Forlinx launched an SBC that runs Linux or Android on a quad-core i.MX6, and offers extras like WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS, 3G, and an image sensor interface.

China-based Forlinx Embedded Technology first appeared on LinuxGizmos last October when it released an OK335xS-II SBC with a TI Sitara AM3354 SoC. Like the OK335xS-II, the new i.MX6-based, sandwich-style SBC embeds a soldered COM, which appears to be available separately. The COM is slightly larger than the previous model, at 60mm square, and the baseboard is a sizable 190 x 130mm.

Forlinx i.MX6 SBC
(click image to enlarge)

The i.MX6 module runs Android 4.4 or Linux, including Ubuntu, on a quad-core Cortex-A9 Freescale i.MX6 SoC with 1GB of DDR3 RAM and 8GB eMMC flash. The module provides a gigabit Ethernet controller, and supports I/O including HDMI 1.4, dual-channel LVDS, SATA, CAN, USB, mini-PCIe, and image sensor interfaces.


Forlinx i.MX6 COM
(click image to enlarge)

All signals, other than a flex-PC LVDS display interface, are expressed via via four 55-pin stamp hole connectors on the periphery of the module. The COM can be bought with -20 to 105℃ or -40 to 105℃ temperature ranges.

Specifications listed for the Forlinx i.MX6 COM include:

• Processor — Freescale i.MX6 Quad (4x Cortex-A9 cores @ 1GHz); Vivante GC2000 GPU
• Memory/storage — 1GB DDR3 RAM; 8GB eMMC flash
• Display — HDMI 1.4; dual-channel 8-bit LVDS
• Networking — gigabit Ethernet controller
• Other I/O:
  • USB 2.0 OTG
  • USB 2.0 host
  • 5x serial (1x for debug)
  • SATA 3.0
  • CAN
  • 2x SPI
  • I2S
  • 3x I2C
  • Camera interface
  • 2x SDIO
  • Mini-PCIe
• Power — 4.2V
• Operating temperature — -20 to 105℃ or -40 to 105℃
• Dimensions — 60 x 60mm; 8-layer PCB
• Operating system — Android 4.4; Linux 3.0.35; Ubuntu

The 12V baseboard provides coastline ports including HDMI, gigabit Ethernet, and audio jacks, plus two USB 2.0 host ports, a USB OTG port, SATA connectors, and an SD slot. You also get four serial ports and a CAN interface, among other I/O.

Forlinx i.MX6 SBC, detail view
(click image to enlarge)

The board is loaded with extras, some of which may actually prove to be optional. These include WiFi, Bluetooth, 3G cellular, GPS with antenna, dual Li-Ion batteries, a speaker interface, and accelerometers. You even get interfaces to a camera sensor and a 7-inch touchscreen.


Omnivision OV5640 image sensor block diagram
(click image to enlarge)

Specifications listed for the Forlinx i.MX6 baseboard (SBC) include:

• Processor/memory — i.MX6 Quad, 1GB RAM, and 8GB eMMC via Forlinx i.MX6 module
• Other storage:
  • SD slot
  • SDIO interface (20-pin, dual row)
  • SATA port (supports 3.5-inch HDD with 12V supply, 2.5-inch with battery)
• Multimedia:
  • HDMI 1.4 port
  • Dual-channel LVDS (dual row pin header)
  • Optional 7-inch capacitive touchscreen
  • Earphone and mic 3.5mm jacks
  • 2x speaker interface with volume buttons
  • Camera support — parallel interface to 5-megapixel sensor (Omnivision OV5640)
• Wireless:
  • 802.1b/g/n 2.4GHz with Bluetooth 4.0 (RealTek RTL8723AS Combo Module)
  • IR interface
  • GPS (VK1613S3M5 SIRF3)with ext. antenna
  • 3G module via mini-PCIe; SIM card slot
• Sensors — 3-axis accelerometer
• Networking — gigabit Ethernet port
• Other I/O:
  • 2x USB 2.0 host ports
  • USB 2.0 OTG port
  • 3x RS232 serial ports (2x 3-ch., 1x 5-ch.)
  • RS485 port (with protection and electrical isolation)
  • Debug port (via micro-USB)
  • CAN interface
  • 2x I2C
  • SPI
• Other features — RTC with battery; reset and power buttons
• Power — 12V input; 2x Li-Ion batteries with PMU
• Operating temperature — -40 to 85℃ when using the COM’s 8GB eMMC storage
• Dimensions — 190 x 130mm, 4-layer PCB

 
Further information

The Forlinx i.MX6 module and SBC appear to be shipping now at an unstated price. More information may be found at the Forlinx i.MX6 SBC product page and announcement.