i.MX8

The i.MX8 series from NXP Semiconductors is a family of high-performance, low-power application processors designed for advanced multimedia, industrial, and automotive applications. Built on a 16 nm FinFET process technology, these processors deliver exceptional compute efficiency and integration, featuring multiple cores including Arm Cortex-A53, Cortex-M4, and optional Cortex-A72 or A55 for heterogeneous computing. The architecture supports real-time processing with dedicated microcontrollers and provides scalable performance from single-core to quad-core configurations. Key features include integrated GPU (PowerVR IMG Series 6XE) for 2D/3D graphics acceleration, hardware video encode/decode engines supporting up to 4K Ultra HD at 60 fps, and a rich set of connectivity options such as PCIe Gen2, USB 3.0, MIPI DSI/CSI, and Ethernet MACs. Memory support includes LPDDR4 and DDR4, enabling high-bandwidth data access critical for AI inference, computer vision, and machine learning tasks. Security is reinforced through a dedicated Secure Boot, Hardware Random Number Generator (HRNG), and TrustZone-based secure execution environment. These SoCs are optimized for demanding applications like smart displays, industrial automation, automotive infotainment systems, and edge AI devices. The i.MX8’s robust peripheral set—such as CAN FD, UART, SPI, I2C, and SDIO—facilitates seamless integration with sensors, actuators, and external modules. Additionally, the inclusion of a Real-Time Unit (RTU) ensures deterministic control for time-critical operations in industrial and automotive environments. NXP also provides comprehensive software support, including Linux, Android, and RTOS options, along with development tools like the i.MX Linux SDK and MCUXpresso IDE. This ecosystem enables rapid prototyping and deployment across diverse use cases. The i.MX8 series represents a versatile platform that balances performance, power efficiency, and scalability, making it ideal for next-generation embedded systems requiring intelligent processing and connectivity.