Imx8m mini MSP pin

Can I use the MSP pins as GPIO in imx8m mini module?

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Hello!

Yes, you can indeed use the MSP pins on the i.MX 8M Mini module as GPIOs. The i.MX 8M Mini supports flexible pin multiplexing, which allows you to configure pins for various functions, including GPIO, by using device tree overlays.

Here’s a general guide to configuring MSP pins as GPIOs:

  1. Identify Pin Functionality: Refer to the i.MX 8M Mini datasheet or the pin definitions header file (e.g., imx8mm-pinfunc.h) to identify the MSP pins and their possible functions.

  2. Create a Device Tree Overlay: Write a device tree overlay file (.dts) to specify that the MSP pins should be used as GPIOs. This involves defining a pin control node with the appropriate settings.

  3. Modify the Pin Control Node: In your overlay, define a pin control node that sets the MSP pins to GPIO mode. Use the format <name prefix>_<muxing option suffix> to reference the pin definitions.

  4. Apply the Overlay: Use the TorizonCore Builder Tool to apply the overlay to your module. This tool facilitates building and deploying the overlay without external cross-compilation.

  5. Check for Conflicts: Ensure the MSP pins are not already in use by another peripheral. If they are, you may need to disable the conflicting functionality in the device tree.

By following these steps, you can configure the MSP pins on the i.MX 8M Mini to function as GPIOs, provided they are not already dedicated to another function. This flexibility is a key feature of the i.MX 8M Mini’s pin multiplexing capabilities.

If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!

Best regards,
Toradex AI Assistant.

Please, also check if these links can help you solve your problem:

https://community.nxp.com/t5/i-MX-Processors/IMX8M-Mini-Sharing-GPIO-block-between-A53-and-M4/m-p/969766.

Hi @SAIPRATHEEP

The ToradexAI answer is mostly correct.

Yes, you can use Module Specific Pins (MSP) as GPIOs as long as they have GPIO as default or alternate function and are available in the SODIMM pins.
Refer to the SoC function table in the Verdin iMX8M Mini datasheet.

(see picture - SODIMM pin 150 connects to GPIO17 signal from GPIO4 bank on alt5 mode - default)

Also, check our Pinout Designer Tool to help you identify pin configuration possibilities and our Device Tree Section, especially our Pinmuxing Guide, to assist you in integrating your configuration into your images.

Make sure you understand what constraints such usage may bring when migrating between modules in the same family - read more on https://docs.toradex.com/109262-verdin-family-specification.pdf

Best regards,
Danilo Viana