Avnet MT3620 module accelerates Azure Sphere IoT security implementation

At the beginning of this year, Microsoft Azure Sphere IoT security service platform was officially commercialized, marking a new step for the security of the IoT industry. However, Azure Sphere is only a software platform, and its implementation requires a hardware carrier. Billy Hsu, deputy manager of Avnet application engineering, introduced the internal architecture of Avnet's MT3620 starter kit, as well as Avnet's support for the hardware and various solutions.

MT3620 is the industry's first SoC that supports Microsoft Azure Sphere IoT operating system, launched by MediaTek and Microsoft in 2018. The chip provides built-in security and networking functions, aiming to promote IoT innovation and security. It is suitable for Microsoft Azure Sphere IoT operating system, and can build Wi-Fi networking control into the processor chip while loading Microsoft's latest security protocol.

Billy said, "Avnet offers four products around MT3620, including chips, modules, board-level modules, and even certified final products to meet the needs of different customers. The kit can quickly build prototypes for the implementation of IoT projects and help developers address major challenges such as security issues.

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Detailed explanation of MT3620

As shown in the block diagram, the processor part includes a single-core Cortex A7 @ 500MHz and a dual-core Cortex M4 @ 200MHz. The Cortex A series processor is responsible for applications, while the Cortex M series is responsible for real-time systems. It integrates 4MB RAM and 16MB Flash. The Wi-Fi part supports 802.11b/g/n, dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz. In terms of security, it has a separate Microsoft Pluton controller to provide security monitoring and resource processing and allocation, as well as key storage. In addition, it also supports security encryption such as AES-256, SHA-2, etc.

Billy emphasized that all modules are isolated by firewalls and require Pluton's permission, so the data can be absolutely secure. "User data cannot be directly transmitted from the Cortex-M end to the cloud, but must be transmitted to the Cortex-A processor through Pluton." Billy said.

Module Introduction

In response to customers' needs to purchase modules directly, Avnet provides a variety of external antennas and integrated antennas, all of which have passed FCC, CE and IC certifications.

Chip-level antenna packaging module parameters

UFL Sphere module parameters

Development Board Introduction

An Azure Sphere certified chip module is obviously not enough. A development tool that includes the core Azure Sphere MCU and integrates IoT application development resources is very necessary. Avnet provides an Azure Sphere MT3620 entry-level development kit specifically for developers at this level. It provides more peripherals and expansion interfaces, including support for mikro BUS development boards and Grove sensors, as well as UART Pmod and OLED interfaces with reserved jumpers. In addition, it also includes MEMS sensors, ambient light sensors, etc. to meet various IoT applications.

At the same time, in order to make it easier for developers to get started, Avnet has launched some reference designs, including sensor data collection and upload, connection with IoT Hub, control, viewing or analysis of data on Dash Board, and connection with Avnet IoTConnect cloud platform. The entire development environment uses Microsoft Visual Studio 2017, and also supports development in Linux environment.

Guardian Module recommended by Microsoft

The Guardian Module recommended to users by Microsoft on its official website is the Guardian 100 module from Avnet. Users can connect the Guardian 100 module to existing IoT devices via Ethernet or USB interfaces, and easily place the device under the security umbrella of Azure Sphere without the support of professional personnel. This is truly a "plug and play" experience, especially suitable for upgrading and renovating critical and valuable equipment. For many equipment manufacturers, Avnet's Guardian Module allows customers to directly apply and manage IoT security, including WiFi, Ethernet, and USB, which can all achieve data communication.

In general, people familiar with hardware development know that it is not easy to fully understand a chip and finally apply it to a product. Developers need to understand the internal functions of the chip through datasheets and technical information, and also need to ensure efficient connection between the chip and peripherals through PCB layout and wiring of peripheral circuits... This takes a lot of time. Avnet's thoughtful introduction of modules from chips to integrated antennas and even production-ready products will undoubtedly allow more developers to quickly experience the benefits of Microsoft Azure Sphere, reduce customers' R&D investment in basic hardware, and thus shift their focus more to differentiated IoT designs.