An Overview of Ezurio's i.MX 8 System on Modules
Discover the potential of Ezurio's i.MX 8M SOMs and their role in transforming embedded system technologies. These modules deliver tailored, innovative solutions that address the specific needs of a variety of industries.
Published on May 1, 2024
As embedded systems and technologies evolve, powerful and versatile hardware offerings are more important than ever. System on Modules (SOMs) are at the heart of this development, offering compact, integrated solutions that power a variety of applications from industrial automation to IoT devices.
At Ezurio, our i.MX 8 series SOMs are among those leading the charge. This article provides a comprehensive overview of our i.MX 8 System on Modules, highlighting their key features, benefits, and potential applications.
What are System on Modules?
System on Modules are small form-factor integrated circuits that incorporate a system processor, memory, communication modules, and often other components necessary for a complete computing solution. They are designed to be easily integrated into larger systems, providing the core functionality while minimizing the complexity and time-to-market for the end product. Our SOMs are built on the latest processors and wireless to give developers a secure, smart, connected platform for deployment in the most demanding markets.
Ezurio's i.MX 8 Series Overview
NXP’s i.MX 8 series of application processors provides a performance-scalable multicore platform that includes single, dual, and quad-core families based on the Arm® Cortex® architecture. These processors are ideal solutions for advanced graphics, imaging, machine vision, audio, video, and safety-critical applications. Ezurio offers a range of i.MX 8 System on Modules, each tailored for specific requirements and applications.
Below, we explore the distinctive features and benefits of each module in the i.MX 8 series.
1. Nitrogen8M Mini SMARC
Our customers asked for a high-performance, robust SOM that was globally certified. One with multiple software options, a proven security architecture, long term software support and security fixes. The Nitrogen8M Mini SMARC is a secure, smart, standardized, and connected SOM with powerful NXP edge processing. Powered by NXP’s i.MX 8M Mini processor, NXP PMIC PF8121, and our Sona Wi-Fi 6/6E and Bluetooth 5.3/5.4.
Key features include:
- Powerful Heterogenous Multiprocessing: Powered by the NXP i.MX 8M Mini processor, it offers up to 1.8GHz quad-core Cortex-A53 microprocessor and 400 MHz Cortex-M4 microcontroller to run Linux and an RTOS on dedicated, hardware-firewalled subsystems.
- Connectivity: Reliable connectivity with optional Wi-Fi 6/6E and BT Classic / LE connectivity in difficult environments.
- Memory: Multiple high-performance memory options: 1GB/2GB/4GB LPDDR4 and 16GB eMMC.
- Graphics, Video, Vision, and Audio: MIPI-DSI or LVDS display up to 1080p60, graphics processing unit, MICI-CSI camera interface, and I2S audio interfaces.
- Target Applications: Best suited for multimedia applications within smart buildings, touchscreen displays, and industrial IoT with its full 1080p video processing capabilities and professional-grade audio features.
2. Nitrogen8ULP SOM
While the Nitrogen8M Mini SMARC excels in high-performance applications with its robust quad-core processing, the Nitrogen8ULP SOM focuses on ultra-low power consumption and compact design. It’s powered by the low power NXP i.MX 8ULP processor and it’s specifically designed NXP PMIC PCA9460A. Combined with the specifically designed carrier board; together they serve as a single board computer (SBC) that can speed your product to market. Alternatively, work with us to create a custom carrier that fits your mechanical, environmental, temperature, and interface requirements.
Key features include:
- Low Power Multiprocessing: ARM’s lowest power 64-bit microprocessor architecture, Cortex-A35, plus NXP’s dedicated µPower management subsystem which delivers 20 different power modes.
- Advanced DSP Capabilities: Tensilica® HiFi 4 for high-performance audio/voice and Fusion F1 DSP for efficient keyword and sensor processing.
- Compact and Durable Design: Optimized 51mm x 32mm form factor with robust board-to-board connectors.
- Secure Operation: Dedicated on-board security hardware, secure boot Linux, and high-performance and flexible storage for passwords, certificates, and data storage.
- Target Applications: perfect for applications where efficient power management and space efficiency are critical, such as portable medical devices, smart home/smart building products, and industrial IoT devices for edge computing.
3. Nitrogen8M Plus SMARC
Featuring NXP’s i.MX 8M Plus Processor, the highest performing 8M processor that our SOMs feature, the Nitrogen8M Plus SMARC provides superior performance. In combination with our Sterling LWB5+ Wi-Fi 5 / Bluetooth 5.2 radio based on Infineon’s CYW4373E, Ezurio brings a truly robust industrial IoT SOM that is designed to simplify your BOM and accelerate time to market. Build a product design that can be easily upgraded to the latest processors and wireless options utilizing its SMARC 2.1.1 standard form factor.
Key features include:
- Powerful Multiprocessing: Up to 1.8 GH quad-core Cortex-A53 microprocessor and 800 MHz Cortex-M7 microcontroller.
- Reliable Connectivity: Excellent Wi-Fi and BT Classic / LE connectivity in difficult environments, plus enterprise Wi-Fi support via WPA3-Enterprise for more secure and robust connections.
- Machine Learning, Graphics, and Video: high-performance edge machine via an integrated neutral processing unit, up to 2.3 TOPS.
- Video and Audio: Up to 3 Displays: Up to 1200p60 or 4Kp30 displays, 2 MIPI-CSI camera interfaces, and dedicated Signal Processing up to 12MP.
- SMARC 2.1.1 Standard: 82mm x 50mm SMARC edge connector form factor which includes onboard ethernet PHYs and a USB hub controller.
- Target Applications: Perfect for wearable tech, portable medical devices, and IoT sensors.
4. Summit SOM 8M Plus System-on-Module with Wi-Fi 5 & Bluetooth 5.3
Also powered by the NXP i.MX 8M Plus processor, Ezurio’s Summit SOM 8M Plus stands out in the market as a secure, smart, and connected IoT SOM. Its main differentiator is its Summit Suite software. Summit Suite integrates multiple layers of leading-edge security software, all provided by Ezurio. Additionally, the SOM features machine learning up to 2.3 TOPS, a powerful 1.6 GHz quad-core Cortex-A53 MPU, and an 800 MHz Cortex-M7 MCU. The use cases are nearly endless, with powerful video, audio, virtualization, and a full lifecycle management through Canvas Software Suite.
Key features include:
- Hardware Specification: Powered by NXP’s i.MX 8M Plus processor and 99W8997 wireless silicon coupled with onboard NXP PMICs (PCA9450CHN and PM823UK)
- Full Product Lifecycle Management: our Canvas Software Suite helps built your wireless IoT applications to quickly get connected and visualize your data with script-driven extensible desktop and mobile tools.
- Camera, Video, and Encode/Decode: 1200p60 or 4Kp30 (up to 3 displays), multi-codec encode/decode.
- Summit Suite Security: FIPS Cryptographic Modules (FIPS 140-2 Level 1 validated), Chain of Trust Device Security, and software vulnerability monitoring and remediation.
- Target Applications: Ideal for medical devices needing FIPS 140-2 Level 1, smart buildings and appliances, industrial IoT, vision systems, and printers/scanners.
5. Nitrogen8M Plus SOM
The Nitrogen8M Plus SOM rounds out Ezurio’s offerings with its focus on delivering superior performance. Engineered with top-tier audio, voice, and video processing capabilities, the i.MX 8M applications processor is perfectly suited for a range of applications, from consumer home audio systems to industrial building automation and computer devices.
The Nitrogen8M Plus SOM, and the upcoming non-SMARC SOMs are fundamentally identical to their SMARC counterparts, but differ in their physical interface, lacking the SMARC form factor and connector.
Key features include:
- Powerful Processing and AI Capabilities: 4 x Cortex-A53 + Cortex M7 with a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) delivering 2.25 TOPS.
- Rich Multimedia Support: Equipped with dual 4-lane MIPI-CSI camera inputs and HDR-capable ISP, supporting high resolution video with Hifi 4 Audio DSP for audio processing.
- Flexible Memory and Storage Options: Offers a range of 2-8GB LPFFR4 RAM and 16-128GB eMMC storage to accommodate varying demands of computing and data storage.
- Comprehensive Connectivity and Interfaces: Includes a broad array of connectivity options such as PCIe Gen. 3, USB 3.0, two Gigabit Ethernet controllers, and various display outputs including HDMI and MIPI-DSI.
- Target Applications: A great choice for high-end multimedia kiosks, professional cameras, and industrial applications where real-time control is enabled by the 800 MHz Arm® Cortex®-M7.
6. Nitrogen8M Mini SOM
While the Nitrogen8M Plus SOM excels in delivering high-performance machine learning, the Nitrogen8M Mini SOM offers a more streamlined, cost-effective solution, ideal for various embedded and IoT applications. It is suited for developers looking for a reliable, long-term solution capable of powering a wide range of applications from basic industrial controls to complex multimedia systems. Also features a low power microcontroller available for customer application, such as low power standby mode, IoT features including Weave, and manager IR or wireless remote.
Key Features include:
- Robust Processing: equipped with a quad-core Arm® Cortex®-A53 processor running at 1.6GHz alongside a general-purpose Cortex M-4 400 MHz core for efficient, low power processing.
- Rich Multimedia Capabilities: Features an HD Video Engine, dual MIPI interfaces for displays and cameras, supporting up to 1080p60 display via MIPI-DSI and high-definition video processing.
- Connectivity Options: Includes 2 high-speed USB ports, multiple I2C interfaces, PCIe, and 10/100/GB Ethernet, all via a carrier board, ensuring versatile connectivity for various applications.
- Target Applications: With its robust processing power and connectivity options, it can fit a variety of applications from industrial automation, human-machine interfaces, building control, digital signage, and infotainment systems.
7. Nitrogen8M Nano SOM
Introducing the Nitrogen8M Nano SOM, powered by the efficient NXP i.MX 8M Nano applications processor, which brings advanced processing and a decade-long lifespan. Its key differentiator is its low power consumption, a critical feature when it comes to portable and embedded devices where energy efficiency directly impacts usability. Its modular memory and storage options allows it to be tailored to meet a range of project requirements and with the support of Ezurio’s engineering team, it serves both as an effective development platform and a production-ready solution.
Key Features include:
- Robust CPU Configuration: equipped with a quad-core Cortex-A53 and a Cortex-M7 processor, clocking up to 1.5GHz for efficient multi-tasking.
- Configurable Memory Options: Ranges from 1GB to 4GB of LPDDR4 RAM and scalable eMMC storage from 16GB to 128GB, accommodating varying application demands.
- Enhanced Graphics and Imaging: Includes a GC7000UL GPU for 2D/3D graphics acceleration and a MIPI CSI camera interface for high-quality image capture.
- Network and Interface Support: Features dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.0, Ethernet, and multiple connectivity ports including I2S, SPI, and USB, all via the carrier.
- Target Applications: Particularly suited for battery powered IoT devices, portable medical devices, and field-based industrial equipment such as handheld diagnostic tools or monitoring devices.
8. Nitrogen8M SOM
Ezurio’s Nitrogen8M SOM leverages NXP’s i.MX 8M family of processors, this SOM is built to accommodate industry-leading audio, voice, and video processing capabilities. Designed to support extensive customization to meet your specific project needs, let us help your project kick off and be ready to market faster.
Key Features include:
- Processor Options: available with dual or quad Cortex-A53 cores, supplemented by a Cortex-M4F for multitasking and performance, reaching speeds up to 2 GHz.
- Multimedia Processing: Supports 4K and HDR video processing, dual MIPI-CSI camera inputs, and powerful Vivante GC70000Lite graphics.
- I/O and Expansion Options: Equipped with HDMI, MIPI DSI, multiple USB ports, and PCIe expansions.
- Target Applications: It excels in environments requiring high-definition video processing, such as digital signage, multimedia kiosks, and advanced human-machine interfaces in industrial automation, making it a versatile choice for developers.
Conclusion
Ezurio's i.MX 8 Series of System on Modules offers a powerful, versatile solution for a wide range of applications, from simple IoT devices to complex, power-intensive industrial systems. By integrating one of these SOMs, developers can significantly reduce development time and cost while leveraging cutting-edge technology. Whether your next project involves AI, multimedia, or connectivity, Ezurio’s i.MX 8 SOMs provide the reliable, high-performance foundation you need to succeed.
Learn more at https://www.ezurio.com/system-on-module/nxp-imx8.