SMARC launch aims to be smart move

Embedded computing and display solutions provider Review Display Systems (RDS) has introduced a new SMARC module from Kontron, a leading global provider of embedded computing technology. The powerful, but energy-saving, SMARC-fA3399 module is based on the six-core Arm Rockchip RK3399K processor, which features a low power dual-core Cortex-A72 and a quad-core Cortex-A53.

“The Kontron SMARC-fA3399 provides the ideal platform for the efficient development of computing-intensive smart devices in non-critical applications, such as digital signage, point-of-sale (POS) and point-of-information (POI),” comments RDS. “A fully integrated Arm Mali-T860MP4 GPU provides high-performance 2D and 3D graphics capability. A wide range of displays can be easily connected via LVDS, DisplayPort and HDMI.”

The SMARC-fA3399 supports up to 8GB of integrated LPDDR4 SDRAM memory and up to 64GB of on-board eMMC 5.1 flash memory. Other integrated peripherals and interfaces include 2 x Gigabit Ethernet ports as well as 3 x PCIe, 6 x USB 2.0 and 1 x USB 3.0.

Versatility and configuration strengths

“The SMARC module offers great levels of versatility and can be specifically configured, depending on application requirements,” adds RDS. Options for selecting memory and storage capacity, graphics output, PCIe configuration options and LAN controller options will change the interfaces available at the SMARC2.1 connector pinout.

“The robust SMARC-fA3399 modules offers a highly cost-effective, high-performance computing solution and complies with the new SMARC 2.1 module standard with compact external dimensions of 82mm (h) x 80mm (w).” The module supports an extended commercial operating temperature range of -20°C to +60°C, which enables use in a wide range of application environments.