Renesas has introduced a new high-performance microprocessor (MPU) in the RTOS-based RZ/A series that meets the growing demands of advanced human-machine interface (HMI) systems. The new RZ/A3M MPU comes with large SDRAM, SRAM and RTOS support to facilitate the seamless execution of complex tasks and real-time graphical displays. The RZ/A3M drives video and camera output on large LCD panels with resolutions up to 1280×800, addressing the display requirements in next-generation home appliances, industrial and office automation, healthcare devices and building control systems.
Similar to its existing RZ/A3UL, the RZ/A3M features a 64-bit Arm® Cortex®-A55 core with a maximum operating frequency of 1 GHz and 128 KB (kilobytes) of on-chip SRAM. By integrating high-speed 128MB DDR3L-SDRAM in a single System-in-Package (SiP), the device eliminates the complex task of designing a high-speed signal interface for connecting external memory.
The RZ/A3M is designed to reduce system costs and accelerate development. It supports both external NAND and NOR flash via QSPI for data and code storage. Paired with a driver, high-capacity NAND flash offers a cost-effective option for memory expansion. Additionally, the RZ/A3M’s BGA package has a unique pin layout with two main rows positioned on the outside edge. This layout simplifies PCB routing and enables a low-cost, dual-layer printed wiring board design, providing significant cost and time savings. This memory integration simplifies PCB design by reducing the routing complexity and minimising layout constraints.
Renesas offers a comprehensive HMI development environment that includes the Flexible Software Package (FSP), evaluation kits, development tools, and sample software. Graphical user interface (GUI) solutions from partner companies such as LVGL, Crank, SquareLine Studio, and Envox will be available for the RZ/A3M to facilitate rapid HMI graphics development.
