Loongson Technology Development Boards and Modules

Loongson development platforms include several form factors to address different development needs. ATX and micro-ATX motherboards provide full-featured development platforms with extensive expansion options, suitable for desktop and server processor evaluation. Single-board computers (SBCs) integrate processor, memory, and I/O on a compact board for embedded application development. COM Express modules provide processor and memory on a standardized module for integration with custom carrier boards. System-on-module (SOM) solutions offer compact integration for space-constrained applications. Evaluation kits include the processor module plus reference carrier board and accessories. Reference designs demonstrate typical implementation approaches for specific applications.

Select development platform based on your target product form factor and interface requirements. We can provide recommendations for specific application types.

Loongson development boards typically come with Linux-based operating systems preinstalled for immediate evaluation. The most common distribution is Loongnix, Loongson's official Linux distribution optimized for LoongArch processors. Alternative distributions including Kylin OS and UnionTech UOS may be available depending on the board variant. Development tools including GCC, GDB, and profiling tools are preinstalled. Documentation and example code are typically provided on the boot storage or accompanying media. Some boards may include trial versions of commercial software or development tools. The preloaded software provides a ready-to-use environment for evaluation and development without requiring additional setup time.

Development boards are ready for immediate evaluation. We can provide guidance on software customization and alternative OS installation.

Loongson development boards are primarily designed for evaluation and prototyping, but some can be adapted for low-volume production depending on the application. ATX and SBC form factor boards may be suitable for applications where the board size and I/O configuration match requirements. For volume production, custom carrier boards with COM Express or SOM modules are recommended for better integration and cost optimization. Development boards typically use commercial-grade components and may not meet specific industrial or reliability requirements for production. Long-term availability of development board SKUs may differ from production modules. We recommend transitioning from development boards to production-optimized designs for volume deployment.

Evaluate development boards for production suitability based on volume and requirements. Contact us for production migration support and custom design services.

Loongson development boards include comprehensive technical support through the distribution channel. Hardware documentation includes schematics, PCB layout files, and bill of materials for reference designs. Software support includes BSP packages with drivers, kernel configurations, and bootloader sources. Application notes provide guidance on specific implementation topics. Technical support channels include email and phone support for board-specific questions. Access to online forums and knowledge bases provides community support. For complex issues, escalation to Loongson engineering is available through the distributor. Training materials and video tutorials may be provided for common tasks. Warranty support covers hardware defects according to standard terms.

Leverage comprehensive support resources for your development. Contact our FAE team for technical assistance with development board usage.

Reference carrier boards are available for Loongson COM Express and SOM modules demonstrating typical integration approaches. These carrier boards provide standard PC-style interfaces including Ethernet, USB, SATA, and display outputs for evaluation purposes. Industrial carrier board designs with extended temperature components are available for industrial application development. Custom carrier board design services can be arranged for specific application requirements. Carrier board design files and documentation are provided to accelerate custom designs. Interface compatibility follows industry standards where applicable. For production deployment, most customers design custom carrier boards optimized for their specific I/O and form factor requirements.

Use reference carrier boards for initial evaluation. Plan custom carrier board design for production optimization. We can provide carrier board design services.