Automotive and E-mobility engineers are integrating more sophisticated Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) into vehicles to deliver richer user experiences. To meet this demand, Microchip has launched the AEC-Q100 Grade 2-qualified SAM9X75D5M System-in-Package (SiP) – a hybrid MCU powered by an Arm926EJ-S processor and 512 Mbit DDR2 SDRAM. It handles displays up to 10 inches at XGA (1024 × 768) resolution.
The Hybrid MCU Advantage
Part of Microchip’s hybrid MCU family, the SAM9X75D5M blends microprocessor-level performance and high-density memory with the familiar MCU development flow. Designers can stick with their preferred tools while adding RTOS support if needed.
Perfect for Automotive HMIs
Tailored for digital cockpit clusters, smart clusters on two- and three-wheelers, HVAC controls, EV chargers, and similar applications, this SiP simplifies development by integrating the MPU and DDR2 memory into one package.
It offers flexible interfaces like MIPI DSI, LVDS, and parallel RGB, plus ample buffer space for smooth graphics.
The streamlined PCB layout cuts routing headaches and eliminates discrete DRAM sourcing risks. As a hybrid MCU, it strikes the right balance of cost, performance, and power efficiency, ideal for upgrading from traditional MCUs to handle bigger displays and workloads.
By baking in the DDR2 memory, Microchip shields designers from volatile discrete memory markets and supply disruptions.
Rich Connectivity and Features
You’ll get CAN FD, USB, Gigabit Ethernet (GbE), Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN) support, plus built-in 2D graphics and audio.
Microchip rounds out HMI systems with maXTouch touch sensing (water-resistant even), power management, and connectivity ICs.
The company offers a broad lineup of 32-bit hybrid MCUs/MPUs and 64-bit Arm/RISC-V options, from consumer gadgets to space missions, including SOMs and SiPs for faster design cycles.
Development Made Easy
Get started with MPLAB X IDE and MPLAB Harmony, supporting FreeRTOS, Eclipse ThreadX, and bare-metal. Create graphics using Microchip Graphics Suite (MGS) or tools like Crank, LVGL, Altia, or Embedded Wizard. Evaluate with the SAM9X75 Curiosity LAN Kit (EV31H43A).
Pricing and Availability
The SAM9X75D5M-V/4TBVAO is available now at $9.12 each (5,000-unit quantities). Larger 1 Gbit/2 Gbit automotive versions are sampling. Buy direct from Microchip or contact a sales rep/distributor.
Explore more MPU solutions here.
Leadership Comment
“Microchip’s SAM9X75D5M product redefines the standard for automotive-grade solutions, combining a high-performance processor with memory in a single package and bringing benefits of a SiP to the automotive market,” said Rod Drake, corporate vice president of Microchip Technology’s MPU business unit. “One of the advantages of a SiP is that it provides significantly more RAM buffer space than a traditional MCU implementation and on a much more compact PCB than can be done with discrete memory giving designers options to fit complex designs into a small space.”
