Automated and simultaneous flashing of SOMs (Variscite)
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Context & Challenges
In this project, our client wanted to automate the flashing of their SOM (System on Module) before assembling its’ product. The SOM is the VAR-SOM-MX8M-PLUS module from Variscite, powered by the NXP i.MX 8M Plus processor, known for its performance and flexibility.
The goal was clear: provide a reliable SOM flashing solution that could easily meet their scaling demands.
However, the starting point was far from simple. SOM modules are delivered as “blank” platforms, without applications or a ready-to-use software environment. The challenge was therefore to take this standard hardware base and turn it into a fully operational solution capable of running the client’s application without complicating the integration process.
Several key challenges quickly emerged: how to standardize installations, reduce manual intervention to flash, how to power the SOM, and most importantly, ensure that every deployed system remained identical, stable and secure.
The Solution
At Neosoft Technologies, we handled the entire project and delivered a turnkey solution. It included the hardware design and production as well as the custom software development to automate the flashing.
Although this type of module is commonly used with embedded Linux environments, we needed a Windows based operator interface to be use on the production floor. We leverage LabVIEW to create the operator interface as well as to automate the flashing of 16 SOMs simultaneously.
Specifically, we built an optimized hardware box to simplify the insertion of the SOM module that would then automatically start the flashing process. The operator interface shows the progress as well as an indicator to let the operator know, what state each SOM is in.
The objective was not simply to “make the system work,” but to deliver something robust, repeatable, and easy to integrate into an industrial environment.
Multiple Flashing Automation independantly
One of the key aspects of the project was full flashing of multiple SOM independanly.
We developed a system that is capable of fully configuring each SOM starting from a blank module. Once the application is started, the process automates everything:
- installation of a software environment adapted for embedded use
- deployment of the client’s embedded applications onto the SOM
- system service configuration
- network setup and communication parameters
- system validation and functional checks
The result: almost no manual intervention, fewer errors, and significant time savings during flashing.
Scalable and easy to use solution
The solution was designed to be scalable and easy to use because it needed to be deployed on the production environment.
Up to 16 SOM can be flash simultaneously. Once the SOM is inserted into the SO-DIMM slot, the custom software will automatically start the flashing process independently and display the progress on the operator interface.
Bright colors are used to rapidly let the operator knows when to switch the SOM for the next unit to be flash.
Results & Benefits
In the end, the client was able to automate the flashing up to 16 SOM independently and repeatably with only having to insert/remove the SOM from the fixture.
The automated deployment process significantly reduced production setup time while improving overall reliability.
Today, the client benefits from:
- fast and consistent flashing process
- significantly reduced manual intervention
- simplified maintenance
This approach allows the client to confidently integrate their applications into their product while improving day-to-day operational efficiency.
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By choosing Neosoft for your embedded systems and automated deployment solutions, you benefit from proven technical expertise, an approach tailored to industrial environments, and reliable solutions designed to simplify integration and accelerate production deployment.
To discuss your project or specific requirements, feel free to contact us.