SMARC 2.0 module is based on 64-bit NXP i.MX8 multi-core Arm processor
Multi-core computing and extended graphics capabilities are provided by the conga-SMX8, the first SMAC 2.0 computer on module (COM) from congatec.
It is based on 64-bit NXP i.MX8 multi-core Arm processor family. The Arm Cortex-A53/A72-based conga-SMX8 is claimed to offer the best-in-class ARM processor with performance, flexible graphics and embedded features for industrial IoT (IIoT) applications.
The conga-SMX8 provides high-performance, multi-core computing along with extended graphics capabilities for up to three independent 1080p displays or a single 4K screen. The native industrial-grade platform includes hardware-based, real-time and hypervisor support along with broad scalability as well as resistance against harsh environments and extended temperature ranges, reports congatec.
The SMARC 2.0 module meets the recent performance and feature set needs for low power embedded, industrial and IoT applications as well as the new mobility sector, says cognatec.
The congatec-SMX8 SMARC 2.0 module with NXP i.MX8 processors, hardware based virtualisation and resource partitioning are suitable for a range of stationary and mobile industrial applications including real-time robotics and motion controls.
The modules are qualified for the extended ambient temperature range from -40 to +85 degree C, meaning that they can also be used in fleet systems for commercial vehicles or infotainment applications in cabs, buses and trains as well as electric and autonomous vehicles.
“Our SMARC 2.0 modules are application-ready sub systems that come with a comprehensive ecosystem such as ready-to-go boot loader implementation, pre-qualified Linux and Android BSPs,” says Martin Danzer, director product management at congatec. He adds: “Fully featured evaluation carrier boards as well as personal integration support and a broad range of individually selectable technical services . . . simplify the integration of this new i.MX8 processor for our customers.”
The conga-SMX8 modules feature up to eight cores (2x A72 + 4x A53 + 2x M4F), up to 8Gbyte of LPDDR4 MLC or pseudo SLC memory and up to 64Gbyte of non-volatile memory on the module. The extraordinary interface set includes 2x GbE including optional IEEE1588 compliant precision clock synchronisation, up to six USB including one USB 3.1, up to two PCIe Gen 3.0, one SATA 3.0, two CAN bus, four UART as well as an optional on-board Wi-Fi/Bluetooth module with Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth Low Energy. Up to three displays can be connected via HDMI 2.0 with HDCP 2.2, 2x LVDS and 1x eDP 1.4. For video cameras, the modules support 2 MIPI CSI-2 video inputs. The NXP i.MX8-based SMARC 2.0 modules are supplied as application-ready components including U-Boot and complete Board Support Packages for Linux, Yocto and Android.
Add-on services reduce the complexity of the integration while accelerating the design-in time for fastest time-to-market, says congatec.
