Allwinner R18

Cost-efficient 64-bit intelligent hardware processor

Overview

Allwinner R18 is a quad-core 64-bit processor based on ARM’s Cortex-A53 architecture and is targeted at the intelligent hardware market.

Highlights

64-bit, 4-core Cortex-A53 CPU

Allwinner R18 packs four Cortex-A53 CPU cores that implement the latest 64-bit ARMv8 architecture, which can provide a powerful basis for intelligent hardware products operation ability, satisfying more demand of complex algorithm operation.

H.265 4K video hardware decoding

Allwinner R18 features a robust video engine that supports H.265 4K video hardware decoding and H.264 1080p@60fps or 720p@120fps video encoding. It supports a wide range of applications which in turn enrich the end users experience.

High system integration
Targeting at 64-bit intelligent hardware, Allwinner R18 features a high level of system integration. It also includes on-board audio codecs and eMMC 5.0, and supports memory options such as LPDDR2/LPDDR3. This integration results in a more complete solution and makes its BOM cost more competitive.
Ethernet, IIS TDM interfaceing
Allwinner R18 has a rich interface including Ethernet and IIS TDM, making it suitable for a wide range of intelligent hardware application peripherals. This versatility ensures it can seamlessly connect with various smart devices and systems, enhancing its functionality in different technological environments.
Android 5.1 Lollipop OS, Linux Kernel v3.10
Allwinner R18 runs on Android 5.1 Lollipop operating system, and is based on Linux Kernel v3.10 and Google Brillo system to maximise the advantages of the 64-bit architecture. There is also the ability to further optimise the product depending on cost and performance requirements.

Block diagram

 

Specifications

 

CPU

Quad-core Cortex-A53

 

GPU

Mali400MP2 GPU

Support OpenGL ES 2.0, Open VG1.1

 

Memory

Support LPDDR2 / LPDDR3 / DDR3 / DDR3L SDRAM

Support 8-bit SLC/MLC/TLC/EF NAND with 64-bit ECC

Support SD/eMMC/tSD/fSD/efSD

 

Video

Support H.265 4K@30fps video decoding

Support multi-format 1080p@60fps video decoding, including H.264 BP/MP/HP, VP8, MPEG1/2, MPEG4 SP/ASP GMC, H.263 including Sorenson Spark, WMV9/VC-1, JPEG/MJPEG

Support H.264 1080p@60fps or 720p@120fps video encoding

 

Camera

Support 5M pixel camera sensor

 

Display

Support MIPI DSI up to 1920x1200

Support LVDS up to 1366x768, RGB up to 1920x1200

Support 4K HDMI output with HDCP

Support HDMI CEC

Support HDMI 3D function

 

Integration

Audio codec

USB OTG/HOST/HSIC

2x SPI, 4x TWI, 6x UART, LRADC, SDIO

 

Package

BGA, 396 balls, 0.65mm pitch, 15mm x 15mm

Use case

 

Amazon Alexa Smart Screen Dev Kit

 

 

With the Amazon Alexa Smart Screen Dev Kit, Amazon is enabling commercial device makers to build high-quality screen-based products with Alexa built-in. Powered by Allwinner R18, the dev kit provides a complete hardware and software system reference solution with the latest AVS technologies, including support for interactive screens with rich visuals, Alexa Multi-Room Music (MRM), Alexa Calling & Messaging, and more. Based on a production-ready ARM Cortex-A53 chipset that hosts the Alexa client software and audio front end technology for ‘Alexa’ wake word detection, this kit features a 4” touch screen, 3-mic array for far-field speech recognition, and includes the new Alexa Smart Screen and TV Device SDK and sample GUI.

  • Far-Field Voice Recognition with Amazon ‘Alexa’ Wake Word Technology
  • Rich Interactive Visuals using the Alexa Smart Screen and TV Device SDK
  • Latest AVS technologies including MRM and Alexa Calling & Messaging