#Sweden #AI Accelerator #Malmö #Virtium Embedded Artists #i.MX 8M Mini

Virtium Embedded Artists Launches a Revolutionary SOM

In a groundbreaking development for industrial and edge AI computing, Virtium Embedded Artists has unveiled the industry’s first system-on-module (SOM) to feature an integrated hardware AI accelerator chip. Announced on June 25, 2025, this innovative product, the iMX8M Mini DX-M1, is set to transform the landscape of embedded device manufacturing.

The iMX8M Mini DX-M1 marries the popular i.MX 8M Mini application processor with a powerful DEEPX NPU capable of delivering 25 TOPS of processing throughput. With an efficient footprint of merely 82mm x 50mm, this SOM is designed for maximum performance with limited space—ideal for the modern demands of edge computing.

Key Features and Benefits

The standout feature of the DX-M1 SOM is its built-in DEEPX DX-M1 AI accelerator, a state-of-the-art neural processing unit (NPU). This integration eliminates the need for device manufacturers to add separate AI processor modules, ushering in several benefits:

• - Space Efficiency: By condensing additional hardware into a single unit, manufacturers save on board space.
• - Simplified Design: The need for complex system architectures is diminished, allowing for easier product development.
• - Faster Time-to-Market: Streamlined designs facilitate a swifter transition from the design stage to market availability.

This new SOM capitalizes on the capabilities of the i.MX 8M Mini, which features four ARM Cortex-A53 CPU cores, operates at speeds of 1.6GHz to 1.8GHz, and includes robust memory support. These specifications, paired with a 400MHz Cortex-M4 controller core, emphasize video and imaging applications—making the platform perfect for AI-enhanced vision systems used in areas such as security, transportation, agricultural technology, and medical technology.

Applications Improving Vision Technology

The efficient synergy of the i.MX 8M Mini and the DEEPX DX-M1 NPU empowers a range of applications that are improving efficiency in various sectors. Key industries that stand to benefit include:

• - Drones: Enabling intelligent navigation and object recognition.
• - Security and Surveillance: Offering real-time analytics and monitoring.
• - Automated Inspection: Facilitating quality control processes.
• - Transportation: Enhancing route optimization and safety.
• - MedTech: Streamlining diagnostics and patient monitoring.
• - AgTech: Promoting precision farming through smart sensor integration.

Performance and Power Efficiency

The DX-M1 AI accelerator delivers 25 TOPS of processing power while consuming approximately 5W of energy, making it buoyant for operations in power-constrained environments. Furthermore, aimed at advanced users, the SOM encompasses 4GB of LPDDR5 memory, accessible via a 64-bit, 4-channel data bus. With this robust configuration, concurrent execution of multiple AI models is not just feasible; performance remains unaffected, allowing for enhanced operational versatility.

Virtium’s Managing Director, Anders Rosvall, highlighted the importance of this launch, stating, "With the launch of the iMX8M Mini DX-M1, we respond to the growing demand from OEMs for a compact yet potent hardware platform. Our customers can now expedite their product development cycles while incorporating cutting-edge vision AI features."

Flexibility and Options for OEMs

Virtium Embedded Artists is releasing two variants of the iMX8M Mini DX-M1. One version is equipped with the DEEPX AI accelerator and the i.MX 8M Mini processor, while the other features just the processor. This dual-option enables OEMs to scale their embedded systems more seamlessly, allowing them to integrate vision AI capabilities without reinventing existing designs. Each version also comes configured for different operational temperature ranges, accommodating diverse industrial environments.

Availability and Support

To further support manufacturers, Virtium Embedded Artists provides a full suite of technical assistance and recommends using the DEEPX iM8 Mini AI Kit, which offers reference designs for critical interfaces, thus ensuring easier implementation. They also supply pre-designed standard carrier boards to promote seamless integration into existing customer designs.

Orders for the iMX8M Mini DX-M1 SOM can now be placed on Virtium’s official website and through recognized distributors such as Arrow, Avnet, and Future Electronics, with shipments anticipated to commence by August 2025.

About Virtium Embedded Artists

Virtium Embedded Artists became a part of Virtium in 2024, bringing together decades of experience in designing resilient industrial computing solutions that are optimized for modern embedded systems. Known for high-quality and reliable products, Virtium has positioned itself as a trusted partner in industries including networking, telecommunications, and embedded markets.

In conclusion, the iMX8M Mini DX-M1 is not just a product; it's a leap toward simplifying the incorporation of AI into embedded systems. The future of edge computing appears bright with such innovations on the horizon. For further details about the iMX8M Mini DX-M1, feel free to contact the sales team at Embedded Artists or visit their website.