Accelerate C-V2X Development: Unex SOM-352UC with Gateworks NXP i.MX 8M Industrial SBCs
The global push for Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication requires a hardware foundation that balances power with field-proven reliability. Gateworks and Unex have bridged this gap by validating the Unex SOM-352UC V2X System-on-Module with Venice Family of Single Board Computers featuring NXP Semiconductor’s iMX 8M CPU. This partnership offers a trusted ecosystem to eliminate technical friction and move projects from prototype to production faster. We combine USA quality manufacturing with industrial-grade components to secure a competitive advantage for engineers designing C-V2X solutions.
C-V2X 2026 Compliance Bridge
This is a timely discussion because the FCC established in its Second Report and Order (FCC 24-125) that all DSRC traffic radios are to be phased out by December 14, 2026. Products like the SOM-352UC are a vital upgrade path for North American infrastructure. It acts as a bridge for cities and agencies, allowing them to modernize their existing equipment to the new, faster C-V2X standard without needing to replace their entire hardware setup. This ensures that current projects remain compliant with federal safety laws while moving toward a single, unified communication system for all vehicles on the road.
Unex SOM-352: Versatile Global Connectivity
The Unex SOM-352 family of modules support DSRC and C-V2X (PC5) protocols within a single, software-defined hardware architecture. This flexibility allows a single hardware design to serve different regional markets by simply updating the firmware. To meet the diverse regulatory and technical requirements of global markets, the SOM-352 is available in the following four configurations.
| Model | Market | Protocol | Standards / Stacks |
| SOM-352UC | North America | C-V2X (PC5) | IEEE 1609, SAE J2735 |
| SOM-352EC | Europe | LTE-V2X (PC5) | ETSI C-ITS, CAM/DENM |
| SOM-352UD | North America | DSRC (802.11p) | IEEE 1609, SAE J2735 |
| SOM-352ED | Europe | ITS-G5 (802.11p) | ETSI ITS-G5 |
Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X)
Our validation focused on the “UC” variant of the Unex SOM specifically programmed for the United States C-V2X (Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything) standard. 5GAA explains C-V2X as “a connected mobility platform that allows vehicles to interact with their surroundings, such as other vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians, road infrastructure, or mobile networks.” While traditional vehicle sensors like LiDAR, cameras and radar provide a “line-of-sight” view of what is directly in front or around the car, C-V2X allows vehicles to see through buildings, around corners and miles down the road, unaffected by fog or other environmental impacts.
Image Source: 5GAA C-V2X Explained
Security and Lane-Level Precision
Modern connected infrastructure demands data integrity and positioning accuracy. The SOM-352 features an embedded Hardware Security Module (eHSM) to facilitate secure ECDSA NIST P256 message signing. This tamper-proof hardware protects sensitive private keys and prevents unauthorized data injection. For positioning, the module utilizes an advanced GNSS receiver with Dead Reckoning capabilities. This technology maintains lane-level accuracy during signal dropouts in tunnels or dense urban canyons. By combining these features, we ensure V2X nodes remain both trustworthy and highly precise in the field. SOM-352 Info Sheet
Heart of the System: NXP i.MX 8M Processing
Gateworks’ Venice SBCs leverage the NXP i.MX 8M Mini and Plus processors to anchor Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). These CPUs deliver the computational overhead necessary for high-frequency V2X message throughput. The i.MX 8M Plus specifically features an integrated Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for edge-based machine learning. This allows for AI-driven pedestrian detection without sending data to the cloud, reducing latency to milliseconds. Our Venice family includes dual Gigabit Ethernet and high-speed Mini-PCIe slots to support complex network topologies. Every board thrives in high-vibration environments and extreme temperatures ranging from -40°C to +85°C.
Integration and Reliability
We have optimized the integration process to allow for immediate deployment and testing. The SOM-352 connects to the Gateworks host via a robust USB RNDIS interface for seamless networking. Gateworks provides a specific hardware configuration to deliver dedicated 5V power to the Mini-PCIe slot upon request for V2X solutions. We conduct all engineering, assembly and testing at our California-based factory to maintain the highest ISO 9001-certified quality standards. Our 10-15-year longevity commitment protects investment throughout the lifecycle of the infrastructure. Choosing Gateworks and Unex means partnering with experts dedicated to industrial excellence and successful deployments.
Drive V2X Projects Forward
CONTACT US to get started with a validated, secure and flexible C-V2X solution built for the most demanding transportation environments.
Sources and Additional Reading:
Gateworks Corporation
Unex
NXP Semiconductors
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