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Low-Power Computer-on-Modules Integrate Dedicated Neural Processing Units
Congatec utilizes Intel Core Series 3 processors to bring high-performance artificial intelligence acceleration to cost-sensitive industrial edge applications.
www.congatec.com
The conga-TC300 is a COM Express Compact module designed to integrate dedicated hardware acceleration for artificial intelligence into the low-power x86 computing segment. By utilizing the Intel Core Series 3 architecture, these modules provide a transition path for industrial systems that require more intensive local processing power than traditional entry-level platforms can provide.
Hardware Acceleration in the Automotive Data Ecosystem
The introduction of the conga-TC300 targets the evolving digital supply chain by providing localized processing for autonomous systems and industrial automation. Built on the Intel 18A process, the module features a hybrid architecture comprising two Performance cores (P-cores) and four Low Power Efficient cores (LP E-cores).
The primary technical advancement is the inclusion of a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU) capable of 18 TOPS (Tera Operations Per Second). When combined with the 18 TOPS provided by the Xe3 graphics cores and the 5 TOPS from the CPU, the platform delivers a total aggregate performance of 41 TOPS. This enables the execution of Large Language Models (LLM), gesture control, and object recognition within a Thermal Design Power (TDP) envelope of 12 to 28 W.
Technical Specifications and Connectivity
Designed for longevity, the module offers ten years of availability to support the extended lifecycles of medical and transportation infrastructure. Technical capabilities for data handling and peripheral expansion include:
- Memory and Storage: Up to 64 GB of DDR5 memory at 6400 MT/s with optional in-band Error Correction Code (IBECC) and optional 512 GB onboard UFS 3.1 storage.
- Networking: 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet support featuring Time-Coordinated Computing (TCC) and Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN) for deterministic industrial communication.
- I/O Interfaces: Eight configurable PCIe lanes facilitate direct connection to fieldbus adapters or wireless modules without requiring external PCIe switches.
- Multimedia: Support for up to two DDI ports, alongside LVDS or eDP, for high-resolution display integration in human-machine interfaces (HMI).
Workload Consolidation and Software Integration
The module is categorized as an aReady.COM, meaning it arrives preconfigured for specific software environments to reduce integration time. Through the use of the conga-zones hypervisor, the aReady.VT functional option allows developers to run disparate workloads — such as real-time motion control and AI-driven surveillance — on a single hardware instance.
Supported operating systems include Windows 11 IoT Enterprise and Linux distributions, including licensed versions of ctrlX OS and Ubuntu Pro. For remote management and Industrial IoT (IIoT) requirements, the conga-connect suite provides standardized protocols for data exchange and cloud connectivity, enabling the management of both the module and its attached carrier board peripherals.
Application in Autonomous and Medical Systems
The performance profile of the conga-TC300 is suited for Autonomous Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) that require real-time path planning and obstacle identification. In medical contexts, the module supports Patient Data Monitoring Systems (PDMS) by providing the computational overhead necessary for AI-assisted diagnostics at the bedside. According to Jürgen Jungbauer, Senior Product Line Manager at congatec, the module serves as a reliable upgrade path for developers seeking cost-efficient AI performance for lightweight applications previously restricted to less capable hardware tiers.
Edited by Evgeny Churilov, Induportals Media - Adapted by AI.
www.congatec.com
The module is categorized as an aReady.COM, meaning it arrives preconfigured for specific software environments to reduce integration time. Through the use of the conga-zones hypervisor, the aReady.VT functional option allows developers to run disparate workloads — such as real-time motion control and AI-driven surveillance — on a single hardware instance.
Supported operating systems include Windows 11 IoT Enterprise and Linux distributions, including licensed versions of ctrlX OS and Ubuntu Pro. For remote management and Industrial IoT (IIoT) requirements, the conga-connect suite provides standardized protocols for data exchange and cloud connectivity, enabling the management of both the module and its attached carrier board peripherals.
Application in Autonomous and Medical Systems
The performance profile of the conga-TC300 is suited for Autonomous Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) that require real-time path planning and obstacle identification. In medical contexts, the module supports Patient Data Monitoring Systems (PDMS) by providing the computational overhead necessary for AI-assisted diagnostics at the bedside. According to Jürgen Jungbauer, Senior Product Line Manager at congatec, the module serves as a reliable upgrade path for developers seeking cost-efficient AI performance for lightweight applications previously restricted to less capable hardware tiers.
Edited by Evgeny Churilov, Induportals Media - Adapted by AI.
www.congatec.com
