What is VNX+, the New Standard for Small Embedded Designs?
VNX+ is a rugged, small-form-factor modular embedded computing standard. Ratified by ANSI in 2026, VNX+ (ANSI/VITA 90) builds on the previous ANSI/VITA 74 VNX standard to provide standards-based modular computing in space, weight, and power (SWaP)-constrained, mission-critical, rugged environments. A new white paper from Samtec, “VNX+ Enables Small-Form-Factor Embedded Designs” provides an overview of the new VNX+ family of standards, and explains how they can be used to enable small, modular embedded designs.
VNX+ Family of Standards
VNX+ is made up of a family of standards that include module profiles, significantly higher data throughput bandwidth, and improved power-dissipation capability as compared to previous standards. The hardware defined in the VNX+ family enables smaller platforms than those using OpenVPX or AMC (including MicroTCA and ATCA). It also incorporates the highest-density rugged coaxial, optical, and high-speed copper interconnect technologies available.
Samtec interconnect and alignment hardware were selected as the baseline connectivity solution for ANSI/VITA 90 VNX+ systems, supporting both plug-in module (PIM) and backplane (BP) implementations.
Why VNX+?
VNX+ addresses embedded computing applications where existing standards-based systems are too large or heavy, yet OpenVPX-class performance, modularity, and MOSA alignment remain essential.
Target applications include unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs); unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs); missiles; common launch tube surveillance pods; ground and naval vehicle electronics; man-wearable command, control, communications, computers, cyber, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C5ISR) systems; as well as space-based small satellites and CubeSats. In these environments, weight directly affects range and speed, while physical volume is often the primary constraint preventing effective system integration.
The VNX+ specifications define COTS components and hardware that give system designers the flexibility to modernize or upgrade their platforms rapidly and cost-effectively. This enables quick design responses when a mission evolves or threats emerge, all while maintaining interoperability and compliance within the constraints of the standard.
You can read the white paper directly to learn more about: VITA 90.2 connector modules; VITA 90.3 power supply modules; VITA 90.4 cooling, mounting, and retention; VITA 90.5 Space VNX+; combining VNX+ with VITA 93 mezzanine cards; and the relationship of VNX+ to SOSA and OpenVNX.
More Information
VNX+ Transforms Small Form Factor Embedded Landscape – The Samtec Blog
