Single chip module provides IoT-ready compactness

24th June 2015

Barney Scott

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Datasheet

Freescale Semiconductor has introduced the world’s smallest Single Chip Module (SCM) for the IoT. As the IoT requires more processing horsepower to be packed into ever smaller spaces, Freescale’s SCM line of products can integrate hundreds of components including processors, memory, power management and RF parts, which would otherwise be deployed on a 6" board, into a tiny 17x14x1.7mm package.

At the Freescale Technology Forum (FTF) in Austin, Texas, Freescale unveiled the first product in its SCM portfolio. Designed to function as a computer on a chip, the i.MX 6Dual SCM is enabled for DDR memory and combines the performance of Freescale’s i.MX 6Dual applications processor together with a PMIC, flash memory, embedded software/firmware, and system-level security technology including random number generation, cryptographic cipher engines and tamper prevention.

SCM products are engineered to dramatically reduce time-to-market, allowing an estimated 25% reduction in hardware development time – as well as greater than 50% reduction in size versus current discrete solutions. The module’s exceptional performance and connectivity allow customers targeting IoT markets to incorporate sophisticated predictive data analytics capabilities into their products, allowing for highly compelling and potentially disruptive end-products.

Freescale’s SCM modules are suitable for applications such as 3D gaming goggles, where battery life and power are important; next-gen IoT drones requiring extreme processing performance for object recognition; and other IoT products, where highly advanced graphics and UIs are considered key to more mainstream adoption. Other markets well suited for Freescale’s SCM technology include wearables, next-gen medical equipment and autonomous sensing applications.

“Early-stage companies entering the IoT and portable markets often work with limited resources and must create novel, compelling products in highly constrained form factors,” said Nancy Fares, Vice President, System Solutions, Freescale. “For these and other businesses targeting highly competitive and fast-growing markets, Freescale’s SCM product line represents a major breakthrough that addresses a host of hardware and software design challenges, allowing them to begin development immediately and focus their efforts on designing highly differentiated applications and products.”

Freescale’s SCM portfolio products are delivered as a tested and software-enabled platform for consumer and industrial applications. They feature optimised board support package stacks and are enabled for both Linux and Android. The i.MX 6Dual SCM is planned for availability in August 2015 directly from Freescale, and through Arrow Electronics distribution. Additional products in the SCM product roadmap are planned for release over the next two years.

Freescale’s software/hardware solutions teams and a number of SCM ecosystem partners enable fully embedded component sourcing and enhanced design support to reduce supply chain complexity and overcome development challenges.