Tekdense

Tekdense designs rugged, high-performance, SWaP-optimized computing platforms for defense, aerospace, and harsh industrial applications.

[tekdense]

[tekdense]

VNX+ Embedded Computing Modules – Technical Overview | ANSI VITA 90 Modular Systems

VNX Embedded Computing Modules Technical Overview Modern defense, aerospace, and industrial platforms require high-performance computing, AI processing, networking, and connectivity within strict Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) constraints. Traditional embedded architecture often limits scalability and make upgrades costly and complex. 

The ANSI VITA 90 (VNX+) standard addresses these challenges through a modular architecture built around independently replaceable modules connected via standardized high-density SEARAY™ interfaces. This modular architecture supports varied pin configurations  tailored to the specific power, signal, and I/O requirements of each module. 

This overview explores the key modules within the Tekdense VNX+ ecosystem and how they deliver a rugged, scalable foundation for mission-critical embedded computing. 

VNX+ SBC — Intel® Core™ or Atom™ Single Board Computer

The VNX+ SBC serves as the primary processing engine within a VNX+ system. It provides the essential balance of computing performance, power consumption, and thermal requirements dictated by specific mission profiles. 

Processor Options: Intel® Core™ i7-1185GRE or Intel® Atom™ (x5-E3930 / x6425RE). 

Memory: Up to 16GB DDR3L / LPDDR4x. 

Standards: ANSI VITA 90.0-2026, SOSA™ Aligned. 

Operating Temperature: -40°C to +70°C. 

Connector: SEARAY™ i. 

Designed for mission computing, sensor processing, command-and-control systems, and edge analytics, this module delivers reliable performance in harsh, deployed environments. 

VNX+ GPGPU — NVIDIA Jetson Orin NX AI Accelerator 

Modern defense platforms rely heavily on AI-driven capabilities such as real-time target recognition, sensor fusion, autonomous navigation, and predictive maintenance. The VNX+ GPGPU integrates the powerful NVIDIA Jetson Orin NX technology directly into the VNX+ ecosystem, enabling high-performance AI processing at the edge. 

GPU Platform: NVIDIA Jetson Orin NX (1024 CUDA cores, 32 Tensor cores). 

AI Performance: Up to 100 TOPS (INT8). 

Memory: 16GB 128bit LPDDR5 DRAM. 

Standards: ANSI VITA 90.0-2026, SOSA™ Aligned. 

Operating Temperature: -20°C to +85°C. 

Connector: SEARAY™ i. 

VNX+ I/O Carrier — PCIe Peripheral Connectivity Module 

Mission systems must interface with a vast array of sensors, payloads, and communication devices. The VNX+ I/O Carrier provides a flexible expansion framework that enables the rapid integration of application-specific interfaces while maintaining a standardized platform architecture. 

Expansion: Dual mPCIe / AcroPack® slots (Full/Half Mini). 

GPIO: 48 configurable Input/Output pins. 

Power Input: 3.3VDC. 

Standards: ANSI VITA 90.0-2026. 

Operating Temperature: -40°C to +85°C. 

Connector: 200-Pin SEARAY™ i. 

Helios VNX+ PSU — Conduction-Cooled Power Supply 

Reliable power delivery is a mandatory requirement for mission-critical systems. The Helios VNX+ PSU provides regulated multi-rail power distribution while incorporating advanced protection and health monitoring. 

Input Voltage: +12VDC to +32VDC (+28VDC Nominal military power support). 

Efficiency: 85% peak efficiency. 

Protection: Over-Temperature, Under-Voltage, Over-Voltage, Over-Current, and Short-Circuit protection. 

Health Monitoring: Per VITA 46.11 (IPMC). 

Standards: ANSI VITA 90.3-2026, SOSA™ Aligned. 

Operating Temperature: -40°C to +85°C. 

Connector: SEARAY™ . 

Helios PSU Filter — EMI and Transient Protection Module

Electrical noise and power transients are constant challenges in military vehicles, aircraft, and naval platforms. The Helios PSU Filter acts as a robust protective barrier, shielding sensitive electronics from conducted interference and power fluctuations. 

Input Range: 12VDC to +36VDC. 

Protection: Reverse voltage, power transient, and over-voltage protection. 

Compliance: Designed to meet MIL-STD-461  and MIL-STD-704F requirements. 

Operating Temperature: -40°C to +85°C. 

Connector: 320-Pin SEARAY™ interface. 

NetSpyder VX — VNX+ Layer 2/3 Managed Ethernet Switch 

The NetSpyder VX provides managed Ethernet switching and routing capabilities to connect sensors, processors, operators, and external communication infrastructure. 

Port Configuration: 8× Gigabit Ethernet ports, 3× QSGMII expansion ports, and 2× 10GbE SFI ports. 

Switching Capabilities: Layer 2+ and Layer 3 static routing (IPv4/IPv6), OSPFv2, and IEEE 1588 Precision Time Protocol (PTP). 

Standards: ANSI VITA 90.0-2026. 

Operating Temperature: -40°C to +85°C. 

Connector: 400-Pin SEARAY™ interface. 

Common Module Specifications 

All Tekdense VNX+ modules are engineered around a unified, ruggedized architecture to ensure interoperability and mechanical consistency.  Form Factor: 19mm VNX+ Module Dimensions: 89 mm × 78 mm × 19 mm Cooling: Conduction-Cooled, Fanless Environment: Designed for MIL-STD-810H, MIL-STD-461G, MIL-STD-704F/1275F

The Strategic Value of VNX+

The primary advantage of the VNX+ architecture is its ability to bypass the need for extensive system redesigns as mission requirements evolve. Unlike traditional systems, VNX+ enables technology refreshes through simple modular replacement. Individual compute, network, power, or I/O modules can be upgraded independently, which significantly extends platform service life, reduces total lifecycle costs, and minimizes integration complexity. By standardizing the physical and electrical interface, defense integrators can adapt their platforms to changing operational demands—such as adding newer AI processors or specialized sensors—without the prohibitive cost of replacing entire system chassis. 

Conclusion 

The Tekdense VNX+ module ecosystem delivers a comprehensive, rugged embedded computing solution built on the open ANSI VITA 90 standard. By integrating high-performance compute, AI acceleration, deterministic networking, intelligent power management, and advanced EMI protection, the VNX+ architecture provides the scalability required for modern defense, aerospace, and industrial applications. Whether deployed in autonomous ground vehicles, UAV payload bays, or secure naval communications infrastructure, VNX+ empowers system designers to build high-performance solutions that remain relevant and ready for future operational requirements. 

Contact the Tekdense Team

To discuss module configurations or integration options for your specific program, please contact our team directly Email: [email protected] Phone: [phone]   

[tekdense]

High-performance rugged embedded COTS computers engineered for aerospace, defense, and industrial applications. Compact, reliable, and built

[tekdense]

Rugged Small Form Factor Computing Solutions for Aerospace & Defense Applications 

The rapid growth of Rugged Small Form Factor Computing Solutions, advanced sensors, tactical communications, and edge-based applications is driving demand for compact computing platforms capable of delivering reliable, high-performance processing in mission-critical environments. From next-generation radar systems and tactical communication networks to autonomous platforms and mission-critical control systems, modern missions are demanding computing solutions that deliver exceptional performance without compromising reliability or efficiency.    The rapid adoption of technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), sensor fusion, edge computing, and real-time analytics has significantly increased the need for powerful embedded computing platforms. These technologies generate enormous amounts of data that must be processed quickly and accurately, often in environments where space, weight, and power availability are limited.    This blog explores how rugged Small Form Factor (SFF) computing solutions enable high-performance processing in space-constrained aerospace, defense, and industrial environments while meeting critical SWaP-C requirements. 

Why SFF Computing Matters in Mission-Critical Applications 

SWaP-C Optimization 

Size, Weight, Power, and Cost (SWaP-C) remain fundamental design considerations across modern aerospace, defense, and mission-critical systems. Whether deployed in aircraft, ground vehicles, naval platforms, or unmanned systems, computing hardware must deliver maximum performance while operating within strict physical and power constraints.    Rugged SFF computers, Including mini embedded computers are specifically engineered to maximize computational capability while minimizing system footprint, weight, and energy consumption. 

Increased Deployment Flexibility 

Mission-critical systems are often deployed in environments where available space is extremely limited and operational requirements vary significantly. From aircraft avionics bays and armored vehicles to naval platforms, mobile command centers, and unmanned systems, current deployment need compact embedded computing platforms that can be integrated seamlessly without requiring extensive modifications. 

Improved System Efficiency 

By consolidating processing capabilities into smaller, high-performance platforms, organizations can simplify overall system architecture and reduce the complexity of deployed solutions using hybrid COTS computing solutions. 

Key Features of Rugged Small Form Factor Computing Platforms 

Compact Mechanical Design 

Rugged Small Form Factor computers are engineered to occupy minimal space while delivering maximum functionality and processing performance. Their compact mechanical design enables seamless integration into environments where space is at a premium.  

High-Performance Processing 

Modern aerospace, defense, and industrial applications generate massive volumes of data that must be processed, analyzed, and acted upon in real time. From advanced radar systems and sensor fusion applications to artificial intelligence, machine learning, and tactical communication networks, mission-critical operations require AI-edge computing platforms capable of delivering exceptional processing performance with minimal latency. 

Ruggedized Reliability 

Mission-critical environments expose rugged expandable computing systems to vibration, shock, dust, humidity, temperature extremes, and other challenging operating conditions. 

Scalable Expansion Capabilities 

As mission requirements evolve, computing systems must adapt accordingly. SFF platforms provide scalable rugged computing solutions that allow current deployments to enhance capabilities while maintaining a compact footprint.  

Applications Driving Adoption of Rugged SFF Computing 

Mission computing systems for navigation, communication, surveillance, and command-and-control operations.  

Radar and advanced sensor processing applications requiring real-time data analysis and mission-critical decision making.  

Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) platforms handling large volumes of mission-critical data using AI-edge SFF computing systems.  

Electronic Warfare (EW) systems supporting threat detection, signal analysis, and countermeasure operations.  

Unmanned aerial, ground, and maritime platforms enabling autonomous mission execution.  

Tactical communication networks requiring secure, reliable, and high-performance data processing supported by hybrid COTS computers.  

Sensor fusion and battlefield situational awareness systems integrating data from multiple mission sources.  

Airborne, ground, and naval platforms requiring SWaP-C optimized computing solutions for mission-critical operations. 

Benefits of Open Architecture SFF Solutions  

Open architecture Small Form Factor (SFF) computing solutions provide modern missions with the flexibility needed to adapt to rapidly evolving technology requirements while protecting long-term investments. By leveraging modular and standards-based architectures, such as the ANSI/VITA 90-based VNX+ ecosystem, modern missions  can integrate emerging technologies without redesigning entire platforms, enabling a more future-proof approach to system development and modernization. 

These solutions also help reduce lifecycle costs by simplifying maintenance, minimizing hardware obsolescence challenges, and allowing targeted upgrades instead of complete system replacements. This approach enables organizations to extend platform lifecycles while maintaining operational readiness and performance. 

Open standards further enhance interoperability by facilitating seamless integration between hardware and software components from multiple vendors, reducing vendor lock-in and increasing deployment flexibility. Current deployments can also accelerate technology refresh cycles by upgrading capabilities as new processors, networking technologies, and computing requirements emerge while preserving existing infrastructure investments, as demonstrated by modular VNX+ architectures built on the ANSI/VITA 90 standard. 

Conclusion 

Rugged Small Form Factor computing platforms provide the ideal balance of performance, scalability, reliability, and SWaP-C efficiency required for modern mission-critical applications. As aerospace, defense, and industrial systems continue to advance, SFF solutions to deploy powerful computing capabilities within compact, ruggedized architectures while maintaining the flexibility needed to support future technology upgrades and evolving operational requirements. 

Explore Rugged SFF Computing Solutions with Tekdense 

Connect with Tekdense to discuss your requirements and discover computing platforms engineered for mission-critical performance and long-term reliability.  Website: https://tekdense.com 

Email: [email protected] 

[tekdense]

Rugged Fanless Mini Embedded Computer | SFF Defense & Industrial – Lanius

Lanius is a rugged fanless mini embedded computer for defense, aerospace & industrial use. Compact SFF architecture with SWaP-optimized desi

Rugged Fanless Mini Embedded Computer | SFF Defense & Industrial – Lanius

[tekdense]

Rugged Micro Embedded Computer | Intel SFF Defense & Aerospace – Magpie

Magpie is a rugged Intel Core micro SFF embedded computer for aerospace, defense & space. SWaP-optimized, MIL-STD compliant, and COTS-ready

[tekdense]

Raptor X5 and Raptor X7:Inside Tekdense's ANSI/VITA 90.0 VNX+ Mission Computer Lineup

The push toward open-standard embedded computing in defense and aerospace has never been stronger than with the emergence of VNX+ (VITA 90) compliant platforms. Tekdense's rugged mission computers — specifically the Raptor X5 and Raptor X7—represents the pinnacle of this standard in two distinct form factors, both engineered for mission-critical environments.

This blog explores the VNX+ (ANSI/VITA 90) embedded systems architecture, module configurations, I/O capabilities, and key differences to help system integrators and program engineers select the right platform.

Raptor X5: The 5-Slot VNX+ Small Form Factor Integrated System

The Raptor X5 is a 5-slot VNX+ embedded system optimized for applications where platform footprint is the primary constraint. These high-performance embedded defense computers deliver a complete embedded computing stack—processing, AI acceleration, power management, and I/O—in a compact conduction-cooled chassis.

5-Slot VNX+ System Technical Specifications

Dimensions: 178 x 122 x 174 mm (7.00 x 4.80 x 6.85 inches)

Weight: ~3.7 kg (~8.1 lbs)

Cooling: Conduction cooled, fanless

Input Power: 12–32VDC, 28VDC nominal

Operating Temperature: -20°C up to +71°C (with integrated VNX+ GPGPU / with assisted airflow)

Storage Temperature: -40°C to +85°C

Compliance: MIL-STD-461G, MIL-STD-704F/1275F, MIL-STD-810H

Raptor X5 Slot Configuration - VNX+ Modular Architecture

The Raptor X5 backplane is configured as follows across its 5 slots:

Slot 1 — EMI Filter Module

Slot 2 — PSU Module

Slot 3 — Holdup Module

Slot 4 — GPU Module (NVIDIA Jetson Orin NX)

Slot 5 — SBC Module (Intel® Core™ i7-1185GRE)

Raptor X7: The 7-Slot Rugged VNX+ Small Form Factor Integrated System

The Raptor X7 extends the Raptor platform to a 7-slot configuration, adding dedicated Ethernet switching and an I/O carrier module to address more I/O-intensive and networked mission profiles. It is described as the first-of-its-kind in the market for a full VNX+ 7-slot modular rugged computing platform.

7-Slot VNX+ System Technical Specifications

Dimensions: 130 x 193.5 x 133 mm (5.10 x 7.60 x 5.25 inches)

Weight: ~4.2 kg (~9.25 lbs)

Cooling: Conduction cooled, fanless

Input Power: 12–32VDC, 28VDC nominal

Operating Temperature: -20°C up to +71°C (with integrated VNX+ GPGPU / with assisted airflow)

Storage Temperature: -40°C to +85°C

Compliance: MIL-STD-461G, MIL-STD-704F/1275F, MIL-STD-810H

Raptor X7 Slot Configuration - VNX+ Modular Architecture

The X7's 7-slot backplane is configured as follows:

Slot 1 — PSU Module

Slot 2 — EMI Filter Module

Slot 3 — GPGPU Module

Slot 4 — Holdup Module

Slot 5 — Ethernet Switch Module

Slot 6 — IO Carrier Module

Slot 7 — SBC Module

Compliance and Standards

Both platforms carry the same compliance stack: MIL-STD-810H, MIL-STD-461G, MIL-STD-704F/1275F. This alignment with key defense standards significantly reduces the certification burden for program integrators.

Application Fit

The Raptor X5 and X7 are purpose-built VNX+ rugged embedded mission computers for applications including secure communications, advanced surveillance, real-time data and image processing, command and control, target tracking, navigation, and process monitoring. The GPU module's NVIDIA Jetson Orin NX accelerates AI inference workloads across these domains. The Intel® Core™ i7 SBC handles general-purpose compute, OS operations, and application software. Third-party VNX+ module integration means both platforms can be extended over time as mission requirements evolve — a critical lifecycle consideration for long-duration defense programs.

Raptor X5 vs Raptor X7: Choosing the Right VNX+ Mission Computer

The choice between the ANSI/VITA 90 standards-compliant Raptor X5 and Raptor X7 comes down to mission I/O requirements and network complexity:

Raptor X5 is the right choice when platform footprint is the overriding constraint and I/O requirements are satisfied by 2 x DP, 2 x USB 3.0, 2 x USB 2.0, 2 x 1GbE, 4 x GPIO, and 4 x RS-232.

Raptor X7 is appropriate where networked operation is required (8-port Ethernet switch), where CAN bus and RS-422 are necessary, or where expansion via miniPCIe/AcroPack modules is needed

Both platforms share processor and GPU specifications, MIL-STD compliance, and conduction-cooled fanless thermal design

Both support integration of third-party VNX+ modules per the VITA 90 standard

Conclusion

The Raptor X5 and Raptor X7 represent two distinct but complementary systems of the ANSI/VITA 90 VNX+ open standard. The X5 delivers a complete embedded computing stack in a highly compact 5-slot configuration. The X7 extends that foundation with dedicated Ethernet switching, expanded serial and bus I/O, and PCIe expansion capability in a 7-slot chassis. Both are VNX+ (VITA 90) compliant, MIL-STD qualified, and built for the realities of deployed field operation.

Explore the Raptor X5 or Raptor X7 for your program — contact Tekdense for detailed module specifications, configuration options, and integration support.

Reach us at [email protected] | [phone] (US)

[tekdense]

What is VNX+? A Complete Guide to the ANSI/VITA 90 Modular Standard

One of the long-term challenges in defense and aerospace is the expectation that each new generation of hardware must do more: process faster, handle complex data, integrate more I/O types, all while simultaneously shrinking the weight and box it sits in. A modern open standard VNX+ emerged specifically to address this tension by extending the architecture of established rugged computing frameworks into a smaller physical envelope. This blog covers the VNX+ standards in full: what is VNX, what is VNX+, why was VNX+ standard developed, how the VITA 90 sub-standard family is organized, and where this technology can be deployed.

What is VNX?

VNX was first standardized under VITA 74 and introduced as a compact, modular computing architecture built to serve applications where the physical constraints of conventional VPX made deployment impractical. While VPX modules were engineered for maximum throughput in somewhat larger chassis, the applications required something considerably more compact without abandoning the interoperability and modularity that open standards provide, hence VNX standard was born.

What is VNX+?

VNX+, at a glance, is the evolved form of the VNX standard, published under the ANSI/VITA 90 designation and SOSA™ principles. The progression from VITA 74 to VITA 90 allowed a fundamental change in the module sizes, which was a technical boundary that VITA 74 had drawn. VITA 90 redrew those boundaries to accommodate compact modules with almost 70% less than the size of 3U boards/cards, and integrated serial interconnects for expanded I/O needs of current generation systems.

Design Philosophy

VNX+ does not position itself as a replacement for VPX. The two coexist as complements within the same broader ecosystem. VPX remains the appropriate choice when the available volume is larger, the per-slot power budget is higher, or the processing density requirements exceed what VNX+ modules can deliver. VNX+ fills the space below VPX, the applications where SWaP budgets are tighter, and platforms are smaller.

Connector Architecture and Signal Integrity

VNX+ adopted the Samtec SEARAY™ connector family, reducing the electrical path length for the signals most vulnerable to degradation, which is what allows the connector to support the latest data computing requirements reliably without additional materials or redesigns.

The VITA 90 Family of Standards

VITA 90 is structured as a coordinated family of related specifications rather than a single monolithic document. Each sub-standard addresses a distinct technical domain within the VNX+ ecosystem. Together they cover the full scope of what a system designer needs to deploy a compliant, interoperable VNX+ system.

VITA 90.0: VNX+ Base Standard

This is the root specification from which all other VITA 90 profiles/standards derive. It establishes the module widths, the connector pinout, and the compliance requirements that every VNX+ module must satisfy regardless of its function. All boards marketed as VNX+ must conform to 90.0.

VITA 90.1: VNX+ Profile Tables

Slot profiles define how modules are classified for compatibility purposes. VITA 90.1 formalizes the naming conventions and profile definitions that make it possible for a module from one manufacturer to operate correctly in a slot defined by another.

VITA 90.2: VNX+ Optical and RF Connector Modules (Type 2)

Where standard connector pins carry electrical signals, some applications require high-density coaxial an optical interconnects within the standards under VITA 90.0. It supports RF and video signaling, along with other critical signals between a PIM (Plug-in Module) and corresponding slot.

VITA 90.3: VNX+ Power Supply and Storage Modules

Power conversion and distribution within a VNX+ chassis are governed by VITA 90.3. This sub-standard defines how power supply modules interact with the backplane and what protections or capabilities are required.

VITA 90.4: VNX+ Cooling and Mounting Systems

Mechanical reliability in high-vibration environments depends on more than a tight connector fit. VITA 90.4 specifies the retention and thermal management system features in VNX+ systems, including wedgelock retainers, mounting hardware, retention mechanisms.

VITA 90.5: Space VNX+

The demands of orbital and space applications gave rise to the VITA 90.5 standard. It was developed to address considerations in space-grade systems, such as thermal resilience, non-field repairable platforms requiring enhanced redundancy, and system management.

VITA 90.6: Signal Integrity Compliance

The VITA 90 systems must meet the signal integrity compliance standard, which is to be modeled after the VITA 68 standard for VPX platforms.

VITA 90.7: VNX+ Optical and RF Connector Modules (Type 7)

This sub standard defines the open standard for optical interconnect and high density NanoRF coaxial interconnect in VNX+ systems to support video, RF, and optical signal use cases.

Where VNX+ Can be Used

The adoption profile of VNX+ reflects the kinds of programs that face the most acute SWaP pressure. VNX+ has found its strongest footing in platforms where every ounce and every inch carries a cost, and where the ability to swap a module rather than redesign a board provides genuine value.

Key Application Areas

Military, aerospace, and industrial

UAVs, missiles, UUVs, cube sats, and satellites

Space-constrained harsh environments

Conclusion

In conclusion, VNX+ is the result of a serious, well-engineered approach to rugged small form factor computing. VITA 74 established the foundational architecture, and VITA 90 took that foundation and rebuilt the technical ceiling, expanding thermal capacity, accelerating serial interconnect support, and formalizing I/O. The result is an ecosystem that can host any computing hardware that complies with the VITA 90 standard.

Power tactical deployments with VNX+ solutions!

Contact Tekdense to discuss VITA 90-compliant modules and integrated systems for your mission-critical application requirements. [email protected] | [phone] (US)

[tekdense]

NetSpyder CA: SFF Ethernet Switch | Ultra Small SFF High-performance SFF Ethernet switch. An ultra small SFF Ethernet switch optimized for space-constrained platforms requiring secure networking.

[tekdense]

Advanced force air conduction cooled ATR. High-performance force air conduction cooled chassis designed for reliable aerospace operation.

[tekdense]

Open VPX Backplane | 3U 6U VPX Backplane

High-speed Open VPX Backplane solutions. Our 3U 6U VPX Backplane designs ensure reliable signal integrity and bandwidth for defense systems.

[tekdense]

Rugged AI Edge Computer | NVIDIA Jetson Orin SFF Defense – Willet

Willet is a rugged AI edge embedded computer optimized for real-time processing in aerospace, defense, and embedded environments. High-perfo

[tekdense]

High-performance Vita 62 PSU. Reliable 3U/6U Power supply solution designed for SOSA aligned and OpenVPX architectures in defense applicatio

[tekdense]

The Magpie is a high-performance military embedded micro computer. This military embedded micro sff system is built for ground & air tactica

[tekdense]

Lanius offers a specialized mini aerospace sff solution. This defense mini sff computer is engineered for mission-critical flight and ground

[tekdense]

High-efficiency VITA 90 power supply. This VNX+ power supply unit is designed to meet strict military standards for reliable power delivery.

[tekdense]

The Raptor X7 is a VNX+ Small Form Factor (SFF) Integrated System. Mission-ready rugged embedded chassis optimized for MIL-SPEC aerospace an