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  • MCIMX6Q6AVT10AD: Unlocking the Value of a Quad-Core Cortex-A9 Processor in Embedded Computing

    Product Overview

    The MCIMX6Q6AVT10AD is a high-performance application-class microprocessor from NXP’s i.MX 6 series, built on the ARM® Cortex®-A9 architecture. It features a quad-core CPU running at 1GHz, integrated 3D graphics acceleration, full HD video encode/decode capabilities, and supports an industrial-grade operating temperature range of –40°C to +105°C.

    Designed to support robust multitasking, multimedia workloads, and extensive I/O integration, this processor is widely deployed in industrial human-machine interfaces (HMIs), edge computing nodes, in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) systems, and high-end medical equipment. The MCIMX6Q6AVT10AD comes in a compact 21mm × 21mm MAPBGA-624 package and supports both DDR3 and LPDDR2 memory, making it an excellent fit for space-constrained systems with dense I/O requirements and complex integration demands.

    Architecture Overview

    The MCIMX6Q6AVT10AD is built on an asymmetric multicore architecture, integrating a quad-core Cortex-A9 CPU subsystem, GPU, VPU, memory controller, and a wide range of industrial I/O interfaces. It offers a balanced combination of computing performance, power efficiency, and high system integration.

    Key Module

    Technical Features

    CPU

    Quad-core ARM Cortex-A9 with NEON SIMD and VFPv3 floating-point support

    Core Frequency

    1.0 GHz (typical)

    GPU

    Vivante GC2000, supports OpenGL ES 2.0 / 1.1

    VPU

    Hardware codec for H.264, MPEG-4, VP8 (up to 1080p@30fps)

    Memory Interface

    DDR3 / LPDDR2, 64-bit bus, up to 1066 MT/s

    Package

    21mm × 21mm, 0.8mm pitch, MAPBGA-624

    Operating Temp.

    –40°C to +105°C (Industrial grade)

    The processor also integrates dual Gigabit Ethernet MACs, SATA-II controller, PCIe, USB OTG, CAN, UART, SPI, and I²C interfaces, enabling robust connectivity and flexible system expansion for industrial applications.

    System Integration Value

    Real-Time Multitasking with Multicore Architecture

    The quad-core Cortex-A9 architecture efficiently supports embedded Linux or Android environments, making it ideal for real-time task scheduling in GUI interaction, multimedia processing, and sensor fusion scenarios.

    Advanced Multimedia and Graphics Capabilities

    With integrated Vivante GPU and VPU, the processor enables hardware-accelerated 1080p video playback and OpenGL ES rendering, significantly enhancing HMI responsiveness and multimedia experience in embedded systems.

    Industrial-Grade Environmental Resilience

    The “AD” suffix denotes industrial temperature compliance from –40°C to +105°C, allowing stable long-term operation in outdoor equipment, transportation systems, or energy monitoring platforms.

    High-Density I/O for Simplified System Design

    Featuring a broad range of high- and low-speed interfaces—such as PCIe, USB, CAN-FD, I²C, and UART—the processor supports diverse subsystems for data acquisition, storage, communication, and display, reducing dependency on external components and saving PCB space.

    Application Use Cases

    Application

    Key Characteristics

    Industrial HMI Controllers

    Combines touch display, graphics rendering, and multi-interface control

    Edge Video Processing Nodes

    Integrates video capture, hardware decoding, and network transmission

    In-Vehicle Infotainment Systems

    Supports CAN bus, GPS, and multimedia playback capabilities

    Medical Diagnostic Terminals

    Handles high-resolution imaging with secure boot support

    Energy Gateways & Monitoring

    Manages multi-channel sensor data with real-time edge processing

    Development Ecosystem & Design Recommendations

    • Software Support:NXP provides complete Yocto Linux and Android BSPs with GPU/VPU driver support.
    • Evaluation Platform:The NXP SABRE development board is recommended for fast prototyping and validation.
    • Power Management:For efficient multi-rail supply, NXP’s PMIC (e.g., PF0100) is suggested.
    • Memory Topology:Supports DDR3 Fly-by topology; simulation with IBIS models is advised.
    • Boot Configuration:Supports boot from eMMC, SPI NOR, or NAND, with secure boot features enabled.

    As a quad-core Cortex-A9 industrial-grade processor, the MCIMX6Q6AVT10AD delivers an excellent balance of performance, multimedia capability, I/O flexibility, and environmental durability. Its high level of integration reduces BOM cost and design complexity, making it ideal for embedded systems that demand reliability, maintainability, and multi-functionality. Currently in active production, it is well-suited for long-lifecycle, platform-based product development, offering strong practical value and scalability for OEMs and industrial system integrators.

    To explore more component specifications, packaging models, and inventory availability, please visit the WIN SOURCE official website.

    © 2025 Win Source Electronics. All rights reserved. This content is protected by copyright and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Win Source Electronics.

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