Abstract

Jacinto™ 7 TDA4 series and Sitara™ AM6x processors are the latest generation of processors introduced by TI based on the Keystone architecture. They are based on a heterogeneous multi-core architecture, integrating different application cores, assigning different tasks to corresponding cores for parallel processing, thereby maximizing the advantages of TI processors. The more computation power integrated in processor will generate a higher heating, which may cause irreversible damage if exceeding the thermal design point and continuing to operate. Hence, thermal management becomes significant to fully utilize the computation power without affecting processor's lifespan. All of TI processors integrate on-chip temperature sensors and a dedicated module VTM (Voltage Thermal Management) for thermal management. The basic working principle of the on-chip temperature sensor is to utilize the physical properties of semiconductor materials. When the temperature changes, the resistance or potential of the semiconductor material changes, leading to a change in the output electrical signal. This change is read and processed by a microcontroller or other circuit, enabling temperature measurement.

The VTM module also handles voltage management functions. This application note introduces the functions of the VTM module integrated in TI processors, including its working principles, usage methods, and the software and hardware protection schemes implemented. When discussing software code and specific application examples, the AM62A processor is used as a case study. Corresponding code changes and commands can be applied to all TDA4x and AM6x series processors. However, due to SDK version updates, the corresponding coding path modifications may be necessary.