3 Important Usage Notes

Please read through this section prior to using your AM64x Starter Kit. These notes are intended to make your evaluation as trouble-free as possible. If you have any questions, please create a post on E2E and request clarification.

Verify your intended boot media against the boot modes described the Configuration section later in this document.

The AM64x Starter Kit shall be powered through the USB-C port (no data or display alt-mode support)/

The USB-C power controller on the AM64x Starter Kit is expecting a negotiation sequence with the power-delivery source, and requires a source capable of supplying 5 V at 3 A. A red LED on the bottom of the AM64x Starter Kit illuminates if the power-delivery source cannot meet these requirements.

Older and low-cost mains voltage to 5VDC USB type-A bricks intended for powering or charging consumer electronics do not have the capability to properly complete the negotiation sequence with the USB-C power controller on the AM64x Starter Kit, and prevents the EVM from powering on. Guidelines on recommended supplies are given in the Power-On/Off Procedures section.

Caution AM64x Starter Kit shall not be powered through the 5V0 or 3V3 pins on the 40-pin "User Expansion Connector". The AM64x Starter Kit was not designed to be powered through the expansion headers.

Caution Expansion headers on the AM64x Starter Kit are not fail-safe. This means expansion boards shall not drive any I/O pins while the AM64x Starter Kit is powered off. Doing so violates AM64x data sheet specifications and can cause damage to the processor or other components on the board, and is not covered by warranty.

The 40-pin "User Expansion Connector" was designed to match the types of signals and hardware interfaces found on the RPI4 40-pin connector, thereby enabling a large percentage of community developed add-on boards at a hardware level. Some deeper alternate pin functions do not match those found on the RPI4 due to the nature of each SoC vendor deciding their own pin function multiplexing.

Attention: Concerning HAT compatibility with the 40-pin "User Expansion Connector", always check the hardware resources required by HAT, and the active pin function PRIOR to attaching the HAT to the AM64x Starter Kit. Pin multiplex settings can require a change in the bootloader first.

Caution: ESD Susceptible

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage equipment and impair electrical circuitry. ESD can occur when electronic printed circuit cards are improperly handled and can cause complete or intermittent failures.

Starter Kit Evaluation Board contains ESD Sensitive Electronic Devices. Hence due care must be taken while handling these boards. SK EVM must be used under controlled Lab Environment with All ESD Safe Precautions being adapted by the Test Engineers and Developers.

Please refer below for the precautionary measures:

• Make sure that the user is using the equipment in the ESD protected lab environment.
• Persons handling the product must have electronics training and observe good engineering practice standards.
• Wear an ESD-preventive coat, ESD slippers, or wrist strap, making sure that the gear makes good skin contact.
• Handle components by only their handles or edges; do not touch the printed circuit boards or connectors.
• Avoid contact between the printed circuit boards and clothing. The wrist strap only protects components from ESD voltages on the body; ESD voltages on clothing can still cause damage so wear ESD coat.