TI launches new processor to promote edge AI and cut its power consumption in half

Power-efficient processors enable engineers to meet form factor requirements while deploying smart designs anywhere

Beijing (June 6, 2022) – Texas Instruments (TI) today introduced the new Sitara™ AM62 processor, which helps expand edge artificial intelligence (AI) processing to next-generation applications and further promotes the development of highly integrated processors. The low-power design of the new processor can support dual-screen display and small human-machine interface (HMI) applications.

TI will showcase the new AM62 processor and demonstrate system-level solutions for edge AI and EV charging HMI applications at Embedded World (Booth 215) in Nuremberg, Germany, June 21-23, 2022.

The next generation of HMI will bring new ways to interact with machines, such as issuing commands through gesture recognition in noisy factory environments, or controlling machines through wirelessly connected mobile phones or tablets. Adding edge AI capabilities to HMI applications (including machine vision, analysis, and predictive maintenance) will help give HMI a new meaning, rather than just an interface for human-machine interaction. The AM62 processor can realize the analytical functions of edge devices with low power consumption (power consumption in suspended state is as low as 7mW and no special considerations for thermal design are required), supporting engineers to flexibly deploy these functions in size-constrained applications or industrial environments.

Enable new applications with cost-effective edge AI

The AM62 processor enables low-cost analytics for HMI devices by enabling basic camera-based image processing and edge AI functions such as object detection and recognition. The AM62 processor also supports dual-screen full HD displays and multiple operating systems, including mainline Linux® and Android™ operating systems. In addition, the AM62 processor provides wired and wireless connectivity interfaces. For more information on how edge AI capabilities are improving HMI applications, see the technical article "Three key considerations for next-generation HMIs."

Reduce system power consumption by up to 50%

The AM62 processor reduces power consumption in industrial applications by up to 50% compared to similar devices, enabling applications powered by AA batteries to run continuously for more than 1,000 hours. This is made possible by a simplified power architecture. Since the device uses only two dedicated power rails, it has five power modes, a deep sleep mode of less than 5mW to extend battery life and a core voltage of 0.75V to achieve operating power consumption of less than 1.5W. Reducing system power consumption can extend battery life and help engineers meet the design requirements of handheld devices or size-constrained devices that are deployed everywhere. The new TPS65219 further simplifies the process of achieving optimal power performance, which is a companion PMIC designed specifically to meet the power requirements of the AM62 processor.

Simplify development through access to hardware and software tools and resources

The various tools and resources for the AM62 processor provide flexible options for development, helping to reduce design costs and complexity. A variety of open source software solutions, including mainline Linux, can simplify the application development process and help shorten time to market. A rich hardware ecosystem, including third-party evaluation modules (EVMs), can help designers start application design faster. 

Packaging and availability

The AM625 and AM623 processors are available now in a 13 mm × 13 mm, 425-pin ALW package from TI.com. The AM62 EVM and custom tape and reel are also available from TI.com with a variety of payment and shipping options.