There are lots of acronyms in computing, but CoM may be one that you aren’t yet familiar with. CoM stands of computer-on-module and is sometimes referred to as a system-on-module (SoM). This guide provides a quick overview of what CoMs are exactly, what they are used for, and why you may want to use them.
Table of Contents
CoM Components:
A computer-on-module is a complete computer on a single circuit board. It is the middle ground between a microcontroller and a full-up computer. CoM boards come in many different variations, but the key components of a true CoM are:
- RAM
- Microprocessor
- Ethernet
- Memory
- I/O option
- Connector for a baseboard
Wired connections make it possible for the CoM to connect with the baseboard, also known as a carrier board. Numerous entities have created CoM standards, which are aimed at helping to make it easier to use components from various vendors when configuring a computer-on-module. Some of the standards are specific to a certain company, but the ones below are universal and apply to various vendors:
- COM Express
- PC/104
- SMARC
- QSeven
If you want to modify a CoM, without being limited in the components that can be used, the resources above are excellent guidelines to follow.
Why CoMs Are Useful?
One of the biggest benefits of CoMs is that they are highly configurable. This allows them to be built for a specific purpose, particularly tasks that require a smaller embedded computer with custom input/outputs. They are used most often for scientific or industrial purposes rather than consumer applications. Common CoM uses include:
- Custom data collection
- Transferring data to another devise
- Embedded computer tasks
- Processing
- Applications that need low power consumption
- Projects where space is critical
One drawback of CoMs is that their size doesn’t usually allow standard connectors for peripherals to be connected directly to the board. This is because the CoM board is only about 4 inches long by 2-3 inches wide. However, the beauty of a CoM lies in its ability to interface with different devices that have a variety of connectors. These standard connectors are typically a part of the baseboard.
Why You’d Want To Use A CoM?
People that purchase this type of computer module are often looking for flexibility. CoMs system designers can create completely custom electronic assemblies with unique interfaces and form factors. Another advantage of using a CoM/baseboard configuration instead of a standard single board is having the ability to upgrade systems more easily.
Now system designers don’t have to build from the ground up. Building a custom baseboard design with a CoM is a relatively quick process that minimizes development time and reduces the resources needed. Both of these factors make CoMs a cost efficient option. Upgrading a modular CoM system also costs less since multiple CoMs can be added to a single baseboard.
An added benefit to this plug-and-play system is lower risk. CoMs are essentially off-the-shelf hardware that’s already built out and ready to use. This usually equates to fewer technical issues and troubleshooting compared to a completely custom-engineered system, and it ultimately speeds up the project delivery.
@Admin
Great post
But i am little bit confuse that …
How is it different from Single Board Computer (SBC)?
Regards
Priyanka
A computer-on-module (COM) or System on Module (SOM) is a type of single-board computer (SBC), a subtype of an embedded computer system.
Really a great source for learning about CoM. I have read you blog and learnt alot by it. Keep posting such a great post in future.
Welcome here and thanks for liking our article. Stay with us to get more like this…
@EXEideas
Thanks EXEideas for your response.
It’s always good to know about new things. CoM is like one of it. as you know it’s knew for me i have some query about it. like, is it need a casing, does it work as consumer Appliance or have it the option to make use in business sector? where can i have this ques ans? I am eagerly waiting for your reply. does it have much processor power as a reguler computer we use at home?
Hi. I found your info Quite helpful as i only heard a bit about A COM but after going through to your posts i really understand what exactly it is.. Thanks for sharing such a nice info..!!
Welcome here and thanks for reading our article and sharing your views.
It’s generally great to think about new things. CoM is similar to one of it. as you most likely are aware it’s knew for me i have some question about it. like, is it require a packaging, does it fill in as shopper Appliance or have it the alternative to make use in business division? where would i be able to have this ques ans? I am anxiously sitting tight for your answer. does it have much processor power as a reguler PC we use at home?
Welcome here and thanks for reading our article and sharing your views. Yes, it can do as much as it can but cant stand in front of a PC.
“Great” “hi”One of the greatest advantages of CoMs is that they are exceedingly configurable. This permits them to be worked for a particular reason, especially errands that require a littler inserted PC with custom data/yields. They are utilized regularly for investigative or modern purposes as opposed to shopper applications. Regular CoM utilizes incorporate.
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hi,
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Regards
Linda
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