
Kontron K4021-U mSTX motherboard with integrated NPU: The future of embedded intelligence in the Rutronik portfolio
Rutronik is expanding its portfolio of components for AI-supported applications with the Kontron K4021-U mSTX. This is a powerful Mini-STX motherboard based on the latest Intel® CoreTM Ultra 7 and 5 Meteor Lake U SoCs and featuring an integrated neural processing unit (NPU) for AI acceleration. This enables up to 20 times higher performance per watt for computationally intensive applications such as image processing, automation and digital signage. The Kontron K4021-U mSTX, developed and manufactured in Germany, is available at www.rutronik24.com.
Additional highlights include advanced graphics and display capabilities supporting up to four simultaneous 4K60 HDR displays or two 8K displays, robust connectivity and expandability with four M.2 slots for storage and Wi-Fi modules, as well as GPIO, two COM ports, Thunderbolt 4 and USB 3.2 Gen2 round out the platform’s profile.
The motherboards are designed for 24/7 operation and can be used continuously with reliable performance in a temperature range from 0 °C to 60 °C. Kontron’s commitment to quality is evident not least in the design, the use of high-quality components and strict lifecycle management, which makes the platforms ideal for use in harsh industrial environments, among other things.
The performance of the K4021-U mSTX boards can be further enhanced with memory components from the Rutronik portfolio, such as DDR5 memory modules or high-performance M.2 SSDs.
Matching accessories from Kontron, such as the SMARTCASE™ S502 chassis kit, a compact and robust housing for embedded implementation, and active heat sinks for optimized temperature management in continuous operation, are also available from Rutronik.
Benefits at a glance:
- Intel® CoreTM Ultra 7 / 5 processors (‘Meteor Lake U’) with integrated NPU
- Up to 20 times higher performance per watt for dedicated AI acceleration
- DDR5-5600 SODIMM memory support up to 96 GB
- Intel® Xe graphics with support for up to 4× 4K60 HDR or 2× 8K displays
- Versatile connectivity: Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen 2, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4a
- Four M.2 slots for flexible expansion
- Industrial grade: 24/7 operation, 0 °C to +60 °C
- Compact Mini-STX format, made in Germany
Application examples:
- POS/POI
- Production optimization
- Medical
- Digital Signage
- Kiosk solutions
More information about the K4021-U mSTX motherboards can be found in this Rutronik Tec article. For more information to the K4021-U mSTX motherboards and other products from Konton and a direct ordering option, please visit our e-commerce platform at www.rutronik24.com.