Freescale Semiconductor introduced one of the world’s smallest single chip modules (SCM) for the Internet of Things (IoT). As the IoT requires more processing horsepower to be packed into ever smaller spaces, Freescale’s new SCM line of products can integrate hundreds of components including processors, memory, power management and RF parts, which would otherwise be deployed on a six-inch board, into a tiny 17mm x 14mm x 1.7mm package – the size of a U.S. dime.
The Freescale i.MX 6Dual SCM is the first product in the company’s new 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 power management integrated circuit (PMIC), flash memory, embedded software/firmware, and system-level security technology including random number generation, cryptographic cipher engines and tamper prevention.
Freescale’s SCM modules are ideal for applications such as 3D gaming goggles, where battery life and power are important; next-generation IoT drones requiring extreme processing performance for object recognition; and other IoT products, where highly advanced graphics and user interfaces are considered key to more mainstream adoption. Other markets suited for Freescale’s SCM technology include wearables, next-generation medical equipment and autonomous sensing applications.
SCM products are engineered to reduce time-to-market, allowing an estimated 25 percent reduction in hardware development time – as well as greater than 50 percent reduction in size. The module’s performance and connectivity allow customers targeting IoT markets to incorporate sophisticated predictive data analytics capabilities into their products.
For businesses targeting highly competitive and fast-growing markets, Freescale’s SCM product line represents an opportunity to begin development immediately and focus efforts on designing highly differentiated applications and products.
Freescale’s SCM portfolio products are delivered as a fully tested and software-enabled platform for consumer and industrial applications. They feature optimized board support package stacks and are enabled for both Linux and Android. The i.MX 6Dual SCM is planned for availability in August 2015.