AM437x StarterKit EVM Hardware User's Guide

Verified Design

Literature Number: SPRUHW8

June 2014
 Verified Design
SPRUHW8 – June 2014

AM437x StarterKit EVM Hardware User's Guide

Lawrence Ronk

An IMPORTANT NOTICE at the end of this TI reference design addresses authorized use, intellectual property matters and other
important disclaimers and information.

1 Introduction
This document describes the hardware architecture of the AM437x StarterKit (part number
TMDXSK437X), which is based on the Texas Instruments (TI) AM437x processor. This EVM is also
commonly known as the AM437x StarterKit EVM.

1.1 Description
The AM437x StarterKit can be used as an evaluation and development platform for AM437x-based
solutions and networking platforms. The embedded emulation logic allows emulation and debug-using
standard development tools such as TI’s Code Composer Studio by using the supplied USB cable. The
embedded emulation logic is not intended for use in end products. All of the design information is freely
available and can be used as the basis for the development of an AM437x-based product.
The following sections give more details regarding the StarterKit EVM.

1.2 System View

The top and bottom views of the system are provided in Figure 1 and Figure 2.

Figure 1. AM437x StarterKit EVM Top View Figure 2. AM437x StarterKit EVM Bottom View

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2 Functional Blocks Description

The complete AM437x StarterKit EVM is contained mostly within a single board.

Figure 3. AM437x StarterKit EVM Block Diagram

2.1 Processor
The AM437x is the central processor for this EVM. All the resources on the board surround the AM437x
processor to provide development capabilities for hardware and software. See the AM437x data sheet and
TRM for the details about the processor.
System configuration signals (sysboot0 to 18) can be set on the EVM, using resistors to define some
startup parameters on the AM437x processor. See Section 4 for more details.

2.2 Clocks
The StarterKit EVM has several clocks to support the AM437x processor. The main clock for the
processor is derived from a 24-MHz crystal. The AM437x generates the base clock and subsequent
module clocks. A 32-kHz clock for the RTC is derived from a 32.768-kHz crystal on the board.

2.3 Reset Signals

SYS_RESETn is a reset signal running to several peripherals and AM437x, which performs a reset.
SYS_RESETn signal is asserted by the push-button and is used to force a reset of the AM437x and the
other peripherals. AM437x can also pull down on the RESET_INOUTn signal to cause the SYS_RESETn
line to go active. The power-on reset to the processor is driven from the power good signal of the power
manager.

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2.4 DDR3 SDRAM

The AM437x StarterKit EVM contains two 4-Gb (256 Mb × 16) of DDR3L SDRAM memory from Micron.
The part number for the DDR3L SDRAM memory used is MT41K256M16HA. The package used is an 96-
ball FBGA. See the AM437x TRM for memory locations for this memory.

2.5 NOR Flash

The StarterKit EVM has a NOR type of flash. The part number of the memory used is MX66L51235FMI,
which is a 512-Mb serial flash memory. The QSPI interface of AM437x is used to communicate with this
memory.

2.6 Board Identity Memory

Each board contains a serial EEPROM that contains board-specific data that allows the processor to
automatically detect which version of the board is connected. Other hardware-specific data can be stored
on this memory device as well. The part number of the memory device is CAT24C256WI-G. See Section 4
for details on the data in this memory.

2.7 SDMMC0
The SDMMC0 connector on the StarterKit EVM is a microSD socket with part number SCHA5B0200. This
connector is a standard SD/MMC card type. The connector links to the MMC0 port of the AM437x
processor. Check the AM437x data sheet and TRM for supported card types and densities.

2.8 10/100/1000 Ethernet

The AM437x StarterKit EVM has two 10/100/1000 Ethernet transceivers from Micrel (KSZ9031RN) that
are connected to RJ45 (J6 and J8) connectors.
The reset on the transceiver is driven by the warm reset signal SYS_RESETn. A 25-MHz crystal drives
the clock input of the KSZ9031RN Ethernet physical layer (PHY).
The PHY address is set to 0x00h.

2.9 USB
The AM437x StarterKit EVM supports two USB ports. The USB ports are connected to a micro-USB AB
connector and a standard A-type connector. The ESD device TPD4S012 and common choke filter
ACM2012 (TDK) are used on the USB signals before they are connected to the AM437x pins.

2.10 Connectivity
The AM437x StarterKit EVM supports MCS COM8 form-factor wireless boards from TI through the J20
COM connector, which is a Samtec card edge type connector MEC6-150-02-S-D-RA1. This connector
supports COM8-type of boards. More details about this connector can be found in the MCS COM8 board
documents. The COM connector requires 3.6 V, 442 mA on the power supply. Thus, a TPS79501 LDO
regulator is used to provide this voltage supply from the base 5.0-V supply. The signals on the COM board
are all 1.8-V voltage level. Thus, voltage translators are placed to convert to and from 3.3 V of the
AM437x rail for a particular signal, which is running at 3.3 V.

2.11 Camera
Camera interface from the AM437x processor is terminated on the 12×2 header J15. The custom-made
camera module from TI must interface with this header. This camera module is on a separate camera
board that attaches at a right angle so the camera can face horizontally when the StarterKit EVM is lying
on a test bench.

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2.12 Audio
The headphone output and line input signals from the two 3.5-mm SJ3524 jacks are connected to the
audio codec with part number TLV320AIC3106. This audio codec is connected through the McASP1 and
I2C interfaces to the AM437x.

2.13 Accelerometer
The AM437x StarterKit EVM has an accelerometer sensor from ST Microelectronics (LIS331DLH). This
accelerometer is interfaced with the processor using I2C bus1.

3 Power Supplies
This section describes how the required power supplies for the design are generated.

3.1 Power Source

An external AC to 5-V-DC (rated 2.5 A minimum) power adapter is connected to the AM437x Starter Kit
EVM through the DC Jack, J4.

3.2 Power Sequencing

The power sequencing requirements of the AM437X processor (see the AM437x data sheet) are handled
automatically by the TPS65218 PMIC.

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3.3 Power Management IC Power Supplies

The AM437x StarterKit EVM uses the TPS65218 power management IC.
The I2C0 on AM437x is used to control the smart reflex port and control port on the TPS65218.
Table 1 and Table 2 provide the following power supplies used for AM437x.

Table 1. AM437x Power Supplies from TPS65218

TPS65218 POWER SUPPLY AM437X POWER RAIL VOLTAGE
VDCDC1 VDD_CORE, VDD_TPM 1.1 V
VDCDC2 VDD_MPU 1.1 V
VDCDC3 VDDS_DDR 1.35 V
VLS1 VDD_DDR 1.35 V
VDDS_CLKOUT, VDDS_OSC , VDDS_SRAM_CORE_BG , 1.8 V
VDDS_SRAM_MPU_BB, VDDS_PLL_CORE_LCD, VDDS_PLL_DDR ,
V1_8D_AM437X VDDS_PLL_MPU , VDDA1P8V_USB0 , VDDA1P8V_USB1 , VDDS_CTM,
VDDS_TPM, VDDA_MC_ADC, VDDA_TS_ADC, VDDS, COM8, VDDSHV2,
tamper , ADC input sections
V1_0BAT CAP_VDD_RTC 1.0 V
V1_8BAT VDDS_RTC 1.8 V
V3_3D_AM438X VDDA_3P3V_USB0, VDDA_3P3V_USB1, VDDSHV1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 3.3 V
V5_0D HDMI circuitry, USB0 power 5.0 V

NOTE: The TPS65218 power management IC that is used on the earlier revisions had several
issues that can affect operation. See the errata for the TPS65218 for more details.

3.3.1 Other Power Supplies Used

Table 2. Other Power Supplies

POWER SUPPLY POWER RAIL VOLTAGE
V1_8LPDDR2 from TPS78101 VDD1 of LPDDR2 1.8 V
NAND memory, QPSI flash, Ethernet PHY, SDMMC0, board ID
memory, ARM JTAG, buffers of FTDI section, LCD buffer, touch screen,
V3_3D camera module, HDMI buffer, audio codec, RS-232 sections, COM8 3.3 V
sections, smart card sections, tamper header, platform test section,
GPIO header, printer
V3_3FTDI FT2232 Section from TPS79333 3.3 V
LCD power generation, camera module, VCOM_BAT generation for
VBAT COM8 module, USB1 power generation, platform test section, LEDs, 5.0 V
GPIO header, buzzer, printer
V1_2D HDMI section power 1.2 V

3.4 APM Sense Resistors

The AM437x StarterKit EVM has the following subsystems with current sense resistors. These resistors
allow the power to be measured on each power rail to check AM437x power requirements during real time
software execution. The value of the resistors is selected to provide the best dynamic range when using a
TI INA226 converter. An INA226 converter is installed on the EVM for both the VDD_CORE and
VDD_MPU power supply rails of the AM437x. The other power rails have sense resistors, but have their
measurement connections attached to 2pin standard headers so they can be read easily by a multimeter
or connected to an INA226 converter EVM.

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The value of the sense resistors for the VDD_CORE and VDD_MPU were selected to give better dynamic
range for active power modes rather than sleep or low power modes. If power is to be measured for
VDD_CORE or VDD_MPU for sleep or low power modes, then this sense resistor value must be changed
to give better shunt voltage values.

Table 3. AM437x StarterKit EVM APM Sense Resistors

VOLTAGE NET SENSE RESISTOR VALUE
VDD_CORE 0.05 ohm
VDD_MPU 0.05 ohm
VAM437X_DDR 0.05 ohm
VDDS_DDR 0.05 ohm
V1_8D_AM437X 0.1 ohm
V3_3D_AM437X 0.1 ohm

4 Configuration and Setup

4.1 Boot Configuration

The AM437x sysboot pins are hard wired for the supported boot mode using resistors on the EVM. See
the AM437x TRM and data sheet for the actual definitions of each sysboot signal. Also, see the StarterKit
EVM schematics for more details.

4.2 I2C Address Assignments

In the AM437x StarterKit EVM boards, each separate board has an I2C ID memory that contains the
details of the identity of that board, such as its configuration (see the following sections for more details on
the memories' contents).

Table 4. AM437x I2C Bus Addresses

AM437X FUNCTION AM437X I2C PORT ADDRESS
Board ID memory I2C0 0x50
PMIC control I2C0 0x2D
Touch screen control I2C1 0x5C
Camera module 0 I2C0 0xxx
Audio codec I2C0 0x18
HDMI transmitter I2C2 0x76
HDMI companion chip I2C2 0xxx
Multiple smart card slot interface IC I2C2 0xxx

4.3 I2C ID Memory

The StarterKit EVM has a dedicated I2C EEPROM, which contains specific identity and configuration
information for that board. In addition, the dedicated I2C EEPROM has available space in each memory
for user-specific configuration information.
The part number of the memory device is CAT24C256WI-G.

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Table 5. AM437x StarterKit EVM EEPROM Data

NAME SIZE CONTENTS
(BYTES)
Header 4 MSB 0xEE3355AA LSB
Board name 8 Name for board in ASCII "XXXXXXX" = AM437x Starter Kit EVM
Version 4 Hardware version code for board in ASCII "1.0A" = rev. 01.0A
Serial number of the board. This is a 12 character string:
WWYY4P16nnnn where
Serial number 12 • WW = 2 digit week of the year of production
• YY = 2 digit year of production
• nnnn = incrementing board number
Codes to show the configuration setup on this board. For the available
EVM's supported, the following codes are used:
Configuration 32 • ASCII "SKU#01" = base board for general purpose EVM
• ASCII "SKU#02" = base board for industrial motor control EVM
• Remaining 26 bytes are reserved
Ethernet MAC address 0 6 MAC address for AM437x Ethernet MAC 1
Ethernet MAC address 1 6 MAC address for AM437x Ethernet MAC 2 or PRU 0
Ethernet MAC address 2 6 MAC address for AM437x PRU 1 (if used)
Available 32702 Available space for other non-volatile codes and data

4.4 JTAG
The AM437x StarterKit EVM supports embedded XDS100V2 USB emulation through the micro-USB AB
connector. The EVM also has an optional 20-pin TI CJTAG connector to support the emulation. This
CJTAG connector is not installed by default. Other JTAG adaptors are available on TI's e-store.

5 User Interfaces

5.1 Keypad
The keypad has four push-button switches with Omron B3SL-1022P on the component side of the board.
This keypad uses two power and two scan lines to enable four buttons to be monitored.

5.2 LEDs
There are four status LEDs (two blue LEDs, one green LED, and one red LED) on the top side of the
EVM. The EVM also has a green LED (D3) to indicate power-on available.

5.3 LCD
The LCD is a 4.3-inch TFT type, 480×272, 24-bit RGB panel with part number NHD-4.3-480272EF-
ATXL#-CTP from New Haven Display. The LCD has white LEDs for backlight (controlled by power
regulator TPS61081). The connector is a FPC-type 40 pin with part number 54132-4097. The LCD has an
inbuilt capacitive touch screen, which is connected to the I2C0 port of the processor.

6 Pin Use Description

6.1 Functional Interface Mapping

Some signals of the AM437x are connected to a fixed device on the EVM where the signals cannot be
changed. However, some of the signals of the AM437x are connected to devices on the EVM based on
the profile setting.

6.2 GPIO Definitions

The developer can select and enable pins based on the selective peripheral pins as output or input.

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7 Board Connectors
The pinout details of all the connectors used in the StarterKit EVM are provided in Table 6 through
Table 15.

7.1 HEADPHONE OUT - J27

Table 6. Audio Out Connector

PIN NUMBER SIGNAL NAME
1 AGND_AUD
2 AUD_HPLOUT_JCK
3 AUD_HPROUT_JCK
10 NC

7.2 LINE IN - J26

Table 7. Audio Line-in Connector

PIN NUMBER SIGNAL NAME
1 AGND_AUD
2 AUD_LINEINL_JCK
3 AUD_LINEINR_JCK
10 NC

7.3 SDMMC0 - J5

Table 8. SDMMC0 Connector

PIN NUMBER MEMORY CARD PIN NUMBER
1 MMC_D2
2 MMC_D3
3 MMC_CMD
4 VDD
5 MMC_CLK
6 DGND
7 MMC_D0
8 MMC_D1
9 DGND
10 MMC_CD
11 DGND
12 DGND
13 DGND
14 DGND
15 DGND
16 DGND

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7.4 LCD Connector - J1

Table 9. LCD Connector

PIN NUMBER SIGNAL NAME DESCRIPTION
1 VLED– Backlight power –
2 VLED+ Backlight power +
3 DGND Digital ground
4 V3_3D 3.3-V power rail
5 LCD_RED0 LCD red data 0
6 LCD_RED1 LCD red data 1
7 LCD_RED2 LCD red data 2
8 LCD_RED3 LCD red data 3
9 LCD_RED4 LCD red data 4
10 LCD_RED5 LCD red data 5
11 LCD_RED6 LCD red data 6
12 LCD_RED7 LCD red data 7
13 LCD_GREEN0 LCD green data 0
14 LCD_GREEN1 LCD green data 1
15 LCD_GREEN2 LCD green data 2
16 LCD_GREEN3 LCD green data 3
17 LCD_GREEN4 LCD green data 4
18 LCD_GREEN5 LCD green data 5
19 LCD_GREEN6 LCD green data 6
20 LCD_GREEN7 LCD green data 7
21 LCD_BLUE0 LCD blue data 0
22 LCD_BLUE1 LCD blue data 1
23 LCD_BLUE2 LCD blue data 2
24 LCD_BLUE3 LCD blue data 3
25 LCD_BLUE4 LCD blue data 4
26 LCD_BLUE5 LCD blue data 5
27 LCD_BLUE6 LCD blue data 6
28 LCD_BLUE7 LCD blue data 7
29 DGND Digital ground
30 LCD_PCLK LCD P clock
31 LCD_DISEN LCD DISEN
32 LCD_HSYNC LCD HSYNC
33 LCD_VSYNC LCD VSYNC

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7.5 Touch Screen Connector - J2

Table 10. LCD Capacitive Touch Screen Pin Details

PIN NUMBER DIRECTION DESCRIPTION
1 V3_3D 3.3-V power rail
2 DGND Digital ground
3 GP_I2C_SCL I2C clock
4 GP_I2C_SDA I2C data
5 TOUCH_INT Touch interrupt
6 TOUCH_WAKE Touch wake
7 NC No connect
8 NC No connect

7.6 Ethernet Connectors

7.6.1 RJ45 Connector1 - J6

Table 11. 10/100/1000 Ethernet Connector 1

PIN NUMBER SIGNAL NAME DESCRIPTION
1 DGND Ground
2 NC No connect
3 ETHER1_D3P Data 3 ve
4 ETHER1_D3N Data 3 –ve
5 ETHER1_D2P Data 2 ve
6 ETHER1_D2N Data 2 –ve
7 ETHER1_D1P Data 1 ve
8 ETHER1_D1N Data 1 –ve
9 ETHER1_D0P Data 0 ve
10 ETHER1_D0N Data 0 –ve
11 ACT LED ANODE Anode of ACT LED
12 ACT LED CATHODE Cathode of ACT LED
13 LINK LED CATHODE Cathode of LINK LED
14 LINK LED ANODE Anode of LINK LED
SHLD1 DGND Ground
SHLD2 DGND Ground

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7.6.2 RJ45 Connector2 - J8

Table 12. 10/100/1000 Ethernet Connector 2

PIN NUMBER SIGNAL NAME DESCRIPTION
1 DGND Ground
2 NC No connect
3 ETHER2_D3P Data 3 ve
4 ETHER2_D3N Data 3 –ve
5 ETHER2_D2P Data 2 ve
6 ETHER2_D2N Data 2 –ve
7 ETHER2_D1P Data 1 ve
8 ETHER2_D1N Data 1 –ve
9 ETHER2_D0P Data 0 ve
10 ETHER2_D0N Data 0 –ve
11 ACT LED ANODE Anode of ACT LED
12 ACT LED CATHODE Cathode of ACT LED
13 LINK LED CATHODE Cathode of LINK LED
14 LINK LED ANODE Anode of LINK LED
SHLD1 DGND Ground
SHLD2 DGND Ground

7.7 USB - J17

Table 13. Micro-AB Connector - USB Port 0

PIN NUMBER SIGNAL NAME DESCRIPTION
1 VUSB_VBUS0 USB0 bus voltage
2 USB0_CONN_DM USB0 data –
3 USB0_CONN_DP USB0 data +
4 USB0_ID USB0 identification
5 DGND Ground

7.8 USB - J19

Table 14. Type A - USB Port 1

PIN NUMBER SIGNAL NAME DESCRIPTION
1 VUSB_VBUS1 USB1 bus voltage
2 USB1_CONN_DM USB1 data –
3 USB1_CONN_DP USB1 data +
4 DGND Ground

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7.9 Camera Interface Header - J15

Table 15. Camera Header

PIN NUMBER SIGNAL NAME DESCRIPTION
1 AGND Analog ground
2 SENSOR_SIO_D Sensor serial I/O data
3 V2_8A 2.8-V supply
4 SENSOR_SIO_C Sensor serial I/O clock
5 DGND Ground
6 SENSOR_VSYNC Sensor VSYNC
7 DGND Ground
8 SENSOR_HREF Sensor HREF
9 V1_5D 1.5-V Supply
10 SENSOR_XCLK Sensor clock
11 SENSOR_PWRDN Sensor power down
12 V2_8D 2.8-V supply
13 SENSOR_PCLK Sensor clock
14 SENSOR_Y0 Sensor data 0
15 SENSOR_RESET Sensor reset
16 SENSOR_Y1 Sensor data 1
17 SENSOR_Y9 Sensor data 9
18 SENSOR_Y8 Sensor data 8
19 SENSOR_Y7 Sensor data 7
20 SENSOR_Y6 Sensor data 6
21 SENSOR_Y5 Sensor data 5
22 SENSOR_Y4 Sensor data 4
23 SENSOR_Y3 Sensor data 3
24 SENSOR_Y2 Sensor data 2

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8 EVM Important Notices

8.1 ADDITIONAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS, WARNINGS, RESTRICTIONS, AND

DISCLAIMERS FOR EVALUATION MODULES

NOTE: These EVM terms and conditions can be downloaded in PDF format.

Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) markets, sells, and loans all evaluation boards, kits, and/or modules
(EVMs) pursuant to, and user expressly acknowledges, represents, agrees, and takes sole responsibility
and risk with respect to the following:
1. User agrees and acknowledges that EVMs are intended to be handled and used for feasibility
evaluation only in laboratory and/or development environments. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in
certain instances, TI makes certain EVMs available to users that do not handle and use EVMs solely
for feasibility evaluation only in laboratory and/or development environments, but may use EVMs in a
hobbyist environment. All EVMs made available to hobbyist users are FCC certified, as applicable.
Hobbyist users acknowledge, agree, and shall comply with all applicable terms, conditions, warnings,
and restrictions in this document and are subject to the disclaimer and indemnity provisions included in
this document.
2. Unless otherwise indicated, EVMs are not finished products and not intended for consumer use. EVMs
are intended solely for use by technically qualified electronics experts who are familiar with the
dangers and application risks associated with handling electrical mechanical components, systems,
and subsystems.
3. User agrees that EVMs shall not be used as, or incorporated into, all or any part of a finished product.
4. User agrees and acknowledges that certain EVMs may not be designed or manufactured by TI.
5. User must read the user's guide and all other documentation accompanying EVMs, including without
limitation any warning or restriction notices, prior to handling and/or using EVMs. Such notices contain
important safety information related to, for example, temperatures and voltages. For additional
information on TI's environmental and/or safety programs, please visit www.ti.com/esh [4] or contact TI.
6. User assumes all responsibility, obligation, and any corresponding liability for proper and safe handling
and use of EVMs.
7. Should any EVM not meet the specifications indicated in the user’s guide or other documentation
accompanying such EVM, the EVM may be returned to TI within 30 days from the date of delivery for a
full refund. THE FOREGOING LIMITED WARRANTY IS THE EXCLUSIVE WARRANTY MADE BY TI
TO USER AND IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED, IMPLIED, OR
STATUTORY, INCLUDING ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY
PARTICULAR PURPOSE. TI SHALL NOT BE LIABLE TO USER FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL,
INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES RELATED TO THE HANDLING OR USE OF ANY
EVM.
8. No license is granted under any patent right or other intellectual property right of TI covering or relating
to any machine, process, or combination in which EVMs might be or are used. TI currently deals with a
variety of customers, and therefore TI’s arrangement with the user is not exclusive. TI assumes no
liability for applications assistance, customer product design, software performance, or infringement of
patents or services with respect to the handling or use of EVMs.
9. User assumes sole responsibility to determine whether EVMs may be subject to any applicable federal,
state, or local laws and regulatory requirements (including but not limited to U.S. Food and Drug
Administration regulations, if applicable) related to its handling and use of EVMs and, if applicable,
compliance in all respects with such laws and regulations.
10. User has sole responsibility to ensure the safety of any activities to be conducted by it and its
employees, affiliates, contractors or designees, with respect to handling and using EVMs. Further, user
is responsible to ensure that any interfaces (electronic and/or mechanical) between EVMs and any
human body are designed with suitable isolation and means to safely limit accessible leakage currents
to minimize the risk of electrical shock hazard.
11. User shall employ reasonable safeguards to ensure that user’s use of EVMs will not result in any
property damage, injury or death, even if EVMs should fail to perform as described or expected.

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12. 12. User shall be solely responsible for proper disposal and recycling of EVMs consistent with all
applicable federal, state, and local requirements
Certain Instructions
User shall operate EVMs within TI’s recommended specifications and environmental considerations per
the user’s guide, accompanying documentation, and any other applicable requirements. Exceeding the
specified ratings (including but not limited to input and output voltage, current, power, and environmental
ranges) for EVMs may cause property damage, personal injury or death. If there are questions concerning
these ratings, user should contact a TI field representative prior to connecting interface electronics
including input power and intended loads. Any loads applied outside of the specified output range may
result in unintended and/or inaccurate operation and/or possible permanent damage to the EVM and/or
interface electronics. Please consult the applicable EVM user's guide prior to connecting any load to the
EVM output. If there is uncertainty as to the load specification, please contact a TI field representative.
During normal operation, some circuit components may have case temperatures greater than 60°C as
long as the input and output are maintained at a normal ambient operating temperature. These
components include but are not limited to linear regulators, switching transistors, pass transistors, and
current sense resistors which can be identified using EVMs’ schematics located in the applicable EVM
user's guide. When placing measurement probes near EVMs during normal operation, please be aware
that EVMs may become very warm. As with all electronic evaluation tools, only qualified personnel
knowledgeable in electronic measurement and diagnostics normally found in development environments
should use EVMs.
Agreement to Defend, Indemnify, and Hold Harmless
User agrees to defend, indemnify, and hold TI, its directors, officers, employees, agents, representatives,
affiliates, licensors and their representatives harmless from and against any and all claims, damages,
losses, expenses, costs and liabilities (collectively, "Claims") arising out of, or in connection with, any
handling and/or use of EVMs. User’s indemnity shall apply whether Claims arise under law of tort or
contract or any other legal theory, and even if EVMs fail to perform as described or expected.
Safety-Critical or Life-Critical Applications
If user intends to use EVMs in evaluations of safety critical applications (such as life support), and a failure
of a TI product considered for purchase by user for use in user’s product would reasonably be expected to
cause severe personal injury or death such as devices which are classified as FDA Class III or similar
classification, then user must specifically notify TI of such intent and enter into a separate Assurance and
Indemnity Agreement.

8.2 RADIO FREQUENCY REGULATORY COMPLIANCE INFORMATION FOR EVALUATION

MODULES

NOTE: These EVM terms and conditions can be downloaded in PDF format.

Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) evaluation boards, kits, and/or modules (EVMs) and/or accompanying
hardware that is marketed, sold, or loaned to users may or may not be subject to radio frequency
regulations in specific countries.
General Statement for EVMs Not Including a Radio
For EVMs not including a radio and not subject to the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
or Industry Canada (IC) regulations, TI intends EVMs to be used only for engineering development,
demonstration, or evaluation purposes. EVMs are not finished products typically fit for general consumer
use. EVMs may nonetheless generate, use, or radiate radio frequency energy, but have not been tested
for compliance with the limits of computing devices pursuant to part 15 of FCC or the ICES-003 rules.
Operation of such EVMs may cause interference with radio communications, in which case the user at his
own expense will be required to take whatever measures may be required to correct this interference.

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General Statement for EVMs Including a Radio

User Power/Frequency Use Obligations: For EVMs including a radio, the radio included in such EVMs is
intended for development and/or professional use only in legally allocated frequency and power limits. Any
use of radio frequencies and/or power availability in such EVMs and their development application(s) must
comply with local laws governing radio spectrum allocation and power limits for such EVMs. It is the user’s
sole responsibility to only operate this radio in legally acceptable frequency space and within legally
mandated power limitations. Any exceptions to this are strictly prohibited and unauthorized by TI unless
user has obtained appropriate experimental and/or development licenses from local regulatory authorities,
which is the sole responsibility of the user, including its acceptable authorization.
U.S. Federal Communications Commission Compliance
For EVMs Annotated as FCC – FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION Part 15 Compliant
Caution
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Changes or modifications could void
the user's authority to operate the equipment.
FCC Interference Statement for Class A EVM Devices
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant
to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates,
uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment
in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to
correct the interference at its own expense.
FCC Interference Statement for Class B EVM Devices
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant
to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference
to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can
be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Industry Canada Compliance (English)
For EVMs annotated as IC – INDUSTRY CANADA Compliant
This Class A or B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003. Changes or modifications not
expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the
equipment.
Concerning EVMs Including Radio Transmitters
This device complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any
interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
Concerning EVMs Including Detachable Antennas
Under Industry Canada regulations, this radio transmitter may only operate using an antenna of a type
and maximum (or lesser) gain approved for the transmitter by Industry Canada. To reduce potential radio
interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should be so chosen that the equivalent
isotropically radiated power (e.i.r.p.) is not more than that necessary for successful communication.
16 AM437x StarterKit EVM Hardware User's Guide SPRUHW8 – June 2014
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This radio transmitter has been approved by Industry Canada to operate with the antenna types listed in
the user guide with the maximum permissible gain and required antenna impedance for each antenna
type indicated. Antenna types not included in this list, having a gain greater than the maximum gain
indicated for that type, are strictly prohibited for use with this device.
Canada Industry Canada Compliance (French)
Cet appareil numérique de la classe A ou B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada Les
changements ou les modifications pas expressément approuvés par la partie responsable de la
conformité ont pu vider l’autorité de l'utilisateur pour actionner l'équipement.
Concernant les EVMs avec appareils radio
Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de
licence. L'exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes : (1) l'appareil ne doit pas produire de
brouillage, et (2) l'utilisateur de l'appareil doit accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le
brouillage est susceptible d'en compromettre le fonctionnement.
Concernant les EVMs avec antennes détachables
Conformément à la réglementation d'Industrie Canada, le présent émetteur radio peut fonctionner avec
une antenne d'un type et d'un gain maximal (ou inférieur) approuvé pour l'émetteur par Industrie Canada.
Dans le but de réduire les risques de brouillage radioélectrique à l'intention des autres utilisateurs, il faut
choisir le type d'antenne et son gain de sorte que la puissance isotrope rayonnée équivalente (p.i.r.e.) ne
dépasse pas l'intensité nécessaire à l'établissement d'une communication satisfaisante.
Le présent émetteur radio a été approuvé par Industrie Canada pour fonctionner avec les types d'antenne
énumérés dans le manuel d’usage et ayant un gain admissible maximal et l'impédance requise pour
chaque type d'antenne. Les types d'antenne non inclus dans cette liste, ou dont le gain est supérieur au
gain maximal indiqué, sont strictement interdits pour l'exploitation de l'émetteur.
Mailing Address: Texas Instruments, Post Office Box 655303, Dallas, Texas 75265 Copyright © 2014,
Texas Instruments Incorporated

8.3 Important Notice for Users of EVMs Considered “Radio Frequency Products” in
Japan

NOTE: These EVM terms and conditions can be downloaded in PDF format.

EVMs entering Japan are NOT certified by TI as conforming to Technical Regulations of Radio Law of
Japan.
If user uses EVMs in Japan, user is required by Radio Law of Japan to follow the instructions below with
respect to EVMs:
1. Use EVMs in a shielded room or any other test facility as defined in the notification #173 issued by
Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications on March 28, 2006, based on Sub-section 1.1 of
Article 6 of the Ministry’s Rule for Enforcement of Radio Law of Japan,
2. Use EVMs only after user obtains the license of Test Radio Station as provided in Radio Law of Japan
with respect to EVMs, or
3. Use of EVMs only after user obtains the Technical Regulations Conformity Certification as provided in
Radio Law of Japan with respect to EVMs. Also, do not transfer EVMs, unless user gives the same
notice above to the transferee. Please note that if user does not follow the instructions above, user will
be subject to penalties of Radio Law of Japan.
http://www.tij.co.jp

SPRUHW8 – June 2014 AM437x StarterKit EVM Hardware User's Guide 17

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EVM Important Notices www.ti.com

【無線電波を送信する製品の開発キットをお使いになる際の注意事項】本開発キットは技術基準適合証明
を受けておりまご使用に際しては、電波法遵守のため、以下のいずれかの措置を取っていただく必要があ
りますのでご注意ください。
1. 電波法施行規則第6条第1項第1号に基づく平成18年3月28日総務省告示第173号で定められた電波暗室
等の試験設備でご
2. 実験局の免許を取得後ご使用いただく。
3. 技術基準適合証明を取得後ご使用いただく。。
なお、本製品は、上記の「ご使用にあたっての注意」を譲渡先、移転先に通知しない限り、譲渡、移転で
きないものとし
上記を遵守頂けない場合は、電波法の罰則が適用される可能性があることをご留意ください。
日本テキサス・インスツルメンツ株式会社
東京都新宿区西新宿６丁目２４番１号
西新宿三井ビル
http://www.tij.co.jp
Texas Instruments Japan Limited (address) 24-1, Nishi-Shinjuku 6 chome, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan

18 AM437x StarterKit EVM Hardware User's Guide SPRUHW8 – June 2014

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TI reference designs have been created using standard laboratory conditions and engineering practices. TI has not conducted any
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Buyers are authorized to use TI reference designs with the TI component(s) identified in each particular reference design and to modify the
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