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In today’s fast-paced and technology-driven world, the manufacturing industry is undergoing a profound transformation. The convergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized industrial operations, leading to increased efficiency, productivity, and profitability. In this article, we will explore how AI-driven IoT is transforming manufacturing and how the AI Gateway from TECHBASE is playing a pivotal role in this revolution.

The Power of AI-driven IoT in Manufacturing

The integration of AI and IoT technologies has unlocked unprecedented opportunities for manufacturers. AI-driven IoT systems enable the collection, analysis, and utilization of vast amounts of data generated by interconnected devices on the factory floor. This data-driven approach empowers manufacturers with actionable insights and predictive capabilities, ultimately optimizing processes and enhancing decision-making.

Enhancing Efficiency and Productivity

AI-driven IoT solutions bring a new level of automation and optimization to manufacturing processes. By leveraging AI algorithms, IoT devices can autonomously monitor and control various aspects of production, reducing human error and increasing efficiency. Smart sensors, for example, can detect anomalies in equipment performance, enabling predictive maintenance to prevent breakdowns and minimize downtime.

Furthermore, AI-driven IoT systems facilitate real-time data analysis, enabling manufacturers to identify bottlenecks, streamline workflows, and optimize resource allocation. This data-driven approach empowers manufacturers to make informed decisions that result in increased productivity and reduced costs.

Improving Quality Control and Product Traceability

Maintaining consistent product quality is a top priority for manufacturers. AI-driven IoT solutions play a vital role in achieving this objective. By continuously monitoring the production process, IoT sensors can detect deviations from desired quality standards. Leveraging AI algorithms, manufacturers can proactively identify potential quality issues, enabling them to take corrective measures before defects occur.

Moreover, AI-driven IoT enables robust product traceability throughout the manufacturing lifecycle. With real-time data capture and analysis, manufacturers can track and trace raw materials, components, and finished products, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and enhancing transparency.

TECHBASE’s AI GATEWAY series, world-first industrial gateway utilizing Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 and Google Coral TPU

Optimizing Supply Chain Management

The integration of AI-driven IoT technologies in manufacturing extends beyond the factory walls. These technologies are transforming supply chain management, optimizing logistics, and ensuring efficient inventory management. By leveraging real-time data from IoT devices, manufacturers gain visibility into the entire supply chain, enabling accurate demand forecasting, reducing stockouts, and optimizing inventory levels.

The marriage of AI and IoT has brought unprecedented advancements to the manufacturing industry. From enhancing efficiency and productivity to improving quality control and optimizing supply chain management, AI-driven IoT is transforming the way manufacturers operate. With the AI Gateway from TECHBASE, manufacturers can harness the full potential of AI-driven IoT, gaining a competitive edge in an increasingly digital world. Embracing these transformative technologies is crucial for manufacturers to thrive in the era of Industry 4.0.

AI GATEWAY with Coral TPU enhancement 

Neuron network capabilities enhance CM4-based devices, not only collecting and sending data, but also allows local data change predictions and allows direct management on-site. This feature gives the possibility for various applications, such as data analysing and establishing trends predictions, smart alarms and smart monitoring, local notification control, etc.

Used Edge TPU coprocessor via PCI-Express bus is capable of performing 4 trillion operations per second (TOPS), using 0.5 watts for each TOPS (2 TOPS per watt). Google Coral easily integrates with Raspberry Pi Compute Module in Linux and optionally in Windows with full support of TensorFlow Lite framework and AutoML Vision Edge solution.

TECHBASE’s AI GATEWAY series, world-first industrial gateway utilizing Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 and Google Coral TPU
TECHBASE’s AI GATEWAY series, world-first industrial gateway utilizing Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 and Google Coral TPU

AI GATEWAY with available expansion cards 

AI GATEWAY 9500-CM4 can be equipped with serial RS-232/485 ports, range of digital and analog I/Os, USB, HDMI and Ethernet. Interfaces can be expanded with additional I/Os and opto-isolation, relays, Ethernet, 1-Wire, CAN, M-Bus Master and Slave, accelerometer, OLED screen and many more features like TPM Security Chip, eSIM and SuperCap backup power support. 

AI GATEWAY 9500-CM4 series also offers a standard PCI module support for various wireless communication protocols, such as:

  • GSM modem (4G/LTE and fast 5G modem, interchangeable with Coral TPU)
  • economic NarrowBand-IoT technology
  • LoRa, ZigBee, Sigfox, Wireless M-Bus
  • secondary Wi-Fi/Bluetooth interface or Wi-Fi Hi-Power
  • custom wireless interfaces

ModBerry AI GATEWAY 9500-CM4 availability

First prototypes are being developed, since Compute Module 4 is already available for the purchase. Delivery time for various configurations of AI GATEWAY will be approximately 2 months, depending on the CM4 supply on the market and chosen expansion cards. For more information contact TECHBASE’s Sales Department via email or Live Chat here.

In recent years, the concept of smart cities has gained significant attention as urban areas seek innovative solutions to improve sustainability, efficiency, and quality of life. The combination of Industrial Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies has paved the way for transforming traditional cities into smart, connected environments. In this article, we will explore how Industrial IoT and AI are powering smart cities and how the AI Gateway from TECHBASE is playing a pivotal role in building sustainable urban ecosystems.

The Role of Industrial IoT and AI in Smart Cities

Industrial IoT and AI technologies are the driving forces behind the transformation of cities into smart, connected ecosystems. By leveraging IoT sensors and devices, cities can collect vast amounts of real-time data from various sources such as infrastructure, transportation systems, and public services. AI algorithms then analyze this data, generating valuable insights and enabling intelligent decision-making for sustainable urban development.

Enhancing Sustainability and Resource Management

One of the primary goals of smart cities is to optimize resource management and reduce environmental impact. Industrial IoT and AI technologies play a crucial role in achieving these objectives. IoT sensors deployed throughout the city can monitor energy consumption, waste management, water usage, and air quality in real-time. This data, when analyzed by AI algorithms, enables efficient resource allocation, identifies areas for improvement, and supports the implementation of sustainable initiatives.

For instance, AI algorithms can optimize energy consumption by analyzing patterns and adjusting lighting and HVAC systems accordingly. Additionally, IoT-enabled waste management systems can optimize garbage collection routes based on real-time data, reducing fuel consumption and minimizing the environmental impact.

Improving Public Safety and Infrastructure Management

Smart cities prioritize the safety and well-being of their residents. Industrial IoT and AI technologies play a vital role in enhancing public safety and optimizing infrastructure management. IoT sensors embedded in urban infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and buildings, can monitor structural health and detect potential hazards or maintenance requirements.

AI algorithms can analyze the data from these sensors, providing insights into the condition of infrastructure and predicting maintenance needs. This proactive approach enables authorities to address issues before they become critical, improving public safety and reducing infrastructure downtime.

Optimizing Transportation and Mobility

Efficient transportation and mobility are essential components of smart cities. Industrial IoT and AI technologies revolutionize the way people move within urban environments. Connected transportation systems, such as smart traffic lights and intelligent parking solutions, enable efficient traffic management, reduce congestion, and decrease travel times.

AI algorithms analyze real-time data from various sources, including public transportation systems, traffic flow, and historical patterns, to optimize routing and scheduling. This leads to improved public transportation services, reduced commute times, and enhanced overall mobility.

TECHBASE’s AI GATEWAY series, world-first industrial gateway utilizing Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 and Google Coral TPU

The AI Gateway from TECHBASE

TECHBASE, a leading provider of Industrial IoT solutions, offers an advanced AI Gateway that is instrumental in the development of smart cities. The AI Gateway acts as a central hub, seamlessly integrating data from diverse IoT devices and systems across the city. TECHBASE’s AI Gateway is designed to handle large volumes of data in real-time and supports multiple communication protocols, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of IoT devices. Its powerful AI capabilities enable efficient data analysis, predictive modeling, and decision-making for sustainable urban development.

By leveraging the AI Gateway from TECHBASE, smart city planners and authorities can harness the full potential of Industrial IoT and AI technologies to build resilient, sustainable, and interconnected urban environments. Industrial IoT and AI are revolutionizing the concept of smart cities, transforming traditional urban areas into sustainable, connected ecosystems. By leveraging IoT devices and AI algorithms, cities can enhance sustainability, optimize resource management, improve public safety, and optimize transportation and mobility. The AI Gateway from TECHBASE plays a pivotal role in building smart cities

AI GATEWAY with Coral TPU enhancement 

Neuron network capabilities enhance CM4-based devices, not only collecting and sending data, but also allows local data change predictions and allows direct management on-site. This feature gives the possibility for various applications, such as data analysing and establishing trends predictions, smart alarms and smart monitoring, local notification control, etc.

Used Edge TPU coprocessor via PCI-Express bus is capable of performing 4 trillion operations per second (TOPS), using 0.5 watts for each TOPS (2 TOPS per watt). Google Coral easily integrates with Raspberry Pi Compute Module in Linux and optionally in Windows with full support of TensorFlow Lite framework and AutoML Vision Edge solution.

TECHBASE’s AI GATEWAY series, world-first industrial gateway utilizing Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 and Google Coral TPU
TECHBASE’s AI GATEWAY series, world-first industrial gateway utilizing Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 and Google Coral TPU

AI GATEWAY with available expansion cards 

AI GATEWAY 9500-CM4 can be equipped with serial RS-232/485 ports, range of digital and analog I/Os, USB, HDMI and Ethernet. Interfaces can be expanded with additional I/Os and opto-isolation, relays, Ethernet, 1-Wire, CAN, M-Bus Master and Slave, accelerometer, OLED screen and many more features like TPM Security Chip, eSIM and SuperCap backup power support. 

AI GATEWAY 9500-CM4 series also offers a standard PCI module support for various wireless communication protocols, such as:

  • GSM modem (4G/LTE and fast 5G modem, interchangeable with Coral TPU)
  • economic NarrowBand-IoT technology
  • LoRa, ZigBee, Sigfox, Wireless M-Bus
  • secondary Wi-Fi/Bluetooth interface or Wi-Fi Hi-Power
  • custom wireless interfaces

ModBerry AI GATEWAY 9500-CM4 availability

First prototypes are being developed, since Compute Module 4 is already available for the purchase. Delivery time for various configurations of AI GATEWAY will be approximately 2 months, depending on the CM4 supply on the market and chosen expansion cards. For more information contact TECHBASE’s Sales Department via email or Live Chat here.

Low Raspberry Pi availability on the IoT market

Many companies have been impacted by the global chip shortage and supply chain issues, including electronics and automotive industries. This problem also touched the main producer of small board computers, Raspberry Pi. Company’s CEO, Eben Upton said that they had difficulty meeting demand for many of its products, but that it was taking steps to ensure devices were delivered despite supply constraints. 

„We’ve consistently been able to build around half a million of our single-board computers and Compute Module products each month. Where units do appear, bots often attempt to scalp stock which is then resold at higher prices elsewhere” said Upton. 

Sadly, for the average consumer who wants to build home projects or test software with Pi products, Raspberry Pi is prioritizing commercial and industrial customers. 

TECHBASE’s ModBerry with Compute Module 4 supply

As one of leading manufacturers of industrial solutions based on Raspberry Pi Compute Modules, TECHBASE is steadily fulfilling all the orders according to the schedule agreed with customers. For best customer service TECHBASE chose to order CM4 modules in advance to provide best lead time for all deliveries. Standard configurations of ModBerry 500 devices with Compute Module 4 are now shipped within several weeks.

Alternatively TECHBASE designed a solution to provide a first experience for customers and software developers, delivering a Raspberry Pi based platform available pre-purchase. The demand for hardware is high, therefore a remote development platform can speed up the process and make it easier for users in need of testing their products.

Raspberry Pi CM4 remote access platform

As part of the service, you will be able to try out the Raspberry Pi Ecosystem based on the CM4 module. Devices equipped with this module are located at our company headquarters and will be available for testing for 1 month. After contacting our representative, we will be able to adjust specific hardware resources and connect specific sensors and meters so that you have an insight into the specific functioning of the device.

This form of device sharing will allow you to test your software on the Raspberry Pi platform without the need to physically purchase the device. After the trial period expires, you will be able to either extend the access to the remote platform after consulting our sales department or purchase devices with parameters ideally suited to you and your software’s needs.

This Remote Access Program is mainly aimed at Software Developers, application developers for monitoring and processing data from external sources, IoT startups and all industries related to home and industrial automation. Thanks to the program, you can gain access to the latest technologies, try your software without the need to purchase over-expensive solutions and establish long-term cooperation with a hardware manufacturer on preferential terms. By getting to know our hardware, you will be able to offer your customers a fully complete service.


Hardware available via Remote Access Platform

Two devices can be configured for users applying to TECHBASE’s remote access program. Both of these devices are powered with Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 and offer a wide array of applications:

ModBerry 500 CM4ClusBerry-2M

About cluster Raspberry Pi solution

For smaller projects and IoT prototyping, the company designed a smaller and ready-to-deploy cluster device including two independent ModBerry I/O mainboards and two Compute Module 4’s. The ClusBerry-2M offers similar resources as double ModBerry 500-CM4 with software cluster management tools – Docker and K3s Lightweight Kubernetes solutions.

Each module can perform various tasks, from standard I/O gateway, wireless modem, Gigabit LAN router to NAS file server and AI Gateway with Google Coral Edge TPU modules. You can manage your cluster modules at ease, boot modules from one to another, upgrade firmware crosswise and provide safe operation of each module. The modules are connected to each other to provide such features and allow quick healing of the dual cluster.

Ease of transition from remote to target hardware solutions

Remote platform users after the R&D process is complete will be able to smoothly transition to target solutions, in this case the Raspberry Pi based hardware. TECHBASE offers support for the entire process, from remote access to the solution, user manual for devices and servers, and the subsequent selection of appropriate hardware devices and their perfect adaptation to the end used needs.

Join CM4 Remote Access program

The program is available to Software Developers and customers interested in remote testing of IoT hardware solutions after brief consultation with our Sales Department. To participate in the program, contact us via email: sales@a2s.pl or Live Chat at: https://iiot-shop.com/ 

Important update for the Dev Board / SoM

If you have a Coral Dev Board or Coral SoM, please install latest Mendel update as soon as possible to receive a critical fix to part of the SoC power configuration. To get it, just log onto your board and install the update as follows:

Dev Board / Som

This will install a patch from NXP for the Dev Board / SoM’s SoC, without which it’s possible the SoC will overstress and the lifetime of the device could be reduced. If you recently flashed your board with the latest system image, you might already have this fix (we also updated the flashable image today), but it never hurts to fetch all updates, as shown above.

Source: https://developers.googleblog.com/2021/06/developer-updates-from-coral.html

WebCoral – Coral USB accelerator for Chrome browser

If you don’t like typing the command line in the terminal, Google has added Coral USB Accelerator support in Chrome over WebUSB. Only works on Linux and macOS for now. You’ll need to set up a web server and enter some commands to set up device rules on Linux, but when you’re done, go to http: // localhost: 8000 in Chrome and flash your USB accelerator software. Try some models, such as SSD MobileNet v2, with your own images.

 Edge TPU

New features of Edge TPU brought to ModBerry series

In October 2020, with the release of the latest Compute Module 4 from Rasbperry Pi Foundation, TECHBASE announced an upgraded device from ModBerry 500 series, called ModBerry 500 CM4. Thanks to the high-performance PCI-Express bus introduced in Compute Module 4 and Raspberry Pi community, the device itself presents support for a wide range of new applications, such as use of Google’s Artificial Intelligence modules at ease.

Therefore, TECHBASE designed a new device, called ModBerry AI GATEWAY 9500-CM4, utilizing the vertical format of ModBerry 9500, latest Compute Module 4 and Google’s Coral TPU. Installation-ready AI GATEWAY allows direct application in industrial fields.

TECHBASE’s AI GATEWAY series, world-first industrial gateway utilizing Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 and Google Coral TPU

AI GATEWAY with Coral TPU enhancement 

Neuron network capabilities enhance CM4-based devices, not only collecting and sending data, but also allows local data change predictions and allows direct management on-site. This feature gives the possibility for various applications, such as data analysing and establishing trends predictions, smart alarms and smart monitoring, local notification control, etc.

Used Edge TPU coprocessor via PCI-Express bus is capable of performing 4 trillion operations per second (TOPS), using 0.5 watts for each TOPS (2 TOPS per watt). Google Coral easily integrates with Raspberry Pi Compute Module in Linux and optionally in Windows with full support of TensorFlow Lite framework and AutoML Vision Edge solution.

TECHBASE’s AI GATEWAY series, world-first industrial gateway utilizing Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 and Google Coral TPU
TECHBASE’s AI GATEWAY series, world-first industrial gateway utilizing Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 and Google Coral TPU

AI GATEWAY with available expansion cards 

ModBerry AI GATEWAY 9500-CM4 can be equipped with serial RS-232/485 ports, range of digital and analog I/Os, USB, HDMI and Ethernet. Interfaces can be expanded with additional I/Os and opto-isolation, relays, Ethernet, 1-Wire, CAN, M-Bus Master and Slave, accelerometer, OLED screen and many more features like TPM Security Chip, eSIM and SuperCap backup power support. 

ModBerry AI GATEWAY 9500-CM4 series also offers a standard PCI module support for various wireless communication protocols, such as:

  • GSM modem (4G/LTE and fast 5G modem, interchangeable with Coral TPU)
  • economic NarrowBand-IoT technology
  • LoRa, ZigBee, Sigfox, Wireless M-Bus
  • secondary Wi-Fi/Bluetooth interface or Wi-Fi Hi-Power
  • custom wireless interfaces

ModBerry AI GATEWAY 9500-CM4 availabilityFirst prototypes are being developed, since Compute Module 4 is already available for the purchase. Delivery time for various configurations of AI GATEWAY will be approximately 2 months, depending on the CM4 supply on the market and chosen expansion cards. For more information contact TECHBASE’s Sales Department via email or Live Chat here.

ZigBee Mesh used in end-point IoT devices

ZigBee mesh‚s usefulness for IoT is partly due to the fact that it is an open standard. The same products can be used all over the world, which gives customers a large selection of available option. The high competition between products and producers means that the created solutions are innovative, characterized by high quality and give customers a considerable choice. Many suppliers of cooperating elements of this ecosystem mean that they are not limited to any specific brands or specific semiconductor manufacturers.

ZigBee Mesh. Source: ZigBee Alliance
ZigBee Mesh. Source: ZigBee Alliance

Compatibility is also promoted, as ZigBee Mesh 3.0 brings all the various ZigBee environments to a single, unified standard. Over the years, ZigBee has covered applications ranging from industrial to business to home, which has led to the development of separate service standards. ZigBee 3.0 collects all these various applications under one umbrella. This eliminates the need for mediation bridges between different sets of ZigBee supporting devices. All of them will be able to communicate directly, regardless of type.

Competitiveness of ZigBee based solutions

With a maximum data bandwidth of 250 kbps at 2.4 GHz, ZigBee is slower than other popular wireless standards such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, but it doesn’t matter in typical sensor applications. ZigBee Mesh is designed to send small data packets at relatively long intervals, which is usually sufficient to collect data from temperature sensors, safety sensors, air quality monitoring systems and similar subsystems. In the meantime, the low bandwidth affects the low power needed for the system to work, so that ZigBee nodes can usually work for many years on a single AAA battery.

ZigBee Power Consumption. Source: ZigBee Alliance
ZigBee Power Consumption. Source: ZigBee Alliance

With low power consumption, ZigBee supporting products typically have a short transmission range – typically from 10 to 15 meters, and the signal they emit is easily disturbed by obstacles on the route, or changes in the environment. However, the beauty of ZigBee devices lies in their work as part of a lattice topology network, where each of them transmits signals between themselves over a total of longer distances. The grid topology also means that damage to a single device will not stop the entire network, as communication can simply be redirected.

Data security via ZigBee wireless technology

ZigBee 3.0 has introduced an advanced set of tools that allows designers to introduce reliable networks with a balanced security policy and ease of installation. Available features will be constantly updated to respond to emerging threats. The security solution used is based on the ZigBee PRO grating protocol, which was originally created for the ZigBee Smart Energy profile. It is currently used by hundreds of millions of media consumption meters around the world, without detecting any security holes.

New features include device-unique authentication, when connecting to the mesh network, updating of keys used during work, secure software update via wireless network and data encryption at the logical layer of the link.

Industrial use of ZigBee Mesh

One of industrial IoT devices, supporting ZigBee Mesh technology is eModGATE from TECHBASE. Economical, ESP32-based solution can serve as an end-point in any installation or works well as a gateway, gathering data from scattered sensor mesh across the installation. For more information check Industrial IoT Shop with all the configuration options for eModGATE, including ZigBee modem.

Radxa, in collaboration with Rockchip’s Toybrick division, began sampling the new community-supported SBC built around Rockchip RK3568 with NPU. ROCK 3A is basically a little brother of ROCK Pi 4, with some improvements from the experience on ROCK Pi 4, the main features are:

  • RK3568 based, Quad A55 up to 2GHz, Mali G52 GPU, 0.8T NPU
  • pluggable eMMC module, 2/4/8GB LPDDR4 3200MT/s, dram controller frequency up to 1560MHz
  • QC/PD power support, with a new generation QC/PD protocol IC
  • Two USB2 same as ROCK Pi 4, two USB3(1x OTG+1x HOST), the two USB3 can be configured in SATA mode with a SATA breakout cable
  • GbE with PoE support
  • M.2 M key for NVMe with PCIe 3.0 x2 lanes
  • M.2 E key for connectivity with PCIe 2.0 x1/SDIO/UART, support WiFi 6 cards
  • 1x MIPI DSI, 1x MIPI CSI, compatible with ROCK Pi 4
  • 40P GPIO mostly compatible with ROCK Pi 4

Source: https://forum.radxa.com/t/new-rock-3a-brought-to-you-by-radxa-and-rockchip/6800

Radxa ROCK 3A
Radxa ROCK 3A

ROCK 3A will run Debian 10, maintained by the Toybrick team. Other community distributions will also be supported too. Early samples(few) for developers are ready. A larger batch will be available in late August 2021. As for an alternative, Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 based devices are ready for orders.

ModBerry 500 CM4 an ultimate solution for IoT monitoring

TECHBASE’s ModBerry industrial computer series has received an update to Compute Module 4 and is available for orders. TECHBASE is leading manufacturer of Industrial Raspberry Pi and Industrial Compute Module solutions. ModBerry 500 series is fully compatible with all releases of Compute Module from Rasbperry Pi foundation.

ModBerry 500 CM4, First industrial computer based on Raspberry Pi’s Compute Module 4

Main features of updated device are:

  • up to 4x faster eMMC Flash with up to 32GB storage
  • up to 2x faster performance of CPU appllications than previous CM3 version
  • up to 8x more RAM (8GB LPDDR4-3200)
  • 1Gbit Ethernet interface
  • PCI 2.0 card support for NVMe SSD drive (via M.2)
  • two PCIe support for wireless modem solutions, i.e. LTE/5G modems

Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 world premiere

Few days ago, Raspberry Foundation announced new member of its family, a Rasbperry Pi Compute Module 4. It’s quite obvious, even from the first look, that the new module is very different from its predecessors. Main difference is a new form factor, leaving DDR2 SODIMM in the past.

The same 64-bit quad-core BCM2711 application processor as in Raspberry Pi 4B, the Compute Module 4 brings higher performance: faster CPU cores, better multimedia, more interfacing capabilities, and, for the first time, a choice of RAM densities and a wireless Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity options.

Compute Module 4 comes in 32 variants. Lite, as always, offers no eMMC memory, a and standard versions come with up to 8GB RAM, 32 eMMC Flash and wireless modem.

New Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 in new form factor

New features of Compute Module 4

  • 1.5GHz quad-core 64-bit ARM Cortex-A72 CPU as in Raspberry Pi 4 version B
  • 1GB, 2GB, 4GB or 8GB LPDDR4-3200 SDRAM
  • 8GB, 16GB or 32GB eMMC Flash storage for Standard version, Lite version without eMMC
  • Optional 2.4GHz and 5GHz IEEE 802.11b/g/n/ac wireless LAN and Bluetooth 5.0
  • Single-lane PCI Express 2.0 interface
  • Gigabit Ethernet PHY with IEEE 1588 support
  • Dual HDMI interfaces, at resolutions up to 4K
  • 28 GPIO pins, with up to 6 × UART, 6 × I2C and 5 × SPI

Source: https://www.raspberrypi.org/blog/raspberry-pi-compute-module-4/

New features of Edge TPU brought to ModBerry series

In October 2020, with the release of the latest Compute Module 4 from Rasbperry Pi Foundation, TECHBASE announced an upgraded device from ModBerry 500 series, called ModBerry 500 CM4. Thanks to the high-performance PCI-Express bus introduced in Compute Module 4 and Raspberry Pi community, the device itself presents support for a wide range of new applications, such as use of Google’s Artificial Intelligence modules at ease.

Therefore, TECHBASE designed a new device, called ModBerry AI GATEWAY 9500-CM4, utilizing the vertical format of ModBerry 9500, latest Compute Module 4 and Google’s Coral TPU. Installation-ready AI GATEWAY allows direct application in industrial fields.

TECHBASE’s AI GATEWAY series, world-first industrial gateway utilizing Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 and Google Coral TPU

AI GATEWAY with Coral TPU enhancement 

Neuron network capabilities enhance CM4-based devices, not only collecting and sending data, but also allows local data change predictions and allows direct management on-site. This feature gives the possibility for various applications, such as data analysing and establishing trends predictions, smart alarms and smart monitoring, local notification control, etc.

Used Edge TPU coprocessor via PCI-Express bus is capable of performing 4 trillion operations per second (TOPS), using 0.5 watts for each TOPS (2 TOPS per watt). Google Coral easily integrates with Raspberry Pi Compute Module in Linux and optionally in Windows with full support of TensorFlow Lite framework and AutoML Vision Edge solution.

TECHBASE’s AI GATEWAY series, world-first industrial gateway utilizing Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 and Google Coral TPU
TECHBASE’s AI GATEWAY series, world-first industrial gateway utilizing Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 and Google Coral TPU

AI GATEWAY with available expansion cards 

ModBerry AI GATEWAY 9500-CM4 can be equipped with serial RS-232/485 ports, range of digital and analog I/Os, USB, HDMI and Ethernet. Interfaces can be expanded with additional I/Os and opto-isolation, relays, Ethernet, 1-Wire, CAN, M-Bus Master and Slave, accelerometer, OLED screen and many more features like TPM Security Chip, eSIM and SuperCap backup power support. 

ModBerry AI GATEWAY 9500-CM4 series also offers a standard PCI module support for various wireless communication protocols, such as:

  • GSM modem (4G/LTE and fast 5G modem, interchangeable with Coral TPU)
  • economic NarrowBand-IoT technology
  • LoRa, ZigBee, Sigfox, Wireless M-Bus
  • secondary Wi-Fi/Bluetooth interface or Wi-Fi Hi-Power
  • custom wireless interfaces

ModBerry AI GATEWAY 9500-CM4 availabilityFirst prototypes are being developed, since Compute Module 4 is already available for the purchase. Delivery time for various configurations of AI GATEWAY will be approximately 2 months, depending on the CM4 supply on the market and chosen expansion cards. For more information contact TECHBASE’s Sales Department via email or Live Chat here.

New features of Edge TPU brought to ModBerry series

In October 2020, with the release of the latest Compute Module 4 from Rasbperry Pi Foundation, TECHBASE announced an upgraded device from ModBerry 500 series, called ModBerry 500 CM4. Thanks to the high-performance PCI-Express bus introduced in Compute Module 4 and Raspberry Pi community, the device itself presents support for a wide range of new applications, such as use of Google’s Artificial Intelligence modules at ease.

Therefore, TECHBASE designed a new device, called ModBerry AI GATEWAY 9500-CM4, utilizing the vertical format of ModBerry 9500, latest Compute Module 4 and Google’s Coral TPU. Installation-ready AI GATEWAY allows direct application in industrial fields.

TECHBASE’s AI GATEWAY series, world-first industrial gateway utilizing Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 and Google Coral TPU

AI GATEWAY with Coral TPU enhancement 

Neuron network capabilities enhance CM4-based devices, not only collecting and sending data, but also allows local data change predictions and allows direct management on-site. This feature gives the possibility for various applications, such as data analysing and establishing trends predictions, smart alarms and smart monitoring, local notification control, etc.

Used Edge TPU coprocessor via PCI-Express bus is capable of performing 4 trillion operations per second (TOPS), using 0.5 watts for each TOPS (2 TOPS per watt). Google Coral easily integrates with Raspberry Pi Compute Module in Linux and optionally in Windows with full support of TensorFlow Lite framework and AutoML Vision Edge solution.

TECHBASE’s AI GATEWAY series, world-first industrial gateway utilizing Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 and Google Coral TPU
TECHBASE’s AI GATEWAY series, world-first industrial gateway utilizing Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 and Google Coral TPU

AI GATEWAY with available expansion cards 

ModBerry AI GATEWAY 9500-CM4 can be equipped with serial RS-232/485 ports, range of digital and analog I/Os, USB, HDMI and Ethernet. Interfaces can be expanded with additional I/Os and opto-isolation, relays, Ethernet, 1-Wire, CAN, M-Bus Master and Slave, accelerometer, OLED screen and many more features like TPM Security Chip, eSIM and SuperCap backup power support. 

ModBerry AI GATEWAY 9500-CM4 series also offers a standard PCI module support for various wireless communication protocols, such as:

  • GSM modem (4G/LTE and fast 5G modem, interchangeable with Coral TPU)
  • economic NarrowBand-IoT technology
  • LoRa, ZigBee, Sigfox, Wireless M-Bus
  • secondary Wi-Fi/Bluetooth interface or Wi-Fi Hi-Power
  • custom wireless interfaces

ModBerry AI GATEWAY 9500-CM4 availabilityFirst prototypes are being developed, since Compute Module 4 is already available for the purchase. Delivery time for various configurations of AI GATEWAY will be approximately 2 months, depending on the CM4 supply on the market and chosen expansion cards. For more information contact TECHBASE’s Sales Department via email or Live Chat here.

ZigBee Mesh used in end-point IoT devices

ZigBee mesh‚s usefulness for IoT is partly due to the fact that it is an open standard. The same products can be used all over the world, which gives customers a large selection of available option. The high competition between products and producers means that the created solutions are innovative, characterized by high quality and give customers a considerable choice. Many suppliers of cooperating elements of this ecosystem mean that they are not limited to any specific brands or specific semiconductor manufacturers.

ZigBee Mesh. Source: ZigBee Alliance
ZigBee Mesh. Source: ZigBee Alliance

Compatibility is also promoted, as ZigBee Mesh 3.0 brings all the various ZigBee environments to a single, unified standard. Over the years, ZigBee has covered applications ranging from industrial to business to home, which has led to the development of separate service standards. ZigBee 3.0 collects all these various applications under one umbrella. This eliminates the need for mediation bridges between different sets of ZigBee supporting devices. All of them will be able to communicate directly, regardless of type.

Competitiveness of ZigBee based solutions

With a maximum data bandwidth of 250 kbps at 2.4 GHz, ZigBee is slower than other popular wireless standards such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, but it doesn’t matter in typical sensor applications. ZigBee Mesh is designed to send small data packets at relatively long intervals, which is usually sufficient to collect data from temperature sensors, safety sensors, air quality monitoring systems and similar subsystems. In the meantime, the low bandwidth affects the low power needed for the system to work, so that ZigBee nodes can usually work for many years on a single AAA battery.

ZigBee Power Consumption. Source: ZigBee Alliance
ZigBee Power Consumption. Source: ZigBee Alliance

With low power consumption, ZigBee supporting products typically have a short transmission range – typically from 10 to 15 meters, and the signal they emit is easily disturbed by obstacles on the route, or changes in the environment. However, the beauty of ZigBee devices lies in their work as part of a lattice topology network, where each of them transmits signals between themselves over a total of longer distances. The grid topology also means that damage to a single device will not stop the entire network, as communication can simply be redirected.

Data security via ZigBee wireless technology

ZigBee 3.0 has introduced an advanced set of tools that allows designers to introduce reliable networks with a balanced security policy and ease of installation. Available features will be constantly updated to respond to emerging threats. The security solution used is based on the ZigBee PRO grating protocol, which was originally created for the ZigBee Smart Energy profile. It is currently used by hundreds of millions of media consumption meters around the world, without detecting any security holes.

New features include device-unique authentication, when connecting to the mesh network, updating of keys used during work, secure software update via wireless network and data encryption at the logical layer of the link.

Industrial use of ZigBee Mesh

One of industrial IoT devices, supporting ZigBee Mesh technology is eModGATE from TECHBASE. Economical, ESP32-based solution can serve as an end-point in any installation or works well as a gateway, gathering data from scattered sensor mesh across the installation. For more information check Industrial IoT Shop with all the configuration options for eModGATE, including ZigBee modem.

ZigBee Mesh used in end-point IoT devices

ZigBee mesh‚s usefulness for IoT is partly due to the fact that it is an open standard. The same products can be used all over the world, which gives customers a large selection of available option. The high competition between products and producers means that the created solutions are innovative, characterized by high quality and give customers a considerable choice. Many suppliers of cooperating elements of this ecosystem mean that they are not limited to any specific brands or specific semiconductor manufacturers.

ZigBee Mesh. Source: ZigBee Alliance
ZigBee Mesh. Source: ZigBee Alliance

Compatibility is also promoted, as ZigBee Mesh 3.0 brings all the various ZigBee environments to a single, unified standard. Over the years, ZigBee has covered applications ranging from industrial to business to home, which has led to the development of separate service standards. ZigBee 3.0 collects all these various applications under one umbrella. This eliminates the need for mediation bridges between different sets of ZigBee supporting devices. All of them will be able to communicate directly, regardless of type.

Competitiveness of ZigBee based solutions

With a maximum data bandwidth of 250 kbps at 2.4 GHz, ZigBee is slower than other popular wireless standards such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, but it doesn’t matter in typical sensor applications. ZigBee Mesh is designed to send small data packets at relatively long intervals, which is usually sufficient to collect data from temperature sensors, safety sensors, air quality monitoring systems and similar subsystems. In the meantime, the low bandwidth affects the low power needed for the system to work, so that ZigBee nodes can usually work for many years on a single AAA battery.

ZigBee Power Consumption. Source: ZigBee Alliance
ZigBee Power Consumption. Source: ZigBee Alliance

With low power consumption, ZigBee supporting products typically have a short transmission range – typically from 10 to 15 meters, and the signal they emit is easily disturbed by obstacles on the route, or changes in the environment. However, the beauty of ZigBee devices lies in their work as part of a lattice topology network, where each of them transmits signals between themselves over a total of longer distances. The grid topology also means that damage to a single device will not stop the entire network, as communication can simply be redirected.

Data security via ZigBee wireless technology

ZigBee 3.0 has introduced an advanced set of tools that allows designers to introduce reliable networks with a balanced security policy and ease of installation. Available features will be constantly updated to respond to emerging threats. The security solution used is based on the ZigBee PRO grating protocol, which was originally created for the ZigBee Smart Energy profile. It is currently used by hundreds of millions of media consumption meters around the world, without detecting any security holes.

New features include device-unique authentication, when connecting to the mesh network, updating of keys used during work, secure software update via wireless network and data encryption at the logical layer of the link.

Industrial use of ZigBee Mesh

One of industrial IoT devices, supporting ZigBee Mesh technology is eModGATE from TECHBASE. Economical, ESP32-based solution can serve as an end-point in any installation or works well as a gateway, gathering data from scattered sensor mesh across the installation. For more information check Industrial IoT Shop with all the configuration options for eModGATE, including ZigBee modem.