Rugged AI Computing with Automotive Ethernet for Extreme Environments

In this article:

  1. Introduction
  2. Key Features and Benefits
  3. Applications and Industry Benefits
  4. Built for Extreme Environments
  5. Next-Generation NVIDIA System-on-Modules
  6. Technical Specifications: AI Rugged Computer RML A4AGX
  7. Summary

Introduction

The AI Rugged Computer RML A4AGX (SPE) is powered by the NVIDIA® Jetson AGX Orin™ System-on-Module (SoM). This variant, featuring Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) — also known as Automotive Ethernet — is specifically designed for automotive applications, previously referred to as BroadR-Reach technology. Each SPE interface is equipped with its own dedicated Network Interface Controller (NIC). Additionally, the rugged computer boasts eight GMSL2 camera inputs alongside CAN ports, enabling the simultaneous collection and processing of multi-sensor data.

Consequently, the AI Rugged Computer RML A4AGX (SPE) is ideal for inference, edge AI, and intelligent vision applications. The embedded system is also fitted with a PPS input for synchronisation with cameras and other sensors, as well as two integrated uBlox GNSS receivers, allowing for rapid implementation of RTK and heading functionalities without additional hardware.

Syslogic’s fanless AI edge computers from the rugged series rank among the most durable embedded systems worldwide. These units are perfectly suited for continuous 24/7 operation in automotive, off-highway, mobile machinery, and agricultural environments.

Key Features and Benefits

  • NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin 64GB SoM: Provides an industry-leading 275 TOPS of AI performance, ensuring fast and accurate processing for AI and machine learning applications. This enables deep learning inference and real-time decision-making for autonomous systems.
  • Single Pair Ethernet (SPE): Reduces wiring complexity while enabling high-speed data transmission, essential for real-time AI-driven decision-making. This simplifies system integration in modern vehicles and industrial machines.
  • 8x GMSL2 Camera Inputs: Supports high-resolution video input, making it ideal for applications requiring multiple vision sensors, such as autonomous navigation, industrial automation, and surveillance.
  • Dual uBlox GNSS Receivers with RTK Support: Enables centimetre-level positioning accuracy for precision-based applications, including autonomous farming, fleet management, and industrial robotics.
  • Rugged Fanless Design: Ensures operation in extreme conditions, resisting dust, water, shocks, and vibrations, making it suitable for off-road and industrial environments where reliability is crucial.
  • ISO 13766 & ISO 14982 Certification: Guarantees compliance with agricultural and off-highway EMC standards, making it a reliable choice for heavy machinery and field-based operations.

Applications and Industry Benefits

Automotive & Autonomous Vehicles

  • Enables real-time sensor fusion and decision-making for autonomous and semi-autonomous driving, improving vehicle safety and efficiency.
  • Supports multiple high-resolution cameras and LiDAR sensors for enhanced situational awareness, crucial for ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems).
  • Provides seamless integration with modern automotive Ethernet infrastructures, reducing the need for additional hardware and simplifying vehicle connectivity.
  • Enables predictive maintenance by processing sensor data to detect potential faults before they occur, reducing downtime.

Agriculture & Off-Highway Machinery

  • Allows AI-driven automation in precision farming, improving efficiency, reducing operational costs, and optimising yield predictions.
  • Enables autonomous navigation for tractors, harvesters, and other agricultural vehicles, reducing the need for human intervention and improving productivity.
  • Reduces environmental impact by optimising routes and resource usage, minimising fuel consumption and chemical applications.
  • Provides seamless integration with ISOBUS-compatible agricultural equipment, ensuring interoperability with modern farming technology.

Construction & Industrial Robotics

  • Provides AI-powered machine vision for automated inspection, site monitoring, and quality control in construction and manufacturing environments.
  • Enhances safety by enabling real-time hazard detection in heavy machinery, reducing accidents and improving workplace safety.
  • Supports seamless communication between smart industrial equipment through high-speed Ethernet and CAN bus integration, ensuring optimal efficiency in industrial automation.
  • Enables predictive maintenance, reducing unplanned downtime and extending equipment lifespan.

Smart Cities & Surveillance

  • Facilitates AI-driven traffic monitoring and smart infrastructure management, improving urban mobility and reducing congestion.
  • Powers intelligent video analytics for security and surveillance applications, enhancing real-time threat detection and response.
  • Enhances public safety through real-time anomaly detection and automated response systems, helping law enforcement and emergency response teams.
  • Supports advanced facial recognition and object detection, improving access control and perimeter security in critical areas.

Built for Extreme Environments

Designed to withstand the challenges of automotive and autonomous machine applications, the rugged computer is engineered for maximum durability, reliability, and compliance with industry standards. It meets the stringent EMC requirements of ISO 13766 and ISO 14982, ensuring certification for agricultural and off-highway applications.

The fanless, robust design is certified to operate within a temperature range of -25°C to +70°C and carries an IP67/IP69 rating for protection against dust and water ingress. The system is also highly resistant to shock and vibration, making it ideal for 24/7 deployment in demanding environments. Powered by the latest generation of NVIDIA Jetson SoM technology, this AI-enabled rugged computer guarantees long-term availability, with NVIDIA ensuring support until at least 2032.

Next-Generation NVIDIA System-on-Modules

At the heart of the RML A4AGX is the Jetson AGX Orinâ„¢ SoM. This compact yet powerful module delivers 275 TOPS of AI processing capability and includes 64GB of RAM. Featuring a high-performance CPU and GPU built on NVIDIA’s Ampere architecture, this rugged computer paves the way for advanced autonomous vehicle and machine applications.

For developers, the system comes pre-installed with the NVIDIA JetPack SDK, providing an optimised development environment. The JetPack SDK includes a Linux kernel, an Ubuntu desktop environment, and an extensive suite of GPU computing, multimedia, graphics, and computer vision libraries. Additionally, it supports DeepStream for video analytics, as well as ROS2 and Isaac Sim for robotics development. This comprehensive toolset allows engineers to rapidly deploy AI solutions with minimal development time.

Technical Specifications: AI Rugged Computer RML A4AGX

  • Processor: NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin 64GB SoM with 275 TOPS AI performance
  • Networking: 4x 100/1000 BASE-T1 Single Pair Ethernet with 4 dedicated NICs, ensuring high-speed, low-latency data transfer
  • High-Speed Ethernet: 1x 10Gbit Ethernet, 1x Gbit Ethernet for additional connectivity
  • Camera Inputs: 8x GMSL2 camera inputs with Power over Coax, supporting high-resolution video capture
  • CAN Interface: 2x CAN 2.0A/B, CAN FD support, isolated (expandable to 6 CAN ports), enabling seamless vehicle and machine integration
  • USB Connectivity: 1x USB 3.1 (Type-A, IP67 rated) for fast data transfer and peripheral support
  • Wireless Connectivity: Cellular 5G, GNSS & WiFi support for enhanced communication capabilities
  • Storage: NVMe SSD storage up to 2TB (expandable to 4TB and 8TB), ensuring ample space for AI workloads and sensor data

Summary

The Syslogic RML A4AGX AI-enabled rugged computer represents a leap forward in embedded computing, combining advanced AI processing with robust, automotive-grade connectivity. Designed for extreme environments, it supports high-speed sensor fusion, real-time decision-making, and precise geolocation. Its integration of NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin technology ensures high-performance AI capabilities, while its rugged design enables reliable operation in automotive, industrial, and smart city applications. Future-proofed with long-term NVIDIA support, this powerful system is set to drive the next generation of AI-driven automation across multiple industries.

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