First AI/ML Accelerator Embedded in a Sub-Ghz SoC Pushes Intelligence to the Limit AUSTIN
Silicon Labs today introduced the new dual-band FG28 SoC, designed for long-range networks and protocols such as Amazon Sidewalk, Wi-SUN, and other proprietary protocols. A dual-band SoC, the FG28 includes radios for sub-Gigahertz (Ghz) and 2,4Ghz Bluetooth LE, as well as an integrated AI/ML accelerator for machine learning inference, as well as Silicon Labs' Secure Vault™ technology. , industry leader.
“The FG28 SoC addresses several key needs for our customers when it comes to developing and deploying low-power wide area networks,” said Daniel Cooley, CTO of Silicon Labs. “By including Bluetooth, it offers users an easy way to provision and deploy new devices on the network, while the sub-Ghz band is designed to support device communications beyond one mile, enabling new edge applications in areas like smart agriculture, smart cities, and neighborhood networks like Amazon Sidewalk.»
Dual band capabilities allow support of multiple protocols in a single design
As connectivity and computing power move to the edge, new emerging applications require solutions that can provide a "Swiss Army Knife" of connectivity options. By providing sub-Ghz connectivity via networks like Wi-SUN, the FG28 can serve as a battery-powered end-node in smart cities, for example as a garbage bin tracker to help locate them and check when they were last emptied, or in irrigation systems on multi-acre commercial farms, or as livestock trackers and health monitors on sprawling ranches. Bluetooth connectivity not only allows devices to be easily deployed on the network, but also allows operators to connect to the device locally for diagnostics, download data and much more. The FG28 SoC has several additional features that can open up new applications for sub-Ghz devices:
● Industry's first embedded AI/ML hardware accelerator in a sub-Ghz SoC, enabling machine learning inference at the edge to enable predictive maintenance warnings, soil condition monitoring for key conditions such as moisture levels and pH, and more.
● 1024 kB of flash storage and 256 kB of RAM, to meet the memory needs of a wide range of protocols and technology stacks.
● Medium and High Support for industry-leading Secure Vault to build greater trust in the device and allow designers to choose the level of security they need for their applications.
● Energy efficient radio core with low active and quiescent currents with fast turn-on times ideal for battery-powered end nodes.
Up to 49 general purpose input/output (GPIO) pins for robust peripheral connectivity.
Amazon Sidewalk compatibility drives connectivity beyond smart home walls
One of the most exciting developments in the IoT this past year was the opening of Amazon Sidewalk for developers. Amazon Sidewalk is a secure, ubiquitous, and always-on community network built by the community, for the community. Using smart home devices like cameras and speakers as gateways, Amazon Sidewalk offers a secure, reliable, and versatile connection that supports long-range use cases.
Developers and designers interested in developing for Amazon Sidewalk using Silicon Labs can watch the on-demand replay of the June 8 tech talk, "Designing Long Range Devices with Amazon Sidewalk."
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The FG28 is already in testing with general availability expected before the end of Q2023 28. In addition, the FGXNUMX will also be available in derivatives optimized for Amazon Sidewalk and Z-Wave Long-Range, and as a standalone MCU. Developers and designers should contact their Silicon Labs sales representative for more information.
To stay ahead of the latest IoT trends and stay on top of the latest tools, protocols and more, developers and designers can also sign up for Silicon Labs wireless training tech talks. With topics focused on Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Matter and LPWAN, the sessions are free both live and on demand.
