System on Module (SOM)

Embedded solution with a small form factor and ready-to-use features

What is a System on Module (SOM)?

A System-on-Module (SOM) – also known as a Computer-on-Module (COM) – is a printed circuit board with an embedded microprocessor, memory chips, peripheral interface controllers, power management circuits, and a timing source. In order to operate as a fully functional computer, the SOM is mounted on a carrier board, which contains the electrical and communications connectors needed to provide power and enable external communications.

In addition, SOMs are typically supplied with operating systems, device drivers, and board support packages, enabling product teams to significantly shorten software development schedules.

SOMs (System on Module) allow product developers to reduce development times, since the complexities of the computing architecture are as handled within the module – allowing the developers to focus on what they do best – bring innovative new solutions to the market.

Benefits of System on Modules

Technology keeps moving forward, bringing more power in smaller and smarter forms. A System on Module (SoM) packs the main parts of a computer: processor, memory, and storage into one compact module. When paired with a carrier board, it becomes a complete and flexible computing solution. SoMs help developers speed up product design, lower costs, and easily upgrade performance when needed. They’re used in many fields like industrial automation, IoT, medical devices, and edge computing, where reliability and efficiency are key.

Arm System on Modules and Edge Computing

System on Modules (SoMs) have become a key part of modern IoT and edge computing solutions. Their compact design and efficient architecture make them ideal for processing data close to the source, reducing latency and bandwidth use. Arm-based SoMs bring powerful computing capabilities with lower power consumption, making them well-suited for connected devices and real-time applications. By handling data locally instead of relying on the cloud, SoMs also help improve response times and protect data privacy.

Enhance Your Business

Quicken Time-to-Market
The SOM is provided with reliable, development-ready hardware and software, eliminating risk, and allowing product engineers to immediately begin creating new applications.
Pin compatibility
Customers can move from one solution to another by re-using the same carrier board design and access latest technologies.
Access to Innovation
System on Modules give developers access to new and innovative technologies – without the costly knowledge ramp-up and infrastructure build-out.

Economy of scale
Aggregation of orders for a common building block reduces the costs for the end customer.
Eliminate Complexity
Design complexities related to the SoC’s firmware, memory, power management, and external interfaces are handled within the SOM. Developers benefit from a simplified product platform.
Maximize flexibility
The SOM’s Small footprint and the simplicity of the simple carrier board design allow for maximum design flexibility.

How Is a System on Module Used?

System on Module (SoM) is widely used in embedded systems devices that include computing capabilities. Common examples include industrial controllers, IoT gateways, medical equipment, and automotive systems that rely on compact and reliable computing performance.

In industrial applications such as data collection, automation, and robotics, SoMs offer significant advantages over traditional computing boards. They allow for flexible design, scalability, and easy integration into custom carrier boards that meet specific system requirements.

SoMs (System on Module) are especially useful in modular designs, where the compute module can be upgraded or replaced without redesigning the entire system. This approach shortens development time, reduces costs, and ensures long-term product adaptability.