New Open-Source Embedded Module from SparkFun

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This morning, the SparkX Team at SparkFun released the first open-source, OSHWA certified, embedded-systems module that allows users to integrate the TensorFlow machine-learning platform into any design. The team also released three carrier boards that already have the module: BlackBoard Artemis; BlackBoard Artemis Nano; and BlackBoard Artemis ATP.

To learn more about the project, the following resources will be helpful:

  • GitHub Repo
  • Press Release

    This type of project is interesting because it is the first module SparkFun has designed AND it is the first open-source module available on the market. ā€œOur goal is to enable anyone to integrate low-power machine learning into their designs and projects without being locked into a specific toolchain,ā€ said SparkFun founder and engineer, Nathan Seidle, ā€œThe Artemis module is the first product to bridge the gap between hobbyists and consumer products, providing a single module from prototype to production.ā€

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    Artemis Module Details
    Beyond its small size (15.5 x 10.5mm including antenna), key features of the ultra-low-power Artemis module include:

  • Cortex-M4F based BLE module using the Apollo3 microcontroller from Ambiq
  • Advanced HAL (hardware abstraction layer) allowing users to push the modern Cortex-M4F architecture
  • Capability of running machine learning algorithms with the low current consumption of 6Ī¼A/MHz at 3.3V
  • Integrated Bluetooth 5 low-energy radio and 2.4GHz antenna
  • All necessary circuitry for easy integrationā€”large SMD pads and spacing allow for low-cost 2-layer carrier board implementations; programming over pre-configured serial bootloader or JTAG
  • ISO7816 Secure ā€˜Smart Cardā€™ interface
  • Secure firmware update system
  • Flexible serial peripherals
  • Rich set of clock sources
  • Camera capable

    What About the Three Carrier Boards?
    The three carrier boards provide fairly familiar form factors and enable anyone to flex the capabilities of Artemis module. All three boards:

  • Have a digital MEMS microphone for experimenting with always-on voice commands with TensorFlow and machine learning
  • Have built-in BLE radio
  • Are fully compatible with SparkFun's Arduino core and can be programmed easily under the Arduino IDE (SparkFun wrote the core from scratch)
  • Have an exposed JTAG connector for more advanced users who prefer to use the power, flexibility, and speed of professional tools
  • Include QwiicĀ® connectors for easy prototyping and daisy-chain capabilities for the Qwiic ecosystem, which includes 70+ sensors, outputs, and controllers

    The SparkFun BlackBoard Artemis comes in the Uno footprint and is a good entry point for working with the Artemis module; the BlackBoard Artemis Nano is the smallest form factor of the three boards and offers great flexibility for smaller projects; and the Blackboard Artemis ATP (ā€œall the pinsā€) breaks out all 48 GPIO of the module and allows users to leverage the full capabilities of the module.

    Next Steps For This Project?
    SparkFun is currently seeking FCC/CE approval for the Artemis module, which will be released as shielded modules and will be available in tape-and-reel quantities. The Engineering Version released today, allows users to get started as soon as possible. Once approved, having a module that is both FCC/CE certified and OSHWA certified is most definitely a first.

    Why are we sharing this project with the OSHWA community?
    Typically, embedded modules are not open source and they lock users into a particular toolchain. Additionally, the gap between prototype and production is clunky at best. We hope the OSHWA community will 1) use the module and/or the boards with the module to create awesome projects and products and 2) share the module with others.

    Please let us know if you have comments or questions.