Advantech open standard module targets AIoT

  • October 17, 2023
  • Steve Rogerson

Taiwanese embedded technology provider Advantech has produced an open standard module (OSM) for AIoT applications.

The ROM-2620 uses the OSM Size-S form factor specified by SGet, and incorporates NXP’s i.MX 8ULP applications processor with integrated EdgeLock secure enclave. This combination offers modular embedded computing that is said to be cost-effective, compact and power-efficient at the intelligent edge.

The i.MX 8ULP has two Arm Cortex-A35 cores, a Cortex-M33 core for real-time response, and a Cadence Tensilica Hifi 4 DSP and Fusion DSP for edge AI and ML processing and acceleration.

Built using 28nm FD-SoI process technology and featuring NXP’s Energy Flex architecture, the i.MX 8ULP applications processor enables power efficiency in static and dynamic modes. The Cortex-M33 reduces static power to as low as 36µW for applications requiring extended battery life.

The Cortex-A35, an upgrade from the Cortex-A7, delivers a 40% performance improvement from 32 to 64bit at 1.62W for main operation load. The 8ULP device also offers 3D and 2D GPUs and four-lane Mipi DSI parallel display interfaces to cater to industrial HMI graphics needs. Additionally, uart, GPIO, I2C, FlexCan and Fast Ethernet interfaces enable edge data collection, control and transmission.

The OSM size-S form factor measures 30 by 30mm with 332 pinouts to meet the growing space requirements of IoT applications. With the LGA surface-mount package, the module is more resilient to vibration, shock and other mechanical stressors, making it suitable for IoT edge nodes operating in harsh industrial environments.

To future-proof the OSM form factor, Advantech provides support throughout the design-in process and volume production, to product lifecycle management. It offers design references, hardware documentation and manufacturing guidelines, such as stencil design suggestion and IR reflow diagram, with practical tips and information to help project success and reduce time to market.

To simplify the establishment of secure systems, NXP’s HAB high assurance boot technology is integrated into Advantech’s AIM-Linux software service. This ensures only software images signed by developers can be executed on the SoC. By leveraging the NXP EdgeLock secure enclave integrated into the i.MX 8ULP as a built-in security subsystem, the module provides a silicon root of trust and security architecture, protecting edge devices against physical and network attacks.

This simplifies the implementation of system-wide security intelligence for IoT applications.

The module is now available for sample purchase. For further information, visit www.advantech.com.