In the world of digital electronics, compactness, efficiency, and adaptability are key. This is where the System on Module (SoM) comes into play, making many people wonder, “what is a SoM?” A marvel of modern electronics, the SoM is a robust, compact, and multi-functional solution that serves as the heart of many of today’s advanced electronic devices. From the smartphone in your pocket to the IoT device controlling your home’s temperature, SoMs are quietly powering our digital lives.
Key Takeaways
- System-on-Modules (SoMs) provide powerful solutions for various applications with standardized interfaces and form factors.
- They enable device updating, reduce time to market, are highly customizable and can be tailored for specific functions such as vision AI or robotics.
- SoMs have demonstrated their practicality in a range of real world applications from powering sensors to industrial automation. Development tools and resources are available for integration purposes.
Demystifying the System on Module (SoM)
So, what exactly is a System on Module (SoM)? Imagine taking multiple electronic circuits and compacting them into a single, efficient module. That’s essentially what a SoM is – a production-ready Printed Circuit Board (PCB) that offers the core components of an embedded processing system, similar to a system on a chip. However, unlike a system on a chip, which integrates all system functions onto a single chip, System on Modules incorporate multiple system functions into a single module.
This difference is more than just semantics. It has profound implications for the development of embedded systems. Employing a SoM with its small form factor allows developers to speed up time-to-market and reduce costs, while also simplifying their development processes. However, bear in mind that using a SoM in an application requires a carrier board compatible with your application because a SOM typically needs a specific carrier board to function.
The Anatomy of a Typical SoM
Peering under the hood of a typical SoM, you’ll find the som typically requires:
- A processor, the brain of the system, which executes instructions and carries out computational tasks for the overall system
- Memory, typically implemented using Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory (SDRAM) modules, which is used for data acquisition functions
- I/O interfaces and other necessary components, all integrated into an embedded system
The essential components typically included in a SoM are:
- at least one microcontroller, microprocessor or digital signal processor (DSP) core
- memory blocks
- I/O interfaces
- other integrated processing system elements
These components work in harmony, providing a compact yet powerful solution for a myriad of applications.
Integration and Interchangeability
SoMs provide key advantages such as:
- Simple integration and interchangeability
- Convenient integration, thus facilitating streamlined design processes and potential future updates, while handling all the complexity of the system
- A pre-designed and pre-tested hardware platform that includes a processor, memory, storage, and other essential components, all integrated into an electronic circuit
With standardized interfaces and form factors, SoMs are effortlessly interchangeable. This is beneficial for device updating as it enables manufacturers to update the underlying technology of a device, including artificial intelligence capabilities, without needing to redesign the entire system.
Imagine being able to upgrade your device’s performance or functionality as easily as changing a lightbulb. That’s the power of SoMs.
Form Factor and Footprint
However, all SoMs are not created equal. They offer a range of form factors to suit product-specific requirements, including the Smart Mobility Architecture (SMARC) form factor and various SIM form factors for IoT/M2M applications, which can support both digital and analog functions. The form factor of a SoM can influence its application in various projects by dictating its compatibility and integration with other hardware components.
The footprint of a SoM, on the other hand, refers to its physical size and layout. This can vary greatly depending on the standard or form factor used. However, contrary to what one might think, the footprint of a SoM does not have a direct correlation to its overall performance and functionality. Instead, these are determined by factors such as the processor, memory, and other components integrated into the module. Nevertheless, the compact and standardized dimensions of a SoM can provide a great advantage in terms of space constraints in electronic devices, without compromising on functionality.
The Role of SoMs in Modern Electronics
SoMs play a vital role in modern electronics. They expedite time-to-market, fulfill particular functions, and facilitate edge computing and AI. From powering sensors in smart cities to improving performance in electric drive control, SoMs have proven to be incredibly versatile. Even in machine vision, a field that requires high computational power and speed, SoMs have facilitated large-scale utilization while maintaining cost efficiency.
Whether it’s a small IoT device or a large industrial automation system, SoMs are the engine that keeps these som system running smoothly. They allow developers and manufacturers to focus on creating innovative, user-friendly applications, without having to worry about the complexity of the underlying hardware.
Reducing Time-to-Market
Imagine being able to fast-track your project from concept to market, saving both time and money in the process. That’s the beauty of SoMs. SoMs simplify complex electronic system designs and shorten time-to-market by handling many laborious tasks. They enable designers to begin prototyping immediately from a development board level, diminishing the necessity to design the whole system from the ground up.
Additionally, SoMs can noticeably cut down time-to-market by offering a pre-designed and pre-tested hardware platform that includes processors, memory, and other essential components. This eliminates the need for designing and testing these components from scratch, allowing developers to focus on software development and customization. The pre-programmed functionality of SoMs offers companies a distinct advantage in achieving a faster time-to-market, as it eliminates the need to spend time and resources on developing and programming the basic functions of the system.
Catering to Specific Functions
One of the hallmarks of SoMs is their adaptability. These modules provide a pre-engineered and pre-validated platform that integrates the components and functionalities necessary for a specific application. Whether it’s vision AI, robotics, or motor control, SoMs can be tailored to perform a wide range of tasks, allowing companies to quickly adapt to changing demands.
The Kria KV26 and Kria K26 SOMs, for instance, are designed for vision AI applications and support a range of data type precisions. These SoMs are suitable for creating custom accelerated ML applications for tasks like object recognition and image processing. Indeed, from customized electronics assemblies to specific interfaces and form factors, SoMs offer scalability and flexibility, making them essential for a wide array of applications.
Enabling Edge Computing and AI
Beyond their role in speeding up development and catering to specific functions, SoMs are instrumental in the progression of edge computing. By providing a ready-to-use platform with integrated processors, memory, and other essential components, SoMs allow developers to focus on application development rather than hardware design.
In addition to edge computing, SoMs play a significant role in AI-enabled devices. They offer a single board solution that combines essential hardware components for AI processing, such as processors, memory, and connectivity. SoMs enable these devices to perform complex tasks, such as tracking biometric data, displaying information, and connecting to other devices or the internet. By reducing power consumption, the device can operate more efficiently, thus improving performance and reducing energy costs.
Selecting the Right SoM for Your Project
Having understood what a SoM is and its role in modern electronics, the subsequent step is to choose the appropriate SoM for your project. This involves considering several factors such as:
- Performance/processing power
- Power consumption
- Hardware constraints
- Software compatibility
- Form factor
- Memory and storage capabilities
It’s akin to finding the right puzzle piece in a 1000-piece jigsaw puzzle. You need to ensure that the chosen SoM not only fits perfectly in your project but also enhances its overall functionality and performance.
Compatibility with Carrier Boards
Just like finding the right puzzle piece, ensuring the compatibility between the SoM and the carrier board is critical. The high-density interconnects between the SoM and carrier board create an application-agnostic embedded computing platform, thereby streamlining development, reducing design complexity, and hastening prototyping and time-to-market.
The interface between a SoM and a carrier board is typically facilitated by an edge connector. The SoM is designed to be inserted into the carrier board, and the edge connector serves to bridge the interfaces of the SoM to the connectors or applications on the carrier board. This enables convenient customization and interchangeability of the SoM with different carrier boards.
Understanding Power Management Needs
Apart from compatibility, it is significant to understand the power management needs of your project when choosing a SoM. Assessing the power consumption and efficiency of your application, as well as its ability to compute functions, can ensure that the power management requirements are met.
Power management for a SoM entails the control and regulation of power supply to the numerous components and peripherals on the module. This includes managing power consumption, voltage levels, and power sequencing. The SoM generally has power management circuitry, such as voltage regulators and power switches, that guarantee efficient and dependable power delivery to the system.
Assessing Longevity and Support
Lastly, assessing the longevity and support of a SoM is important. Factors to consider include:
- Availability of long-term support and updates from the manufacturer
- Lifespan of the components used in the SoM
- Ability to reference and obtain support documentation throughout the product lifecycle
Taking these factors into consideration will help you make an informed decision about the longevity and support of a SoM.
Professional technical support can provide expertise and assistance in resolving technical issues and challenges that may arise during the integration. They can offer guidance on:
- hardware and software compatibility
- troubleshooting
- debugging
- optimizing the performance of the SoM.
Real-World Examples of SoM Applications
To fully understand the versatility and potential of SoMs, we need to examine some real-world applications. SoMs are commonly used in IoT devices, industrial automation, and consumer electronics, demonstrating their practicality in a wide array of applications.
From powering sensors in smart cities to improving performance in electric drive control, SoMs have proven to be incredibly versatile. Even in machine vision, a field that requires high computational power and speed, SoMs have facilitated large-scale utilization while maintaining cost efficiency.
SoMs in IoT Devices
In the field of IoT, SoMs play a crucial role. They are integral to the operation of various devices, including:
- Bluetooth modules
- WiFi modules
- IoT devices like gateways or sensors
- Single-board computers
- Cloud-based devices
The compact and integrated solution provided by SoMs powers and controls the various components of wearable devices. These small, single-board computers contain:
- a processor
- memory
- storage
- other essential components
This makes them easily integrated into smartwatches, fitness trackers, and augmented reality glasses.
Industrial Automation with SoMs
In the area of industrial automation, SoMs are not only beneficial but also integral. They’re employed in a variety of purposes, including:
- the creation of automation gateways
- industrial automation gateways
- combination with industrial sensors to track and gauge physical parameters and environmental conditions in industrial settings.
SoMs provide a range of functions in automation control systems, including:
- Motion control
- Monitoring
- Regulation
- Management
- Sensor integration
- Motor control
- Signal processing
- Microcontroller tasks
In essence, they are the backbone of modern industrial automation systems.
Innovative Uses in Consumer Electronics
Moving beyond industrial automation, SoMs are also at the heart of several innovative consumer electronics. Some examples include:
- Wearable devices
- Home automation systems
- Smart appliances
- VR/AR devices
SoMs are enabling new features and functionalities in a compact form factor.
This trend is expected to continue into the future, with SoMs leading the charge in the development of increasingly sophisticated and convenient consumer electronics. Whether it’s a smartwatch monitoring your health or a smart speaker responding to your commands, SoMs are there, working tirelessly behind the scenes.
Development Tools and Resources for SoM Integration
Despite the numerous advantages of SoMs, integrating them into a project can be complex. Fortunately, there are several development tools and resources available to aid in SoM integration. Companies like Microchip Technology offer a comprehensive selection of hardware and software tools for their 32-bit MPUs, in addition to solutions from partner companies.
Whether you’re a seasoned developer or a novice just starting out, these tools can provide invaluable guidance and support throughout the SoM integration process, from the initial design phase all the way to the final product launch.
Starter Kits and Evaluation Boards
For developers starting their SoM journey, starter kits and evaluation boards are extremely beneficial. These kits usually come with all the components and interfaces required to connect the SoM to other devices and peripherals. Furthermore, evaluation boards often contain software development tools and documentation, enabling developers to program and configure the SoM with ease.
The K26LTD SOM and KV260 Starter Kit, for example, are highly recommended for SoM integration due to their integration with the Vitis software development platform and Vivado Design Suite, facilitating the development of AI applications.
Design Files and Documentation
Design files and documentation simplify the integration process and cut down development time. They provide a comprehensive and standardized documentation of the hardware design, which includes schematics, layout files, and component libraries. With these files, developers can quickly understand the system architecture, identify potential issues, and implement necessary modifications.
Community and Technical Support
Finally, community and technical support resources offer invaluable guidance and help throughout the SoM integration process. From online communities like Reddit’s r/embedded community and Toradex community to professional technical support from SoM manufacturers, these resources can provide invaluable insights and solutions to any challenges you may face during the SoM integration process.
Summary
In conclusion, System on Modules (SoMs) are a powerful and versatile tool in modern electronics. They offer numerous benefits, including reducing time-to-market, catering to specific functions, enabling edge computing and AI, and facilitating the development of a wide range of applications. Whether you’re developing an IoT device, an industrial automation system, or a piece of consumer electronics, SoMs can provide a compact, efficient, and adaptable solution for your needs. By understanding the ins and outs of SoMs and their applications, you can harness their potential to innovate and excel in the digital age.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a SoM in electronics?
A System on Module (SoM) is a board-level circuit that integrates multiple components including CPU, RAM, flash memory, power management unit, Ethernet bus, and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth radios into a single physical module. It is typically used in the area of embedded systems for digital and analog functions.
What is the difference between SoM and CoM?
The main difference between a System on Module (SoM) and a Computer on Module (CoM) is that SoMs incorporate many common computing components, such as a CPU, RAM, flash memory, power management unit, an Ethernet bus and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth radios, onto a single physical module.
What is the difference between SBC and SoM?
SBCs are complete computers on a single board, whereas SoMs are components that lack I/O sockets for direct connection to peripherals.
What is the meaning of system on module?
A System-on-Module (SOM) is a board-level circuit that integrates a system function in a single module and typically provides the core components of an embedded processing system, including processor cores, communication interfaces, and memory blocks, all on a single production-ready printed circuit board (PCB).
What are the advantages of using SoMs?
SoMs offer many advantages, including cost savings, reduced time-to-market and simplified development processes.