A Computer on Module (CoM) or System on a Module (SoM) is a single physical module that contains many common computing components such as CPU, RAM, flash memory, a power management unit, an Ethernet bus, and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth radios. The aim of COM is to simplify final product design. Today’s advanced COM/SOM modules contain an entire computer on a single circuit board.
Computer on Moule technology exhibits huge growth potential due to its advantages, such as reducing complexity, cost-effectiveness, scalability, etc. Moreover, the technology finds wide applications across various industrial verticals, such as medical, defence, industrial automation, gaming, etc. Various COM manufacturers, such as Aaeon Technology Inc., Kontron, Congatec, Advantech, etc., are maintaining their product portfolio according to the industry needs. For instance, Kontron recently unveiled its COM Express Basic Type 7 Computer-on-Module, which offers memory for up to four SODIMM sockets. This product also allows users to integrate onboard NVMe with two SATA ports.
Benefits of Computer on Module
Let’s delve into the potential benefits and applications of the computer on module technology.
Reduced Complexity:
Computer on Module simplifies the complexity by shortening the development cycle. The technology simplifies the design of the CPU subsystem. With the use of Computer on Module, the development cycle becomes relatively short, which is one of the primary advantages of using computers in module design.
Time Efficiency:
Another benefit of choosing Computer on Module is that it reduces the time. Thus, companies can develop products quickly and launch them on time.
Reduced price with better scalability:
As the development cycle shortens, designers and developers can cut some costs that may have been spent on the development. Moreover, the computer on module enables users to have better features such as plug and play, which is slightly difficult in case of high computing power. Moreover, it enables users to implement technologies such as machine learning.
Long-lasting:
CoMs are gaining significant traction because of their durability. The technology has generally a lifespan of 10 years, which saves a lot of effort and money required for maintenance.
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Applications of Computer on Module
COMs are rising in popularity due to growing automation across all industrial verticals. Today, every sector including healthcare, defence, automotive, and energy, is driving towards automation. Here are some of the potential applications of Computer on Module:
Industrial Automation:
Computer on module finds its wide applications in the industrial automation sector. They are mainly required across process control and discrete manufacturing throughout the production process. Moreover, the industrial automation sector adopts automated technology, such as robots and the Internet of Things (IoT), to control machinery and processes, which are majorly based on today’s advanced COMs.
Defense Applications:
Robots have found a vital place in the defense sector, which is driving the demand for COMs along. The demand for fast product development without compromising the quality and reliability is at its peak. This is where COM capabilities can fit in.
Medical:
The medical sector around the globe is witnessing steady growth now. The wake of the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly highlighted the need for advanced medical infrastructure. Followed by that, the adoption of advanced technology is increasing globally. Industry players have also started manufacturing exceptional COM solutions specifically for medical applications. For instance, Kontron offers COM for medical applications, such as its COM Express Basic, Type 6 module. It is specifically designed for medical diagnostics and operating theatres. Generally, COM for medical applications is used for patient diagnostics, imaging, clinical care, surgeries, therapies, etc.
Transportation:
Transportation is one of the focused sectors to establish smart city infrastructure. The use of computers in transportation is expected to open up various possibilities for the Computer on Module industry. Various companies offer COM, specifically designed for railways, ticketing, and in-vehicle applications for autonomy and ruggedized environments. COMs aims to extend the capabilities of the transportation industry. Thus, it is expected to witness lucrative scope in the transportation sector.
Gaming:
COMs for the gaming industry is a complete solution that supports advanced computing with supreme graphics. Moreover, low power consumption and high-speed interfaces not only enhance the gaming experience but also allow manufacturers to innovate products with less complexity.
In addition to the above-listed applications, Computer on Module has applications in Communication, smart city, etc. According to Astute Analytica, the global Computer on module market is forecast to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7% during the forecast period from 2022 to 2027.
