Riverdi–Toradex DTS Repository: Pre-configured Device Tree Overlays for Verdin Platforms

Overview

The Riverdi–Toradex Device Tree Overlays (DTS) repository provides ready-to-use configuration files for connecting Riverdi display modules to Toradex System on Module (SoM) platforms.
It contains a collection of Device Tree Source (.dts / .dtsi) overlays that define parameters for display interfaces, backlight control, and touch controllers used in Riverdi panels. These overlays serve as hardware enablement layers that simplify integration between display modules and the Toradex ecosystem.

The overlays are designed primarily for Verdin iMX8M Mini and Verdin iMX8M Plus SoMs, but can also be used as templates for other Toradex or third-party modules. By leveraging these preconfigured files, developers can rapidly deploy Riverdi displays in embedded Linux environments without manually editing or debugging complex device tree structures. This approach significantly reduces development time and minimizes the risk of configuration errors — particularly valuable when working with multiple display variants or custom carrier boards.

The project adopts a modular and reusable design philosophy. Each overlay is organized by display type, interface, and touch controller, making the structure transparent and easy to extend. Consistent naming conventions and clear in-line documentation ensure that even users who are new to device tree development can quickly understand the logic and relationships within each file. In addition to simplifying system bring-up, the repository also promotes best practices for maintaining clean, scalable DTS hierarchies.

Beyond providing prebuilt overlays, the Riverdi–Toradex DTS repository also functions as a reference platform for developers who wish to customize or extend their own configurations. It can be used as a learning resource for understanding how different hardware components interact in a Linux-based system — from the framebuffer and DRM pipeline to I²C-based touch input and PWM-controlled backlights.

The repository is designed to remain flexible and extensible, allowing future additions such as support for Riverdi displays featuring DSI interfaces, as well as optional tools for automated overlay generation and validation within the Toradex build environment. It serves as a long-term reference platform that bridges hardware design and software integration, helping developers implement reliable and efficient HMI systems.

Please go to below link to find all the needed files.

Github Repository

DTS

The Device Tree (DTS) is a data structure used by the Linux kernel to describe the hardware layout of a system.
It defines how components such as displays, touch controllers, GPIOs, I²C devices, and communication interfaces are connected to the processor. Instead of hardcoding hardware information in the kernel, the Device Tree provides a flexible, declarative way to describe board-specific configurations that can be modified without recompiling the kernel source.

Each .dts or .dtsi file defines nodes and properties that represent hardware components and their interconnections. During boot, the Linux kernel reads the compiled Device Tree Blob (DTB) to properly initialize drivers and peripherals. This modular approach allows developers to support multiple hardware configurations with a single kernel, simply by providing different device tree files or overlays.

Summary

In summary, the Riverdi–Toradex DTS repository provides a ready-to-use foundation for integrating Riverdi displays with Toradex System on Modules, reducing development time and configuration complexity.
For detailed technical documentation, pinouts, and supported configurations, please refer to the Riverdi product page for your specific display model. There you will find up-to-date datasheets, connection diagrams, and related resources.

For readers interested in exploring related topics, the Riverdi Knowledge Base offers additional articles that cover various aspects of display technology, integration, and product usage.
It includes FAQs, hardware notes, and application examples that may help clarify specific design questions or expand your understanding of Riverdi solutions in embedded systems.