy
Measured VoltageMeasured Amp.Watts
Main Board +3.3V3.2412.0746.722
Main Board +5V4.9191.4937.344
Main Board 5VSB4.8690.0590.287
Main Board +12V11.8810.1912.269
Main Board Power Consumption
D. Idle
Measured VoltageMeasured Amp.Watts
Main Board +3.3V3.2572.0456.661
Main Board +5V4.9450.9934.910
Main Board 5VSB4.8810.0550.268
Main Board +12V11.8820.2002.376
Main Board Power Consumption
27.416
24.801
16.622
14.216
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E. Run C.C. Winstone 2001
Measured VoltageMeasured Amp.Watts
Main Board +3.3V3.2342.1767.037
Main Board +5V4.8553.60017.478
Main Board 5VSB4.8660.0510.248
Main Board +12V11.9270.1820.210
Main Board Power Consumption
24.973
VIA EPIA ML 5000EA
A. Playing DVD – Power DVD 4.0
Measured VoltageMeasured Amp.Watts
Main Board +3.3V3.2262.4787.994
Main Board +5V4.8971.6498.075
Main Board 5VSB4.8370.0570.276
Main Board +12V11.8400.1001.184
Main Board Power Consumption
B. Playing MP3 – Media Player
Measured VoltageMeasured Amp.Watts
Main Board +3.3V3.2302.2487.261
Main Board +5V4.9651.5117.502
Main Board 5VSB4.9130.0740.364
Main Board +12V11.9350.1251.492
Main Board Power Consumption
C. Running Network Application – Files Copy
Measured VoltageMeasured Amp.Watts
Main Board +3.3V3.3262.2367.437
Main Board +5V5.0190.9124.577
Main Board 5VSB4.9350.0630.311
Main Board +12V11.9000.1081.285
Main Board Power Consumption
D. Idle
Measured VoltageMeasured Amp.Watts
Main Board +3.3V3.2942.1186.977
Main Board +5V4.9840.7313.643
Main Board 5VSB4.9000.0560.274
Main Board +12V11.8590.0991.174
Main Board Power Consumption
17.529
16.619
13.610
12.068
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E. Run C.C. Winstone 2001
Measured VoltageMeasured Amp.Watts
Main Board +3.3V3.2282.1847.050
Main Board +5V4.9571.6218.035
Main Board 5VSB4.9100.0790.388
Main Board +12V11.9360.1230.210
Main Board Power Consumption
15.683
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Power Specifications
The EPIA ML utilizes an industry standard 20-pin ATX main connector to the power supply. Due to the
EPIA ML platform’s ultra low power requirements a 90 – 120 Watt ATX power supply is ample for even
the heaviest of multimedia system applications.
VIA EPIA ML-Series Microsoft and Linux Driver Support
Microsoft Driver Support
VIA EPIA ML series offers full support for the complete range of Microsoft operating systems.
For standard operating systems, Windows 98/Me/2000/XP latest drivers downloads can be found in the
VEPD website at
For embedded operating systems, Windows CE.NET and XP Embedded related driver supports can be
found in the VIA Arena website at
Linux Driver Support
VIA EPIA ML mainboards have a very high degree of support under Linux.
Support and drivers are provided through various methods including:
•Drivers provided by VIA
– Using a driver built into a distribution package
– Visiting VIA Arena website at
• Installing a third party driver (such as the ALSA driver from the Advanced Linux Sound
Architecture project for integrated audio)
For OEM clients and system integrators developing a product for long term production, other code and
resources may also be made available. You can submit a request either through the
VIA Arena, or through your VEPD support contact. Alternatively, VIA can work further towards providing
additional drivers to suite your specific needs.
www.viaembedded.com.
www.viaarena.com.
www.viaarena.com for latest updates on a monthly basis
Developers portal on
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nMMX
and
EPIA ML-Series Operating Guide
Contact
For more information on the VIA EPIA ML-Series Mini ITX Mainboard contact your sales representative or
visit our website at
USA
440 Mission Court, Suite 220
Fremont, CA 94539
Tel: (510) 683 3300
Fax: (510) 687 4654
Email: vpsd_sales@viatech.com