Variscite launches SMARC SoM series with i.MX 8M Plus module
Variscite has introduced a new series of SMARC-compatible System on Modules aimed at developers building compact, low-power embedded devices. According to the company, its first module in the family is the NXP i.MX 8M Plus-based VAR-SMARC-MX8M-PLUS.
For eeNews Europe readers working in industrial IoT, medical electronics, or secure edge AI systems, this launch highlights how SMARC standards-based modules are evolving to meet SWaP-C constraints while also addressing modern connectivity and cybersecurity requirements.
SMARC-compatible module targets AI and vision applications
According to the company, the VAR-SMARC-MX8M-PLUS is powered by NXP’s 1.8GHz quad Cortex-A53 processor with an 800-MHz Cortex-M7 real-time coprocessor. The module combines AI/ML acceleration with an advanced Image Signal Processor, positioning it for embedded vision and edge intelligence designs.
Variscite noted that the new SMARC format expands on the capabilities of its existing DART-MX8M-PLUS, adding extended connectivity such as additional USB ports, dual Ethernet controllers with IEEE1588 support, extra GPIO, and a Secure Real Time Clock.
The company indicates that SMARC compatibility as particularly attractive for devices optimized for size, weight, power, and cost, including point-of-sale terminals and mobile industrial systems.
Security and CRA compliance built in
Security is a major focus of the new module. Variscite indicates that the VAR-SMARC-MX8M-PLUS integrates Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 functionality via a dedicated hardware security chip, providing cryptographic protection for sensitive assets such as encryption keys and passwords.
The company also indicates that the module meets requirements aligned with the European Union’s Cyber Resilience Act and is compliant with North America’s FIPS 140-3 security standard.
Customization, BSP Support, and Pin2Pin scalability
Variscite also emphasized customization options that are uncommon in the SMARC ecosystem, with configuration orders possible in quantities as low as 20 units. The company further claims to be the only vendor offering direct BSP and OS support for Yocto, Debian, Android, FreeRTOS, and Zephyr at no added charge.
“The VAR-SMARC-MX8M-PLUS is an ideal choice for low power, low cost, yet high performance devices,” said Ofer Austerlitz, VP of Business Development and Sales at Variscite, in a release.
The module also launches a new Pin2Pin family, enabling customers to upgrade processing performance while keeping the same carrier board design, the company indicates.
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