congatec conga-SMX8-Nano SMARC computer-on-module

congatec has introduced the conga-SMX8-Nano SMARC 2.0 computer-on-module with an Arm Cortex-A53-based NXP Semiconductors i.MX 8M Nano processor. With its ultralow-power graphics capabilities as well as its limited number of carefully selected I/Os, the NXP i.MX 8M Mini-compatible processor targets application areas not previously reached by vendor-independent, standardised computer-on-modules.

Only up to 2 W are needed for the logic of a mobile handheld device. Engineers can also turn a complex medical user interface with various mechanical buttons into an intuitive touch-based and easy-to-use GUI or give industrial devices an interactive screen. The product also addresses headless systems with IEEE 1588 Precision Time Protocol support for tactile IIoT.

The SMARC module is an application-ready subsystem that comes with a comprehensive ecosystem including ready-to-go boot loader implementation, pre-qualified Linux, Yocto and Android BSPs, and a fully featured evaluation carrier board. congatec’s personal integration support and broad range of individually selectable technical services simplify the integration of the Arm-based NXP processor for customers.

The computer-on-modules are available in three variants with a quad-, dual- or single-core Arm Cortex-A53 processor, each variant seconded by 1 Cortex-M7. Each version is available for the extended (0 to +60°C) and industrial (-40 to +85°C) temperature range. Embedded displays can be connected via dual-channel LVDS, eDP or MIPI-DSI.

Up to 2 GB of low-power LPDDR4 and an eMMC 5.1 non-volatile memory with up to 128 GB provide extensive memory capacity on the module. Embedded cameras are connected via the MIPI-CSI-2 interface, while 4x USB 2.0 and 3x UART are suitable for industrial use. For intersystem connection, the module offers 1x Gbit Ethernet as well as optional M2 Wi-Fi/Bluetooth extension.