Compact SoM Targets Real-Time Industrial Edge Designs

Industrial and IoT devices increasingly require real-time control, multimedia capability, and built-in security within tight space and power constraints. Addressing this need, PHYTEC released the phyCORE-i.MX RT1170, a compact System on Module (SoM) built around NXP’s crossover MCU architecture.

MCU-class real-time performance with application-level features
The module measures 30 × 30 mm and integrates the i.MX RT1170 crossover MCU, which combines an Arm Cortex-M7 core for high-performance real-time tasks with an Arm Cortex-M4 core for deterministic control functions. This dual-core design allows developers to partition workloads such as communication handling, motor control, or signal processing alongside user interface or multimedia tasks.

The SoM exposes the processor’s functionality through a 200-pin connector, enabling carrier-board designs tailored to specific industrial systems, including HMIs, controllers, and edge-processing devices within a broader digital supply chain.

Interfaces aimed at connected industrial systems
Networking and field connectivity are supported by 2× Ethernet and 3× CAN FD interfaces, enabling integration into industrial control networks and vehicle or machinery subsystems. Additional connectivity includes 2× USB 2.0 for peripherals, 6× I²C for sensor and component integration, and 12× UART channels for serial communication with legacy or specialized devices.

For user interfaces and vision-enabled systems, the module provides MIPI DSI for display integration and MIPI CSI for camera input. Four SAI (Serial Audio Interface) modules are available through an external audio codec, supporting audio processing in HMI or monitoring applications.

Zephyr OS for real-time operation and device security
The phyCORE-i.MX RT1170 supports Zephyr OS, an open-source real-time operating system used in embedded and IoT environments. PHYTEC provides an adapted Zephyr distribution for the module, enabling deterministic task scheduling and integration of security mechanisms required for connected devices.

Supported security features include Secure Boot, encryption, and the use of a Software Bill of Materials (SBoM) to document software components. These mechanisms are relevant for regulatory frameworks such as the Cyber Resilience Act, where traceability and protection against unauthorized firmware modification are required.

Development ecosystem
A dedicated Development Kit accompanies the SoM to support prototyping and software bring-up. The module was developed in collaboration with NXP, reflecting PHYTEC’s role as an NXP Platinum Partner. Beyond standard modules, PHYTEC also provides custom hardware and software development, as well as manufacturing and lifecycle services, supporting customers that scale embedded designs into series production.

www.phytec.com