Processors feature unique heterogeneous architecture

Additionally, AM57x processors integrate TI’s C66x DSPs for analytics and real-time computation, programmable real-time units and ARM Cortex-M4 cores for control functions and video and graphic accelerators for advanced UIs and multimedia applications, making the AM57x processors unmatched in their class.

The family was designed from the ground up with high performance and integration in mind. As a result, the processors bring developers unparallelled performance of more than 40% greater than quad-core ARM Cortex-A9 processors and 280% greater than standard dual-core ARM Cortex-A9 processors found in the broad embedded market.

Sitara AM57x processors provide the industry’s most advanced integration of compute, real-time control, connectivity and multimedia capabilities, allowing developers to simplify their designs with a single chip instead of needing multiple chips for each function. This integration is suitable for applications involving industrial IoT, factory automation, machine vision, embedded computing, HMI, robotics, medical imaging, avionics and more.

Developers can benefit from a unique combination of two different types of computing cores, both with up to two ARM Cortex-A15 cores and C66x DSPs that each perform a different task. The multicore architecture provides flexibility by distributing tasks to the right cores while driving system integration and best-in-class performance – all within one chip.

In addition to the high-performance cores, AM57x processors also include two ARM Cortex-M4 cores and four PRUs to provide developers with low-latency, real-time control functions necessary for industrial applications such as controlling a motor or monitoring sensors.

The processors are equipped with an industrial communication subsystem for real-time fieldbus protocols and other industrial communication, and extensive system flexibility with integrated high-speed peripherals such as PCIe, SATA, GbE and USB 3.0. These features, along with the high-performance ARM Cortex-A15 cores and DSP, enable AM57x processors to transmit and receive data quicker.

The devices integrate up to two SGX544 3-D and a GC320 2-D graphic accelerators for advanced GUIs, a 1080p60 video accelerator and multi-display support for high-definition video playback and multiple camera inputs for recording events, taking pictures or reading a barcode.

The AM57x processors are powered by a TI PMIC, TPS659037. In addition, the AM57x EVM includes a connector for plugging in one of TI’s WiLink 8 modules, enabling both WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity.

Samples of Sitara AM57x processors are now and the AM57x EVM (TMDXEVM5728) is available on the TI Store and through authorised distributors for $599.