Miniature single-chip module targets IoT apps

Freescale Semiconductor has announced what it boasts as the smallest single chip module (SCM) for the Internet of Things (IoT). According to the company, as IoT requires more processing horsepower to be packed into ever smaller spaces, the SCM line of products can integrate hundreds of components such as processors, memory, power management and RF parts, which would otherwise be deployed on a 6in board, into a 17mm x 14mm x 1.7mm package.

Geared to function as a computer on a chip, the i.MX 6Dual SCM is enabled for DDR memory and combines the performance of the company's i.MX 6Dual applications processor together with a power management IC (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 per cent reduction in hardware development time, as well as greater than 50 per cent 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.

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 well suited for SCM technology include wearables, next-generation medical equipment and autonomous sensing applications.

SCM portfolio products are delivered as a fully 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.

- Jean-Pierre Joosting
??EE Times Europe