AMD Introduces Embedded+ Architecture Revolutionizing Edge AI Hardware

Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) has introduced its groundbreaking Embedded+ architecture, seamlessly integrating AMD Ryzen Embedded processors with Versal adaptive System-on-Chips (SoCs) on a unified board. This innovative architecture blends PC processors with Xilinx programmable chips, empowering hardware companies to accelerate the development of power-efficient AI applications aimed at original design manufacturers (ODMs).

Chethan Khona, senior director at AMD, explained in a press briefing that the Embedded+ architecture connects Ryzen embedded processors and Xilinx-based Versal chips via a PCI link on the same motherboard, allowing ODMs to develop products more efficiently. The acquisition of Xilinx for $50 billion in 2022 plays a crucial role in this initiative, equipping AMD with a range of AI engines to enhance edge AI processing capabilities.

Khona emphasized, “Embedded+ reflects the synergy of AMD and Xilinx, focusing on industrial, medical, smart city infrastructure, and automotive embedded systems.” By streamlining data processing—whether from discrete sensors or industrial networks—Embedded+ enables developers to acquire and visualize data in real-time.

The AMD Embedded+ platform is meticulously validated to reduce qualification and build times for ODMs, accelerating time-to-market without the need for additional hardware or R&D resources. This architecture is tailored for AI inferencing, sensor fusion, industrial networking, control, and visualization across multiple sectors, including medical, industrial, and automotive.

“In industrial and medical applications, decisions must be made within milliseconds. Embedded+ maximizes the value of partner and customer data with energy-efficient, high-performance computing,” Khona stated.

AMD’s Embedded+ architecture uniquely combines x86 compute with integrated graphics and programmable hardware, setting a new standard for AI inferencing and sensor fusion applications. The Ryzen Embedded processors, featuring high-performance “Zen” cores and Radeon graphics, provide exceptional rendering and 4K video codec capabilities, making Embedded+ an industry-first solution.

Sapphire Technology, a major player in the ODM ecosystem, has launched the Sapphire Edge+ VPR-4616-MB, the first ODM solution utilizing the Embedded+ architecture. This low-power Mini-ITX motherboard, powered by the Ryzen Embedded R2314 processor and Versal AI Edge VE2302 Adaptive SoC, delivers extensive features while consuming as little as 30 watts.

“This demonstrates a practical application of the Embedded+ architecture,” Khona remarked.

Adrian Thompson, senior vice president of global marketing at Sapphire Technology, added, “By leveraging a validated compute architecture, we can focus on enhancing other product aspects, reducing time to market and R&D costs. Embedded+ is an excellent platform for delivering top-tier performance and features.”

The Sapphire Edge+ VPR-4616-MB, now available for immediate purchase, marks a significant milestone in embedded processing and AI capabilities. AMD’s strategic initiatives aim to advance edge AI applications, establishing new benchmarks for efficiency and innovation in the semiconductor industry.

“Embedded+ architecture combines the strengths of Ryzen embedded x86 processors and Versal AI Edge adaptive SoCs into a single integrated compute platform,” Khona concluded.