Freescale launches 'smallest ever' dime-sized IoT processor

Freescale Semiconductor has unveiled an Internet of Things (IoT)-based single-chip module which is touted as the smallest developed to date.

Unveiled on Tuesday, the Austin, Texas-based firm said the i.MX 6Dual single chip module (SCM) has been designed to cater for the Internet of Things (IoT) industry and devices. As the fledgling industry evolves, connected devices require ever more processing power packed into even smaller spaces -- creating a fresh revenue stream for companies investing in the trend.

The new range of SCM products can integrate "hundreds" of components including processors, memory, power management and RF parts, acting as a "computer on a chip" which would otherwise require a six-inch board.

Revealed at the Freescale Technology Forum (FTF) in Texas on Tuesday, the i.MX 6Dual SCM measures in at 17mm X 14mm X 1.7mm, the size of a US dime.

In addition, the first in the Freescale SCM line is enabled for DDR memory and combines the i.MX 6Dual application processor together with a power management integrated circuit (PMIC), flash memory, embedded software and firmware -- as well as and system-level security technology including random number generation, cryptographic cipher engines and tamper prevention.

Freescale says the SCM modules are "ideal" for applications requiring high-level performance and power, including but not limited to 3D gaming, virtualization, wearables, medical devices, next-generation IoT drones and other applications requiring heavy-duty graphics.

"Early-stage companies entering the IoT and portable markets often work with limited resources and must create novel, compelling products in highly constrained form factors," said Nancy Fares, vice president of System Solutions at Freescale.

"For these and other businesses targeting highly competitive and fast-growing markets, Freescale's SCM product line represents a major breakthrough that addresses a host of hardware and software design challenges, allowing them to begin development immediately and focus their efforts on designing highly differentiated applications and products."

Freescale's SCM portfolio will be available in August 2015.

(Zdnet)