DFI ADP253 Embedded 4" SBC User's Manual

Copyright and Trademarks

This publication is protected by copyright. No part may be reproduced or transformed without prior written permission from the copyright holders. It is provided for informational purposes only, with no warranties expressed or implied. The user assumes all risk. DFI reserves the right to revise this publication at any time. Changes after the first release will be based on product revisions, with the website providing the most updated information.

Product names or trademarks are for identification purposes only and belong to their respective owners.

FCC and DOC Statement on Class A

This equipment complies with Class A digital device limits per Part 15 of FCC rules, designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. If interference occurs, users are encouraged to:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase separation between equipment and receiver.
• Connect equipment to a different circuit than the receiver.
• Consult a dealer or experienced radio/TV technician.

Notice: Modifications not expressly approved may void the user's authority to operate the equipment. Shielded interface cables are required to comply with emission limits.

About this Manual

This manual is available for retrieval from the DFI website. It is subject to change without notice and may not perfectly match all product editions. Please visit the website or contact sales representatives for the latest versions.

Warranty

The warranty does not cover damages from misuse, inability to use the product, unauthorized replacement or alteration of components. The warranty is voided by physical abuse, improper installation, modification, accidents, or unauthorized repair. Users must not attempt service or repairs; return the product to the purchase point, factory, or authorized service agency. DFI is not liable for indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages to modified or altered products.

About this Package

The package typically includes:

• 1 x ADP253 board
• 1 x Heat sink (Height: 37mm)
• 1 x Serial ATA data with power cable

Note: Package contents are subject to change during development and may vary by sales region or model. Contact your dealer or sales representative for region-specific standard package information.

Static Electricity Precautions

Static discharge can damage components without visible signs. Take extra care during handling:

• Keep the system board in its anti-static bag until ready for installation.
• Wear an antistatic wrist strap.
• Work on a static-free surface.
• Handle devices by their edges, avoiding contact with components, contacts, or connections.
• Avoid touching pins or contacts on modules and connectors; hold them by their ends.

Important: Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage sensitive components. Use an ESD workstation if available. If not, wear an antistatic wrist strap connected to the system chassis, or maintain continuous contact with the chassis for protection.

Safety Precautions

• Use the correct DC/AC input voltage range.
• Unplug the power cord before installation or servicing. Re-cover the chassis before plugging the cord back in.
• Battery replacement carries an explosion risk; use only specified equivalent batteries.
• Dispose of used batteries according to local ordinances.
• Keep the system away from humid environments.
• Ensure the system is mounted stably to prevent damage from dropping.
• Do not block system openings; maintain clearance for proper ventilation to prevent overheating.
• Route cables safely to prevent tripping hazards or damage from heat or pressure.
• Use only approved power cords compliant with system voltage and current requirements.
• Disconnect the power source when the system is unused or stored for extended periods to prevent damage from transient overvoltage.
• Consult service personnel if the power cord/plug is damaged, liquid penetrates the system, the system is exposed to moisture, not working properly, or physically damaged.
• The unit uses a three-wire ground cable; do not defeat the ground pin. Contact an electrician if your outlet does not support it.
• Disconnect from power before cleaning. Use a damp cloth for surfaces; avoid liquid or spray detergents.
• Verify power supply voltage is correct before connecting. Ensure the power outlet is grounded.

Caution: The system may become hot during operation. Allow 30 minutes for electronic parts to cool before handling after power off.

Chapter 1 - Introduction

Specifications

Dimensions

The document includes a diagram showing the physical dimensions of the ADP253 board. The overall dimensions are approximately 165mm (length) x 115mm (width). Specific component placement and connector locations are detailed with measurements.

Block Diagram

The block diagram illustrates the system architecture, showing the Intel ULT SOC (Alder Lake-P) at the center, connected to various components via buses like DDR4, SATA 3.0, PCIe, USB 3.2, USB 2.0, and CNVi. It depicts connections to memory (on-board and SO-DIMM), storage (SATA, M.2), expansion slots (M.2), I/O interfaces (HDMI, VGA, DP, LAN, COM, USB, Audio), and peripherals like Realtek ALC888S audio codec, Intel I226-LM/IT Ethernet controllers, and TPM 2.0.

Chapter 2 - Hardware Installations

Overview

This chapter covers hardware installation procedures for the ADP253 SBC.

Top View

The top view diagram identifies key components and connectors on the ADP253 board, labeled with numbers for reference:

• 1: COM3 (RS232) / DIO (Optional)
• 2: Audio
• 3: HDMI
• 4: USB3.2 Type A (USB3_2/USB2_3) / USB3.2 Type C (TCP0/USB2_2) / Option: USB3.2 Type A (TCP3/USB2_9)
• 5: USB3.2 Type A (USB3_1/USB2_1) / USB3.2 Type C (TCP1/USB2_4) / Option: USB3.2 Type A (TCP2/USB2_8)
• 6: 2.5G LAN3
• 7: LAN2 / LAN1
• 8: DC-IN
• 9: Front Audio
• 10: COM Serial / DIO Switch (JP8)
• 11: COM Serial / DIO Switch (JP9)
• 12: SATA
• 13: SATA Power
• 14: USB2.0 (USB2_5/USB2_6)
• 15: COM6
• 16: COM5
• 17: RTC Battery
• 18: SPI
• 19: SIM Slot
• 20: Front Panel
• 21: Clear CMOS
• 22: COM2
• 23: COM1
• 24: COM4
• 25: VGA
• 26: Reset Button
• 27: Power Button

Jumper Settings

COM Serial / DIO Switch (JP8 & JP9)

Jumpers JP8 and JP9 are used to configure COM serial ports or DIO (Digital Input/Output) signals. The diagrams show two configurations:

• Serial COM Signal (Default): Pins 1-3 and 10-12 are set for serial communication.
• DIO Signal (Optional): Pins 3-12 and 1-10 are set for DIO signals.

Pin Assignment

RTC Battery (J1)

The RTC Battery connector (J1) has two pins:

• Pin 1: V_BAT
• Pin 2: GND

SATA Power (CN8)

The SATA Power connector (CN8) provides power to SATA devices:

• Pin 1: 12V
• Pin 2: GND
• Pin 3: GND
• Pin 4: 5V

SATA (J12)

The SATA connector (J12) is used for data transfer:

• Pin 1: GND
• Pin 2: TX+
• Pin 3: TX-
• Pin 4: GND
• Pin 5: RX-
• Pin 6: RX+
• Pin 7: GND

Front Panel (JP10)

The Front Panel connector (JP10) interfaces with system power and status LEDs:

• Pin 1: PWR_BTN0 (Power Button)
• Pin 2: V_SUS_LED (Suspend LED)
• Pin 3: GND
• Pin 4: SUS_LED# (Suspend LED)
• Pin 5: SYS_RST0 (System Reset)
• Pin 6: HD_LED# (Hard Drive Activity LED)

COM1 (CN49) & COM2 (CN50)

These connectors support RS232, RS422, and RS485 communication. Pin assignments are provided for each mode:

• RS232: DCD-, RD, TD, DTR-, GND, DSR-, RTS-, CTS-, RI-.
• RS422: TXD-, TXD+, RXD+, RXD-, GND, N.C., N.C., N.C., N.C.
• RS485: Data-, Data+, N.C., N.C., GND, N.C., N.C., N.C., N.C.

COM4 (CN52) & COM5 (J22) & COM6 (J23)

These connectors provide serial communication (RS232) and DIO (Digital Input/Output) functionality. Pin assignments are detailed for COM3/DIO and COM4/5/6.

• COM3 Pin Assignment (RS232): MDCD-, MSIN-, MSO-, MDTR-, GND, MDSR-, MRTS-, MCTS-, MRI-, NC.
• DIO Pin Assignment (Optional): DIOA0, DIOA1, DIOA2, DIOA3, GND, DIOA6, DIOA7, DIOA4, DIOA5.

Front Audio (AUJ1)

The Front Audio connector (AUJ1) supports microphone and line-out functions:

• Pin 1: Mic2-L
• Pin 2: GND
• Pin 3: Mic2-R
• Pin 4: NC
• Pin 5: Line2-R
• Pin 6: Mic2-JD
• Pin 7: GND
• Pin 8: NC
• Pin 9: Line2-L
• Pin 10: Line2-JD

USB2.0 (USB2_5/USB2_6) (UBJ2)

The USB2.0 connector (UBJ2) provides USB 2.0 connectivity:

• Pin 1: 5V
• Pin 2: 5V
• Pin 3: USB2_5_N
• Pin 4: USB2_6_N
• Pin 5: USB2_5_P
• Pin 6: USB2_6_P
• Pin 7: GND
• Pin 8: GND
• Pin 9: NC
• Pin 10: NC

Expansion Slots

Installing the M.2 Module

Procedure:

1. Ensure the PC and peripherals are powered off and all power cords are disconnected.
2. Locate the M.2 socket on the system board.
3. Align the notch on the M.2 card with the key on the socket.
4. Ensure the standoff screw is removed from the standoff.
5. Insert the card into the socket at an angle, ensuring alignment.
6. Press the end of the card down until it rests against the standoff.
7. Secure the card with a screw and standoff screw. The card should be parallel to the board when correctly mounted.

Installing the SO-DIMM Module

Procedure:

1. Ensure the PC and peripherals are powered off and all power cords are disconnected.
2. Locate the SO-DIMM socket on the system board.
3. Align the notch on the memory card with the key on the socket.
4. Insert the memory card into the slot at approximately a 45-degree angle, ensuring alignment. Apply even pressure on both ends.
5. Press the end of the card down until the retention clips snap into place, securing the card. Verify the clips are seated correctly.

Installing the Heatsink

The system board may include a heatsink with standoffs and screws for chassis mounting. The installation involves placing the heatsink, aligning mounting holes, and securing the board and heatsink to the chassis using screws. Ensure no excessive force is applied to the board during installation.

Chapter 3 - BIOS Settings

Overview

The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is firmware that manages basic system communication and advanced features. It allows configuration saving to CMOS memory. Updates may change screen appearances; the provided screens are for reference.

Legends

Navigation and function keys for BIOS setup:

• Navigation Keys: Arrow keys (Left/Right, Up/Down), Enter.
• Value Adjustment: + (F6) to scroll forward, - (F5) to scroll backward.
• Help/Options: F1 (General Help), F2 (Previous Values), F7 (Boot Device List), F9 (Optimized Defaults), F10 (Save & Exit), Esc (Return).

Scroll Bar: Indicates more fields are available on the screen.

Submenu Indicator (▶): Appears next to fields with additional options; press Enter to access.

Default Configuration

Most settings are predefined (Load Optimal Defaults) or auto-detected. Some settings may require manual adjustment.

Entering the BIOS Setup Utility

Access the BIOS Setup Utility using keyboard commands. After powering on, a BIOS message appears. Press DEL when prompted (or restart/use Ctrl+Alt+Del if the prompt disappears) to enter setup.

Main Menu

The initial screen displayed upon entering the BIOS Setup Utility.

Advanced Menu

This menu allows configuration of basic operations and performance-enhancing features. Incorrect settings may cause malfunctions.

• System Date: Format <month>, <date>, <year>. Use Tab to switch fields, +/- to modify.
• System Time: Format <hour>, <minute>, <second> (24-hour format).

CPU Configuration

• Intel (VMX) Virtualization Technology: Enables VMM to utilize hardware capabilities provided by Vanderpool Technology.
• Active Processor Cores: Select the number of active cores (all or 1).
• Hyper-threading: Enables Hyper-Threading technology for compatible OSes. Disabling it allows only one thread per core.
• AES: Enable or disable AES function.

Note: Some fields may be unavailable if not supported by the CPU.

Power & Performance

This section details power management controls for the CPU.

PCH-FW Configuration

• ME State: Setting to 'Disabled' puts ME into a temporarily disabled mode.
• ME Unconfig on RTC Clear: When disabled, ME is not unconfigured upon RTC Clear.
• Firmware Update Configuration: Configure Management Engine Technology parameters.

Trusted Computing

• Security Device Support: Enables/disables BIOS support for security devices like TPM 2.0 for hardware-level security.
• Pending operation: Used for clearing TPM encryption (requires system restart). Not available if 'Security Device Support' is disabled.

IT8786 Super IO Configuration

• Watchdog Timer Unit: Select timer unit (Second or Minute).
• SuperIO WatchDog Timer: Set timeout value (0=disabled, 1-255).

Serial Port 1, 2 Configuration

Configure serial ports (COM1, COM2):

• Serial Port: Enable or Disable.
• Device Settings: IO address, IRQ, Electrical Interface Mode (RS232).

Serial Port 3, 4 Configuration

Configure serial ports (COM3, COM4) with similar settings as above.

Serial Port 5, 6 Configuration

Configure serial ports (COM5, COM6) with similar settings as above.

IT8786 Hardware Monitor

Displays system health information: voltages (VCORE, VDDQ, +12V, 5V, 5VSB, 3V3SB, VBAT), CPU and system temperatures, and fan speeds.

IT8786 Hardware Monitor - Smart FAN Function

Manages fan speed based on system temperature:

• SYS_FAN Mode: Select 'Automatic Mode'.
• Fan off temperature limit: Fan stops below this temperature.
• Fan start temperature limit: Fan starts working above this temperature.
• Fan full speed temperature limit: Fan runs at full speed above this temperature.
• Fan start PWM: Sets the initial PWM value for the fan.

Serial Port Console Redirection

Enabling this feature allows console redirection settings for a COM port.

Serial Port Console Redirection - Console Redirection Settings

Configure serial port settings:

• Terminal Type: VT100, VT100+, VT-UTF8, ANSI.
• Bits per second: Transmission speed (e.g., 115200).
• Data Bits: 7 or 8 bits.
• Parity: None, Even, Odd, Mark, Space.
• Stop Bits: 1 or 2 bits.
• Flow Control: None or Hardware RTS/CTS (for RS485 mode on COM1).
• VT-UTF8 Combo Key Support: Enable/disable for ANSI/VT100 terminals.
• Recorder Mode: Captures only text data.
• Resolution 100x31: Enable/disable extended terminal resolution.
• Putty Keypad: Select Function Key and KeyPad options (VT100, LINUX, etc.).

ACPI Settings

• Wake System from S5 via RTC: Enable/disable system wake-up by a scheduled time.
• State After G3: Select system state upon power restoration after power failure (S0 State: auto power-on, S5 State: soft-off, Last State: return to previous state).

USB Configuration

• USB Mass Storage Driver Support: Enable/disable.
• Port 60/64 Emulation: Enables I/O port emulation for USB keyboard legacy support.
• USB transfer time-out: Sets time-out for Control, Bulk, and Interrupt transfers.
• Device reset time-out: Sets time-out for USB mass storage device start command.
• Device power-up delay: Maximum time for a device to report itself to the Host Controller.

Network Stack Configuration

• Network Stack: Enable/disable UEFI network stack.
• IPv4 PXE/HTTP Support: Enable/disable IPv4 PXE/HTTP boot.
• IPv6 PXE/HTTP Support: Enable/disable IPv6 PXE/HTTP boot.
• PXE boot wait time: Sets ESC key wait time to abort PXE boot.
• Media detect count: Sets the number of media presence checks.

DFI WDT Configuration

• Watchdog Timer: Enable or disable the Watchdog Timer.

USB Power Control

• USB Power Switch: Configures USB power behavior for wake-up states (S3/S4). Options include '5V_Dual' (supports wake-up via KB/MS) and '5V' (no support).

Tls Auth Configuration

Manages TLS authentication certificates:

• Server CA Configuration: Enroll or delete server certificates.
• Client Cert Configuration: Configure client certificates.

Chipset

System Agent (SA) Configuration

Provides access to VMD setup menu, VMD Configuration settings, and PCI Express Configuration settings. Also includes VT-d (Virtualization Technology for Directed I/O) enablement.

PCH-IO Configuration

This section allows configuration of various I/O interfaces:

• PCI Express Configuration: Configures PCI Express channels (LAN1, LAN2, LAN3, M.2-E, M.2-B) and their root ports.
• SATA Configuration: Enables/disables SATA controllers, sets SATA speed (Auto, Gen1, Gen2, Gen3), and configures hot-plug for SATA ports.
• HD Audio Configuration: Controls the detection of the HD Audio device (Enabled/Disabled).

Security

Secure Boot

Administrator Password: Sets a password required for BIOS entry. Leave blank to clear.

Secure Boot: Enables/disables secure boot to ensure only authorized OSes boot. Requires 'Enabled' status, PK enrollment, 'User' mode, and CSM disabled for activation. Status shows 'Active' when correctly configured.

• Secure Boot Mode: Standard or Custom. Custom allows manual key database modification.
• Restore Factory Keys: Loads OEM-defined factory keys.
• Reset To Setup Mode: Clears NVRAM keys and signatures.
• Key Management: Allows expert modification of Secure Boot Policy variables.

Boot

• Setup Prompt Timeout: Sets the wait time for the setup activation key (0xFFFF for indefinite).
• Bootup NumLock State: Sets the initial state of keyboard NumLock (On/Off).
• Quiet Boot: Enables/disables the quiet boot option.
• Boot Option Priorities: Defines the system boot order.
• Fast Boot: Enables/disables fast boot.

Note: BGRT Logo may appear if 'Quiet Boot' is enabled and 'CSM Configuration' is set to 'UEFI and Legacy' or 'UEFI only'. Refer to CSM Configuration for details.

Save & Exit

• Save Changes and Reset: Saves current settings and restarts the system.
• Discard Changes and Reset: Discards changes and restarts the system.
• Restore Defaults: Loads optimized default values.
• Boot Override: Allows immediate booting from a selected device for the current session.
• Save Setting to file: Saves BIOS configuration to a USB flash device.
• Restore Setting from file: Restores configuration from a USB flash device.

Updating the BIOS

To update the BIOS, obtain the new BIOS file and flash utility from technical support or a sales representative. Follow their specific instructions.

Notice: BIOS SPI ROM

1. The Intel® Management Engine is integrated; the BIOS (SPI ROM) chip cannot be removed or used on other boards.
2. The BIOS (SPI ROM) must be original factory equipment and cannot replace chips from other system boards.
3. Failure to follow these methods may prevent Intel® Management Engine updates.

Note:

• Flash tools can update BIOS (SPI ROM) configurations to the latest version.
• If a BIOS IC needs replacement, ensure proper population and follow instructions for MAC address burning.
• Unique MAC Addresses are protected after manufacturing; users cannot update NVM or MAC addresses.