Page 32 – Electronics-Lab.com

CrowView Note Review – A 14-Inch Portable Monitor with Keyboard & Mouse

Posted on 12 August, 202412 August, 2024 by Debashis Das

Introduction

The CrowView Note – 14” is a portable laptop-style monitor with an integrated 14-inch Full HD (1920×1080) IPS display (100% sRGB color gamut) along with a keyboard, touchpad, and speakers. The device easily connects with gadgets like smartphones, computers, Mini PCs, and single-board computers (SBC) like the Raspberry Pi and Nvidia Jetson Nano, etc. It has a built-in 5000mAh battery and can normally work for 1-2 hours without any external power supply. Moreover, the built-in battery can also power smartphones, Raspberry Pi, and other devices. Forget carrying out a heavy laptop or your expensive MacBook on your trip, because, with this compact portable device, you only need to connect your smartphone and do your major work. The best part is it will only cost you hundreds, not thousands that you may spend on an expensive laptop.

Packaging

The CrowView Note package comes complete with everything you need to get started. In the box, you’ll find the CrowView Note, a handy user manual to guide you through setup and features, and a convenient adapter to ensure compatibility with your devices.

Design and Build

Talking about the design and build quality of the device, it has a sleek and modern design, resembling a compact laptop, this all-in-one design includes an integrated screen, keyboard, touchpad, and speakers. Which makes it a good choice for those users who require a multifunctional portable display. The plastic case quality seems robust and has a nice gray paint finish, which it’s uncertain if it will last for the lifetime of the product. Overall quality feels like a mid-range laptop, and for sure you have to pay attention while carrying it from one place to another.

Display Quality

The CrowView Note -14” has a 14-inch Full HD (1920×1080) IPS display with a 100% sRGB color gamut, which translates to vibrant colors and sharp visuals. The screen brightness is 300 cd/m2, which makes it easy to see in different lighting conditions. The standard aspect ratio is 16:9 like most modern displays, providing enough screen for multitasking and media consumption. One effective feature is connecting this device to a smartphone and using it like a desktop, basically turning it into a computer. This is basically for those people who use their phones for work and need a bigger screen to do more things. The quality of the display is sharp and crisp and you would enjoy working on it.

CrowView’s IPS display is clear even from a side view

The device supports multiple operating systems, including the latest version of Windows, Mac, Chrome, Linux, Android, Switch, PS4/PS5, and Raspberry Pi. On top of that, the notebook can connect via USB Type C (with DisplayPort Alt Mode) or Mini HDMI, which means you can connect your laptop, Mini PC, and other compatible devices. The list of compatible devices makes this device usable for those who need a portable screen with a keyboard and touchpad for work, Gaming, or Entertainment.

Connectivity

Raspberry Pi 4B connected to Bridge Board

Not only multiple operating systems, the device also supports various SBCs making it a great choice for those using devices like Raspberry Pi, Rock Pi, Beagle Bone, Latte Panda V1, Nvidia Jetson Nano, Orange Pi 4B, and Banana Pi MS. The monitor’s support for HDMI and USB Type C connections ensures that it can easily interface with SBCs that feature these ports. This device works smoothly with other gadgets like gaming consoles and laptops, you can use it for different purposes. It’s also great for people who use those tiny but powerful computer boards called SBCs. Programmers, hobbyists, and teachers can use this device for coding, building projects, or watching videos. The display is very handy because it connects easily to most devices with HDMI or USB-C and gives you a practical solution for increasing your workspace.

Raspberry Pi 4B + Bridge Board connected to the CrowView Note 14″

The CrowView Note connects with multiple devices, making it a very flexible tool for everyone in daily life. It has ports for USB-A (to connect devices and your main computer), Mini HDMI (for video), and Type-C (for both power and data). You can even plug in your headphones for audio and use a separate power supply if needed. This device works smoothly with all sorts of gadgets like laptops, smartphones, and Mini PCs from well-known brands like Apple, Samsung, Huawei, Dell, HP, and Lenovo. Whether you’re super tech-savvy or just starting, the CrowView Note is super handy.

CrowView Note -14 Inch has multiple interfaces including a USB type C port, a Mini HDMI port, and a USB-A port with a 3.5 headphone port. The USB type C port is used for both power and data transmission with just one cable. This makes it convenient for connecting to laptops and other devices that support USB type C. The Mini HDMI port is very useful for connecting to Gaming consoles, Raspberry Pi, and other devices with HDMI outputs. Additionally, the USB type A port can be used for connecting peripherals or for data transfer. This range of ports allows this device to connect easily to multiple devices like Laptops, Smartphones, and Gaming Consoles. Whether you’re using it for work, Gaming, or presentations, these multiple interfaces provide flexibility and convenience.

The overall setup is minimal thanks to the internal battery

Other than that the device offers a variety of ports and connectivity options, making it flexible for different use cases. Here are the main ports and their functions:

USB-C Port: This port supports both power and data transmission, allowing for a single-cable connection to compatible devices. It can be used to connect the monitor to laptops, smartphones, and other USB-C equipped devices. This simplifies setup and reduces cable clutter, as it can handle video, audio, and power simultaneously.
Mini HDMI Port: The Mini HDMI port is available while connecting the monitor to devices like gaming consoles, cameras, and other systems with HDMI outputs. This port supports High-definition video and audio, making it ideal for gaming, media playback, & other applications that require high-quality visuals.
USB-A Port: This port can be used for connecting peripherals such as a keyboard, mouse, or USB storage device. It provides additional flexibility for those who need to connect accessories while using this portable device.

Performance

When it comes to performance, this device offers a reliable and smooth experience. The built-in 5000mAh battery provides 1-2 hours of operation without external power, which is convenient for short-term use on the go. Please note that no battery indicator is available. The battery can also charge devices like smartphones and power Raspberry Pi, making it super portable. The built-in speakers are good enough for casual listening and video calls, they offer satisfying sound quality for daily use. However, for a more immersive audio experience, users might prefer external speakers or headphones. Its keyboard shortcuts and On-Screen Display (OSD) settings enhance usability. Allowing users to easily adjust settings such as brightness, volume, and color temperature. The inclusion of multiple languages in the OSD menu caters to a global user base.

Getting Started

Setting up the CrowView Note -14” is straightforward, with clear instructions provided in the user manual. Connecting different devices is a hassle-free process, thanks to the variety of available ports and compatible cables (USB-A to USB-A, Type-C to Type-C, and HD to Mini HD). For specific devices like the Raspberry Pi 5 and Nvidia Jetson Nano Developer Kit, the CrowView Note requires additional Bridge Boards, which are sold separately. While this adds another step to the setup, it helps make sure everything works properly, it ensures optimal compatibility and performance for these specialized devices. This device works with different Operating Systems and platforms, which is why it is very good for people who use multiple OS for their work. Whether used as a secondary monitor for a laptop, a display terminal for a Mini PC, or an extension for a smartphone (supports Samsung DeX), this display adapts to different scenarios with ease.

Samsung DeX Mode Support

CrowView Note -14” supports Samsung DeX mode to enable a full-featured Android desktop computer on the go. To use this feature you will need a USB-C cable that supports video/data transmission along with power.

Samsung DeX mode enables a full featured desktop mode of your mobile device

CrowView Note -14″ Specifications:

Display:
- Size: 14 inches
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 (FHD)
- Color Gamut: 100% sRGB
- Brightness: 300cd/m²
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
Battery:
- Capacity: 5000mAh, 7.4V
- Type: Built-in
- Operating Time: 1-2 hours without external power supply
- Power Output: Can power connected devices (e.g., smartphones, Raspberry Pi)
Ports and Connectivity:
- 1 x USB-A (connect master device)
- 1 x USB-A (connect peripherals)
- 1 x Mini HD (signal transmission)
- 1 x Type-C (power supply, PD 5V/5A output)
- 1 x Type-C (full-featured, 5V/3A output)
- 1 x DC 3.5mm Interface (power supply, 12V/4A input)
- 1 x Headphone Jack
Audio:
- Speakers: 2 x 8Ω/2W
Input:
- Keyboard: Integrated
- Touchpad: Integrated
OSD (On-Screen Display) Settings:
- Brightness: Adjustable range: 0-100
- Contrast: Adjustable range: 0-100
- ECO Mode: STANDARD/RTS/FPS/MOVIE/GAME/TEXT
- DCR: OFF/ON
- Sharpness: Adjustable range: 0-4
- Hue: Adjustable range: 0-100
- Saturation: Adjustable range: 0-100
- Color Temp: sRGB/USER/WARM/COOL (RGB adjustable in USER mode)
- Low Blue Light: Adjustable range: 0-4
- Volume: Adjustable range: 0-100
- Mute: OFF/ON
- Signal Source: Selectable
- Aspect Ratio: WIDE/4:3
- FreeSync: OFF/ON
- OD (OverDrive): OFF/ON
- Clone Mode: OFF/ON
Compatibility:
- Compatible with devices having HD and Type-C (full-featured) interfaces
- Example devices:
  - Smartphones: Huawei Mate series, Apple iPhone 15 series, Samsung Galaxy S and Note series
  - Laptops: Apple MacBook series, Huawei MateBook series, Samsung Notebook series, Microsoft Surface Book 2, ASUS VivoBook and ROG series, Dell XPS and Alienware series, HP Pavilion and EliteBook series, Lenovo Legion and ThinkBook series
Dimensions and weight:
- Size: 334 x 223 x 20 mm
- Weight: 1200g
Additional Features:
- Status Indicator: White during operation
- Caps Lock Indicator: White when activated
- Num Lock Indicator: White when activated
- Microphone: Integrated
- Power Button: Short press to power on, long press to power off
- Power Indicator: Red during charging

Conclusion

The CrowView Note 14-inch is a fair-quality portable monitor that’s great for work, gaming, or watching videos. It connects easily to various sources using USB Type-C and Mini HDMI ports. It is lightweight and easy to set up and use for a bunch of different things and it is perfect for taking it with you wherever you go. You should keep in mind that this monitor doesn’t have a built-in computer, storage, or camera. Its design is very simple and convenient so you can add an extra screen to your devices or convert your smartphone to a laptop PC thanks to the remote desktop function of most modern devices.

Samsung DeX running Chrome on Galaxy S24+

The CrowView Note works with different devices and operating systems, so it’s a good choice for anyone looking for a portable second screen. This device is easy to use, and you can connect it to almost any device, reliably.

While the need for additional Bridge Boards for specific devices may be a minor inconvenience, the overall benefits and functionality of this device far outweigh this drawback. For those who are searching for a portable monitor that offers flexibility, durability, and excellent display quality, the CrowView Note 14″ is a highly recommended choice. Pricing information is not available at the time of writing this review.

For more information please visit the official site or the Kickstarter campaign.

Waveshare UPS HAT (E) Holds Four 21700 Lithium batteries and it’s Compatible with Pi 5/4/3B+

Posted on 10 August, 202410 August, 2024 by Debashis Das

Waveshare has recently announced UPS HAT (E), which can be used to provide backup power for Raspberry Pi 5/4B/3B+ in case of a power outage. The HAT supports four 21700 Lithium batteries and includes a battery fuel gauge IC for monitoring battery power.

The board also has a USB-C port that can charge the battery with up to 40 watts of power and the onboard buck converter that allows up to 6A of MAX current for pouring the PI and the peripherals attached to the PI. All these features make this HAT useful for applications where high power is required Examples could be the Raspberry Pi AI AI Kit, the Waveshare PCIe-Based 5G HAT+, and the Radxa Penta SATA HAT.

The features and specifications are all well and good, but one key thing is that the HAT uses pogo pins to power the Pi and the associated peripherals, but the concern is the will the pogo pins be sufficient enough to deliver power to the Pi and its associated peripherals.

Additionally, the company shares a list of dos and don’t on their Wiki Page which are described below:

Never reverse the polarity when charging or discharging the battery.
Only use high-quality chargers and charging panels designed for these batteries.
Avoid mixing old and new batteries, or batteries from different brands.
When purchasing replacement batteries, ensure they are compatible with your device’s specifications and are from a reputable manufacturer. If possible, perform an aging test to verify stability and safety.
Lithium batteries have a limited lifespan and degrade over time. Replace them after they reach their maximum cycle life or after two years, whichever comes first.
Store batteries carefully in a safe location, away from flammable or explosive materials, and out of reach of children.

Waveshare UPS HAT (E) Specifications

Compatibility: Raspberry Pi 5/4B/3B+
Power Input/Output: Type-C port, bi-directional, up to 40W
Battery Support: 4× 21700 Li-ion batteries (not included)
Output Voltage: 5V 6A via high-power buck chip
Communication: I2C for monitoring power and battery status
Battery Fuel Gauge IC: Measures voltage, current, and battery capacity
High-Power Buck Chip: Ensures consistent 5V 6A output
MCU Management: Detects power connection and manages Raspberry Pi booting
Battery Management: Onboard MCU with battery fuel gauge IC
Features: Fast charging, battery level display, optional active cooling support
Power Supply
- 5V/5A USB Type-C
- 2x pogo pin to power the Raspberry Pi
Dimensions: 56mm × 88mm, 3.0mm mounting holes

The Waveshare UPS HAT (E) for Raspberry Pi uses Python commands to enable I2C, battery level detection, and display a battery level logo. It also allows for adjustments to boot current and boot time based on power input.

The Waveshare UPS HAT (E) is available on various platforms like Amazon, Aliexpress, and the official Waveshare store, and prices range from $32.99 to $44.99 considering different platforms.

Waveshare ESP32-S3-Touch-LCD-4.3B: Featuring Xtensa LX7 Dual-Core Processor and ESP32-S3 SoC

Posted on 10 August, 2024 by Debashis Das

The Waveshare ESP32-S3-Touch-LCD-4.3B is a flexible development board built on the ESP32-S3 SoC with RS485, CAN Bus, I2C, and isolated DIO interfaces via terminal block. It has a 4.3-inch capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 800×480. The board includes a 32-bit dual-core Xtensa LX7 processor (up to 240 MHz), 16 MB of flash storage, and 8 MB of PSRAM. It supports 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5, and I2C touch control and has an RTC and microSD card slot. ESP32-S3-Touch-LCD-4.3B is ideal for IoT HMI, smart home automation, and other ESP32-S3 projects.

Previously, we wrote about the Waveshare RP2040-LCD-1.28, which has a 1.28-inch round LCD display, a Li-ion battery charger, and a 6-axis sensor (3-axis accelerometer and 3-axis gyroscope). Feel free to check it out if you’re interested.

Waveshare ESP32-S3 touch LCD specifications:

MCU: Espressif Systems ESP32-S3R8
- CPU: Dual-core Tensilica LX7 @ up to 240 MHz with vector instructions for AI acceleration, 384KB ROM.
- Memory: 512KB RAM and 8MB PSRAM
- Storage: 16MB Flash
- Connectivity: 2.4 GHz WiFi 4 and Bluetooth 5.0 LE with support for long-range, up to 2Mbps data rate, mesh network.
Storage: MicroSD card slot
Display:
- 4.3-inch capacitive touchscreen
- 800×480 resolution
- I2C touch control
Input/Output
- CAN Bus (TJA1051T/3)
- RS485 (SP3485EN)
- I2C
- Isolated Digital Input: 2x DI (5-36V, passive/active, bi-directional optocoupler)
- Isolated Digital Output: 2x DO (5-36V, 450mA/channel)
Additional Features
- Onboard RTC (Real-Time Clock) chip
- LED indicators for power and battery status
Power Supply
- 7-36V DC via terminal block
- USB Type-C
- Rechargeable battery support (3.7V lithium)
Operating Temperature: 0°C ~ 65°C
Dimensions: 112.4mm x 75.1mm

The Waveshare ESP32-S3 Touch LCD 4.3B wiki page gives detailed info on the board’s features, specs, setup instructions, and usage examples. It’s a helpful resource for developers using this versatile board.

The Waveshare ESP32-S3 touch LCD is available on AliExpress for $44.23. The dev board is also available on Amazon for $42.99, and on the Waveshare store for $36.99, but the price for the latter does not include shipping.

USB Insight Hub: 3-Port USB 3.0 Hub with Microchip PA1943, ESP32-S2, and Renesas uPD720210

Posted on 10 August, 2024 by Debashis Das

The USB Insight Hub from David Santana of Aereo Solutions SAS is a three-port USB 3.0 hub with power monitoring using a Microchip PA1943 IC and a device monitoring display using the ESP32-S2 microcontroller. Each of the three downstream ports features a 1.3-inch 240×240 TFT display to show real-time data about power consumption and USB device information, such as drive letters, mount points, and COM (USB CDC) port identifiers. The hub supports individual power management of USB data cables and power a available on each port.

A companion application running on the host PC extracts USB information from the operating system and sends it to the USB Insight Hub. This architecture allows the displays to provide detailed and useful metadata about connected devices. The hub’s design includes a Renesas uPD720210 hub controller, PAC1943 power meter, and an STMicroelectronics STM8 acting as an IO expander, all within a compact and open-source enclosure.

Previously, we wrote about the Programmable USB Hub, a CircuitPython-based development board with 4-port high-speed USB, USB Hub I2C, UART, and GPIO. Feel free to check it out if you are interested in this product.

USB Insight Hub Specification:

MCU:
- ESP32-S2 SoC for managing displays and metadata.
- Renesas UPD720210 hub controller.
- STMicroelectronics STM8S003K3 as an IO expander.
- PAC1943 power meter and channel control blocks.
Display:
- Powered by an ESP32-S2 microcontroller.
- Three 1.3-inch 240 x 240 pixel IPS TFT displays with a wide 170° viewing angle.
- Displays clear and detailed information about connected USB devices.
- Displays show device metadata like drive letters, mount points, and COM (USB CDC) port identifiers.
USB:
- Renesas uPD720210 hub controller for USB 3.0 functionality.
- Three USB 3.0 downstream ports support high-speed data transfer.
- One USB 3.0 Type-C upstream port for data and power.
- Supports USB 2.0 (Low, Full, Hi-Speed) and USB 3.0 (5 Gbps) lines.
Host Computer Compatibility:
- USB property extraction for Windows, Linux, and macOS.
- Operating system drivers are available for the USB Hub and ESP32-S2 microcontroller.
Power Measurement and Protection:
- Monitors voltage, current, and power consumption for each USB port.
- Provides interrupt signals for over/under voltage and over/under current conditions.
- Microchip PA1943 IC for power monitoring on the +5V rail.
- User-programmable limits for over/under voltage and over/under current.
- Individual D+/D- switches for each downstream port to force enumeration.
- Individual AP22653 switches for power delivery to each downstream port with configurable current limits(0.5 A, 1.0 A, 1.5 A, 2.0 A) and protections.
- PAC1943 power and energy monitor with 1 mA current and 1 mV voltage resolutions.
- TPS259470 eFuses for power muxing with low series resistance and inrush current control.
- Proper ESD protection for all inputs and outputs (data and power).
Additional Features:
- STEMMA QT connector for expanding functionality.
- Programming headers for the main and auxiliary microcontrollers.
- Latching switch for turning the hub on/off.
- Additional setup/configuration button.
- Mechanical push buttons for power control (short press) and USB 2.0 data switching (long press).
Power supply: Dedicated USB Type-C connector for auxiliary power (up to 5 A@5 V).

The USB Insight Hub’s open-source nature allows for future enhancements, with hardware schematics and firmware to be released before the crowdfunding campaign. Despite the inclusion of an ESP32-S2 SoC, it does not use Wi-Fi; dimensions are not provided on the product page.

The open-source design of the USB Insight Hub makes it possible to add future improvements, with the introduction of hardware schematics and firmware to be released before the crowdfunding campaign. The product comes along with an ESP32-S2 SoC, yet, no Wi-Fi communication happens; also, no product dimensions are displayed on the web page. To learn more, visit the USB Insight Hub product page on Crowd Supply. There, you can sign up for notifications when the pre-sales campaign begins.

Acelink SM81 SOM features Filogic 820 WiFi 6 SoC and costs only $39

Posted on 10 August, 2024 by Debashis Das

The Acelink SM81 SOM is a compact, high-power WiFi 6/6E system-on-module (SOM) designed for IoT applications. It features a MediaTek Filogic 820 (MT7981A/B) SoC with support for dual-band concurrent operation and offers a variety of interfaces including USB, SPI, I2C, and Ethernet. With its flexible memory options and support for various operating systems, the SM81 can be used in diverse applications such as WiFi AP/Router, IoT, SDWAN, and VPN solutions.

Acelink SM81 SOM Specifications

Chipset: Mediatek MT7981BA (Dual-Core ARM Cortex-A53, 1.3GHz)
Memory:
- NOR Flash: 2MB (Bootloader)
- eMMC Storage: 16GB
- DDR4 RAM: Up to 1GB
Interfaces:
- 1x PCIe 2.0 (MT7981A only)
- 1x Gigabit Ethernet (GBE) PHY
- 1x HSGMII/SGMII+
- 1x USB 2.0 Host
- 2x UART (1x 2-pin, 1x 4-pin)
- Hardware Watchdog, System Reset, WPS
- Shared GPIOs
Wireless Standard: IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax (WiFi 6)
Frequency Bands: 2.4GHz & 5GHz (Simultaneous Dual-Band)
MIMO Configuration:
- 2.4GHz: 2×2
- 5GHz: 3×3
Channel Width:
- 2.4GHz: 20MHz, 40MHz
- 5GHz: 20MHz, 40MHz, 80MHz, 160MHz
Max Data Rates (Theoretical):
- 2.4GHz: 573.5 Mbps (WiFi 6)
- 5GHz: 3603 Mbps (WiFi 6)
Security: Hardware-accelerated AES-CCMP, GCMP
Power Consumption:
- Typical: 8W
- Max: 11W
Operating Temperature: -10°C to 70°C
Antenna Connectors: 3x IPEX
Software Support:
- OpenWRT 23.05 (Linux Kernel 5.15)
- Debian 11.8 Bullseye (Linux Kernel 5.15)
Dimensions: 50mm x 36mm x 3.0mm
Weight: 20g (Preliminary)

Acelink offers two evaluation kits for the SM81 SoM. The SM81 EVK-AP is designed for development and includes two Gigabit Ethernet ports and USB connectivity for power and debugging. For cellular IoT gateway applications, the SM81 EVK-LTE provides an M.2 slot for 4G LTE modules, dual SIM card slots, and extensive connectivity options including six Gigabit Ethernet ports, an SFP cage, and various serial and USB interfaces. This comprehensive set of tools allows developers to explore the full potential of the SM81 module in both wired and wireless networking scenarios.

Acelink’s SM81 Filogic 820 SoM can be purchased for $39, while its EVK-AP evaluation kit costs only $99. But at the time of writing the information for the EVK-LTE kit’s price is unlisted. For more details (with potential inaccuracies), see Acelink’s website.

by cnx-software

Lattice MachXO5D-NX FPGA Family: Enabling Hardware Security in Programmable FPGAs

Posted on 10 August, 202410 August, 2024 by Aditi Ambadkar

Lattice Semiconductor has introduced the MachXO5D-NX FPGA family, which integrates a hardware root of trust (RoT) into low-power FPGAs to address security challenges. By combining on-chip Flash memory and hardware encryption, these FPGAs minimize code capture risks during load time. The MachXO5D-NX family includes three variants with logic cell counts of 27k (FMXO5-25), 53k (LFMXO5-55T), and 96k (LFMXO5-100T).

These FPGAs feature built-in hardware encryption, a cryptographic engine supporting AES-256, ECDSA-384/521, SHA2-256/384/512, and RSA 3072/4096, and a unique secret identity (USID) for device identity protection. Built on a 28-nm fully-depleted silicon-on-insulator (FD-SOI) process, these FPGAs reduce power consumption by 75% and lower soft error rates by 100x. They support interfaces such as MIPI D-PHY (CSI-2, DSI), LVDS, Gigabit Ethernet, and PCIe, making them suitable for secure edge applications.

Specifications of Lattice MachXO5D-NX FPGA Family

FPGA: Lattice Semi MachXO5D-NX FPGA family
- 27k (FMXO5-25)
- 53k (LFMXO5-55T)
- 96k (LFMXO5-100T)
Programmable Logic: 27k to 96k logic cells, 20 to 156 multipliers
Memory:
- 1.9 Mbit to 7.3 Mbit embedded memory
- DDR3/DDR3L/LPDDR4 support
Interfaces:
- MIPI D-PHY, LVDS, SLVS, SGMII
- PCIe Gen1/2, Ethernet
I/O:
- 200-300 programmable I/O
- High-performance (1.8V) and wide-range (3.3V)
Analog Features:
- Dual ADC (1 MSPS, 12-bit SAR)
- Three continuous-time comparators
Security Features:
- Bitstream encryption (AES-256)
- Authentication (ECDSA)
- Secure boot
Additional Features:
- Clock Data Recovery (CDR)
- sysDSP blocks with Dynamic Shift for AI/ML
- sysMEM EBR
- Soft error mitigation
- Dual ADC, dual DAC
Power Management: Low-power and high-performance modes
Dimensions: 17 x 17mm

For more detailed information, you can check out the MachXO5-NX Family datasheet on Lattice Semiconductor’s website.

The MachXO5-NX FPGAs enable edge AI and math-intensive applications with multipliers and DSP cells. The FPGA also comes with MIPI, LVDS, Ethernet, PCIe, and DDR interfaces. Embedded Flash memory supports multi-boot and user storage. Additionally, the chips are compatible with the Lattice Radiant design suite and utilize pre-engineered IP modules.

This FPGA also features a hardware-based cryptographic engine with advanced encryption standards (AES), a true random number generator, and a unique secret identity for enhanced security. The devices are crypto-agile, which means they can switch between multiple cryptographic algorithms or methodologies. Additionally, they support Commercial National Security Algorithms (CNSA) specified for bitstream and cryptographic algorithms like AES-256 and SHA2-512. By integrating security features into hardware, no FPGA fabric needs to be dedicated to security, ensuring efficient utilization of resources.

The MachXO5-NX includes an FD-SOI’s layered architecture that reduces leakage current, resulting in 75% lower power consumption and a 100x reduction in soft errors. This makes it suitable for use in electrically noisy and radiation-prone environments.

Another problem this chip solves is the code capture risk, often associated with glitching—a process where a chip is powered with an electrical pulse or voltage fluctuation, causing temporary malfunction and potential security bypass. The MachXO5D-NX FPGAs help prevent unauthorized access and code capture by providing robust hardware-based protection.

Lattice Semiconductor also offers the MachXO5-NX development board, built around the MachXO5-NX-25 FPGA. This board provides a range of features for secure control and system management. It offers flexible I/O options, including SGMII and ADC, and is compatible with various expansion headers like Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and FX12. It supports multiple configuration modes (JTAG, I2C/I3C, SPI) and includes components like HyperRAM, LEDs, switches, and buttons for demonstration and prototyping purposes. The board is designed to simplify the development process and enhance security in programmable FPGA applications.

Radxa X4 with Intel Alder Lake-N Processor and 2.5GbE LAN Now Available for Preorder

Posted on 10 August, 2024 by Aditi Ambadkar

Radxa has launched a new single-board computer this month, featuring the Intel N100 low-power processor. It is now available for preorder from multiple distributors in 4GB and 8GB RAM configurations. Key features of this SBC include Wi-Fi 6, an M.2 slot for NVMe SSDs, and an RP2040 for GPIO support.

As previously stated, the Radxa X4 has an Intel Processor N100 with four cores and four threads, with a maximum turbo frequency of 3.40 GHz and a 6 MB Intel Smart Cache. It also includes the Intel Gaussian & Neural Accelerator 3.0, Intel Image Processing Unit 6.0, and support for Intel Virtualization Technology.

The GPU is Intel UHD Graphics, offering a maximum dynamic frequency of 750 MHz. It supports DirectX 12.1, OpenGL 4.6, and OpenCL 3.0. For multimedia features, the device supports dual display outputs via two Micro HDMI ports, capable of resolutions up to 4Kp60. Audio features include a headphone jack with microphone input.

The memory options for the Radxa X4 include LPDDR5 RAM with a maximum frequency of 4800 MT/s and it can be configured with 4GB, 8GB, 12GB, and 16GB RAM. For storage, the Radxa X4 provides optional onboard eMMC, SPI Flash for BIOS, and an M.2 M Key Connector with PCIe 3.0 4-lane for M.2 2230 NVMe SSDs.

Regarding connectivity, the Radxa X4 includes a 2.5G Ethernet port with PoE support; however, it requires the PoE HAT shown in the image on the right.

It is available in two variants: one offering wireless connectivity options including IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax Wi-Fi 6 with Bluetooth 5.2 and BLE, and the other featuring IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi 5 with Bluetooth 5.0 and BLE.

This SBC also features a Raspberry Pi RP2040 microcontroller (dual-core Cortex-M0+), which is routed to the 40-pin color GPIO header that provides support for up to two SPI, two UART, two I2C, sixteen PWM, eight Programmable I/Os, one 5V DC power in, and two 3.3V power pins.

Specifications

Memory/Storage:
- Up to 16GB LPDDR5 RAM
Audio/Display:
- 1x Headphone Jack w/ Mic Input
- 2x Micro HDMI
Connectivity:
- 1x 2.5G Ethernet Port w/ PoE support
- Wi-Fi 6, BLE 5.2
- Wi-Fi 5, BLE 5.0
Expansion:
- 1x M.2 M Key Connector w/ PCIe 3.0
I/O Interfaces:
- 40-pin GPIO expansion header
USB:
- 1x USB 2.0 HOST Type A Port
- 3x USB 3.0 HOST Type A Ports
Other Features:
- 1x RTC Battery socket
- 1x 2-pin Fan header
- 1x 2-pin Power input header
- 1x Power button, 1x Boot button
OS:
- Windows 10/11
- Debian/Ubuntu
Power:
- 12V/2A (via USB Type-C)
Operating Temperature:
- 0°C to 50°C
Mechanical:
- 85 mm x 56 mm

Radxa guarantees the availability of the Radxa X4 until at least September 2032. As of the publication date, the Radxa X4 can be pre-ordered from three distributors, but only in 4GB and 8GB RAM configurations.

AllNetChina offers the Radxa X4 with 4GB RAM and Wi-Fi 5 for $60.00. The 8GB RAM version with Wi-Fi 6 is priced at $80.00.
Arace Tech lists the Radxa X4 with 4GB RAM and Wi-Fi 6 at $59.90, the 8GB RAM version with Wi-Fi 6 at $79.90, and the 8GB RAM model with 64GB eMMC and Wi-Fi 6 at $89.00.
AliExpress lists the board with 4GB RAM and Wi-Fi 5 for $60.00 and the 8GB RAM version with Wi-Fi 6 for $80.00.

AAEON Leverages NXP i.MX 8M Plus Platform for New PICO-ITX and Mini PC Solutions

Posted on 10 August, 2024 by mixos

AAEON’s SRG-IMX8PL and PICO-IMX8PL enhance its growing RISC computing line.

Industry leader AAEON has expanded its RISC computing product portfolio by releasing the SRG-IMX8PL and PICO-IMX8PL, a Mini PC and 2.5” PICO-ITX board, respectively. The NXP i power both products.MX 8M Plus platform, featuring a quad-core Arm® Cortex®-A53 processor with a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) operating at up to 2.3 TOPS.

Built to provide cost-efficient IoT Gateway solutions in rugged environments, the SRG-IMX8PL and PICO-IMX8PL both offer wide temperature ranges of -40°C to 80°C with the use of a fanless heatsink, a 9V to 36V power input range. The SRG-IMX8PL Mini PC also features enhanced shock, drop, and vibration resistance.

Dual LAN ports with IEEE 1588 and TSN capabilities, alongside Wi-Fi and 4G module support via M.2 2230 E-Key and full-size mini card, provide each device with broad connectivity options for industrial IoT use. Additionally, both the PICO-IMX8PL and SRG-IMX8PL support a wide range of operating systems, including Debian® 11, Android™ 13, Windows® 10 IoT, and Yocto, as well as data communication protocols such as Modbus, MQTT, and OPC Unified Architecture (OPC UA).

Key Features:

-40°C to 80°C with fanless heatsink + 9V to 36V power input range
Dual CAN-FD, dual RS-232/422/485, GPIO, SPI, I2C, and UART.
Modbus, MQTT, and OPC UA support
Dual LAN with IEEE 1588 and TSN, Wi-Fi and 4G module support via M.2

Other key interfaces that make the two products well-suited for low-power, efficient IoT applications are their various industrial communication protocols. Both platforms provide dual CAN-FD, dual COM for RS-232/422/485, and a range of other options such as GPIO, SPI, I2C, and UART. These interfaces offer scalability, long-distance communication, and wide compatibility for legacy systems.

It should also be noted that the SRG-IMX8PL is available with both wall-mount and DIN rail mounting options, making the compact system suitable for a variety of settings.

Pricing and ordering information are now available via AAEON’s online contact form, with the products also available via the AAEON eShop.

For detailed specifications, please visit the IoT Gateway & Protocol Expansion section of the AAEON website.

tinySniffer: WiFi-Connected USB Sniffer Based on NanoPi NEO Air SBC

Posted on 10 August, 202410 August, 2024 by Aditi Ambadkar

tinySniffer is a USB sniffer designed to capture USB 1.x and 2.0 packets remotely. Based on the Allwinner H3-powered NanoPi Neo Air SBC, tinySniffer makes use of WiFi connectivity to enable remote packet capture, and the captured data is compatible with the popular Wireshark packet analyzer tool.

While Wireshark can already capture USB packets, it has limitations, particularly in capturing some low-level USB packets. In such cases, a hardware USB sniffer like Total Phase Beagle USB, PhyWhisperer USB, or tinySniffer is necessary. The micro USB OTG port of the NanoPi NEO Air SBC is connected to the host computer, and the company added a USB 2.0 Type-A port connected to the USB interface on the GPIO header to connect a device under test, such as a USB keyboard, a USB Ethernet dongle, or a USB printer.

After configuring WiFi, the user can access the tinySniffer USB capture tool remotely by visiting the usb7.net website and selecting “My Devices.” This opens a terminal window in the browser, allowing users to capture packets with the sniff command.

Specifications

Processor:
- Allwinner H3
- Quad-core Cortex-A7
Memory:
- 512MB DDR3 RAM
Storage:
- 8GB eMMC Flash
- MicroSD card slot for expansion
Connectivity:
- WiFi: Dual-band 802.11b/g/n
- Bluetooth 4.0
Ports:
- 1x Micro USB OTG port
- 1x USB 2.0 Type-A port
- GPIO header with USB interface
Software:
- tinyDebian Linux distribution
- Compatible with Wireshark for packet analysis
Additional Features:
- Remote access via usb7.net
- Supports capturing USB 1.x and 2.0 packets

Video

The tinySniffer runs on the tinyDebian Linux distribution, which was first introduced in an article about the NanoPi NEO Air SBC modified with a dual-band WiFi module from the same company. However, neither tinyDebian OS nor the sniff command is open-source, so replication of this USB sniffer is not possible if you already own a NanoPi NEO Air board. You can copy those to your computer and analyze them in Wireshark , and the main advantage of the solution is remote access. More details can be found in the documentation.

The tinySniffer is sold for $199 on Tindie, which represents a significant markup compared to the $23 price for the NanoPi Air NEO. This pricing is similar to FPGA-based USB capture solutions.

Raspberry Pi Pico 2 Launches with RP2350 Microcontroller and Costs Only $5

Posted on 9 August, 20249 August, 2024 by Debashis Das

Raspberry Pi Foundation has just announced the launch of Raspberry Pi Pico 2, built around the RP2350 Microcontroller. The new board will feature dual Cortex-M33 or Hazard3 processors, increased SRAM and flash memory, and advanced security features like anti-fuse OTP for key storage, Secure boot, and Fast glitch detectors.

The company also mentions that more upcoming variants will be like the Pico 2 W with wireless functionality and models with pre-installed headers. The previous Raspberry Pi Pico RP2040 sold nearly four million units for various applications and with the upgraded specs and low cost of this new RP2350-based Pico 2 board the company expects to exceed that number.

Let me clear one thing, the new RP2350 will feature two sets of dual-core processors: the RISC-V and the Cortex-M33, but you can only use one set at a time. Other than that it’s very similar to the RP2040 but has faster cores, more memory, and an extra PIO block. The Cortex-M33 cores also have added security features.

The block diagram of the new RP2350 MCU gives us a good idea about the internal workings of the CPU, you can find the block diagram along with other information about this new controller on the Datasheet for the RP2350 MCU.

The company also provides a Pinout diagram of the RP2350 MCU along with the block diagram of the device, and as of my understanding the company offers two packages the RP2350A and the RP2350B the main difference between the two is that the B-package features additional GPIOs and analog inputs whereas the A-Package has the same number of GPIOs as of the RP2350A.

Raspberry Pi Pico 2 Specifications

Processor:
- Dual Arm Cortex-M33 or dual Hazard3 RISC-V processors @ 150MHz
Memory:
- 520 KB on-chip SRAM
- 4 MB on-board QSPI flash
Compatibility:
- Software- and hardware-compatible with Raspberry Pi Pico 1
Programming:
- Drag-and-drop programming using mass storage over USB
Form Factor:
- The castellated module allows soldering directly to carrier boards
Security Features:
- Optional boot signing, enforced by on-chip mask ROM
- Key fingerprint stored in OTP
- Protected OTP storage for optional boot decryption key
- Global bus filtering based on Arm or RISC-V security/privilege levels
- Peripherals, GPIOs, and DMA channels individually assignable to security domains
- Hardware mitigations for fault injection attacks
- Hardware SHA-256 accelerator
Interfaces and Peripherals:
- 2 × UART
- 2 × SPI controllers
- 2 × I2C controllers
- 24 × PWM channels
- 4 x ADC channels
- 1 × USB 1.1 controller and PHY (host and device support)
- 12 × PIO state machine
Other:
- Operating temperature: -20°C to +85°C
- Supported input voltage: 1.8–5.5V DC

The Raspberry Pi Pico 2 utilizes the same C/C++ and Python SDK as its predecessor, with additional features for security. A new toolchain is available for RISC-V development. For more information, refer to the documentation website and GitHub repositories for the Pico SDK new MicroPython and CircuitPython images along with examples.

Various companies like Seed Studio, SparkFun, Tiny Circuits, Switch Science, Solder Party, and others have showcased their variants of the RP2350-powered dev boards which will be launching soon.

Raspberry Pi Pico 2 costs $5 and will be available until at least 2040. The RP2350 microcontroller price ranges from $0.80 to $1.30 depending on the variant and quantity.