ST launches next-generation edge AI MPUs

STMicroelectronics has released the second generation of its STM32 microprocessors (MPUs) with a new architecture, which offers increased performance and security for Industry 4.0 and edge AI applications. The new STM32MP2 edge AI MPUs are based on the same ecosystem, offering advanced multimedia features, graphics processing, digital connectivity and advanced security in hardware. They come with SESIP Level 3 certification.

(Source: STMicroelectronics)

The first product line in this new series of edge AI-powered MPUs is the STM32MP25. The series is available with single or dual 64-bit Arm Cortex-A35 cores running efficiently at 1.5 GHz, with a 400-MHz Cortex-M33 embedded core that handles real-time processing. A dedicated neural processing unit (NPU) with up to 1.35 tera-operations per second (TOPs) is optimized for edge AI acceleration in applications such as advanced machine vision and predictive maintenance. The MPUs also support 32-bit DDR4 and LPDDR4 memories.

For connectivity, the STM32MP25 family features Gigabit time-sensitive networking (TSN) support and a two-port Gigabit Ethernet TSN switch, with PCIe, USB 3.0 and CAN-FD peripherals. These features support real-time industrial applications, data concentrators and gateways and communication equipment.

ST said the combination of the processing and networking capabilities enhance detection and feature recognition for security applications and industrial automation. “For example, the MPU can acquire video from a 5-megapixel sensor at 30 frames per second (fps), perform analytics with the Edge AI accelerator, and send relevant video (encoding with an HW encoder) with detection metadata leveraging Gigabit Ethernet TSN, all in real-time streaming mode,” said ST.

In addition, the STM32MP25 features a 3D graphics processing unit (GPU) with 1080p resolution for graphics and video capabilities. A 1080p encoder/decoder and multiple display connections including LVDS, 4-lane MIPI DSI and a MIPI CSI-2 camera interface simplify the connection of displays and digital cameras.

Advanced security features include Arm’s TrustZone architecture and resource isolation framework (RIF). Other features include secure key storage, secure boot, a unique device ID in one-time programmable (OTP) memory, hardware cryptographic engines and on-the-fly DDR encryption/decryption.

The STM32MPU ecosystem includes the OpenSTLinux distribution with the complete AI framework (X-Linux-AI) and the STM32Cube development tools. The STM32Cube firmware will run bare metal or RTOS on the Cortex-M33 embedded core.

Samples of the STM32MP25 and evaluation boards are available to select OEM customers. A selection of package options is available including a 0.8-mm-pitch chip-scale package (TFBGA). They also come with ST’s 10-year longevity commitment. Volume production of chips and boards is scheduled to begin in the first half of 2024.