Conga-Q-series

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Conga-Q-series - computers on the Qseven format module.

2021: Conga-QMX8-Plus with NXP iX 8M Plus processor

On September 14, 2021, the company, Congatec a supplier of embedded and peripheral computing technologies, introduced conga-QMX8-Plus, a Qseven module based on NXP i.MX processor the 8M Plus application. This processor platform is an upgrade for all Qseven applications based on processors the company's myMX 6, NXP which have been used in the field for many years. This upgrade introduces additional capabilities and (machine learning AI), artificial intelligence as well as support for time sensitive networks () to TSN enable Ethernet real-time networking and extends the life of existing systems by 10-15 years, providing ROI.

The Qseven module is based on the i.MX 8M Plus application processor with a quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 processor with a clock speed of 1.8 GHz and an additional integrated neural processing unit (NPU) with an operation speed of up to 2.3 TOPS (tera-operations per second). As an iMX processor with a machine learning accelerator, NXP's iMX 8M Plus delivers higher performance for deep learning and artificial intelligence output on the periphery. According to Congatec, at typical ultra-low power consumption, 3 watts, the conga-QMX8-Plus module, thanks to a 64-bit architecture and built-in LPDDR4 memory up to 6 GB, provides a performance gain of more than 150%. The high efficiency and performance of ARM, machine learning capabilities and TSN-enabled Ethernet enable even more powerful and intelligent embedded systems on the periphery, and systems connected to the industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). Vertical markets for these low self-power modules range from industrial control systems, intelligent robotics and production automation to medical and retail equipment, as well as transport and intelligent agriculture to smart cities and smart buildings.

"Since we presented the first Qseven module on the basis of the NXP i.MX 6 processor, the Arm technology proved as widely accepted architecture for standard the computer-on-the module technology. The niMX 8M Plus processor from NXP allows us to offer improvements for Qseven-based peripherals not only in terms of computing performance, but also in terms of networking, vision, and artificial intelligence capabilities. This makes the module optimal for Qseven projects that want to meet the requirements in the embedded market, using features for deep training, predictive preventive maintenance analytics, and object recognition. But, except everything told, it proposes also the solution for updating of the existing i.MX 6 designs", - explains Martin Danzer, Director of Product Management at Congatec.

"Congatec's ARM Cortex-based Qseven module highlights the value of the Qseven specification in terms of module vendors," says Ansgar Hein, Chairman of the Embedded Technology Standardization Group (SGET).

Qseven Module Enhancements with the Microsoft MX 8M Plus Processor

Existing and future applications can now benefit from a 14 nm process processor and use low power, typically 3W, 64-bit support instead of 32-bit and up to 6 GB of LPDDR4 memory, instead of 4 GB, including built-in ECC support. Also features are: enciphering AES for enhancement, image cyber security signal processor (ISP) for parallel processing of images with high resolution in real time, including decoding/coding, H.265 optimal DSP and NPU, which adds 2.3 TOPS to the allocated processing power for AI logical outputs of machine and deep learning. The integrated Cortex-M7, together with its TSN-enabled Ethernet port, provides real-time management and can also be used as a fault-tolerant device. In addition to the encryption module (CAAM) for hardware-accelerated ECC and RSA encryption, ARM TrustZone is supported, which is a secure area that functions separately from everything else, and which is a software integrates domain Resource Domain Controller (RDC) for isolated execution of critical software and secure boot mode (High Assurance).

Qseven Module Feature Set Details

Congatec conga-QMX8-Plus Qseven modules are equipped with quad-core NXP iX MX 8M Plus processors at 1.8 GHz ARM Cortex A53 for the typical industrial operating temperature range (from 0 ° C to + 60 ° C) or 1.6 GHz options for the extended industrial range C (- from 40 °. The modules can support up to three independent displays connected via HDMI 2.0, LVDS 2x24bit and MIPI DSI, and provide hardware acceleration of video decoding and encoding, including H.265, so that high-resolution camera streams are delivered by two integrated MIPI-CSI interfaces and can be sent directly to the network. To store data, engineers will find up to 128 GB of embedded non-volatile eMMC memory on the board, which can also work in safe pSLC mode, as well as one built-in socket for micro-SD. Peripheral interfaces include 1x PCIe Gen 3 , 1xUSB 3.0, 3x USB 2.0, 4x UART, as well as 1x CAN FD and 14x GPIO. For real-time networking, the module offers 1x Gb with TSN support. Complement the set features two I2S interfaces for audio. Supported operating systems include Linux, Yocto, and Android.

2017: 64-bit MX8 processor support

On November 22, 2017, congatec announced support in the Qseven and SMARC standards modules for 64-bit niMX8 processors from NXP Semiconductors.

Congatec QMX8 module, (2017)

Congatec modules will be available simultaneously with the launch of the ARM Cortex A53/A72 processor family. It allows OEM clients of congatec to realize most effectively the own strategy of entry into the market as they can begin development of a payment carrier for the applications and then use the congatec modules, ready to application, on the basis of i.MX8 processors from the first day of their release.

NXP's Qseven and SMARC modules have been focused on industrial, stationary and automotive applications. The modules are designed for operation in the environmental temperature range from -40 ° C to + 85 ° C, they can be used in commercial vehicle fleet systems or in infotainment applications in taxis, buses and trains, in electric and unmanned vehicles.

The presentation of the congatec modules and starting sets with i.MX8 processors will take place in 2018.

2016: Conga-QA5

On November 23, 2016, Congatec introduced the Conga-QA5, a computer on the Qseven format module.

The module can be equipped with built-in Intel Atom, Celeron and Pentium processors, which, using Intel Gen 9 graphics, have high performance per watt of power consumption, which allows you to implement high-performance, low-power hardware solutions.

Conga-QA5, (2016)

Applications of computers-on-module - numerous high-tech embedded systems and IoT systems (IoT), which should be characterized by high performance and cost passive cooling with its own consumption in the range from 5 W to 12 W. It may be:

• IoT gateways and industrial control systems,
• graphical interface systems with the user,
• medical devices,
• digital signage systems,
• vending machine systems
• charging station systems for electric vehicles,
• secure, highly reliable mobile devices,
• wearable terminals
• automotive systems.

The new design from congatec is designed for the widest range of embedded and IoT systems that require low power consumption. The proposed two new modules are the company's initial development and will mark the beginning of the company's large-scale plans to use the latest generation Intel Atom, Celeron and Pentium derivatives processors in their products using the latest 14 nm process technology from Intel. Our standard product lines, such as SMARC 2.0, Pico-ITX and Mini-ITX boards, along with modified and fully custom motherboards, some of which are already in production, will be introduced within a year. This entire line of complementary products, along with our embedded development and manufacturing services, allows our customers to significantly simplify the development of applications with small dimensions, with high integration, extensive sets of functions and computing power.

The device will support real-time operation. Applications will have the advantage of using the hardware implementation of the IEEE 1588 standard, which implements the PTP protocol (Precision Time Protocol), which will allow synchronizing devices in the network up to a nanosecond. For applications, an integrated digital signal processor (DSP) for processing audio signals will be available, which can be useful when using speech recognition algorithms. Another useful feature is the transition from the unmodified, hardware-implemented functionality of connecting additional devices through PCIe, to a flexible software-configurable configuration, which allows the use of the built-in gigabit Ethernet module in addition to the network connection.

Real-time modules can come with the Intel Atom processor E3930, E3940, and E3950 operating in an ambient temperature range of -40 ° C to + 85 ° C, or a more powerful dual-core Intel Celeron N3350 processor and quad-core Intel Pentium N4200 processor. Industrial versions of the modules with the Atom processor have a heat removal cover contacting directly with the processor. As a consequence, additional copper radiators are not required for efficient heat removal.

All modules are equipped with the high-performance Intel Gen 9 graphics subsystem. It supports encoding/decoding in HEVC4, H.264, VP8, SVC and MVC formats with up to 4K resolution.

Specific features

The DDR3 low-voltage RAM memory with up to 8 GB of RAM directly on the board allows conga-QA5 modules to support 4K resolution on three displays (maximum), which can be connected via dual-channel LVDS, eDP, DP1.2 and/or HDMI 1.4. 1x Gigabit Ethernet, 4 PCIe channels and 6 USB ports are available for communication in the IoT environment and connect additional devices, one of which supports the USB 3.0 specification. External devices can also be connected via one SPI and one serial port. There are also two CSI MIPI ports for connecting cameras. To extend available memory up to 64 GB, you can use high-speed eMMC 5.5, 2-x 6 Gb/s SATA and 1x SDIO interfaces. Audio output - using HDA.

The modules are supported by Windows 10, including a special version of Windows 10 IoT, all current operating systems of the Linux family. BSP includes the ability to support Wind River IDP 3.1. Optional integration support is available, an extensive list of accessories, custom development and production of motherboards for specific consumer needs.