Mouser Electronics has commenced shipping ROHM Semiconductor’s ML63Q25x series of microcontrollers (MCUs), which are designed to embed artificial intelligence capabilities directly within edge devices. These advanced MCUs focus on applications spanning industrial automation, robotics, consumer electronics, and smart home systems, enabling real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance without dependence on network connectivity. This on-device AI approach not only minimises latency but also mitigates security risks associated with data transmission over networks.

According to ROHM, the ML63Q25x family executes anomaly detection and learning locally, identifying potential equipment failures before they occur. This proactive capability aims to enhance operational stability, reduce maintenance expenses, and minimise downtime in production environments. Central to this functionality is ROHM’s proprietary Solist-AI platform, which employs a lightweight three-layer neural network to deliver AI inference at the device level. This technology operates around 1,000 times faster than traditional software processing methods, powered by ROHM’s custom AI accelerator called AxlCORE-ODL.

Each MCU integrates a 32-bit Arm Cortex-M0+ processor with the AxlCORE-ODL AI accelerator and a broad array of peripheral circuits. These include a CAN FD controller, three-phase motor control PWM, dual A/D converters, analog comparators, and multiple communication interfaces such as I²C, SPI, and UART. The devices maintain low power consumption at approximately 40mW during AI processing, enhancing their suitability for diverse operational environments and equipment models. They are designed to operate over wide voltage (2.3V to 5.5V) and temperature (-40°C to 105°C) ranges, making them robust for industrial and residential applications alike.

To support developers and engineers, Mouser offers reference boards for these MCUs, the RB-D63Q2537 and RB-D63Q2557, which facilitate software debugging and FlashROM programming through an Arm debugger. These boards also provide connectivity to monitor the AI accelerator’s performance via FTDI’s USB-to-SPI interface (FT232H), streamlining evaluation and development efforts.

ROHM claims that by performing AI learning and inference entirely on the MCUs themselves, without recourse to external networks, the ML63Q25x series sets a new benchmark for edge intelligence. This capability is particularly crucial for industrial IoT applications and home appliances, where real-time anomaly detection and predictive maintenance can significantly improve reliability and cost efficiency. Industry data underscores the growing demand for such embedded AI solutions, driven by the need for smarter, autonomous devices that operate seamlessly and securely at the edge.

Overall, ROHM’s AI-enabled microcontrollers represent a significant advancement in embedded machine learning technology, combining energy-efficient hardware with sophisticated AI algorithms tailored for practical, real-world applications.

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Source: Noah Wire Services