Internal architecture of the CPU determines the number of instructions, which are processed simultaneously (in parallel) within single clock cycle. Number of handled instructions if influenced by number of factors, e.g. by their presence in fast cache memory, by proper “estimate” of conditional branch target, by the ability to execute instruction out of order to utilize all processing units inside the CPU etc. So the fastest CPU clock no longer means the fastest program execution. Ability to process many instruction in single clock and to use all internal processing units are often more important then the highest clock speed.

Powerful CPU needs optimized peripherals, fast memory access, and also appropriately efficient graphics adapter. The AMD Mobile Sempron 2100+ utilizes dual-channel DDR2 memory in the DataLab PC 1010A computer. ATI Radeon X1250 graphics adapter handles video output and PCI, IDE, SATA and other peripheral interfaces are implemented in the SB600 south bridge chip. Power dissipation of all components is so small, that the whole computer can be cooled passively, without a fan. This way of cooling is a key for achieving of high reliability in the continuously running applications. Passive cooling also eliminates accumulation of dust inside the computer etc.

There are four USB 2.0 ports on the interface panel, as well as one IEEE1394 (FireWire 400) port, two 1 Gbps Ethernet ports, PS/2 mouse and keyboard ports, audio input and output, video output for monitor (DVI) and single RS-232C serial port. Like other DataLab PC computers, DataLab PC 1010A can be supplied with high quality 200 W AC power supply Fortron or with DC/DC power supply. There is no mechanically rotating component used in the computer in the second case (Fortron power supplies are equipped with a regulated fan).

It is possible to install standard 2.5" hard drive into DataLab PC or the whole computer can work with CF memory card only. Using of CF card instead of normal hard drive requires special version of the operating system Windows XP Embedded. Elimination of rotating hard drive again enhances overall system reliability and resistance to power dropouts, vibrations etc.