Computers on modules for computer systems: the most reliable and innovative products
The small size of Computers on Modules does not compromise their power or versatility, achieved using advanced processors and dedicated GPUs. The presence of NPUs and AI accelerators allows computing capabilities to be extended beyond the limits of cloud computing
In the constant evolution of the world of technology, Computers on Modules (CoM) have achieved a prominent role within computer systems. These small, integrated devices offer flexible, powerful, and reliable solutions, enabling innovation in critical sectors such as industry, medical, and communications.
A market that is constantly growing
Based on its investigations, Future Market Insight estimates that the Computer on Module market will grow from USD 1.15 billion in 2023 to USD 4.65 billion by 2033. The industry is therefore expected to register a CAGR of 15% during the forecast period. Different factors accelerate demand and they range from miniaturization (which allows the creation of increasingly compact and integrated solutions) to the reduction of development time and costs, including high performance (enabled by advances in the field of semiconductors) and scalability (to easily upgrade performance or functionality), from advanced connectivity (Wi-Fi, BT, 5G) to the longevity of the product (essential in sectors such as medical and industry where an extended life cycle is required).
Reliability as a priority
In modern computer systems, reliability is a key feature to ensure that devices can operate effectively and without interruption in a wide range of applications. This factor is critical in industries such as industrial automation, medical electronics, and transportation systems, where a malfunction may have significant consequences. Computers on Modules stand out for their ability to provide highly reliable hardware solutions, thanks to the presence of high-quality components, semiconductors, memories, connectors, that are selected for their durability and ability to withstand thermal, mechanical and electrical stresses.
Their compact design also helps reduce the risk of malfunctions, since they provide fewer physical connections and therefore less chance of operational interruptions.
CoM companies such as SECO invest heavily in research and development to ensure that their products can operate in extreme environmental conditions, withstanding high temperatures and humidity, as well as vibrations and shocks. The use of high-quality components and careful design help to minimise the risk of malfunctions, improving overall system longevity and reducing maintenance costs.
Power and flexibility
The key elements that have contributed to the success of Computers on Modules include the computing power and flexibility provided to system designers.
CoMs incorporate some of the most advanced processors available on the market, including multicore CPUs and dedicated GPUs. This makes it possible to manage sophisticated applications requiring high computing power, such as real-time image and video processing, analysis of large volumes of data and, in the latest generation of CoM, the execution of artificial intelligence (AI) and edge machine learning (ML) algorithms. In fact, the ability to integrate NPUs and AI accelerators takes computing capabilities to the next level, opening up new frontiers for edge computing and edge AI. By providing specialised resources for parallel processing and localized data analysis, these technologies enable AI and ML calculations and inferences to be executed directly on the device, close to data sources. This reduces latency, which is essential for applications that require real-time responses, and decreases reliance on cloud connectivity, resulting in optimised network resources.
Flexibility is another added value of CoMs. Their modular nature offers the ability to easily customise systems to your specific needs, simplifying the design process and reducing development time. Timescales that, as in the case of SECO, are further accelerated by the availability of CoM in standard form factors. This standardisation makes integration into various types of devices as easy as possible, significantly reduces the time to market and limits technological lock-in. Designers are not locked into proprietary solutions and can easily upgrade to more powerful or next-generation modules while maintaining the same footprint, without the need for complete system redesign.
Continuous innovation
The Computer on Module sector is continuously evolving, with manufacturers such as SECO at the forefront of the development of increasingly advanced solutions, focusing on miniaturization, improving energy efficiency and integrating cutting-edge technologies.
Because of its experience, SECO can develop, certify and produce complete plug-and-play systems that combine advanced electronics with mechanical components, peripherals and display-touch assemblies starting from CoM. This approach ensures maximum ease of installation for the final product. In addition, SECO offers the integration of electronic components with software applications, providing BIOS development and customization services and making quick and secure remote updates possible. The optimisation of the operating system also enables dialogue with Clea, SECO’s software suite. Designed to maximize the value of data collected in the field, Clea enables advanced features such as fleet management, predictive maintenance and remote software upgrades. Offering support to a wide range of IoT applications, Clea is perfectly suited to different use possibilities, from efficient resource management to operational process optimisation, allowing the exploition of the potential of IoT to monetize value-added services.
Conclusions
Computers on Modules are revolutionizing the way many computer systems are conceived and designed for use in strategic sectors, such as industry, the medical and communications fields. The combination of reliability, power and flexibility makes CoM the key components for multiple applications. Firthermore, the ability to access a wide range of off-the-shelf CoMs, such as those supplied by SECO, allows projects to be carried out with an extremely short time-to-market. Reducing time not only means greater customer satisfaction but also saving costs.
