System on Modules (SoMs) are small, integrated single-board computers with standard I/O capability that are incorporated into many embedded system designs. A System on Module, sometimes called a Computer on Module (CoM), is basically an entire central processing unit (CPU) designed into one, contained package. SoMs usually do not have any connectorization and are designed to be plugged directly into a carrier board. When leveraging a System on Module in a design, you get the benefits of a custom engineered solution with the ease of a ready-to-buy single board.
There are many reasons SoMs are used in embedded system designs but the top three are:
1. Production Time:
When creating an embedded system, a lot of design effort usually goes into configuring the CPU infrastructure. As semiconductor technology improves and becomes more technically advanced, it becomes harder and takes longer to design these microprocessors or FPGA subsystems. The extra production time required to design a multifaceted and complex CPU subsystem is avoided by using a System on Module in an embedded system. Plus, leveraging SoM technology helps speed up manufacturing without having to spend more or sacrifice on quality.
2. Time to Market:
Similar to the first reason why SoMs are used in embedded system design, not only do they reduce production time but they also reduce the time it takes to get a finished good to market. The faster and more efficiently a device can be produced, the sooner the end product can be commercialized and become profitable. Also, it is sometimes possible to start development on software applications before the custom carrier board is complete, which can also help reduce the time to market.
3. Cost Reduction:
When using a pre-made System on Module, engineering expenses and any other costs associated with manufacturing a chip-down CPU infrastructure can be significantly reduced or eliminated entirely. Additionally, because they can be easily switched out with minimal changes needed to the carrier board, SoMs can help minimize the risk of an entire finished product going end of life (EOL) due to a memory, flash chipset or CPU going obsolete. This helps lower long-term costs and helps avoid the need for a total redesign.
Sourcing SoMs
Sensible Micro is an authorized distributor for REFLEX CES, a leading FPGA board, module, and embedded systems manufacturer. With over 20 years of embedded system design experience, REFLEX CES offers SoMs that are perfectly suitable for a variety of production needs. Their modules can support a variety of industries, especially high-end industrial, military and defense. REFLEX CES’s products are top-of-the-line in both quality and performance and their vast experience in leading-edge FPGA technology has put them at the forefront of the market. Schedule a call with one of our sourcing experts today to discuss your System on Module needs!
Stay on top of the latest developments in the industry and in our community by subscribing to the Sensible Micro blog.