Thread, a networking protocol is redefining IoT communication with its low-power, self-healing mesh networking capabilities. Built on IPv6 and IEEE 802.15.4, Thread ensures secure, resilient, and scalable connectivity enabling seamless device-to-device communication across smart homes, industrial automation, and edge applications.
Pairing the Thread protocol with iWave’s i.MX 93 System on Module (SoM) unlocks unparalleled efficiency and performance. The i.MX 93 SoM is integrated with 802.15.4 (Thread) support, delivers a future-ready platform for IoT innovation. With advanced security features, ultra-low power consumption, and built-in AI acceleration, this SoM enables developers to create robust, scalable, and secure IoT solutions with ease.
The IW612 module integrated on the System on Module is a highly integrated 2.4/5 GHz dual-band 1×1 Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth/Bluetooth Low Energy 5.4 and 802.15.4 tri-radio single-chip solution optimized for a broad array of IoT and industrial applications. This high degree of integration contributes to very low system costs and a minimum external BOM while achieving efficient coexistence between all internal radios as well as external radios, such as LTE.
What is a Thread Network?
Thread is a low-power, wireless mesh networking protocol based on IEEE 802.15.4. Designed specifically for IoT applications, it operates in the 2.4 GHz frequency band and supports IP-based communication, allowing seamless integration with existing networks and internet infrastructure. Unlike traditional protocols such as Zigbee or Bluetooth, Thread emphasizes interoperability, reliability, and energy efficiency and are simple to install, highly secure, scalable to hundreds of devices and developed to run on low-power IEEE 802.15.4 chipsets.
Technical Advantages
- Low power consumption: Optimized for battery-powered devices, allowing years of operation on a single battery
- Mesh networking: Devices can relay messages, extending range without additional infrastructure
- Self-healing: The network automatically reroutes if a node fails or a connection is blocked
- IPv6-based: Native support for IP-based communication, simplifying integration with existing networks
- Security-focused: End-to-end encryption, device authentication, and message integrity verification
- Reliable: Designed for resilience in challenging RF environments with interference
Applications of Thread protocol on i.MX 93 System on Module
Smart Home and Building Automation
- Smart lighting and security systems with Thread-enabled communication.
- Secure and low-latency communication for smart locks and cameras
Industrial IoT (IIoT)
- Predictive maintenance and real-time monitoring of factory assets.
- Energy-efficient industrial sensor networks using low-power Thread connectivity.
Smart Cities and Infrastructure
- Smart traffic lights and environmental monitoring using Thread-based sensors.
- Scalable urban IoT networks with secure and reliable communication
i.MX 93 System on Module Overview
The i.MX 93 SoM is based on the NXP i.MX 93 applications processor. i.MX 93 applications processors delivers efficient machine learning (ML) acceleration and advanced security with integrated EdgeLock® secure enclave to support energy-efficient edge computing. The i.MX 93 applications processors are the first in the i.MX portfolio to integrate the scalable Arm Cortex-A55 core, bringing performance and energy efficiency to Linux®-based edge applications and the Arm Ethos™-U65 microNPU, enabling developers to create more capable, cost-effective and energy-efficient ML applications.
Key features of iW-RainboW-G50M
- NXP i.MX 9352 SoC
- 2GB LPDDR4X RAM & 16GB eMMC Flash
- 2-Lane MIPI-CSI and 4-Lane MIPI-DSI Interface
- NPU with up to 0.5 TOP/s Neural Network performance
- Supports 2 × 1Gbps Ethernet
- 2 x RGMII, 2 x CAN-FD, 1 x LVDS
- 1 x USB 2.0 OTG, 4 x USB 4.0 Host
- Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3 & IEEE802.15.4 connectivity
By integrating the Thread protocol on the i.MX 93 SoM, developers gain access to next-generation IoT connectivity that is secure, scalable, and power-efficient. This combination between Thread’s IP-based mesh networking and iWave’s i.MX93 SoM with advanced processing, security, and energy-efficient architecture creates a robust foundation for future-ready IoT solutions.
Whether for smart homes, industrial automation, or city-wide IoT networks, the integration of Thread on the i.MX 93 SoM empowers developers to build solutions that are highly reliable, interoperable, and energy-efficient. With its advanced features and multi-protocol support, this SoM is a game-changer for modern IoT applications, paving the way for a more connected and intelligent world.
iWave, an embedded systems engineering and solutions company, specializes in the design and manufacturing of embedded systems for the industrial, medical, and automotive vertical markets. iWave supports a wide portfolio of System on Modules, Single Board Computers and ODM Solutions such as telematics units, gateways, and HMI Solutions.
For more information feel free to contact iWave at mktg@iwave-global.com.
