Advantech launches ROM-6881: Versatile SMARC 2.1 module

Advantech has introduced the ROM-6881, a versatile SMARC 2.1 computer-on-module featuring the RK3588 and RK3588J Rockchip chipsets.

These modules boast eight-core processors with 6.0 TOPS of AI inference capability, making them ideal for complex tasks such as embedded vision.

High-resolution video support

The ROM-6881 computer-on-module supports high-resolution video with 8K at 30fps video encoding and 8K at 60fps decoding, ensuring efficient, high-quality display and resolution.

This capability enhances edge IoT applications in autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), medical fields, surveillance, robotics, and beyond.

Powerful processor and AI capabilities

Powered by the Rockchip flagship processor RK3588, the ROM-6881 features a robust configuration with eight processing cores (4 x Arm Cortex-A76 and 4 x Arm Cortex-A55) that can reach speeds of up to 2.4 GHz.

All eight cores are built using an advanced 8nm process, providing a 300% increase in performance over the previous RK3399 processor. This ensures optimal computing power tailored for platform management and a diverse range of feature-rich applications.

Specifically designed for Edge AI applications, the RK3588 integrates a 6-TOPs NPU accelerator, giving it impressive AI computing capabilities. This versatility simplifies various edge AI inference tasks, ensuring optimal application performance and flexibility.

Enhanced display and camera integration

Support for 8K at 60fps H.265 and VP9 decoding and 8K at 30fps encoding enhances display and resolution for medical applications. Its integrated 3D GPU ensures efficient, high-quality 3D rendering and display of panoramic content.

Additionally, the ROM-6881 is equipped to handle four MIPI CSI cameras, two USB 3.0, and three USB 2.0 signals, enabling access to multiple cameras simultaneously.

Moreover, the module features a rich array of display interfaces, including HDMI, DP, LVDS/DSI, and eDP for up to four screens. The ROM-6881 is well-suited for medical equipment such as endoscopes, hemodialysis, and AI-based in vitro diagnostics (IVD) systems.

Ideal for industrial robots and AGVs

Industrial robots and Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) often demand solutions that provide high data throughput, low latency, minimal power consumption, and cost efficiency.

The ROM-6881 computer-on-module stands out as a prime choice for versatile robotics. It features a variety of interfaces, including two-gigabit ports, two USB 3.0 ports, three USB 2.0 ports, SATA, and UARTs, making it simple to integrate peripherals such as LiDAR, motors, IMUs, and cameras to maximize AMR efficiency.

The ROM-6881’s four PCIe 3.0 slots also provide flexible expansion, allowing for enhancements in wired networks and the addition of FPGA, Wi-Fi 6, and 5G modules.

Support for multiple operating systems

The ROM-6881 computer-on-module supports multiple operating systems, including Debian and Android.

To facilitate advanced edge AI development, users can leverage the RKNN Toolkit developed by Rockchip. This toolkit handles AI model conversions, inference, and performance within an Ubuntu PC environment.

The ROM-6881 efficiently runs the Robot Operating System (ROS2) for robotics applications, providing a flexible framework for developing robotic applications. This allows developers to initiate and advance their projects on this platform swiftly.