New modules boost AI performance with up to three times the computing power and double the inference capabilities, featuring integrated security and real-time processing.
Congatec, a provider of embedded and edge computing technology, has introduced computer-on-modules (COMs) featuring NXP’s i.MX 95 processors The modules offer up to three times the GFLOPS computing performance compared to the previous generation with i.MX8 M Plus processors. NXP’s new neural processing unit, ‘eIQ Neutron,’ doubles the inference performance for AI-accelerated machine vision. Additionally, the hardware-integrated EdgeLock secure enclave simplifies the implementation of in-house cybersecurity measures.
Designed for a temperature range of -40°C to +85°C, the modules are robust and optimized for cost- and energy-efficient applications. The eIQ Neutron NPU allows AI-accelerated workloads to be performed closer to the local device level. Specific applications for these modules include AI-accelerated low-power tasks in industrial production, machine vision, visual inspection, HMIs, 3D printers, robotics controllers in AMR and AGV, as well as medical imaging and patient monitoring systems. Other target applications include passenger seat-back entertainment in buses and aircraft, fleet management in transportation, and construction and farming applications.
The SMARC 2.1 modules are based on the next generation of NXP i.MX 95 application processors, featuring 4-6 Arm Cortex-A55 cores. NXP introduces the new Arm Mali 3D graphics unit, delivering up to three times the GPU performance compared to predecessors based on i.MX8 M Plus. Additionally, the new image signal processor (ISP) enables hardware-accelerated image processing. A key highlight is the NXP eIQ Neutron NPU for hardware-accelerated AI inference and machine learning (ML) on the edge, supported by the eIQ software development environment from NXP, which simplifies the implementation of in-house ML applications.
The SMARC modules also integrate a real-time domain for real-time controllers and offer 2x Gbit Ethernet with TSN for synchronized and deterministic network data transmission, LPDDR5 (with inline ECC) for data security, DisplayPort for display connectivity, and the still widely used LVDS display interface. For direct camera connectivity, the modules feature 2x MIPI-CSI.
