System-on-Modules (SOMs): How and Why to Use Them

A System-on-Module (SOM) provides the core components of an embedded processing system — including processor cores, communication interfaces, and memory blocks — on a single production-ready printed circuit board (PCB). This modular approach makes a SOM ideal for embedding into end systems, from robots to security cameras.

The concept of System-on-Modules grew out of blade servers. These thin servers were created with the goal of saving storage space and minimizing power consumption. The lean design mentality behind blade servers carries over to the architecture of SOMs. They include only the components required for their intended function in as small a package as possible, and they’re flexible enough to accommodate a wide range of applications.

SOMs are distinct from a system-on-a-chip (SoC). An SoC, as its name implies, is a collection of key computer components placed on a single chip. While SOMs may include an SOC, they are board-based, and as such have the space to include additional components.

SOMs make the impossible possible for developers, reducing time-to-market and keeping costs down. Creating an embedded system is typically a lengthy process, requiring custom board design and manufacture. A SOM streamlines the steps needed to bring a design to fruition. Simply choose a SOM that fits your needs, integrate it into your end system, and you’re ready for deployment. Beyond enabling high volume deployment, module-based designs simplify product life cycle management and reduce bill of material (BOM) expenses.

Whether your focus is software, hardware, or even AI development, SOMs are worth a close look:

• Software developers can unlock the potential of edge computing, processing data locally without latency. SOMs remove the need for deep hardware experience, providing a comfortable, intuitive design environment. And software developers working with vision applications will love the flexible, easily configurable sensors a SOM can provide. The best SOMs even offer built-in drivers and other software that saves design time.
• Hardware developers need to complete production as quickly as possible and focus their limited resources on the highest impact tasks. With a SOM, they can get field programmable gate array (FPGA) performance and flexibility without the difficulty that comes with PCB design and integration. This enables them to complete projects ahead of time and under budget.
• AI developers need a system that offers high, efficient performance without requiring them to become hardware experts. Thankfully, they can choose a SOM that provides the required compute power while maintaining the flexibility to easily swap out AI models, thanks to the pre-built applications the best system on module providers offer.

SOMs are being used worldwide. Here’s a look at just a few of their applications.

Cutting edge security camera systems take advantage of video analytics, and SOMs make it happen. Video analytics-powered security cameras use machine learning to categorize and understand what they see, providing a stream of accurate data in real time. This wouldn’t be possible without edge computing and the ability for cameras and other devices to analyze information on site.

The modern economy relies on machine vision for everything from inventory inspection to signature recognition to defect detection. Machine vision requires embedded systems that can analyze data on the spot and offer configurable sensor capabilities. SOMs enable developers to take advantage of machine vision at scale while keeping costs low.

Smart cities employ ubiquitous sensors to gather data and provide the insights decision-makers need to keep their communities functioning and vibrant. SOMs power these sensors and help city officials stay on top of everything from utilities to traffic without missing a beat.

Electric motors are everywhere, from public transportation, wind turbine and other power generation systems, robotics for factory automation and logistics, medical equipment, aerial systems for agriculture and logistics, and much more. SOMs help accelerate development of these applications and offer adaptability to connect with new peripherals as standards continue to evolve. Users can fine tune their end system to meet the desired power and performance.