Plus1 SP7021: A Practical Linux SoC for Smart Agriculture

The Plus1 SP7021 is a revolutionary system-on-chip (SoC) that combines the performance of a Linux-grade processor with the simplicity of a microcontroller. Jointly developed by Sunplus Technology and Tibbo Technology, it is purpose-built for IoT and industrial control, featuring abundant native I/O and LQFP packaging that avoids the complexity and cost of BGA-based designs.
Unlike repurposed SoCs like those used in Raspberry Pi—often originating from set-top boxes—Plus1 addresses the real needs of low-to-medium-volume product developers. It retains support for 5V and 3.3V GPIO, simplifying control hardware design and reducing total system cost.
Plus1 is an ideal platform for smart agriculture and aquaculture applications, including irrigation control, water quality monitoring, aquaponics management, and autonomous farming equipment. With its low power consumption, easy integration, and robust peripheral support, Plus1 offers a cost-effective, long-lifecycle alternative to traditional Linux SoCs in harsh field environments.
Plus1: A Linux SoC for IoT and Industrial Control
The Plus1 is a revolutionary SoC featuring the power of a Linux-grade processor combined with the integration simplicity of a microcontroller.
Unlike competing chips repurposed for IoT applications, the Plus1 was designed to provide ample general-purpose I/O lines while remaining easy to integrate. Its LQFP form factor simplifies layout work and facilitates the use of lower-cost, two- or four-layer PCBs.
Key features include:
• Quad-core 1GHz Cortex-A7
• NEON multimedia processing engine
• A926 real-time core
• 8051 low-power core
• 512MB embedded DDR DRAM
• 72 GPIO lines with 3.3V logic level and 5V tolerance
• Dual Ethernet MACs support L2 switching and daisy-chaining
• SDIO wireless module interface
• Flash interface supports eMMC, SPI NAND, and SPI NOR
• TCON, MIPI, and HDMI video output
• LQFP form factor simplifies design, fabrication, and repair
*(Some limitations apply)
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Powerful, Flexible, and Practical
Innovative Embedded Processor Architecture
The Plus1’s architecture solves the long-standing issue of cutting-edge chips not being suited to the needs of the industrial control, smart device, and maker markets. A Compute Unit provides modern performance thanks to an advanced fabrication process, while a Peripheral Unit ensures compatibility by employing mature technologies.
Flexible and Reliable Industrial Control
The Plus1 was engineered to meet the needs of low and medium-volume industrial applications that require significant computing power. The LQFP form factor reduces design complexity, ample I/O lines allow for expansion, a low-EMI design simplifies certification, and a ten-year supply guarantee ensures peace of mind.
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Key Features
Easy-to-Use LQFP Form Factor
• Simplifies PCB layout
• Reduces costs
• Hand-solderability facilitates the production of samples and maintenance in the field
Integrated 512MB DDR DRAM
• Fewer layers and pins to deal with drastically reduces PCB layout complexity
• Cuts down on procurement issues and costs
Single 3.3V Power
• All additionally required voltages — 1.8V, 1.2V, and 0.9V — are generated internally*
• Obviates need for expensive, complicated PMICs
*(Some limitations apply)
Industrial-grade Design
• Operating temperature range of -40°C to 85°C
• Low-cost commercial-grade versions available
A True Industrial Linux Chip
• Designed specifically to provide the powerful performance and ample I/O capabilities required for IoT and industrial automation
• Supported by a modern, Yocto-based Linux distribution
10 Year Supply Guarantee
• The Plus1 was created for industrial applications and devices, which have significantly longer service than consumer products. Our 10 year supply guarantee provides stability and peace of mind about stock availability.

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