Texas Instruments AM3517AZCNAC
- Part No.:
- AM3517AZCNAC
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- Microprocessors
- Package:
- 491-LFBGA
- Datasheet:
-
AM3517AZCNAC.pdf
- Description:
- IC MPU SITARA 600MHZ 491NFBGA
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
AM3517AZCNAC from Texas Instruments is a 600-MHz ARM Cortex-A8 microprocessor with PowerVR SGX graphics accelerator, 256KB L2 cache, DDR2/mDDR memory controller, and integrated display subsystem supporting NTSC/PAL video output - deployed in industrial HMIs, digital signage, and portable media players.
For engineers reviewing the AM3517AZCNAC datasheet, AM3517AZCNAC pinout, AM3517AZCNAC application, or AM3517AZCNAC equivalent, key selection considerations include its 491-pin NFBGA (ZCN) package, 1.2V core voltage, dual-display capability, 186 GPIOs, and Linux/Android OS support - all critical for embedded compute and multimedia interface design.
Technical Context
The AM3517AZCNAC implements an in-order, dual-issue, superscalar ARMv7 architecture with NEON SIMD and VFP coprocessors, delivering >2× ARMv6 SIMD performance. Its L3 interconnect hierarchy routes traffic between MPU, PowerVR SGX, SDRC, GPMC, and peripherals with configurable priority sDMA (32 logical channels).
It integrates dedicated hardware blocks including a 16-bit VPFE video input port (75-MHz pixel clock), dual 10-bit DACs for composite/S-video output, and a three-layer display processor with rotation, scaling (1/4× to 8×), and color space conversion - all operating under a unified 1.2V core and 1.8V/3.3V I/O supply scheme.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| CPU Core | ARM Cortex-A8 @ 600 MHz - enables real-time Linux kernel scheduling and deterministic interrupt latency for industrial control tasks |
| L2 Cache | 256KB - reduces external memory bandwidth pressure during concurrent graphics and video processing |
| Graphics Engine | PowerVR SGX (AM3517 only) - delivers up to 10 MPoly/sec for OpenGL ES 1.1/2.0-accelerated UI rendering |
| Memory Interface | 166-MHz 16-/32-bit DDR2/mDDR with 1GB address space - supports low-latency frame buffer access for dual LCD panels |
| Display Outputs | Parallel RGB (up to 24-bit), CVBS NTSC/PAL, S-Video - enables direct connection to legacy and embedded displays without external encoders |
| Video Input | 16-bit VPFE port with REC656/CCIR656 support - captures HD video at up to 75 MHz pixel rate for surveillance or imaging systems |
| GPIO Count | Up to 186 pins - provides flexible peripheral expansion for custom I/O, sensor interfacing, and industrial bus control |
Pinout & Package
AM3517AZCNAC uses a 491-ball NFBGA package (17.1 mm × 17.1 mm, 0.65-mm pitch) with Via Channel™ array technology. Ball assignment follows TI's ZCN mechanical specification, with dedicated power domains (VDD_CORE, VDDS, VDDSHV, VDDA_DAC) and signal groups routed across four quadrants (A–D).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD_CORE | Core power supply | 1.2V supply for ARM Cortex-A8 and L2 cache - requires tight regulation and local decoupling per TI layout guidelines |
| SDRC_D0–D31 | DDR2/mDDR data bus | 32-bit bidirectional data path synchronized to SDRC_CLK - supports 166-MHz operation with SSTL_18 I/O standard |
| DSS_DATA0–DSS_DATA23 | Parallel display data | 24-bit RGB + sync signals for primary LCD panel - supports up to 1600×1200 resolution at 60 Hz |
| TV_OUT1 / TV_OUT2 | Composite video outputs | Analog CVBS outputs with internal DACs - enable direct NTSC/PAL generation without external encoder ICs |
| VPFE_DATA0–VPFE_DATA7 | Video capture data inputs | 8-bit parallel video input (expandable to 16-bit) compliant with CCIR656 - used for camera sensor interfacing |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| PowerVR SGX Graphics Accelerator | Enables OpenGL ES 2.0-compliant 3D UI rendering and gaming effects - unique to AM3517 (not present in AM3505) |
| Dual-Output Display Subsystem | Simultaneous RGB + CVBS/S-Video output - supports independent content on main display and auxiliary monitor or TV |
| Programmable Video Processing Front End (VPFE) | Hardware-accelerated image capture with optical black clamping, digital clamping, and 10→8-bit A-law compression |
| Flexible Memory Controllers | SDRC for DDR2/mDDR + GPMC for NAND/NOR/Flash/SRAM - allows boot from NAND and high-bandwidth frame buffer in DDR2 |
| 186 General-Purpose I/O Pins | Configurable as UART/I2C/McSPI/McBSP/GPIO - supports field-upgradable industrial interfaces without FPGA glue logic |
Applications
| Industrial HMI | Digital Signage |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Touch-enabled operator interface in factory automation panels with real-time diagnostics and alarm visualization. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Central application processor executing Linux-based HMI software while driving dual displays (LCD + HDMI via converter) and managing CAN/USB peripherals. Use Value: Integrated PowerVR SGX eliminates need for discrete GPU; 186 GPIOs simplify integration of safety relays, encoders, and analog sensors. |
Use Scenario: Multi-zone retail kiosk displaying dynamic advertisements, promotions, and interactive product catalogs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Media playback engine decoding MPEG-4/H.264 streams and rendering HTML5 UIs with hardware-accelerated graphics and smooth 60-Hz video output. Use Value: Dual-display capability drives main screen and rear-facing customer info panel simultaneously; VPFE enables optional camera-based audience analytics. |
| Portable Media Player | Smart White Goods |
Use Scenario: High-resolution handheld video player supporting HD playback, photo slideshow, and audio streaming. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Application SoC running Android OS with hardware video decode, 3D UI acceleration, and multi-format audio playback via McBSP/I2S. Use Value: On-chip DACs eliminate external audio codec; 256KB L2 cache ensures consistent decode performance during multitasking. |
Use Scenario: Connected refrigerator or washing machine with touchscreen UI, remote monitoring, and energy usage analytics. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Embedded Linux host managing appliance control firmware, Wi-Fi/Ethernet connectivity, and local display/video feedback. Use Value: Integrated EMAC and USB OTG enable wired/wireless updates; 10-bit DACs drive status LEDs and audio alerts without extra components. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar ARM-based application processor applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| AM3505AZER | No PowerVR SGX graphics accelerator; ZER package (484-pin PBGA); no TV-out capability | Suitable for cost-sensitive, non-graphic-intensive applications like basic HMIs or network gateways | Select when 3D graphics, dual-display, or composite video output are unnecessary - reduces BOM cost and thermal load |
| AM3358BZCZ100 | Newer ARM Cortex-A8 (1-GHz), PRU-ICSS for real-time I/O, no PowerVR SGX, different pinout and memory controller | Better suited for industrial PLCs, motor control, and protocol bridging where programmable real-time units outweigh graphics needs | Choose for new designs requiring PRU-based deterministic I/O, higher CPU throughput, or longer TI product lifetime - not drop-in compatible |
Compared with AM3505AZER, AM3517AZCNAC adds graphics acceleration and TV-out at higher power; versus AM3358BZCZ100, it trades PRU flexibility and speed for mature multimedia IP but requires board redesign due to incompatible packaging and memory interface.
Availability
AM3517AZCNAC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial HMIs, digital signage, and portable media players requiring stable component supply, long-term obsolescence management, and full documentation traceability.
Supply support for AM3517AZCNAC includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor leader specializing in analog, embedded processing, and connectivity solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.
The AM3517 belongs to TI's Sitara™ ARM processor family, designed specifically for embedded applications demanding rich multimedia, real-time control, and Linux/Android OS compatibility in space-constrained industrial environments.
FAQ
What is the package type and ball count for AM3517AZCNAC?
AM3517AZCNAC uses a 491-ball NFBGA package (17.1 mm × 17.1 mm, 0.65-mm pitch) designated ZCN. This package supports higher I/O density and improved thermal performance compared to the 484-pin ZER variant, and is validated for industrial temperature operation with appropriate PCB layout and decoupling.
Does AM3517AZCNAC support Linux and Android operating systems?
Yes, AM3517AZCNAC is fully supported by Linux (including TI's Processor SDK Linux), Windows CE, and Android platforms. Its ARM Cortex-A8 core, NEON SIMD unit, and 256KB L2 cache provide the performance foundation required for modern embedded OS execution, driver stacks, and multimedia frameworks.
What video output interfaces does AM3517AZCNAC support?
AM3517AZCNAC supports parallel RGB (up to 24-bit), NTSC/PAL composite video (CVBS), and S-Video outputs via integrated dual 10-bit DACs. It also includes a programmable display subsystem with rotation, scaling, and color space conversion - enabling direct connection to LCD panels and legacy TVs without external encoders.
How many GPIOs are available on AM3517AZCNAC, and what are their capabilities?
AM3517AZCNAC provides up to 186 general-purpose I/O pins, configurable as UART, I2C, McSPI, McBSP, or GPIO. These pins support multiple multiplexing modes, programmable pull-ups/pull-downs, and voltage levels of 1.8V or 3.3V - making them ideal for industrial sensor interfacing, custom bus protocols, and peripheral expansion.
Is PowerVR SGX graphics acceleration available on AM3517AZCNAC?
Yes, PowerVR SGX graphics acceleration is a defining feature of the AM3517AZCNAC - distinguishing it from the AM3505. It delivers up to 10 MPoly/sec and supports OpenGL ES 1.1/2.0 and OpenVG 1.0, enabling hardware-accelerated 3D UIs, video overlays, and gaming effects in resource-constrained embedded systems.
AM3517AZCNAC Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Package/Case:
- 491-LFBGA
- Series:
- Sitara™
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Active
- Core Processor:
- ARM® Cortex®-A8
- Number of Cores/Bus Width:
- 1 Core, 32-Bit
- Speed:
- 600MHz
- Co-Processors/DSP:
- Multimedia; NEON™ SIMD
- RAM Controllers:
- LPDDR, DDR2
- Graphics Acceleration:
- Yes
- Display & Interface Controllers:
- LCD
- Ethernet:
- 10/100Mbps (1)
- SATA:
- -
- USB:
- USB 2.0 (3), USB 2.0 + PHY (1)
- Voltage - I/O:
- 1.8V, 3.3V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 105°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Security Features:
- Cryptography
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 491-NFBGA (17x17)
- Additional Interfaces:
- CAN, HDQ/1-Wire, I2C, McBSP, McSPI, MMC/SD/SDIO, UART
AM3517AZCNAC FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AM3517AZCNAC through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AM3517AZCNAC on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for AM3517AZCNAC reliable?
The price and inventory of AM3517AZCNAC are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AM3517AZCNAC is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AM3517AZCNAC?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AM3517AZCNAC transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AM3517AZCNAC?
AM3517AZCNAC orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AM3517AZCNAC order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for AM3517AZCNAC?
For technical support, including AM3517AZCNAC datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AM3517AZCNAC requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AM3517AZCNAC is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AM3517AZCNAC products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that AM3517AZCNAC meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AM3517AZCNAC?
All AM3517AZCNAC units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AM3517AZCNAC, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The AM3517AZCNAC part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AM3517AZCNAC:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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