The PermaSense Core Stations are based on a Gumstix Verdex minicomputers and are running Linux. Different options exist for long-haul communication: WLAN, GPRS/UMTS, Satellite. An integrated  wireless sensor node interfaces to a low-power sensor network and controls the power management (duty-cycle) of the Linux computer. As such the Core Stations can be used in many different roles: As router and gateway between the Internet and a sensor networks, as a power full sensor platform or simply as a standalone device. 

The Core Station architecture is split into the actual computing and wireless system and a support system containing a 12V battery and photovoltaic charge controller.