Feature: Embedded Systems AAEON's PICO-MTU4: The world's first
Intel Core Ultra Pico-ITX Board By Impulse Embedded, leading provider of Industrial computing systems and solutions
range from Mini-, Nano- and Pico-ITX down to Femto-ITX, all while operating with some of the most powerful processing power to date. AAEON, a manufacturer of advanced industrial and embedded
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computing platforms, has recently released their PICO-MTU4 SBC. It is among the first to feature Intel’s latest Core Ultra processors, with an integrated Vision Processing Unit (VPU) for computer vision and machine learning, all of which allows the board to combine performance, power efficiency and versatility in a compact Pico-ITX form factor (100mm x 72mm).
What makes the PICO-MTU4 stand out? Efficient Performance with Intel Core Ultra Intel is simplifying the branding for its processors. Te latest label, Intel’s ‘Ultra,’ was first introduced in 2023 with the launch of their Meteor Lake processors. Tis changes Intel’s naming system for their new or upcoming processors, removing the ‘I’ from their long-standing Core i3, i5, i7 and i9 labels which have been in use since 2008, and replacing them with ‘Core 3,’ ‘Core 5,’ ‘Core 7,’ and ‘Core 9.’ Te ‘Ultra’ label is reserved for Intel’s higher-end chips. Tis update is intended to make Intel’s product lineup easier to
understand, while still providing generational details in the model numbers and the option to pair these processors with Intel Arc graphics. Te PICO-MTU4 is powered by Intel’s Meteor Lake Core Ultra 5 and
Ultra 7 processors. It features a hybrid architecture of both performance and efficient cores while also being Intel’s first generation of mobile processors with a chiplet design. Chiplet technology utilises modular chips, which make it more flexible and versatile than monolithic chips. Te hybrid architecture of the processor delivers an optimal balance
between high performance and energy efficiency, as it is designed to handle demanding multi-threaded tasks while consuming less power. Tis makes it an ideal choice for applications that require consistent performance over long periods, especially in environments like embedded systems or mobile platforms where power efficiency is a priority. In addition to the CPU cores, the Intel VPU is integrated into the
chip, offering hardware acceleration for AI and machine vision tasks. Tis makes the PICO-MTU4 perfectly suitable for scenarios where edge processing of visual data is needed, such as in robotics or automated inspection systems .
Robust connectivity in a small form factor Pico-ITX is one of the smallest form factors available, being only slightly bigger than a credit card. Tis makes it perfectly suited for embedded systems with limited space in applications such as automation, healthcare, transportation and retail. Despite its small size, the PICO-MTU4 offers a broad range of connectivity options:
28 Dec 2024/Jan 2025
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Dual LAN ports: One 2.5GbE and one 1GbE port provide high-speed networking capabilities, supporting use in industrial networks or IoT edge devices. USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports: For fast peripheral connectivity. Serial interfaces: Supporting RS-232/422/485, allowing integration with legacy equipment oſten found in industrial environments. Expansion slots: Te board features M.2 slots for additional storage or wireless communication options, including support for Wi-Fi 6, making it adaptable for wireless setups. Tis combination of connectivity features makes the PICO-MTU4
versatile and capable of integrating into both modern and legacy systems without missing a beat .
Designed for harsh environments Te PICO-MTU4 is engineered for industrial use, where environmental conditions can be challenging. It operates within a wide temperature range of -20°C to 70°C, making it suitable for deployment in factories, outdoor installations, or other settings that experience significant temperature variation. Its power efficiency is another strong point. Te board has a thermal
design power (TDP) of just 15W, meaning it delivers high performance while keeping energy consumption low. Tis efficiency is especially important for edge computing and IoT applications, where devices oſten need to run continuously in remote locations.
Ideal applications Te PICO-MTU4’s balance of processing power, connectivity and durability makes it well-suited to a variety of applications, including: Industrial automation and robotics: Te board’s performance and VPU make it an excellent fit for control systems, where quick data processing and machine vision capabilities are ideal. IoT and edge computing: Its low power consumption, small footprint and ability to handle complex AI tasks make it ideal for IoT devices and edge computing, where data needs to be processed locally rather than sent to the cloud. Healthcare systems: Te VPU can be used for medical imaging and other AI-driven healthcare solutions, while the robust design ensures reliability in demanding environments.
For more information, please get in touch with our knowledgeable team at 01782 337 800 or email
sales@impulse-embedded.co.uk
s time passes, new innovations in industrial computing allow embedded systems to implement smaller and smaller technology. Small form factor Single-Board Computers (SBCs) can
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