Pros and Cons of SBC, SoM, and CoM in embedded systems

In today’s world of embedded systems, new acronyms are being created daily and it can be hard to stay up to date.

This article will break down the differences in terminology between the SBC (Single Board Computer), SoM (System-On-Module) , and CoM (Computer-On-Module) and explain them in the context of embedded system hardware products while also discussing several pros and cons for each type of module/system.

Single Board Computer (SBC)

As defined by Wikipedia, “a single-board computer (SBC) is a complete computer built on a single circuit board, with a microprocessor(s), memory, input/output (I/O) and other features required for a functional computer.” Single-board computers are commonly used in an embedded development system as an embedded computer controller. SBC brings together all the necessary components of a computer, digital, analog, mixed-signal into a single board.

It is possible for the SBC to be customized for a specific application, only including the needed components (memory, necessary interfaces, I/O, etc.). One of the main advantages of an SBC is that it is usually cheaper and more mechanically/vibration resilient because there is no need for additional connector/s connecting the computer module to the carrier board. The disadvantage is that once the CPU and memory option is selected, you are locked into this configuration and the only way to upgrade the SBC is by replacing it. On the other hand, this could become an advantage if you don’t expect any hardware changes. Once conformal coated, the SBC is the preferred choice for any environment that is harsh, humid, greasy, or needs to withstand a great deal of vibration and shock.

System on a Module (SoM) plus Carrier Board

A System-On-Module (SoM) is a type of single-board computer made to plug into a carrier board for system expansion.

A System-On-Module or Computer-On-Module (CoM) usually refers to the same thing. It means a computer or system packaged into a single module. SoM based design provides more scalability by simply selecting a different SoM module from the same pin-compatibility family. SoM can be replaced or upgraded without having to replace the carrier board. SoM provides a plug and play type advantage.

Both, the SoM and carrier board provide the complete system; they usually include display, connectivity, GPIO and other subsystems in a single complete computer module.

The appeal to SoM/CoM is that it can provide upgradability/scalability by simply changing the SoM module with a module that meets the new end-application requirements, making it easier to upgrade the original system later in time and in the field with added or expended functionality. SoM can help engineers speed up a product to market by starting the project using the most powerful SoM module and adjusting or scaling the SoM for the final product needs.

This could also apply to adding or subtracting a feature by simply selecting a different SoM module since SoM based designs are usually scalable with a variety of CPU/GPU choices (solo lite, solo, dual lite, dual, quad lite, quad, quad plus core).

In Summary:

Both types use the same production-ready software. A VEST partnership (www.apc-vest.com) has helped many companies over the years with embedded electronics and software/firmware solutions for numerous HMI/GUI applications using many of our off-the-shelf/custom embedded computing solutions.  VEST provides both SoM and SBC type electronics and software system building blocks allowing VEST’s customers to focus on their integration and their overall product design.

VEST – Venture Embedded Solutions Technology (www.apc-vest.com) offers products, tools and services that will reduce the time and cost of embedded device development. Customers will be able to leverage VEST’s multi-year R&D investment of electronics design, firmware system design, optics, imaging, thermal and motion control design expertise to excel product development.

VEST would welcome the opportunity to discuss how your company can leverage VEST’s unsurpassed customer service, electrical/electronic, firmware and software system design expertise to take your project to the next level. Please contact us: https://apc-vest.com/about-us/contact/