Hi, I'm working on a project that includes a controller and lightweight web server. The current iteration is on a Rabbit microchip (made by Rabbit Semiconductor), but this architecture has a number of limitations and we are planning on switching to a more capable system.
Here is a rough outline of what the system needs:
-lightweight web server. Access to this web server will be primarily over the LAN, and will only rarely have to field simultaneous requests. The interface is fairly graphic intensive, however, so there is a decent amount of data that needs to be served
-system needs to be able to keep track of and log data from 20-50 external sensors
-system needs to be able to run some relatively simple control algorithms, and then manipulate a similar number of outputs
-since control of the system is through the web interface, the system will be headless, and thus doesn't need any video capabilities
-ideally the system would be able to act as an SSH server to enable us to log in remotely
-I/O will probably be handled by external module boards that will need USB and/or serial interfaces to communicate with the main OS (preferably both)
I've done a decent amount of googling and come to the conclusion that for a low volume prototype-ing project such as this, it makes sense to go with an off the shelf single board computer with an embedded linux distribution already tailored to it, and then customize from there.
Given this approach, I've had difficulty finding information on what specific products would best fit these specifications. I would love recommendations of specific hardware to look at, as well as resources for comparisons of existing products. Price is an important consideration. I've found a few boards that seem like they would work such as the Arm 9 Board (
http://www.arm9board.net/sel/prddeta...id=354&pid=200), but I feel like I'm more or less just shooting the dark, and would appreciate some guidance from more experienced people, or at least good places to start reading.
Thanks!
