ORCA SOM/ORCA Evaluation Kit/pdf

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Getting started[edit | edit source]

Kit Identification Codes[edit | edit source]

The development kits are identified by a couple of codes:

  1. P/N Part Number identification code
  2. S/N Serial Number identification code

These codes are printed on a label stuck to the box containing the kit.

For example, the following picture shows such a label of an ORCA Evaluation Kit with Serial Number 00BA

Label of ORCA Evaluation Kit

These codes are required to complete the registration process of the kit.



Unboxing[edit | edit source]

Once you've received the kit, please open the box and check the kit contents with the packing list included in the box, using the table on this chapter as a reference.

The hardware components (SOM, carrier boards and display) are pre-assembled, as shown in the picture below:


ORCA Evaluation Kit


Kit Contents[edit | edit source]

The following table list the kit components:

Component Description
SBC8MU-1.0.0.png
ORCA SBC
  • SoC: NXP MIMX8ML8DVNLZAB (i.MX 8M Plus Quad Core - 1.8 GHz - Tj=0/95°C)
  • SDRAM: 6 GB DDR4
  • eMMC: 8GB - No NOR - No NAND
ORCA-EVK-kit-power-supply.png
USB Type C Power Delivery wall mount adapter
ORCA-EVK-kit-USB-HUB.png
USB 3 with power delivery HUB
USB C to USB C.png
USB C to USB C charging cable
PCAM 5C flat.png
PCAM 5C camera module with flat FPC cable
PCIE Riser Card.png
PCI-e riser card extension
DWS top.png
DWS Wifi and Bluetooth module
TTL-232RG-VIP-WE.png
FTDI TTL/USB cable (TTL-232RG-VIP-WE)
ORCA-EVK-kit-Monitor.png
Touchscreen Monitor, 8" 1280x720 (with power supply adapter and HDMI cable)
Mini HDMI to HDMI.png
Mini-HDMI to HDMI adapter
Sandisk Industrial 32GB.png
MicroSDHC card

Order codes[edit | edit source]

Order code Description
SB8MU6120B2R-00 This code refers to the default configuration detailed above including SOM DMUE3300CxR

microSD Layout[edit | edit source]

The microSD provided with the kit is used to store:

  • a bootable partition (mmcblk0p1, vfat) containing:
    • binary images (u-boot and kernel images)
    • documentation
    • DVDK virtual machine image
  • root file system partition (mmcblk0p2, ext3)


Connections[edit | edit source]

This section describes how to quick start the Evaluation Kit. The picture below shows the ORCA SBC inside into the Evaluation Kit:

ORCA SBC connections

The system is programmed to automatically boot Linux at power up, loading the bootloader, the kernel and device tree image and the root file system from the SD card memory.

To connect to the system:

  • insert the SD card into the micro SD slot
  • connect the USB Type C power adapter to J3 on the board
  • connect the USB to TTL UART adapter to the J35 connector on the SBC and connect the USB side connector to an USB port on your computer
    • if required, install the FTDI USB to serial driver
    • start your favorite terminal emulator software on PC (eg: PuTTY, Minicom, ...); communication parameters are 115200,N,8,1
  • (optional) connect the ethernet cable from your LAN hub/switch to the J10 ethernet0 RJ45 connector
    • start SSH, using the following parameters:
      • ip address: 192.168.0.89
      • username: root
      • empty password
  • (optional) connect the HDMI cable from your display monitor to the J12 connector (with the provided mini-HDMI to HDMI adapter)

Warning: please, pay attention to the debug cable header connection, see the picture here below:

FTDI USB to serial debug cable

First boot[edit | edit source]

Once power has been applied, U-Boot bootloader will be executed and the debug messages will be printed on the serial console. U-Boot automatically runs the autoboot macro, that loads the kernel/dtb and launches it with the options for mounting the root file system from the SD card.

At the end of the boot process, a demo application is launched and you can interact with the system using the touchscreen. The Linux shell is available on the serial console. Moreover, both telnet and ssh services are available to connect to the system through the network.

Serial console[edit | edit source]

A simple Windows serial and SSH/telnet client and terminal can be downloaded from here.

The following picture shows the serial setup for connecting to the EVK:


PuTTY connection using Serial Port


once selected the COM[x] serial port, click the Open button which starts the terminal. Once powered, the EVK shows the U-boot debug messages printed on the serial console.

Connecting through SSH[edit | edit source]

The following picture shows the SSH connection to the EVK:


PuTTY connection using SSH


once selected the IP address, click the Open button which starts the terminal. Once connected, the EVK shows the linux kernel prompt login for inserting the login:


PuTTY SSH login


Then use the root login username without password:


PuTTY SSH connected


Boot Configurations[edit | edit source]

ORCA Evaluation Board is built upon i.MX8M Plus SoC.

The following sections detail boot configuration options related to the ORCA SOM.

Available options[edit | edit source]

Boot modes can be selected by S2 switches which acts directly on SYSBOOT configuration pins.

S2 switches are connected to ORCA BOOT_MODE[3:0] pins allowing different boot modes.

S2 boot switches

where S2 switches are mapped as the following table:

BOOT_MODE S2 Note
BOOT_MODE0 S2.1
BOOT_MODE1 S2.2
BOOT_MODE2 S2.3
BOOT_MODE3 unused


BOOT_MODE[3:0] S2[4..1] Boot sequence Notes
0000 OFF-OFF-OFF-OFF Boot From Internal Fuses Please contact sales@dave.eu for more information
0001 OFF-OFF-OFF-ON USB Serial Download
0010 OFF-OFF-ON-OFF USDHC3 eMMC boot only, SD3 8-bit
0011 OFF-OFF-ON-ON USDHC2 SD boot only, SD2 microSD
0100 OFF-ON-OFF-OFF NAND 8-bit single device 256 page
0101 OFF-ON-OFF-ON NAND 8-bit single device 512 page
0110 OFF-ON-ON-OFF QSPI 3B read




Reset Button[edit | edit source]

ORCA‏‎ Evaluation Board has a pushbutton directly connected to the PMIC_RST_B signal which drives a SOM hardware reset.

S1 is the hardware reset button.

Reset button

General Information[edit | edit source]

Product Highlights[edit | edit source]

The ORCA SBC platform presented here provides a compact solution for any industry and can be easily interfaced with Plant Automation Control thanks to IEC-61131 SW language environment and/or other plug-ins like QT framework, Chromium web based GUI or multimedia GStreamer video applications.

The following table summarizes the main hardware and software features available with ORCA SBC:

Hardware[edit | edit source]

Subsystem Characteristics
CPU NXP i.MX8M Plus
USB Dual USB-C 3.0 ports
Serial Ports RS232

RS485 with bus termination
LVTTL UARTs

Ethernet Dual 10/100/1000Mbps with TSN
Display Dual LVDS interface
Video HDMI and MIPI interfaces
Camera Dual MIPI-CSI intercaces up to 4 data lanes

with embedded ISP control

Audio Dual SAI interfaces
Connectivity Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
PSU 12 to 24V DC, USB-C Power Delivery
Mechanical Dimensions 87x103mm - Standard DIN (6modules)

Software[edit | edit source]

Subsystem Options
Operating System Linux, Android, FreeRTOS
Distribution Yocto, Debian, Buildroot
Graphical Framework Qt, Android, Chromium browser
Applications SoftPLC, IoT runtime, nodeJS


Block diagram[edit | edit source]

The following picture shows a simplified block diagram of the ORCA SOM Evaluation kit.

Main functional subsystems and interfaces are depicted.

ORCA SBC Evaluation kit Block diagram


The heart of the Evaluation Kit is the ORCA SOM module: please refer to the following Product Highlights page for the Evaluation Kit product highlights information.

Here below a summary for the main characteristics of the Kit.

Features Summary[edit | edit source]

Feature Specifications
Supported SOM N.A. (embedded in the SBC)
Serial Ports 1x UART RS232 on pin strip

1x UART RS485 on pin strip
2x LVTTL UART
1x UART RS232 on pin strip (debug port)

Connectivity 2x Gigabit Ethernet on RJ45 connectors
2x CAN port without PHY
DWS Wireless module (optional)
Display 2x LVDS

1x MIPI-DSI
HDMI

Camera 2x MIPI-CSI
Storage 1x microSD slot
USB 2x USB-C 3.0 port
Miscellaneous GPIOs
JTAG

GROVE connector

PCIe

Electrical, Mechanical and Environmental Specifications[edit | edit source]

Electrical / Mechanicals Specifications
Supply voltage + [12 - 24] V
Dimensions 103 mm x 87 mm
Weight 70.4 g
Operating Temperature 0..70 °C


Carrier board design guidelines[edit | edit source]

This page provides useful information and resources to system designers in order to design carrier boards hosting DAVE Embedded Systems system-on-modules (SOM).

These guidelines are provided with the goal to help designers to design compliant systems with DAVE Embedded Systems modules and they cover schematics and PCB aspects. They apply to several products that are listed on the top right corner of this page (see "Applies to" boxes).

Basic guidelines[edit | edit source]

In this section basic hardware guidelines valid for all DAVE Embedded Systems SOMs are detailed.

Schematics[edit | edit source]

  • Check mirroring and pinout of DAVE Embedded Systems system-on-modules (SOM) connector
  • Properly decouple DAVE Embedded Systems system-on-modules (SOM) power supply with large bulk capacitor and small bypass capacitor
  • Use low-ESR X7R capacitor if possible
  • Check for correct connection of TX and RX lines
  • Add series resistors as interface needs (see interface details)

PCB[edit | edit source]

PCB Tecnology[edit | edit source]

Use a PCB technology as advised in the following table

Parameter Min Typ Max
Layers(number) 4 6 -
Power Plane Layers 2 4 -
Clearence(mils) - 6 -
Trace Width(mils) - 6 -
Vias hole (mechanical) 0,3 -
Minimum number of via for each power signal layer changes 2 3 -
Minimum number of via for each power signal SOM connector pin 1 2 -
Component package size - 0603 -
PCB Height(mm) 1,4 1,6 -
  • If vias smaller than minimum advised size are used, take care to maintain an adeguate number of via when you change layer for each power signal.
  • PCB heights less than minimum advised can produce PCB heating and mechanical issues
PCB Basics Guidelines[edit | edit source]
  • Avoid stubs
  • Isolate clock and HI-SPEED signal (see interface specifications for further details)
  • Avoid voids on planes
  • Use Solid Connection for on plane vias
  • Place bulk and ByPass capacitor near DAVE Embedded Systems system-on-modules (SOM) power supply pins
  • Place series terminator resistor near the related transmitter

SOM Connectors[edit | edit source]

This section provides information and suggestions regarding the SOM mating connectors.

SO-DIMM[edit | edit source]

SO-DIMM mating connectors from different vendors may have slight differences in mechanical characteristics. One critical point is the position of the end of the mating area (please see the picture below), that can be slightly shifted inwards or outwards in respect to the retention holes on the carrier board. This can lead to a misalignment with the holes on the SO-DIMM modules, making difficult or impossible to insert the retentions screws or locking supports.

So-dimm-mating.png

If you plan to use the holes as additional retention system, we recommend to pay attention to the mechanical characteristics when evaluating the SO-DIMM mating connectors to be mounted on the carrier board.

Power-up sequence[edit | edit source]

In order to prevent back powering effects, DAVE Embedded Systems' SOMs provide the signals required to handle power-up sequence properly. For instance, see the recommended sequence for the BORA SOM here.

In case the power-up sequence is not managed properly, the circuitry populating the SOM may be damaged.

Interfaces Guidelines[edit | edit source]

This section provides guidelines for the most used interfaces on DAVE Embedded Systems SOMs module.
Please refer to SOM's detailed pages for specific additional information.

Ethernet 10/100/1000[edit | edit source]

Case #1: PHY is integrated on SOM[edit | edit source]

This section refers to the case of PHY integrated on SOM such as Lizard and MAYA.

Schematics[edit | edit source]
  • If LAN connector with integrated magnetic is used:
    • predispose ethernet protection diodes on ethernet lines
    • Connect connector shield to an adeguate GND or shield Plane
PCB[edit | edit source]

Refer to this table for 10/100 differential pairs routing

Parameter for 10/100 differential pair Min Typ Max
Differential Impedance(ohm) - 100 -
Common Mode Impedance - 50 -
Gap than TX and RX signals 2xgap 2xgap -
Gap than other signals 2xgap 4xgap -
Intra pair matching(mils)* 0 25 150
TX and RX via # mismatch* 0 0 1

Refer to this table for Gigabit differential pairs routing

Parameter for Gigabit Differential Pairs Min Typ Max
Differential Impedance(ohm) - 100 -
Common Mode Impedance - 50 -
Gap than TX and RX signals 2xgap 2xgap -
Gap than other signals 2xgap 4xgap -
Intra pair matching(mils)* 0 10 10
Max PCB trace length 3" 5" -
TX and RX via # mismatch* 0 0 1


* Not mandatory but recommended.

  • If LAN connector with integrated magnetic is used:
    • do not route traces under the connettor, neither on opposite side
    • place filter diode near connector
    • place others signals far from connector
    • Connect connector shield to an adeguate GND or shield Plane or Copper through numerous vias
  • If on board magnetic are used
    • adeguately isolate system GND from magnetic connector side
    • Connect connector shield to an adeguate GND or shield Plane or Copper through numerous vias if necessary
  • try to match as best as possible each differential pair (intrapair matching)
  • Keep as best as possibile the same route for TX and RX traces
  • If less than minimum gap is used, use a GND trace for improve trace separation
Case #2: PHY is not integrated on SOM and a RGMII PHY is used[edit | edit source]

This section refers to the case of:

  • PHY not integrated on SOM
  • Gigabit PHY populated on carrier board and connected to SOM through RGMII interface.

This solution is implemented on NaonEVB-Mid for example.

Schematics[edit | edit source]
  • Add series resistors (RPACK resistors recommended) to RGMII lines
  • Properly decouple PHY Power Supplies rails
  • Properly decouple every supply pin of Ethernet PHY
  • Properly separate analog Supply Rails
PCB[edit | edit source]
Parameter for RGMII interface Min Typ Max
Common mode impedance(ohm) - 50 -
Gap than other ethernet diff pair 4xwidth - -
Gap than other signals 4xwidth -
Matching(mils) - - 200
Via Mismatch 0 0 1


Parameter for Gigabit Differential Pairs Min Typ Max
Differential Impedance(ohm) - 100 -
Common Mode Impedance - 50 -
Gap than TX and RX signals 2xgap 2xgap -
Gap than other signals 2xgap 4xgap -
Intra pair matching(mils) 0 10 10
Max PCB trace length 3" 5" -
TX and RX via # mismatch* 0 0 1

* Not mandatory but recommended.

  • Ground and VCC planes must be as large as possible
  • Avoid plane split and voids
  • Place bypass capacitor near every PHY supply pin
  • Connect every capacitor's pin to the plane with at least 2 vias and the shortest trace pattern
  • Place PHY device at least 1" (25mm) distance far away from connector
  • Keep MDIO clock signal isolated from other signals
Case #3: PHY is not integrated on SOM and a RMII PHY is used[edit | edit source]

This section refers to the case of

  • PHY not integrated on SOM
  • 10/100 Ethernet PHY populate don carrier board and interfaced to SOM through RMII interface.

This solution is implemented for example in MayaEVB-Lite board.

Schematics[edit | edit source]
  • If possible, place series resistor to RMII interface signals
  • Properly decouple PHY Power Supplies rails
  • Properly separate analog Supply Rails
  • Properly decouple every supply pin of Ethernet PHY
  • Use a standard RMII PHY that supports correct clock mode (see SOM specification for further details)
PCB[edit | edit source]
Parameter for RMII interface Min Typ Max
Reccomended Common mode impedance(ohm) - 50 -
Gap between other signal 2xW -
  • Since RMII signals are not critical such as RGMII, is not necessary a strong matching between signal
  • Avoid use of long traces
  • Avoid stubs
  • Keep as best as possibile the same routing for all RMII traces


Parameter for Ethernet Differential Pairs Min Typ Max
Differential Impedance(ohm) - 100 -
Common Mode Impedance - 50 -
Gap than other TX and RX signals 2xgap 2xgap -
Gap than other signals 2xgap 4xgap -
Intra pair matching(mils)* 0 25 150
TX and RX via # mismatch* 0 0 1

* Not mandatory but recommended.

  • Ground and VCC planes must be as large as possible
  • Avoid plane split and voids
  • Place bypass capacitor near every PHY supply pin
  • Connect every capacitor's pin to the plane with at least 2 vias and the shortest trace pattern
  • Place PHY device at least 1" (25mm) distance far away connector
  • Keep MDIO clock signal isolated from other signals


USB[edit | edit source]

Schematics[edit | edit source]
  • Create schematic in accordance with DAVE Embedded Systems system-on-modules (SOM) USB specification ( see SOM detailed pages )
PCB[edit | edit source]
Parameter for USB Differential Pairs Min Typ Max
Differential Impedance(ohm) 80 90 100
Common Mode Impedance 40,5 45 49.5
Gap than other signals 3xgap 5xgap -
Intra pair matching(mils) 0 25 150
Max allowed stubs - - 0
Max traces length - - note 1
Max allowed plane split under traces - - 0

note 1 see SOM detailed specifications

  • If a stub is unavoidable in the design, no stub should be greater than 200 mils.
  • Place a continuos reference plane underneath differential pair

HDMI[edit | edit source]

Schematics[edit | edit source]
  • Add a Transmitter Port Protection to HDMI lines
  • Use certified HDMI connector
  • Connector shield must be properly connected
PCB[edit | edit source]
Parameter for HDMI Differential Pairs Min Typ Max
Differential Impedance(ohm) 85 100 115
Gap than other signals 3xgap 5xgap -
Intra pair matching(mils) at 225MHz clock 0 20 250
Inter pair matching(mils) at 225MHz clock 0 250 1"
Max allowed stubs - - 0
Max allowed plane split under traces - - 0
  • Place a continuos reference plane underneath differential pair
  • Try to match lines as best as possible

SATA[edit | edit source]

Schematics[edit | edit source]
  • Use certified SATA connector
PCB[edit | edit source]
Parameter for SATA Differential Pairs Min Typ Max
Differential Impedance(ohm) 80 100 120
Common Mode Impedance(ohm) 51 60 69
Gap than other signals 2xgap - -
Intra pair matching(mils - - note 1
Inter pair matching(mils) - - note 1
Max allowed stubs - - 0
Max allowed plane split under traces - - 0
Max allowed length - - note 1

note 1 see SOM detailed specifications

  • Place a continuos reference plane underneath differential pair
  • Minimized vias use
  • No strong matching required between TX and RX, but keep same route for every differential pair

PCI Express[edit | edit source]

PCB[edit | edit source]
Parameter for PCI Express Differential Pairs Min Typ Max
Differential Impedance [Ohm] - 100 -
Common Mode Impedance [Ohm] - 60 -
Gap than other signals (reccomended) - 2xgap -
Intra pair matching [mils]* - - 10
Max Total Length [in]* - - 12
Maximum allowed stub - - 0
Max allowed vias - - 6
  • * Including SoM trace length
  • Preferred underneath plane over entire trace length GND.

LVDS[edit | edit source]

PCB[edit | edit source]
Parameter for LVDS Differential Pairs Min Typ Max
Differential Impedance [Ohm] 85 100 115
Common Mode Impedance [Ohm] 46.75 55 63.25
Gap than other signals (reccomended) - 2xgap -
Intra pair skew [mils]* - - 5
Inter pair skew [mils]** - 400 -
Maximum allowed stub - - 0
  • Prefer to route traces on TOP layer, referring them to a continuos GND plane.
  • * Not includes SOM's length.
  • ** Typical value can be relaxed depending on LVDS clock frequency

LCD Interface[edit | edit source]

Schematics[edit | edit source]
  • Please refer to DAVE Embedded Systems system-on-modules (SOM) carrier board documentationfor further information
  • Predispose series resistor terminator (RPACK for LCD data and single resistor for Clock and H-SYNC and V-SYNC)
  • Series resistor value may vary depending by PCB and schematic
PCB[edit | edit source]
  • If possible, use 50ohm common mode lines
  • Match LCD parallel signals in accordance with Pixel Clock frequency (further details in SOM specifications)
  • Avoid use of long traces connection (max 10" on PCB)
  • Avoid stubs

VIN Interface[edit | edit source]

Schematics[edit | edit source]
  • Please refer to DAVE Embedded Systems system-on-modules (SOM) carrier board documentation for further information
  • Predispose series resistor terminator (RPACK for LCD data and single resistor for Clock and H-SYNC and V-SYNC)
  • Series resistor value may vary depending PCB and schematic
PCB[edit | edit source]
  • If possible, use 50ohm common mode lines
  • Match VIN parallel signals in accordance with Pixel Clock frequency (further details in SOM specifications)
  • Avoid use of long traces connection (max 10" on PCB)
  • Avoid stubs

TVOUT[edit | edit source]

Schematics[edit | edit source]
  • Please refer to DAVE Embedded Systems system-on-modules (SOM) carrier board documentation for further information
PCB[edit | edit source]
Parameter for SATA Differential Pairs Min Typ Max
Common Mode Impedance(ohm) - 75 -
Gap than other signals 2xwidth - -
  • Keep analog TVOUT signal far from noise signals

I2C Interface[edit | edit source]

Schematics[edit | edit source]
  • Predispose properly pullup resistors on line in accordance with DAVE Embedded Systems system-on-modules (SOM)
  • Do not overload I2C lines with too much devices
  • Ensure that I2C devices are being properly initialized during power up
PCB[edit | edit source]
  • Isolate I2C clock from noise sensitive signals
  • Avoid stub

SD/MMC Interface[edit | edit source]

Min Typ Max
Common Mode impedance SOM(ohm) - 50 60
Matching required* - - -
Max allowed parallel routing(mils) - - 1000
Max trace Length** - - -
Max # of vias allowed - - -

*This is not mandatory, however it is suggested in case trace length exceeds 10cm

**Overall trace length - i.e. Bora + carrier board - should not exceed 10cm. If this is not possible, try to avoid parallel routing in order to reduce crosstalk, and refer them to a ground plane.

CAN Interface[edit | edit source]

Min Typ Max
Differential Mode impedance(ohm) 108 120 132
Matching required - - -
Min Interpair spacing - 4xgap -
Max allowed parallel routing(mils) - - -
Max trace Length - - -
Max via allowed - - -

Functional guidelines[edit | edit source]

Sudden power off management[edit | edit source]

From the architectural standpoint, modern embedded systems often resemble traditional PCs. For example:

  • they implement a rich set of I/O interfaces (large displays, Ethernet ports, USB ports, SDIO sockets etc.)
  • they likely run complex operating systems that derive from desktop world (linux, Android, Windows CE etc.)
  • they implement complex storage schemes (raw NAND, SSD, eMMC etc.).

One of the main difference between such systems and PCs is that the formers are - if appropriately designed - inherently resilient to sudden power fails. In any case, system designer should take into account these events and decide if and how manage them explicitly. Here are some typical techniques used to deal with this situation:

  • in case the system is used by human operators, the use of clean shutdown - triggered by the user himself - should be encouraged to prevent sudden power off. Technically speaking, this can be done via GUI (soft button) or mechanical device (push buttons and alike). In the latter case, push button controllers such as Linear LTC2954 can be very useful to implement this feature
  • in case no human operators interact with the system, more complex solutions might be required. This strategy is strongly dependent on hardware characteristics of SOM and must be approached on a case-by-case basis.

Thermal Management[edit | edit source]

Heat is generated by all semiconductors while operating and it is dissipated into the surrounding environment. This amount of heat is a function of the power consumed and the thermal resistance of the device package. Every silicon device on an electronic board must work within the limits of its operating temperature parameters (eg, the junction temperature) as specified by the silicon vendor.

Failure to maintain the temperature within safe ranges reduces operating lifetime, reliability, and performances and may cause irreversible damage to the system. Therefore, the product design cycle should include thermal analysis to verify that the device works within its functional limits. If the temperature is too high, component or system-level thermal enhancements are required to dissipate the heat from the system.

For detailed information, please refer to the following documents:


Interfaces and Connectors[edit | edit source]

Power Supply interface[edit | edit source]

The Evaluation Kit is powered by one of the USB Type-C connectors. To properly power the system the wall adapter must support the power delivery protocol.

Description[edit | edit source]

The Power Supply interface available on the Evaluation Kit at the connector J3

J3 is a USB Type-C connector for USB3 data transfer and board supply,


Power Supply connector

Signals[edit | edit source]

The following table describes the interface signals:

Pin# Pin name Pin function Pin Notes
A4, A9, B4, B9 VBUS1 Board supply
A1, A12, B1, B12 GND Ground
A6, A7, B6, B7, A2, A3, B10, B11, B2, B3, A10, A11, A5, B5, A8, B8 USB signals See USB ports

Power LED[edit | edit source]

DL2 is a green LED (placed near the reset button) that shows the status of the power input. This LED is ON when a valid power supply is present and the system is out of reset.

Device usage[edit | edit source]

The USB-C PD protocol starts providing 5V to the system, this voltage is enough to boot the CPU and execute the bootloader.

The bootloader starts the PD handshake with the wall adapter and chose the input rail voltage between 5V, 9V, 12V, 15V or 20V.

By default the Evaluation Kit sets the input to 12V for LCD backlight compatibility, see the LVDS section for more details.

Alternate supply[edit | edit source]

An auxiliary connector is present on the board (not mounted by default) to power the system with a standard power supply.

This connector is meant for developing purpose (eg when the SW is not already able to handshake a valid PD profile) and cannot be mounted for some Evaluation Kit models.

Description[edit | edit source]

Power can be provided through the J20 connector. Power voltage range is +[12-24 V].

J20 is a two pins MC 1,5/2-G-3,81 Phoenix connector.


J20 Power Supply connector

Signals[edit | edit source]

The following table describes the interface signals:

Pin# Pin name Pin function Pin Notes
1 VIN_AUX Board supply +[12-24 V]
2 GND Ground


CPU connector[edit | edit source]

J15 is the 260-pins SODIMM connector of the ORCA SOM.

SO-DIMM connector


In this SBC design the SOM is embedded in the carrier board so the connector is not actually usable but represents the SOM J1 connector.

For a detailed description of the SOM pinout, please refer to the ORCA SOM Hardware Manual.



JTAG interface[edit | edit source]

JTAG interface allow the developer to access every peripheral of the SoC using a debugger.

It is also possible to add the ETH1 PHY to the JTAG daisy chain (with a custom BOM).

The TRACE interface can be made available in alternative to the NAND or eMMC memory flash on board of the SoM.

Description[edit | edit source]

The JTAG interface available on the Evaluation Kit at the connector JD1.

JD1 is a 10x1x2.54mm strip header connector and it is not mounted.


JTAG connector

Signals[edit | edit source]

The following table describes the interface signals:

Pin# Pin name Function ARM-20 JTAG Notes
1 DGND - 4,6,8,10,12,14,16,18,20 For example documented on Lauterbach specification
2 JTAG_TCK - 9 -
3 JTAG_TMS - 7 -
4 JTAG_TDO - 13 -
5 JTAG_TDI - 5 -
6 JTAG_MOD - - 10K pull-down inside the SoM
7 CPU_PORn - 15 (*) -
8 N.C. - - -
9 N.C. - - -
10 JTAG_VREF - 1 3V3 (BOARD_PGOOD driven signal)

(*) optional signals, keep the possibility to be unconnected.




Ethernet interfaces[edit | edit source]

The Evaluation Kit features two Gigabit Ethernet interfaces:

  • ETH0 on J10 (labelled as Ethernet 1)
    • this interface also features the TSN functionality
  • ETH1 on J38 (labelled as Ethernet 2)

Description[edit | edit source]

The Ethernet interfaces are available on the Evaluation Kit at the connectors J10 and J38. Primary interface is on J10.

J10 and J38 are a RJ45 shielded connectors with dual led. J10 is connected to the SoM Ethernet PHY, J38 is connected to the Carrier Ethernet PHY


Ethernet 0 - J10 connector
Ethernet 1 - J38 connector

Signals[edit | edit source]

The following table describes the interfaces signals:

  • J10
Pin# Pin name Pin Notes
1 ETH0_TXRX1_P
2 ETH0_TXRX1_N
3 ETH0_TXRX2_P
4 ETH0_TXRX3_P
5 ETH0_TXRX3_N
6 ETH0_TXRX2_N
7 ETH0_TXRX4_P
8 ETH0_TXRX4_N
9 ETH0_LED_ACT ETH0 has active low signals
11 ETH0_LED_LINK ETH0 has active low signals
  • J38
Pin# Pin name Pin Notes
1 ETH1_TXRX1_P
2 ETH1_TXRX1_N
3 ETH1_TXRX2_P
4 ETH1_TXRX3_P
5 ETH1_TXRX3_N
6 ETH1_TXRX2_N
7 ETH1_TXRX4_P
8 ETH1_TXRX4_N
10 ETH1_LED_ACT ETH1 has active high signals
12 ETH1_LED_LINK ETH1 has active high signals

Device mapping[edit | edit source]

The network interfaces mapped as follows:

  • J10 is eth0 device in Linux.
  • J38 is eth1 device in Linux.

Device usage[edit | edit source]

The peripherals use the standard kernel interface and network protocol stack.



Console interface[edit | edit source]

Description[edit | edit source]

The Console interface is available on the Evaluation Kit at the connector J35.

J35 is a 4 pin (4x1x2.54mm) header connector for the two-wires UART2 port, used for debug purposes (bootloader and operating system serial console).


Console connector

Signals[edit | edit source]

The following table describes the interface signals:

Pin# SOM Pin# Pin name Pin function Pin Notes
1 J15.250 UART2_TXD Transmit line
2 J15.248 UART2_RXD Receive line 10K pull-up to 3V3_CB
3 - 3V3_CB Power output for transceiver supply BOARD_PGOOD driven rail
4 - DGND Ground

Device mapping[edit | edit source]

UART2 is mapped to /dev/ttymxc1 device in Linux. The peripheral is used as the default serial console, both for the bootloader and the kernel.

Device usage[edit | edit source]

To connect to the debug serial port:

  1. connect an UART transceiver (eg: TTL-232RGVIP-WE) to J35 and to a workstation
    • leave J35.3 unconnected if the transceiver is self powered
  2. start your favorite terminal emulator software on PC (eg: PuTTY); communication parameters are: 115200,8N1


UARTs interface[edit | edit source]

Description[edit | edit source]

The UARTs interfaces available on the Evaluation Kit are mapped to the following connectors:

  • J8 is a 20x2x2.54mm pin header expansion connector that delivers many interfaces unused on board. On this connector are mapped these instances: UART1; UART2 (default debug console); UART4.
UARTs J8 connector
  • J9 is a 8x1x1.25mm 53398-0871 Molex connector that delivers one RS232 4 wires (mapped to UART1) and one RS485 2 wires (mapped to UART3)
UARTs J9 connector

Signals[edit | edit source]

The following tables describe the interfaces signals:

J8[edit | edit source]

Pin# SOM Pin# Pin name Pin function Pin Notes
7 J15.150 SAI2_TXFS UART1_CTS shared with RS232
8 J15.144 SAI2_RXFS UART1_TXD shared with RS232
10 J15.140 SAI2_RXC UART1_RXD shared with RS232
11 J15.142 SAI2_RXD0 UART1_RTS shared with RS232
19 J15.122 ECSPI2_MOSI UART4_TXD Transmit signal (OUT)
21 J15.120 ECSPI2_MISO UART4_CTS Clear to send (OUT)
23 J15.124 ECSPI2_SCLK UART4_RXD Receive signal (IN)
24 J15.126 ECSPI2_SS0 UART4_RTS Request to send (IN)
27 J15.248 UART2_RXD UART2_RXD default debug console
29 J15.250 UART2_TXD UART2_TXD default debug console
31 J15.256 UART4_RXD UART4_RXD alternative to ECSPI2_SCLK
33 J15.258 UART4_TXD UART4_TXD alternative to ECSPI2_MOSI
1, 17 - 3V3_CB Power output for transceiver supply BOARD_PGOOD driven rail
6, 9, 14, 20, 25, 30, 34, 39 - DGND Ground

J9[edit | edit source]

Pin# SOM Pin# Pin name Pin function Pin Notes
1 - RS485_A Non inverting BUS signal UART3
2 - RS485_B Inverting BUS signal UART3
3 - RS485_B_120R Termination resistor connect this signal to RS485_B

to enable the 120R termination

4 - DGND Ground
5 J15.144 RS232_TX Transmit line UART1_TXD (shared with J8.8)
6 J15.140 RS232_RX Receive line UART1_RXD (shared with J8.10)
7 J15.150 RS232_CTS Clear to send line UART1_CTS (shared with J8.7)
8 J15.142 RS232_RTS Request to send line UART1_RTS (shared with J8.11)

Device mapping[edit | edit source]

UART1 is mapped to /dev/ttymxc0 device in Linux

UART2 is mapped to /dev/ttymxc1 device in Linux. The peripheral is used as the default serial console, both for the bootloader and the kernel.

UART3 is mapped to /dev/ttymxc2 device in Linux

UART4 is mapped to /dev/ttymxc3 device in Linux

Device usage[edit | edit source]

The TTL UARTs on J8 can be connected to external devices that use 0-3.3V levels.

The RS232 and RS485 uses the standard protocols.



micro SD interface[edit | edit source]

Description[edit | edit source]

The micro SD interface available on the Evaluation Kit at the connector J16, labelled as uSD on the bottom.

J16 is a Micro-SD card header. This interface is connected to the USDHC2 controller of the i.MX8M Plus CPU.


micro SD connector

Signals[edit | edit source]

The following table describes the interface signals:

Pin# SOM Pin# Pin name Pin function Pin Notes
1 J15.52 SD_DAT2 Data 2
2 J15.54 SD_DAT3 Data 3
3 J15.46 SD_CMD CMD
4 - VDD +3.3 V BOARD_PGOOD driven rail with 200mA fuse
5 J15.44 SD_CLK Clock
6, 12 - VSS Ground
7 J15.48 SD_DAT0 Data 0
8 J15.50 SD_DAT1 Data 1
9, 10, 11 - SD_SHIELD Shield
13 J15.42 SD2_CD_B Card detect

Device mapping[edit | edit source]

The microSD card is mapped to /dev/mmcblk1. The available partitions are shown as /dev/mmcblk1p1, /dev/mmcblk1p2, etc.

Device usage[edit | edit source]

The device can be mounted/accessed as a standard block device in Linux.



USB Ports interface[edit | edit source]

Description[edit | edit source]

The Evaluation Kit provides two USB3.0 ports at the connectors J3 and J4.

J3 and J4 are USB Type-C connectors. J3(right side on the image) is also used to supply the system, see Power Supply section.

Both ports can provide 5V output up to 2.2A. J3 port can also be configured to provide up to 3.3A


USB Port connectors (J4 left side, J3 right side)

Signals[edit | edit source]

The following table describes the interfaces signals:

J3[edit | edit source]

Pin# SOM Pin# Pin name Pin function Pin Notes
A4, A9, B4, B9 - VBUS +5V
A6, B6 J15.193 DP1 USB_DP
A7, B7 J15.195 DN1 USB_DN
A2 J15.199 SSTXP1 USB_TX_P
A3 J15.201 SSTXN1 USB_TX_N
B11 J15.203 SSRXP1 USB_RX_P
B10 J15.205 SSRXN1 USB_RX_N
B2 J15.199 SSTXP2 USB_TX_P
B3 J15.201 SSTXN2 USB_TX_N
A11 J15.203 SSRXP2 USB_RX_P
A10 J15.205 SSRXN2 USB_RX_N
A5 - CC1 Orientation Plug Used for PD handshake
B5 - CC2 Orientation Plug Used for PD handshake
A8 - SBU1 Side Band Use
B8 - SBU2 Side Band Use
A1, A12, B1, B12 - DGND Ground

J4[edit | edit source]

Pin# SOM Pin# Pin name Pin function
A4, A9, B4, B9 - VBUS +5V
A6, B6 J15.173 DP1 USB_DP
A7, B7 J15.175 DN1 USB_DN
A2 J15.179 SSTXP1 USB_TX_P
A3 J15.181 SSTXN1 USB_TX_N
B11 J15.183 SSRXP1 USB_RX_P
B10 J15.185 SSRXN1 USB_RX_N
B2 J15.179 SSTXP2 USB_TX_P
B3 J15.181 SSTXN2 USB_TX_N
A11 J15.183 SSRXP2 USB_RX_P
A10 J15.185 SSRXN2 USB_RX_N
A5 - CC1 Orientation Plug
B5 - CC2 Orientation Plug
A8 - SBU1 Side Band Use
B8 - SBU2 Side Band Use
A1, A12, B1, B12 - DGND Ground

Device usage[edit | edit source]

The USB ports can be used under Linux for connecting USB devices: the related device driver has to be integrated into the Linux kernel.

To connect USB devices to J3 an USB-C HUB has to be used for power the Evaluation Kit while transferring USB data. Please check that the chosen HUB is qualified for the Power Delivery protocol.



LVDS interface[edit | edit source]

Description[edit | edit source]

The LVDS interface available on the Evaluation Kit at the connector J13

J13 is a 20x2x1.25mm DF13E-40DP-1.25V(51) Hirose header connector.

On this connector are routed two separate LVDS interfaces that can operate in dual-channel mode to drive high resolution displays.


LVDS connector

Signals[edit | edit source]

The following table describes the interfaces signals:

Pin# SOM Pin# Pin name Pin function Pin Notes
1, 3 - 3V3_LCD Power output GPIO driven rail
7 J15.49 LVDS0_D0_N LVDS Data 0 -
9 J15.51 LVDS0_D0_P LVDS Data 0 +
2 J15.45 LVDS0_D1_N LVDS Data 1 -
4 J15.47 LVDS0_D1_P LVDS Data 1 +
13 J15.37 LVDS0_D2_N LVDS Data 2 -
15 J15.39 LVDS0_D2_P LVDS Data 2 +
19 J15.41 LVDS0_CLK_N LVDS Clock -
21 J15.43 LVDS0_CLK_P LVDS Clock +
8 J15.33 LVDS0_D3_N LVDS Data 3 -
10 J15.35 LVDS0_D3_P LVDS Data 3 +
5, 6, 11, 12, 17, 18, 23, 26, 29, 32, 35 - DGND Ground
25 J15.71 LVDS1_D0_N LVDS Data 0 -
27 J15.73 LVDS1_D0_P LVDS Data 0 +
31 J15.67 LVDS1_D1_N LVDS Data 1 -
33 J15.69 LVDS1_D1_P LVDS Data 1 +
28 J15.59 LVDS1_D2_N LVDS Data 2 -
30 J15.61 LVDS1_D2_P LVDS Data 2 +
34 J15.63 LVDS1_CLK_N LVDS Clock - Can be terminated on board

for dual-channel mode

36 J15.65 LVDS1_CLK_P LVDS Clock +
37 J15.55 LVDS1_D3_N LVDS Data 3 -
39 J15.57 LVDS1_D3_P LVDS Data 3 +
14, 16, 18 - 5V_LCD Power output GPIO driven rail
20 - VIN_BL_AUX1 Power output Default connected to VIN_BL.

Can be connected to an external

controller to generate custom rails.

22 - VIN_BL_AUX2 Power output
24 - VIN_BL Power output GPIO driven rail
38 J15.240 LCD_BKLT_PWM PWM output Default routed to PWM1

Can be routed to PWM2

40 J15.213 LCD_EN GPIO

Device mapping[edit | edit source]

  • LVDS0 is typically mapped to /dev/fb0 device in Linux
  • LVDS1 is mapped to the corresponding device driver in Linux, depending on the ldb peripheral configuration in the device tree. The default value is disabled but can be mapped to /dev/fb2 (second and independent LCD panel) or can be the second LVDS channel for a dual-channel LCD panel configuration (like a 1920x1080 DUAL LVDS channel LCD panel)

Power sequence[edit | edit source]

Most of the LCD panels has many supplies and need a specific timing to power the rails and start the the signals.

The Evaluation Kit provides GPIO controlled power rails that can be leveraged both at bootloader and kernel level to meet any specifications.

The following sections describe the available rails:

3V3_LCD[edit | edit source]

The most common voltage to supply the LCD panel internal logic. This rail is enabled by GPIO1_IO06 that is connected to J15.233

5V_LCD[edit | edit source]

The most common voltage to supply the LCD panel backlight. This rail is enabled by GPIO1_IO08 that is connected to J15.209

VIN_LCD[edit | edit source]

The voltage of this rail is the system input voltage, see Power Supply section for more details. This rail is enabled by GPIO1_IO07 that is connected to J15.225

VIN_LCD_AUX[edit | edit source]

There are two more pins to deliver higher current on the rail VIN_LCD. These two pins can be instead separately routed to the expansion connector J40.

J40 is a 6x1x2.54mm strip header connector, not mounted by default. This connector can house an external controller that generates up to 2 custom rails, controlled by GPIOs.

J40 Signals[edit | edit source]

The following table describes the interface signals:

Pin# SOM Pin# Pin name Pin function Pin Notes
1 - VIN Power output This is the power supply voltage
2 J15.240 LCD_BKLT_PWM PWM output Default routed to PWM1

Can be routed to PWM2

3 J15.225 GPIO1_IO07 GPIO
4 - VIN_BL_AUX2 Power input
5 - VIN_BL_AUX1 Power input
6 - DGND Ground

Device usage[edit | edit source]

The display power sequence can be leveraged by a DAVE custom code that allow to set the timings both in U-boot and in Linux kernel sources.

The associated framebuffer device is accessed in Linux through the standard graphic access.



Touchscreen interface[edit | edit source]

Description[edit | edit source]

The Evaluation Kit default LCD panel (provided on request) interfaces the touchscreen via USB, thus it is connected to J3 or J4, see USB ports section.

Many touchscreen types use instead an I2C interface with two additional control signals (RST, IRQ).

To use these type of touchscreens the interface signals can be routed to the expansion connector J8.

An external circuit is recommended to correctly conditioning the interface signals, such as buffers and pull up/down, according to the touchscreen specifications.


Touchscreen connector


Signals[edit | edit source]

The following table describes the available I2C signals on J8 connector, see GPIO section for available control signals:

Pin# SOM Pin# Pin name Pin function Pin Notes
19 ECSPI2_MOSI I2C3_SDA
21 ECSPI2_MISO I2C4_SCL
22 SAI5_MCLK I2C5_SDA
23 ECSPI2_SCLK I2C3_SCL
24 ECSPI2_SS0 I2C4_SDA
32 SAI5_RXFS I2C6_SCL
38 SAI5_RXD0 I2C5_SCL
40 SAI5_RXC I2C6_SDA
1, 17 - 3V3_CB +3.3V BOARD_PGOOD driven rail
2, 4 - 5V_VIN +5V Always powered
6, 9, 14, 20, 25, 30, 34, 39 - DGND Ground

All the I2C signals use 0 - 3.3V levels, external pull-ups to 3V3_CB are needed.

Device mapping[edit | edit source]

The device is typically mapped to /dev/touchscreen0 device in Linux.

The touch controller is attached to the generic Linux input event interface (evdev).

For I2C touchscreen controllers a dedicated node in the device-tree has to be configured to correctly bind the driver.

Device usage[edit | edit source]

The touchscreen device is often passed as parameter to the user interface application or is automatically discovered.

Touchscreen can be tested with the evtest tool that prints the finger coordinates to the console.



HDMI interface[edit | edit source]

Description[edit | edit source]

The HDMI interface available on the Evaluation Kit at the connector J12, labelled as HDMI on the bottom.

J12 is a Mini HDMI horizontal receptacle connector.


HDMI connector

Signals[edit | edit source]

The following table describes the interface signals:

Pin# SOM Pin# Pin name Pin function Pin Notes
2 J15.98 HDMI_D2P TX pair 2 data +
3 J15.96 HDMI_D2N TX pair 2 data -
5 J15.94 HDMI_D1P TX pair 1 data +
6 J15.92 HDMI_D1N TX pair 1 data -
8 J15.90 HDMI_D0P TX pair 0 data +
9 J15.88 HDMI_D0N TX pair 0 data -
11 J15.86 HDMI_CLKP Tx pair clock +
12 J15.84 HDMI_CLKN Tx pair clock -
14 J15.74 CEC Consumer Electric Control
15 J15.76 SCL I2C clock
16 J15.78 SDA I2C data
18 - 5V +5V power output Internal 200mA fuse
19 J15.80/J15.104 HPD/HEAC- Hotplug detection / ARC-HEC
1, 4, 7, 10, 13 - DGND Ground
17 J15.102 HEAC+ HDMI Ethernet Audio Return Channel

Device mapping[edit | edit source]

HDMI video is mapped to the corresponding device driver in Linux, depending on the device tree configuration. If this is the only video output, then the default value is mapped to /dev/fb0.

Device usage[edit | edit source]

The associated framebuffer device is accessed in Linux through the standard graphic access.



MIPI interface[edit | edit source]

There are two MIPI camera inputs and one MIPI display output available on the Evaluation Kit.

Description[edit | edit source]

The MIPI camera interfaces are available on the Evaluation Kit at the connectors J5 and J6.

The MIPI display interface is available on the Evaluation Kit at the connector J7 (and it is located at the bottom side of ORCA SBC)

J5, J6 and J7 are a 22x1x0.5mm horizontal ZIF connectors that deliver the MIPI signals, many control signals and power.


MIPI camera J5 connector
MIPI camera J6 connector
MIPI DSI J7 connector

Signals[edit | edit source]

The following tables describe the interfaces signals:

J5[edit | edit source]

Pin# SOM Pin# Pin name Pin function Pin Notes
1, 4, 7, 10, 13 - DGND Ground
2 J15.117 MIPI_CSI1_D0_N MIPI Data 0 -
3 J15.115 MIPI_CSI1_D0_P MIPI Data 0 +
5 J15.113 MIPI_CSI1_D1_N MIPI Data 1 -
6 J15.111 MIPI_CSI1_D1_P MIPI Data 1 +
8 J15.109 MIPI_CSI1_CLK_N MIPI Clock -
9 J15.107 MIPI_CSI1_CLK_P MIPI Clock +
11 J15.105 MIPI_CSI1_D2_N MIPI Data 2 -
12 J15.103 MIPI_CSI1_D2_P MIPI Data 2 +
14 J15.101 MIPI_CSI1_D3_N MIPI Data 3 -
15 J15.99 MIPI_CSI1_D3_P MIPI Data 3 +
16 - CAM1_IO2/GND CSI_nRST/Ground Default connected to Ground

Can be alternatively routed to J15.233 GPIO

17 J15.227 CAM1_IO0 CSI_MCLK
18 J15.231 CAM1_IO1 CSI1_SYNC
19 - CAM1_IO3/GND CSI_MCLK/Ground Default connected to Ground

Can be alternatively routed to J15.38 GPIO

20 J15.230 CAM1_SCL I2C2_SCL 4K7 internal pull-up
21 J15.232 CAM1_SDA I2C2_SDA 4K7 internal pull-up
22 - MIPI_CSI1_PSU +3.3V Default connected to 3V3_CB

Can be alternatively routed to 5V_CB or VIN

J6[edit | edit source]

Pin# SOM Pin# Pin name Pin function Pin Notes
1, 4, 7, 10, 13 - DGND Ground
2 J15.79 MIPI_CSI2_D0_N MIPI Data 0 -
3 J15.77 MIPI_CSI2_D0_P MIPI Data 0 +
5 J15.83 MIPI_CSI2_D1_N MIPI Data 1 -
6 J15.81 MIPI_CSI2_D1_P MIPI Data 1 +
8 J15.87 MIPI_CSI2_CLK_N MIPI Clock -
9 J15.85 MIPI_CSI2_CLK_P MIPI Clock +
11 J15.91 MIPI_CSI2_D2_N MIPI Data 2 -
12 J15.89 MIPI_CSI2_D2_P MIPI Data 2 +
14 J15.95 MIPI_CSI2_D3_N MIPI Data 3 -
15 J15.93 MIPI_CSI2_D3_P MIPI Data 3 +
16 - CAM2_IO2/GND CSI_nRST/Ground Default connected to Ground

Can be alternatively routed to J15.233 GPIO

17 J15.227 CAM2_IO0 CSI_MCLK
18 J15.225 CAM2_IO1 CSI2_SYNC
19 - CAM2_IO3/GND CSI_MCLK/Ground Default connected to Ground

Can be alternatively routed to J15.38 GPIO

20 J15.234 CAM2_SCL I2C3_SCL 4K7 internal pull-up
21 J15.236 CAM2_SDA I2C3_SDA 4K7 internal pull-up
22 - MIPI_CSI1_PSU Power supply Default connected to 3V3_CB

Can be alternatively routed to 5V_CB or VIN

J7[edit | edit source]

Pin# SOM Pin# Pin name Pin function Pin Notes
1, 4, 7, 10, 13, 20 - DGND Ground
2 J15.135 MIPI_DSI1_D1_N MIPI Data 1 -
3 J15.133 MIPI_DSI1_D1_P MIPI Data 1 +
5 J15.131 MIPI_DSI1_CLK_N MIPI Clock -
6 J15.129 MIPI_DSI1_CLK_P MIPI Clock +
8 J15.139 MIPI_DSI1_D0_N MIPI Data 0 -
9 J15.137 MIPI_DSI1_D0_P MIPI Data 0 +
11 J15.127 MIPI_DSI1_D2_N MIPI Data 2 -
12 J15.125 MIPI_DSI1_D2_P MIPI Data 2 +
14 J15.123 MIPI_DSI1_D3_N MIPI Data 3 -
15 J15.121 MIPI_DSI1_D3_P MIPI Data 3 +
16 J15.209 DSI_EN GPIO
17 J15.230 DISP1_SCL I2C2_SCL 4K7 internal pull-up
18 J15.232 DISP1_SDA I2C2_SDA 4K7 internal pull-up
19 J15.217 DSI_BL_PWM PWM/GPIO Can be alternatively routed to Ground
21, 22 - MIPI_CSI1_PSU Power supply Default connected to 3V3_CB

Can be alternatively routed to 5V_CB

Device mapping[edit | edit source]

The MIPI CSI peripherals are mapped to the corresponding /dev/video<X> device in Linux.

The MIPI DSI peripherals are mapped to the corresponding /dev/fb<X> device in Linux.

The devices mapping depends on the device tree configuration.

Device usage[edit | edit source]

The devices are accessed in Linux through the standard graphic stack.



PCIe interface[edit | edit source]

Description[edit | edit source]

The PCI Express interface can be available on the Evaluation Kit at the connector J36. This connector is not mounted by default.

J36 is a USB3.0 Type-A connector that delivers 1x PCIe slot. An external adapter is needed to route the signals to a standard PCIe connector.

The external adapter can be found as a PCIe riser, commonly used in Ethereum mining like this one.


200px-Emblem-important.svg.png

WARNING: do not connect USB devices to this port!


PCIe connector

Signals[edit | edit source]

The following table describes the interface signals:

Pin# SOM Pin# Pin name Pin function Pin Notes
1 - VBUS PCIE_WAKE# Routed to a test point
2 J15.157 D- PCIE2_REF_CN_CLKN
3 J15.155 D+ PCIE2_REF_CN_CLKP
4 - GND PCIE_PERST# Routed to a test point
5 J15.159 SSRX- PCIE_TXN_P Internally decoupled with 100nF series
6 J15.161 SSRX+ PCIE_TXN_N Internally decoupled with 100nF series
7 - GND_D Ground
8 J15.163 SSTX- PCIE_RXN_P
9 J15.165 SSTX+ PCIE_RXN_N

Device mapping[edit | edit source]

The PCI express peripheral is mapped to the corresponding device in Linux depending on the associated kernel device driver and on the device tree configuration.



CAN interface[edit | edit source]

Description[edit | edit source]

The CAN interfaces are available on the Evaluation Kit at the connector J8.

J8 is a 20x2x2.54mm pin header expansion connector that delivers many interfaces unused on board and can provide up to two CAN ports.

The CAN bus ports are compatible with the Flexible Data rate (CAN FD) and CAN 2.0B protocols specification.


CAN connector (on J8)

Signals[edit | edit source]

The following table describes the interface signals:

Pin# SOM Pin# Pin name Pin function Pin Notes
10 J15.140 SAI2_RXC CAN1_TX
12 J15.146 SAI2_TXC CAN1_RX
16 J15.148 SAI2_TXD0 CAN2_TX
18 J15.138 SAI2_MCLK CAN2_RX
22 J15.166 SAI5_MCLK CAN2_RX
35 J15.176 SAI5_RXD3 CAN2_TX
36 J15.174 SAI5_RXD2 CAN1_RX
37 J15.172 SAI5_RXD1 CAN1_TX
2, 4 - 5V_VIN Power output for transceiver supply Always ON rail
1, 17 - 3V3_CB Power output for transceiver supply BOARD_PGOOD driven rail
6, 9, 14, 20, 25, 30, 34, 39 - DGND Ground

Please note that all the CAN signals are 0-3.3V level. If a 5V powered transceiver is used, a level shifting is needed to interface to the Evaluation Kit connector.

Device mapping[edit | edit source]

CAN devices are mapped to /dev/can<X> device in Linux. The device mapping depends on the device tree configuration.

Device usage[edit | edit source]

The Evaluation Kit doesn't implement any CAN transceiver, these are needed to mediate between the CAN bus and the CPU module.

The peripheral can be configured using ifconfig and ip link utilities and can be tested with the can-utils utilities.



Audio interface[edit | edit source]

There is no directly available Audio interface on the Evaluation Kit, two SAI and one SPDIF full duplex interfaces are available on the expansion connector.

Description[edit | edit source]

The SAI and SPDIF interfaces are available on the Evaluation Kit at the connector J8.

J8 is a 20x2x2.54mm pin header expansion connector that delivers many interfaces unused on board.


Audio connector (on J8)

Signals[edit | edit source]

The following table describes the interfaces signals:

Pin# SOM Pin# Pin name Pin function Pin Notes
1, 17 - 3V3_CB Power output for transceiver supply BOARD_PGOOD driven rail
2, 4 - 5V_VIN Power output for transceiver supply Always ON rail
6, 9, 14, 20,

25, 30, 34, 39

- DGND Ground
7 J15. SAI2_TXFS Transmit Frame Sync
8 J15. SAI2_RXFS Receive Frame Sync
10 J15. SAI2_RXC Receive Bit Clock
11 J15. SAI2_RXD0 Receive Data 0
12 J15. SAI2_TXC Transmit Bit Clock
16 J15. SAI2_TXD0 Transmit Data 0
18 J15. SAI2_MCLK Audio Master Clock
13 J15. SPDIF_RX SPDIF Receiver
15 J15. SPDIF_TX SPDIF Transmitter
22 J15. SAI5_MCLK Audio Master Clock
32 J15. SAI5_RXFS Receive Frame Sync
35 J15. SAI5_RXD3 Receive Data 3
36 J15. SAI5_RXD2 Receive Data 2
37 J15. SAI5_RXD1 Receive Data 1
38 J15. SAI5_RXD0 Receive Data 0
40 J15. SAI5_RXC Receive Bit Clock

Please note that all the signals are 0-3.3V level.

Device mapping[edit | edit source]

The device mapping depends on the used device and the device tree configuration.

Device usage[edit | edit source]

The associated device can be accessed in Linux by standard stacks, such as pulse audio or alsalib.



DWM/DWS interface[edit | edit source]

DWM and DWS are DAVE WiFi addons that provide WiFi 802.11 bgn and Bluetooth connectivity.

Description[edit | edit source]

The DWM interface available on the Evaluation Kit at the connector J2.

J2 is a 30-pins 0.50mm Pitch SlimStack™ Receptacle. This connector is dedicated to the DWM/DWS optional add-on module.


DWM / DWS connector

Signals[edit | edit source]

The following table describes the interface signals:

Pin# SOM Pin# Pin name Pin function Pin Notes
1, 2 - 5V Power supply
3, 4 - 3.3V Power supply
5, 6, 9, 10, 19 - DGND Ground
7 J15.18 TIWI_MMC2_CMD
8 J15.16 TIWI_MMC2_CLK
11 J15.20 TIWI_MMC2_DAT0
13 J15.22 TIWI_MMC2_DAT1
15 J15.24 TIWI_MMC2_DAT2
17 J15.26 TIWI_MMC2_DAT3
21 J15.114 UART2_RX Used only for BT peripheral
23 J15.110 UART2_CTS Used only for BT peripheral
24 J15.36 TIWI_BT_F5 Used only for BT peripheral
25 J15.114 UART2_TX Used only for BT peripheral
26 J15.38 TIWI_BT_F2 Used only for BT peripheral
27 J15.116 UART2_RTS Used only for BT peripheral
28 J15.56 TIWI_IRQ
29 J15.34 TIWI_BT_EN Used only for BT peripheral
30 J15.32 TIWI_EN
12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22 - N.C. Not connected

WiFi[edit | edit source]

Device mapping[edit | edit source]

The WiFi peripheral is mapped to the corresponding wlan<X> device in Linux. The network peripheral is visible under the ifconfig network configuration utility.

Device usage[edit | edit source]

The peripheral is used the standard kernel interface and network protocol stack.

Bluetooth[edit | edit source]

Device mapping[edit | edit source]

The BT peripheral is mapped to the /dev/ttymxc2 serial port in Linux. It can be mounted as an hci device with the hci tools commands.

Device usage[edit | edit source]

The peripheral is used by the standard kernel interface and BlueZ protocol stack.



GPIOs interface[edit | edit source]

Description[edit | edit source]

The GPIOs interface is available on the Evaluation Kit at the connector J8.

J8 is a 20x2x2.54mm pin strip header connector.


GPIOs connector (J8)

Signals[edit | edit source]

The following table describes the interface signals:

Pin# SOM Pin# Pin name Pin function Pin Notes
7 J15.150 SAI2_TXFS GPIO4_IO24
8 J15.144 SAI2_RXFS GPIO4_IO21
10 J15.140 SAI2_RXC GPIO4_IO22
11 J15.142 SAI2_RXD0 GPIO4_IO23
12 J15.146 SAI2_TXC GPIO4_IO25
13 J15.132 SPDIF_RX GPIO5_IO04
15 J15.134 SPDIF_TX GPIO5_IO03
16 J15.148 SAI2_TXD0 GPIO4_IO26
18 J15.138 SAI2_MCLK GPIO4_IO27
19 J15.122 ECSPI2_MOSI GPIO5_IO11
21 J15.120 ECSPI2_MISO GPIO5_IO12
22 J15.166 SAI5_MCLK GPIO3_IO25
23 J15.124 ECSPI2_SCLK GPIO5_IO10
24 J15.126 ECSPI2_SS0 GPIO5_IO13
26 J15.130 SPDIF_EXT_CLK GPIO5_IO05
27 J15.248 UART2_RXD GPIO5_IO24
28 J15.152 SAI3_MCLK GPIO5_IO02
29 J15.250 UART2_TXD GPIO5_IO25
31 J15.256 UART4_RXD GPIO5_IO28
32 J15.178 SAI5_RXFS GPIO3_IO19
33 J15.258 UART4_TXD GPIO5_IO29
35 J15.176 SAI5_RXD3 GPIO3_IO24
36 J15.174 SAI5_RXD2 GPIO3_IO23
37 J15.172 SAI5_RXD1 GPIO3_IO22
38 J15.170 SAI5_RXD0 GPIO3_IO21
40 J15.168 SAI5_RXC GPIO3_IO20
1, 17 - 3V3_CB +3.3V BOARD_PGOOD driven rail
2, 4 - 5V_VIN +5V Always powered
6, 9, 14, 20, 25, 30, 34, 39 - DGND Ground

All the GPIO signals are 0-3.3V level.

Device mapping[edit | edit source]

GPIOs are mapped into banks each of which contains 32 pins. They are named as GPIO<bank>_IO<pin>

Each pin can be addressed with an incremental number, calculated as follows: GPIO = 32 x (<bank> - 1) + <pin>

Device usage[edit | edit source]

Under Linux the GPIOs can be manipulated su sysfs export or with the gpio tools.


Electrical and Mechanical Documents[edit | edit source]

Please find here below the links for the ORCA Evaluation Kit schematics and the related documents (BOM and layout).


200px-Emblem-important.svg.png

Please note that SBC ORCA has been built around the ORCA SOM: on page 16 there is the SO-DIMM connector which separates the inside SOM core vs the external SBC. The SOM schematics are reserved and not published as documentation.
Off-page numbers in the SO-DIMM connector greater than 16, are referring to the SOM schematics and so not present in the available schematic pages

Schematics[edit | edit source]

Layout[edit | edit source]



Mechanical specifications[edit | edit source]

This page describes the mechanical characteristics of the ORCA SBC board.

Board layout[edit | edit source]

Assembly view: top
Assembly view: bottom

Dimensions[edit | edit source]

ORCA-EVK-dimensions.png

3D drawings[edit | edit source]

Mechanical data[edit | edit source]

Dimension Value
Width 103 mm
Depth 87 mm
Max component's height (top) 13.36 mm
Max component's height (bottom) 2.49 mm
PCB height 1.25 mm