Low-power AI accelerated embedded applications with i.MX 8M Plus SMARC

Low-power flagship for artificial intelligence

congatec is expanding its SMARC platform with an NXP i.MX 8M Plus processor especially for embedded AI applications. Thanks to the extensive ecosystem with application-ready 3.5-inch carrier board, Basler cameras and AI software stack, fast proof of concept is possible.

Attractive features

Technical highlights of the new SMARC module with i.MX 8M Plus processor are the four powerful Arm Cortex-A53 processor cores with the additional neural processing unit (NPU), which adds up to 2.3 TOPS of AI computational power. Thanks to the integrated image signal processor (ISP), they have been developed specifically for AI inference and machine learning applications and can process the data of the two integrated MIPI CSI interfaces very efficiently. A key application field here is gesture-based control systems, e.g., enabling touchless login into medical applications on intensive care computers for adjusting the administration of infusions. In addition, the multimedia functions cover 3D/2D graphics acceleration as well as video decoding and encoding including H.265 so that camera streams can be sent directly to the network. High resolutions are becoming increasingly important both in inspection and in monitoring systems for enabling better evaluation of details. The NPU can help with the pre-processing so that the raw data does not overload the network. High-quality DSP for audio and voice functions is also interesting.

Diverse application areas

The new SMARC modules with i.MX 8M Plus platform are thus focused on reliable industrial applications in combination with embedded vision, machine learning and AI, as well as advanced multimedia applications. They thereby target Industry 4.0/IIoT, visual inspection and monitoring systems, and smart infrastructures and smart cities. Other applications can be found in agriculture and construction as well as in building automation and measurement technology. The target markets are thus extremely diverse. One of the largest application fields is in the wide range of HMIs because virtually every device today has a graphical user interface and extended multimedia functions for increasingly immersive experiences, in low-power and mobile device areas too. Support of up to three independent displays also makes the new processor module predestined for multidomain applications. The NXP i.MX 8M Plus processor platform is thus a perfect replacement for all existing i.MX6 applications that are getting on in years. Added to that are mobile handheld devices and in-vehicle applications. Thanks to the camera and AI integration, the modules are also suitable for a multitude of different vision applications, for which congatec and its partner Basler offer extended services.