Selling Excess of COM Computer-on-Module

Selling Excess of COM Computer-on-Module boards? Let’s take a closer look at the background of this specialized embedded computing board and what makes it highly sought-after commodity.

In the ever-evolving landscape of embedded computing, the Computer-on-Module (COM) approach has emerged as a cornerstone for developers looking to combine high performance with compact, modular design. A COM is a highly integrated component that encapsulates the core functionalities of a computer or processor within a single module. This innovative solution simplifies the design of complex systems by providing a plug-and-play computing core that can be easily integrated into custom boards or applications, significantly reducing development time and costs.

COMs are particularly favored in applications requiring compact size, scalable performance, and the ability to upgrade or modify the system without redesigning the entire hardware. From industrial automation and medical devices to IoT applications and multimedia systems, COMs offer a versatile foundation for a wide array of embedded solutions.

COM Express

• COM Express modules are standardized by the PICMG consortium and offer a wide range of performance options, from low-power systems to server-grade computing. They support high-speed interfaces like PCI Express, USB 3.0, and SATA, making them suitable for demanding applications.
• Kontron, ADLINK Technology, Advantech, and AAEON are prominent manufacturers offering various COM Express solutions.

Qseven

• Qseven modules are designed for mobile and energy-efficient applications, characterized by their small size and low power consumption. They support interfaces such as PCI Express, USB, and Ethernet, catering to compact, battery-operated devices.
• SECO, congatec, and Advantech produce Qseven modules catering to the needs of mobile computing and IoT devices.

SMARC (Smart Mobility Architecture)

• SMARC modules are tailored for applications that require low power consumption and compact form factors, with support for ARM and x86 architectures. They are ideal for devices that need wireless connectivity and multimedia capabilities.
• Congatec, Advantech, and AAEON are key players providing SMARC modules for a variety of applications.

XTX and ETX

• XTX and ETX modules are among the older COM standards, primarily used to extend the life of legacy systems. ETX focuses on legacy I/O support, while XTX offers an upgrade path with additional interfaces like PCI Express and SATA.
• Kontron and ADLINK Technology are notable manufacturers that have supported these formats, offering solutions for maintaining and upgrading existing systems.

MXM (Mobile PCI Express Module)

• Originally designed for laptops to offer upgradeable graphics, MXM modules have found their way into embedded systems requiring high-performance graphics or GPGPU capabilities. They enable easy upgrades of graphics or parallel processing units.
• NVIDIA and AMD are the primary sources of MXM modules, though their integration into embedded systems often involves third-party solutions from companies like Eurotech.

Pico-ITXe

• Pico-ITXe offers a highly integrated, compact solution with a standardized form factor that includes a unique expansion connector for stackable I/O expansion. It’s suitable for small, custom applications requiring modularity.
• VIA Technologies is a leading provider of Pico-ITXe boards, catering to specialized embedded markets.

Computer-on-Module technology represents a paradigm shift in the design and development of embedded systems, offering a blend of modularity, performance, and compactness that traditional approaches can't match. By choosing the right COM type and manufacturer, developers dramatically streamline their development process, bringing sophisticated products to market faster and more efficiently. As the demand for advanced, compact embedded systems continues to grow, the role of COMs in enabling innovation and flexibility in product design is more pivotal than ever.

If you have Excess electronics inventory of these high value modules, please contact our team to see how much value you can recover from these assets!