The Birdbox-Acan be used to convert protocols into different formats, for communication among different systems. It offers a complete C/C++ programmable system with a high performance CPU (40/20 MHz 188), up to 512 KB ROM/Flash, 512 KB battery-backed SRAM, a 512-byte serial EEPROM, ADC, and DAC.

The BB-A also supports a real-time clock (RTC72423), battery, three timer/counters, a watchdog, up to four serial ports, a 16x2 character LCD, and a 3x4 keypad, all of which can be packaged in a 4.8 x 3.7 x 1.5-inch aluminum sheet enclosure.

The four serial ports are RS-232 by default. The two optional UARTs can be configured for RS-485. The counters can count external events, at up to 10 MHz or generate PWM outputs. 32 I/O pins from the Am188ES are multifunctional and user programmable.

The eleven channel 12-bit ADC has sample-and-hold, a high-impedance reference input, and a sample rate of up to 10 kHz. Two optional 12-bit DAC provide 0-4.095V analog voltage outputs capable of sinking or sourcing 5 mA. Two PPI chips (82C55) provide 24x2 bi-directional I/O lines that support a DB25 parallel printer port, 3x4 keypad, and 16x2 LCD (provided as part of the optional BB-Pack). Seven solenoid drivers can sink up to 350 mA at 50 V per channel.

A special configuration (BB-I) can be driven by the i386-Engine. The original version BirdBox supports only the V25-Engine.