Huawei HiKey 960 Android Development Board for Makers

The Huawei HiKey 960 computer board for Android is a powerful tool for developers, researchers, and hobbyists who want to explore the world of embedded systems and Android development. This board packs a punch with its powerful processor, ample memory, and flexible connectivity options, making it a versatile platform for a wide range of projects.

Think of it as a miniature computer designed specifically for building custom Android devices. Imagine creating your own smart home hub, a personalized robotics project, or even a custom gaming console. The HiKey 960 opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to bring your creative ideas to life.

Introduction to the Huawei HiKey 960 Computer Board

The Huawei HiKey 960 computer board is a powerful and versatile development platform designed for a wide range of applications, from building custom Android devices to experimenting with Linux and other operating systems. It’s a valuable tool for developers, researchers, and hobbyists who want to explore the world of embedded systems and create innovative projects.

The HiKey 960 is specifically designed for developers and makers to experiment with and build upon the Android platform. Its open-source nature encourages innovation and collaboration within the community.

Key Features of the Huawei HiKey 960

The HiKey 960 boasts a compelling set of features that make it a compelling choice for developers and enthusiasts:

  • Powerful Processor: The HiKey 960 is powered by a powerful HiSilicon Kirin 960 processor, which features an octa-core ARM Cortex-A73 and Cortex-A53 architecture, delivering exceptional performance for demanding tasks.
  • Ample Memory and Storage: With 3GB of LPDDR4 RAM and 32GB of eMMC flash storage, the HiKey 960 provides sufficient resources for running complex applications and storing large datasets.
  • Versatile Connectivity: The board offers a comprehensive set of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Gigabit Ethernet, and a USB Type-C port for data transfer and power.
  • Open Source Platform: The HiKey 960 is an open-source platform, which means that developers have access to the board’s hardware specifications and software drivers, allowing them to customize and extend its capabilities.
  • Extensive Community Support: The HiKey 960 benefits from a vibrant and active community of developers who contribute to its development and provide support to users. This ensures that there are ample resources available for learning, troubleshooting, and sharing ideas.

Hardware Specifications and Capabilities

Huawei hikey 960 computer board for android
The Huawei HiKey 960 is a powerful and versatile development board designed to accelerate the development of Android and Linux applications. It boasts a robust hardware architecture, packed with cutting-edge features that make it a popular choice for developers and hobbyists alike.

Hardware Specifications

The following table summarizes the key hardware specifications of the HiKey 960:

Feature Specification
Processor HiSilicon Kirin 960, 8-core ARM Cortex-A73 and A53 (4+4)
GPU ARM Mali-G71 MP8
Memory 3 GB LPDDR4
Storage 32 GB eMMC
Connectivity
  • Wi-Fi 802.11ac (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz)
  • Bluetooth 4.2
  • Gigabit Ethernet
  • USB 3.0 Type-C
  • USB 2.0 Type-A
  • HDMI 2.0
  • MIPI DSI
  • Camera interface (MIPI CSI-2)
Other Features
  • MicroSD card slot
  • Headphone jack
  • Power button
  • LED indicators
  • 40-pin GPIO header

Capabilities

The HiKey 960’s hardware specifications translate into a range of powerful capabilities:

  • Operating System Support: The HiKey 960 supports both Android and Linux operating systems, offering developers a wide range of options for their projects.
  • Peripheral Support: The board features a comprehensive set of peripherals, including USB ports, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI, and GPIO pins, enabling the connection of various sensors, actuators, and displays.
  • Custom Development: The HiKey 960’s open hardware design and rich software ecosystem make it an ideal platform for custom development projects. Developers can leverage the board’s capabilities to create innovative applications and devices, pushing the boundaries of embedded systems.

Performance

The HiKey 960 delivers impressive performance, thanks to its powerful processor, ample memory, and high-speed storage.

  • Processing Power: The Kirin 960 processor, with its octa-core architecture, provides substantial processing power, enabling the HiKey 960 to handle complex tasks with ease. This power is essential for running demanding applications, such as multimedia processing, gaming, and AI workloads.
  • Memory Bandwidth: The 3 GB LPDDR4 memory offers high bandwidth, ensuring smooth data access and efficient multitasking. This is crucial for applications that require a lot of memory, such as image editing, video editing, and 3D modeling.
  • Storage Capacity: The 32 GB eMMC storage provides ample space for storing applications, data, and operating systems. This storage capacity is essential for developers who need to store large amounts of data or run multiple operating systems on the board.

Development Environment and Tools

The HiKey 960 board provides a powerful platform for developing various applications, from Android apps to Linux-based projects. Setting up the right development environment and choosing suitable tools is crucial for a smooth and efficient development process.

This section will guide you through the process of establishing a development environment for the HiKey 960, including recommended tools and software. You will also learn how to flash an operating system onto the board, making it ready for your projects.

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Setting up a Development Environment

The HiKey 960 supports various operating systems, including Android and Linux distributions. You can choose the one that best suits your needs and project requirements.

For Android development, you will need to set up a development environment that includes the Android Studio IDE, the Android SDK, and the necessary drivers for the HiKey 960. For Linux development, you can use a Linux distribution like Ubuntu or Debian.

Recommended Development Tools and Software

Here is a list of recommended development tools and software for working with the HiKey 960:

  • Android Studio: Android Studio is the official IDE for Android development. It provides a comprehensive set of tools for creating, debugging, and deploying Android applications.
  • Eclipse: Eclipse is another popular IDE that can be used for Android development. It offers a wide range of plugins and extensions for various development tasks.
  • GCC (GNU Compiler Collection): GCC is a powerful compiler that is used to compile C, C++, and other programming languages. It is essential for developing applications for the HiKey 960.
  • GDB (GNU Debugger): GDB is a powerful debugger that can be used to debug applications running on the HiKey 960. It allows you to step through code, inspect variables, and identify errors.
  • Git: Git is a version control system that is used to track changes to your code. It is essential for collaborative development and for managing multiple versions of your project.
  • ADB (Android Debug Bridge): ADB is a command-line tool that allows you to communicate with an Android device, including the HiKey 960. It can be used to install and debug applications, manage files, and perform other tasks.
  • Fastboot: Fastboot is a tool used for flashing images onto the HiKey 960. It allows you to install new operating systems, update firmware, and perform other system-level tasks.

Flashing an Operating System, Huawei hikey 960 computer board for android

Flashing an operating system onto the HiKey 960 is a relatively straightforward process. Here are the steps involved:

  1. Download the operating system image: Download the operating system image you want to flash onto the HiKey 960. This image will typically be in a format like .img or .zip.
  2. Install the necessary drivers: Ensure that you have installed the necessary drivers for the HiKey 960 on your development machine. These drivers will allow your computer to communicate with the board.
  3. Connect the HiKey 960 to your computer: Connect the HiKey 960 to your computer using a USB cable. The board should be powered on.
  4. Boot into fastboot mode: Boot the HiKey 960 into fastboot mode. This can typically be done by pressing a specific key combination during startup. Refer to the HiKey 960 documentation for the exact key combination.
  5. Flash the operating system image: Use the fastboot command to flash the operating system image onto the HiKey 960. The exact command will vary depending on the operating system image and the fastboot tool you are using. Consult the documentation for the specific operating system image for instructions.
  6. Reboot the HiKey 960: Once the flashing process is complete, reboot the HiKey 960. The new operating system should now be installed and running.

Applications and Use Cases

The HiKey 960 is a powerful and versatile platform that can be used for a wide range of applications, from embedded systems development to robotics and IoT projects. Its advanced hardware specifications and open-source software ecosystem make it an ideal choice for developers and enthusiasts looking to build innovative and cutting-edge solutions.

The HiKey 960’s capabilities extend beyond basic development tasks. It can be leveraged for various applications, such as embedded systems development, robotics, IoT projects, and even educational purposes. The board’s powerful processor, extensive memory, and diverse connectivity options provide a robust foundation for creating complex and sophisticated solutions.

Embedded Systems Development

Embedded systems are specialized computer systems designed for specific tasks within a larger system. The HiKey 960 is well-suited for embedded systems development due to its powerful processor, low power consumption, and real-time operating system support. It can be used to create embedded systems for a variety of applications, such as:

  • Industrial automation: The HiKey 960 can be used to develop control systems for industrial equipment, such as robots, conveyor belts, and manufacturing machines. Its real-time operating system support ensures that critical tasks are executed with minimal delay.
  • Consumer electronics: The HiKey 960 can be used to develop smart devices, such as smart home appliances, wearable devices, and automotive systems. Its low power consumption and advanced connectivity options make it ideal for these applications.
  • Medical devices: The HiKey 960 can be used to develop medical devices, such as patient monitoring systems, drug delivery systems, and diagnostic equipment. Its real-time operating system support and high-performance processor ensure reliable and accurate operation.

Robotics

Robotics is a field that involves the design, construction, operation, and application of robots. The HiKey 960 is an excellent platform for robotics development due to its powerful processor, real-time operating system support, and extensive connectivity options. It can be used to develop robots for a variety of applications, such as:

  • Autonomous navigation: The HiKey 960 can be used to develop robots that can navigate autonomously, such as self-driving cars, drones, and delivery robots. Its powerful processor and real-time operating system support enable the robot to process sensor data and make decisions in real time.
  • Industrial automation: The HiKey 960 can be used to develop robots for industrial automation tasks, such as welding, painting, and assembly. Its real-time operating system support and high-performance processor ensure reliable and accurate operation.
  • Research and education: The HiKey 960 can be used to develop robots for research and educational purposes. Its open-source software ecosystem and extensive documentation make it easy to learn and experiment with robotics concepts.
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IoT Projects

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of physical devices, vehicles, buildings, and other items embedded with electronics, software, sensors, actuators, and network connectivity that enable these objects to collect and exchange data. The HiKey 960 is a perfect platform for IoT projects due to its powerful processor, low power consumption, and diverse connectivity options. It can be used to develop IoT devices for a variety of applications, such as:

  • Smart home automation: The HiKey 960 can be used to develop smart home devices, such as smart lighting, smart thermostats, and security systems. Its low power consumption and advanced connectivity options make it ideal for these applications.
  • Industrial monitoring: The HiKey 960 can be used to develop sensors and actuators for industrial monitoring applications. Its real-time operating system support and high-performance processor ensure reliable and accurate data collection and analysis.
  • Environmental monitoring: The HiKey 960 can be used to develop devices for environmental monitoring applications, such as air quality monitoring, water quality monitoring, and weather monitoring. Its low power consumption and advanced connectivity options make it ideal for these applications.

Educational Purposes

The HiKey 960 is a valuable tool for education, providing a hands-on learning experience for students of all levels. Its open-source software ecosystem and extensive documentation make it easy to learn and experiment with various concepts, including:

  • Computer architecture: Students can learn about computer architecture by studying the HiKey 960’s hardware specifications and programming the processor. They can also explore different memory architectures and peripheral devices.
  • Operating systems: Students can learn about operating systems by developing and deploying custom operating systems on the HiKey 960. They can also experiment with different operating system concepts, such as memory management, process scheduling, and device drivers.
  • Embedded systems programming: Students can learn about embedded systems programming by developing applications for the HiKey 960. They can also experiment with different embedded systems concepts, such as real-time operating systems, device drivers, and communication protocols.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Huawei hikey 960 computer board for android
The Huawei HiKey 960, a powerful and versatile development board, offers numerous advantages for developers and hobbyists. However, it also comes with certain drawbacks that are important to consider before making a purchase. This section will delve into the key benefits and challenges associated with the HiKey 960, providing a comprehensive understanding of its strengths and weaknesses.

Advantages of the HiKey 960

The HiKey 960 boasts several advantages that make it a compelling choice for various development projects.

  • Powerful Hardware: Equipped with a powerful Kirin 960 processor, the HiKey 960 offers exceptional processing capabilities, making it suitable for demanding applications like machine learning, computer vision, and robotics. Its 3GB of RAM ensures smooth multitasking and efficient performance.
  • Open-Source Nature: The HiKey 960 runs on Android and Linux operating systems, both of which are open-source platforms. This openness allows developers to customize the board’s software, experiment with different configurations, and contribute to the community.
  • Active Community Support: As a popular development board, the HiKey 960 enjoys a vibrant and active community of developers. This community provides valuable resources, tutorials, and support for users facing challenges or seeking assistance.
  • Versatile Connectivity: The board features a wide range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, and Ethernet. This allows developers to connect the board to various peripherals and devices, enhancing its functionality and adaptability.
  • Affordable Price: Compared to other high-performance development boards, the HiKey 960 offers a relatively affordable price point. This makes it an attractive option for individuals and organizations with budget constraints.

Disadvantages of the HiKey 960

While the HiKey 960 offers significant advantages, it also comes with some limitations.

  • Limited Availability: The HiKey 960 has been discontinued by Huawei, making it challenging to find new units. This limited availability can pose a problem for developers who require a specific board or seek replacement parts.
  • Compatibility Issues: Due to its unique hardware configuration, the HiKey 960 might face compatibility issues with certain software libraries and drivers. Developers might need to invest time and effort in finding compatible alternatives or modifying existing software.
  • Software Support: While the HiKey 960 is supported by Android and Linux, the level of software support might vary depending on the specific application or project. Developers might encounter limited documentation or community support for niche use cases.

Comparison with Other Development Boards

The HiKey 960 can be compared to other popular development boards, such as the Raspberry Pi and the BeagleBone Black.

  • Raspberry Pi: The Raspberry Pi is known for its affordability and ease of use. While it might not offer the same processing power as the HiKey 960, it excels in its simplicity and widespread community support. The HiKey 960 offers a more powerful platform suitable for demanding applications.
  • BeagleBone Black: The BeagleBone Black is another powerful development board with a strong focus on industrial applications. It boasts a similar level of processing power to the HiKey 960 but might lack the same level of community support and software resources.
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Community and Resources

The Huawei HiKey 960 boasts a vibrant and active community of developers and users who are constantly sharing their knowledge, experiences, and projects. This strong community serves as a valuable resource for anyone looking to learn, troubleshoot, or contribute to the HiKey 960 ecosystem.

The community provides a platform for developers to collaborate, share code, and find solutions to technical challenges. You can connect with fellow HiKey 960 enthusiasts, ask questions, and receive support from experienced developers.

Online Resources

The online community offers a plethora of resources, including forums, websites, and documentation, that can help you navigate the world of the HiKey 960.

  • Huawei HiKey 960 Forum: This official forum is a central hub for discussions, announcements, and support related to the HiKey 960. You can find threads on a wide range of topics, from hardware setup and software installation to advanced development techniques. [link to forum]
  • Linaro HiKey 960 Wiki: This wiki provides comprehensive documentation on the HiKey 960, including hardware specifications, software components, and development guides. You can find detailed information on various aspects of the board, from setting up the development environment to working with specific hardware features. [link to wiki]
  • GitHub Repositories: GitHub is a treasure trove of open-source projects related to the HiKey 960. You can find repositories containing code, libraries, and tools that can help you with your development endeavors. [link to repositories]

Popular Open-Source Projects

The HiKey 960 has attracted a strong open-source community, resulting in a rich collection of compatible projects and libraries. These projects can significantly enhance your development experience and provide ready-to-use solutions for various tasks.

  • Android Open Source Project (AOSP): The AOSP provides the source code for the Android operating system, allowing developers to customize and extend its functionality. The HiKey 960 is a popular platform for experimenting with and building custom Android ROMs. [link to AOSP]
  • Linux Kernel: The HiKey 960 supports various Linux kernel versions, providing developers with a robust and flexible operating system foundation. You can find numerous open-source projects that contribute to the Linux kernel for the HiKey 960, enhancing its performance and features. [link to Linux kernel]
  • OpenCV: This open-source computer vision library provides a wide range of functions for image and video processing. OpenCV is widely used on the HiKey 960 for applications such as object detection, face recognition, and image analysis. [link to OpenCV]

Future of the HiKey 960: Huawei Hikey 960 Computer Board For Android

The HiKey 960, a powerful and versatile development board, has established itself as a cornerstone in the world of embedded systems development. Its future holds immense potential, driven by continuous advancements in technology and the ever-evolving landscape of embedded systems.

Potential Updates and New Features

The HiKey 960’s future is likely to see a series of updates and new features that enhance its capabilities and broaden its appeal.

  • Improved Processor Performance: The HiKey 960’s processor, the Kirin 960, is already a powerhouse. Future updates could involve the integration of even more powerful processors, potentially from the Kirin 970 or newer generations, leading to significantly enhanced processing speeds and capabilities. This would enable the HiKey 960 to handle more complex tasks and applications with ease.
  • Enhanced Memory and Storage: As the demand for more data-intensive applications grows, future versions of the HiKey 960 might feature increased RAM and storage capacities. This would allow developers to create applications that require larger datasets and more complex processing, further expanding the board’s capabilities.
  • Advanced Connectivity Options: The HiKey 960 already offers a range of connectivity options, but future updates could introduce even more advanced features. This might include faster Wi-Fi standards, support for 5G networks, and improved Bluetooth capabilities. These advancements would ensure the HiKey 960 remains at the forefront of connectivity technology, enabling seamless integration with various devices and networks.
  • Integration of AI and Machine Learning: The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) is transforming various industries. Future HiKey 960 models could incorporate dedicated hardware and software for AI and ML applications, empowering developers to create innovative embedded systems that leverage these powerful technologies. This could involve dedicated AI processors, specialized neural network accelerators, and pre-trained AI models, enabling the development of intelligent edge devices that can analyze data locally and make real-time decisions.

With its open-source nature, active community support, and impressive hardware capabilities, the Huawei HiKey 960 is a game-changer for embedded systems development. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting out, this board offers a fantastic platform to learn, experiment, and build innovative projects that push the boundaries of what’s possible with Android. So, if you’re looking to dive into the exciting world of embedded systems, the HiKey 960 is a compelling choice that can help you realize your tech dreams.

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