A New Smart System on Module Generation Based On i.MX 8M Plus With Integrated AI/ML Features
We are proud to reveal our upcoming new System on Module (SoM) solutions based on i.MX 8M Plus; the first generation of System on Module with dedicated Artificial Intelligence (AI) / Machine Learning (ML) capabilities within an integrated NPU engine.
Upcoming i.MX 8M Plus based modules
The upcoming DART-MX8M-PLUS and VAR-SOM-MX8M-PLUS platforms are based on NXP’s i.MX 8M Plus processor, the latest addition to the i.MX 8M application processors family. Both platforms are running on a 1.8GHz quad-core Cortex™-A53 ARM 64-bit core with an additional 800MHz Cortex™-M7 real-time co-processor.
System on Module (SoM) Features
The modules include an integrated 2.3 TOPS Neural Processing Unit (NPU), an intelligent vision system with Image Signal Processor (ISP), and dual camera interfaces that provide the foundation for the modules’ unique Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning (AI/ML) offering.
In addition to the AI/ML advanced capabilities, the modules support extensive multimedia features along with a wide range of connectivity features such as H.265 HD video encode/decode engines, high performance 2D/3D GPU, high-quality voice processing, up to 4K HDMI, HD LVDS, DSI certified dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth/BLE, dual GbE, dual USB3, dual CAN-FD, and PCIe.
i.MX 8M Plus Pin-to-Pin Compatibility
The DART-MX8M-PLUS and the VAR-SOM-MX8M-PLUS differ in dimensions and their Pin-to-Pin family compatibility. The DART-MX8M-PLUS SoM is packed in a compact form factor of only 55x30mm, and it joins the DART Pin2Pin System on Module family that offers Pin-to-Pin compatibility with i.MX 8M Mini and i.MX8M based platforms.
The VAR-SOM-MX8M-PLUS is a member of the VAR-SOM Pin2Pin System on Module family, providing extensive scalability options: from the i.MX6UL/6ULL platforms, through i.MX 6, i.MX 8M Mini, i.MX 8M Nano, up to the i.MX 8X and i.MX 8QuadMax based platforms.
These broad Pin-to-Pin product families allow our customers to enjoy ultimate scalability options and extended longevity, as well as reduced development time, costs, and risks. Learn more about our Pin2Pin System on Module families.
DART-MX8M-PLUS and VAR-SOM-MX8M-PLUS Evaluation Kits
The DART-MX8M-PLUS evaluation kits and VAR-SOM-MX8M-PLUS evaluation kits include the related SoM with the scalable carrier boards, the VAR-DT8M Custom Board, and the Symphony Board, respectively, and an optional LVDS display with touch panel.
Availability
Evaluation kits and stock item modules are now available for orders, with priority to Variscite’s partners and alpha customers.
Both the DART-MX8M-PLUS and VAR-SOM-MX8M-PLUS are included in Variscite’s long-term longevity plan with an expected availability period of 15 years.
For more information, please contact us.
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As AI-driven demand accelerated through 2025, memory chip shortages developed as semiconductor manufacturers shifted capacity to large-volume buyers, leaving many sectors, including medical, industrial, edge/IoT, and robotics poorly served. Climbing prices and lengthening lead times, exacerbated by knock-on effects across other SoM components, have created two clear pressure points. SoM vendors relying on outsourced manufacturing have limited flexibility when availability drops, leaving customers facing the same delays. Separately, product developers who chose chip-down architectures over SoM-based designs must procure components on their own. Those buying in smaller quantities are routinely pushed down supplier priority lists, and in many cases cannot get supply at all.
