Most standardized system-on-modules for embedded and industrial applications are still based on established Silicon vendors such as Freescale, Texas Instruments or Atmel, simply because documentation and support is generally much better than relatively new SoC vendors, most of the time China-based, such as Allwinner or Rockchip. That does not mean nobody is using Rockchip or Allwinner on their modules, as shown recently with Olimex RK3188-SOM, and previously with an Allwinner 10 CoM. But Theobroma Systems, an Austrian based engineering services and embedded systems solutions company, may have a first with a Micro Qseven compliant modules powered by Allwinner A31, simply called A31-μQ7.
A31-μQ7 module specifications:
- SoC – Allwinner A31 quad core ARM Cortex A7 processor up to 1.2GHz with 256KB L1 cache / 1024KB L2 cache, and PowerVR SGX544MP2 GPU
- System Memory – Up to 2GB DDR3
- Storage – Up to 64GB eMMC, Up to 16MB SPI NOR flash, On-board SATA II and SD card controller
- Display I/F (via edge connector) – HDMI 1.4 (1080p60), Dual-channel LVDS
- Connectivity – 10/100/1000 Mbps PHY
- USB – Integrated USB hub supporting up to 8 USB ports
- Other I/Os – CAN, UART, 8x GPIO, I2S, I2C, SMBus, SPI, FAN
- Security – Security module for smart metering, industry 4.0 (What is that?). GlobalPlatform 2.2.1 compliant JavaCard 2.2 environment. EAL4-certified smartcard controller.
- Power – 5V; AXP PMIC
- Dimensions – 70mm x 40mm (μQseven form factor)
- Temperature Range – Commercial: 0ºC to 60ºC; Industrial: -20ºC to 70ºC
The company can provide BSPs (board support packages) for Android and Linux, which also include the relevant drivers for the security modules. A Mini-ITX baseboard suitable for both Qseven and μQseven modules is said to available for evaluation and development, but no details were provided.
Further information may eventually become available on Theobroma Systems website.
Via L’embarque (and embedded_geek).
Jean-Luc started CNX Software in 2010 as a part-time endeavor, before quitting his job as a software engineering manager, and starting to write daily news, and reviews full time later in 2011.
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It’s nice, but there is still an issue with long-term support for industrial applications : every time I tried to talk with SOM vendors based on Allwinner chipsets, I could never get any guarantee that I will still be able to buy the SoC/SOM and get kernel updates in the next 3 years, which is a prerequisite for industrial applications ! (while I have visibility over a much longer timeframe when I work with i.mx6 or am335x platforms…)
@ade
Good point! I forgot to mention that.
Olimex asked Allwinner about availability of CPUs after of production end. Allwinner answered that 50k CPUs they can produce anytime. Details are here olimex.wordpress.com/2014/11/27/how-long-olinuxino-with-allwinner-socs-will-be-produced-again-now-we-know-the-answer-forever/
The big difference between the Theobroma product and other manufacturers is that most manufacturers depend on software support from Freescale , TI etc. Theobroma has NO independence on the silicon manufacturer for any kernsl etc so they have it all in their control. This means that they can pledge support. Not being dependent on a silicon vendor also makes for faster innovation. Thoebroma is already offering Linux 4.0 but those dependent on the silicon vendor developments are all still on Linux 3.3. New pin and function compatible boards and using Theobroma IP will ensure the long term availability of systems for the future.
another interesting devlopment is the purchase of Freescale by NXP. Who knows what NXP’s plans are for Freescal and I never seen any acquisition not cause disruption in prdoduct developments. One thing that always happens is that lay-offs quietly happen and good folks always jump ship as they can always get good jobs elsewhere
Linux 4.3 is now supported for Allwinner A31 module.
They are also working on an Allwinner A80 SoM (A80-Q7) -> https://www.theobroma-systems.com/a80-q7
@cnxsoft
I am trying to work on A80Q7, no video, only 4G eMMC, cannot boot on sd, prototype kernel 4.8.dirty, cannot flash with winphoenix…
A 130€ board just for switching on and off some leds 🙁