2024 BrainChip Discussion, page-7283

Nice to see Arduino have done some recent (June) firmware updates to their Portenta X8 allowing NPU integrations via PCIe.

Is this update inclusion driven by Arduino client requests?

Are we seeing little green shoots in industry with some now looking to provide Akida & NPU integration / support to their own products?

https://docs.arduino.cc/tutorials/portenta-x8/x8-firmware-release-notes/

Latest Firmware Version: 861 (Release arduino-91.2)

Release Date: June 26, 2024

The listing herein offers a glimpse into the Portenta X8 firmware's continuous improvement and enhancement. You can expect a concise overview of the integrated key new features, major bug fixes, and critical security patches to ensure the highest level of functionality and performance within the Portenta X8 system.

New Features:

• Added support for Akida Brainchip PCIe module in NPU.
• Added support for Hailo 8R PCIe module in NPU.
• Support for new panel modules and touchscreen controllers jadard-ek79202d and atmel-mxt-ts in MIPI-DSI

Arduino Portenta X8

An industrial-grade hybrid combination of microprocessor and microcontroller board by Arduino capable of simultaneously and securely running Linux apps and perform real-time tasks.

www.wevolver.com

Arduino Portenta X8

An industrial-grade hybrid combination of microprocessor and microcontroller board by Arduino capable of simultaneously and securely running Linux apps and perform real-time tasks.

Problem/Solution

Microcontrollers have the power to control a wide variety of machines, including life-support systems, spacecraft, aircraft, and even mobile phones. It is integrated into a system and manages a single function by deciphering data received and taking appropriate actions. A more powerful and customized microcontroller is required as the complexity and functionality of the device increases.

The production of specialized microcontrollers for unique devices is time and money inefficient. But microcontroller hardware and software now see a better route—thanks to open-source software. Numerous developers from all around the world supply these license-free codes that are not only available but also flexible enough, allowing users to modify them for the desired function.

Designed to power the future generation of the Industrial Internet of Things, Arduino Portenta X8 has a high-performing system banked on a modular container architecture. This industrial-grade system-on-module (SOM) has the Linux OS preloaded onboard that allows device-independent software to run. With two industrial products put into one and a power of no less than 9 cores, X8 offers usage flexibility of Linux mixed with real-time applications. It combines Linux-embedded NXP® i.MX 8M Mini hosting with STM32H7, leveraging Arduino libraries and skills. X8 has Wi-Fi/Bluetooth® Low Energy connectivity, promoting the secure performance of OS/application OTA updates.