Dual-core asymmetric processing in a single BGA
The NXP MCIMX6X2EVN10ABR from the i.MX6SX series is a heterogeneous dual-core processor that pairs a 1 GHz ARM Cortex-A9 application core with a 227 MHz ARM Cortex-M4 real-time core in a 400-MAPBGA package (17x17 mm). The A9 runs a Linux or Android stack for HMI and networking, while the M4 handles deterministic control loops, motor commutation, or sensor fusion — no separate microcontroller needed on the board. The asymmetric multiprocessing (AMP) architecture lets each core access shared peripherals like the dual 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet MACs and the USB 2.0 host and OTG ports with integrated PHY.
Memory and I/O headroom for industrial system integration
The memory controller supports LPDDR2, LVDDR3, and DDR3, giving the system architect flexibility to match cost vs. bandwidth targets — LPDDR2 for low-power portable terminals, DDR3 for cost-optimized fixed equipment. The peripheral set includes CAN, I²C, I²S, SAI, SPDIF, SSI, UART, MMC/SD/SDIO, PCIe, and AC'97, covering most industrial communication, audio, and storage interfaces without external bridge chips. The integrated graphics acceleration and LCD/keypad controllers support a local display for operator panels.
Industrial temperature grade and security features
The security subsystem includes A-HAB, ARM TrustZone, CAAM, CSU, SNVS, System JTAG, and TVDECODE — enabling secure boot, encrypted storage, and tamper detection for metering or payment terminals.
