What is a System-on-Module (SoM)?
A System-on-Module (SoM) is a compact embedded module that consolidates essential components like processor cores, communication interfaces, and memory blocks into a single unit. It can be seamlessly inserted into a carrier board within an embedded system. Essentially, it encapsulates an entire computer or system within a modular format.
A System-on-Module (SoM) is a compact embedded module that consolidates essential components like processor cores, communication interfaces, and memory blocks into a single unit. It can be seamlessly inserted into a carrier board within an embedded system. Essentially, it encapsulates an entire computer or system within a modular format. The flexibility of SoM-based design enables scalability through the straightforward interchange of modules within the same pin-compatibility family.
The System-on-Module (SoM) can be swapped out or upgraded without needing to replace the carrier board, providing a plug-and-play advantage. Both the SoM and carrier board together form the complete system, often integrating display, connectivity, GPIO, and other subsystems within a single computer module.
Why Choose System on Modules?
System on Modules (SoMs) offer developers a pathway to achieve design breakthroughs, reducing both time to market and costs. Traditional embedded system development involves the lengthy process of designing and fabricating custom circuit boards. SoMs streamline this process significantly. Simply select a SoM that meets your requirements, integrate it into the end system, and you're good to go.
The modular design of SoMs not only facilitates high-volume deployments but also simplifies product lifecycle management and reduces Bill of Materials (BOM) costs. Whether you're involved in software, hardware, or AI development, exploring SoMs is worthwhile.
For software developers, SoMs enable edge computing, allowing data processing locally and without latency. They provide an intuitive design environment without requiring extensive hardware knowledge. The easy-to-configure, highly flexible sensors of SoMs are particularly appealing for software developers working on vision applications. Plus, the inclusion of built-in drivers and other software helps save design time.
Hardware developers aiming to expedite production can leverage the performance and flexibility of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) through SoMs, bypassing the complexities of PCB design and integration. This allows projects to be completed on time and within budget, focusing resources on tasks with the most significant impact.
AI developers need systems that deliver efficient, high-performance computing without demanding expertise in hardware. Fortunately, with pre-built applications available from top module providers, they can choose a SoM that offers the necessary computing power while maintaining the flexibility to easily access AI models.
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Where can SoM be applied?
IoT Gateway:
When rapid deployment of large-scale IoT gateway products is imperative, leveraging SoM is recommended, depending on the project's stage. Engineers can expedite time-to-market by initiating projects with robust SoM modules and subsequently adjusting or expanding the SoM to align with end-product requirements.
Security Cameras:
Cutting-edge security camera systems fully exploit the benefits of video analytics, with SoM playing a crucial role. Video analytics-enabled security cameras utilize machine learning to categorize and comprehend observed activities, delivering a precise stream of real-time data. This capability hinges on edge computing, facilitated by cameras and other devices analyzing information on-site.
Machine Vision:
In today's economy, machine vision is indispensable, encompassing tasks from inventory inspection to signature recognition to defect detection. Embedded systems supporting machine vision must analyze data on-site while offering configurable sensor capabilities. SoM empowers developers to implement machine vision at scale while minimizing costs.
Smart City:
Smart cities rely on ubiquitous sensors to gather data, equipping decision-makers with comprehensive insights to ensure functional and vibrant communities. SoM primarily drives these sensors, enabling city officials to monitor utilities, traffic, and other aspects in real-time, capturing every detail without omission.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right SoM:
Performance/Processing Power:
Understanding the processing requirements of the embedded application is crucial. For IoT edge devices, a small-scale SoM might suffice, whereas AI-based edge devices demand significant processing power to execute tasks effectively.
Power Consumption:
When designing an embedded system, considering power consumption and heat generation is essential. Power consumption is a key criterion, especially for mobile or battery-powered designs, where efficient power management is vital.
Hardware Constraints:
The number and type of peripherals required play a significant role in SoM selection. Hardware developers need to identify the peripherals—such as 4G, GPS, card readers, etc.—to be integrated into the carrier board before choosing a SoM.
Software Compatibility:
Comparison between Intel and ARM processors can be challenging due to differing software availability and toolchains. ARM-based devices excel in running mobile operating systems like Android and Linux, while Intel-based devices offer compatibility with a broader range of operating systems, including Windows and Linux.
OS Emphasis:
Operating systems (OS) are critical for smart device development. Managing the board support package (BSP) influences SDK development and hardware compatibility. Availability of peripheral drivers and module bring-ups are key considerations when selecting the most suitable OS for the embedded system.
Durability:
The design team needs to assess the lifespan of the SoM, as manufacturers typically provide support for a defined period. Since the product relies partly on a specific SoM, it's crucial to include SoM considerations in obsolescence management strategies.
Cost:
Budget allocation significantly impacts the final cost of building IoT or smart devices, making it a critical concern for embedded design teams. Decision-makers must factor in the cost of the SoM when creating Bills of Materials (BOM) to ensure cost-effective project execution.
Closing Remarks on System on Module:
Embedded system development is increasingly gravitating towards SoMs. The showcased examples merely scratch the surface of the myriad applications at hand. Particularly in the context of home automation, which has gained significant traction, especially amidst the pandemic, SoMs serve as the backbone for a plethora of embedded devices.
