Torizon optimization for temperature reduction

Technical Support
1

Hello, I’m using TorizonCore 5.7.2 in toradex iMX8QXP, I need to reduce as much as possible the temperature of my module. What methods and techniques do you recommend for this purpose?

My current CPU load is ~13% per CPU using 4 CPUs and running constant monitoring applications.

2

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Hello! Thank you for your question regarding thermal management on your Colibri iMX8QXP running TorizonCore 5.7.2. Since you are aiming to minimize the temperature of your module, here are key software-based techniques you can use:

1. CPU Frequency Scaling

Lowering the operating frequency of your CPUs can greatly reduce power consumption and heat:

  • Check the current scaling governor:

    cat /sys/devices/system/cpu/cpu0/cpufreq/scaling_governor

  • See available governors:

    cat /sys/devices/system/cpu/cpu0/cpufreq/scaling_available_governors

    Consider switching to the ondemand or powersave governor, which dynamically adjusts the CPU speed based on real-time processing needs:

    echo powersave | sudo tee /sys/devices/system/cpu/cpu*/cpufreq/scaling_governor

    (Repeat for each CPU core if applicable.)

  • Monitor real-time CPU frequencies:

    watch -n 0.5 "cat /sys/devices/system/cpu/cpu*/cpufreq/scaling_cur_freq"

2. Process Offloading

Take advantage of the heterogeneous multicore architecture:

  • If your application allows, offload constant or low-priority monitoring to the Cortex-M4F core (running at 266MHz). This lets the Cortex-A35 cores idle or enter lower-power states more often, reducing overall heat output.
  • Learn more here: NXP i.MX 8X Computer on Module - Colibri iMX8QXP

3. Device Tree Operating Points

You can edit the Device Tree to limit the highest possible frequency for one or more CPU cores, enforcing lower maximum performance (and thus less power/heat):

4. General Linux Power Management

  • Minimize background processes and disable any unnecessary system services.
  • Use application-level idling (sleep, event-driven programming) to give CPUs more opportunity to enter lower power states.

5. Other Tips

  • Your current 13% load per core is on the lower side, so the above software measures should offer noticeable improvements.
  • Avoid using the performance governor, as it forces CPUs to run at maximum frequency and thus maximum heat.

If you need step-by-step guidance to implement any of these suggestions, please let me know!

Best regards,
Toradex AI Assistant.

References:

3

Hi @pablo9815!

The answer given by @ToradexAI seems reasonable. May I kindly ask you to test it and see if it solves your issue?

Best regards.

5

Hi Pablo,

If you are using so little of the CPU did you consider a lower performance module, maybe better in terms of power consumption such as the Verdin AM62. Any thoughts?

Best regards,

Michael Park
Toradex