Embedded Modules
Embedded modules (also called system-on-modules (SoM), computer-on-modules (CoM), or compute modules) are self-contained printed circuit board assemblies that integrate a processor, memory, storage, and core I/O onto a single compact form factor.
They plug into a custom or off-the-shelf carrier board, separating the core compute from application-specific peripherals. This approach accelerates development, simplifies hardware updates, and reduces time to market.
COM Express
Browse our range of COM Express modules from leading manufacturers congatec and TQ-Systems. COM Express is the most widely adopted Computer-on-Module standard in the world, offering a proven, scalable platform for embedded applications across industrial automation, medical technology, transportation, and the defence industry.
With a broad choice of processor architectures, form factors, and long-term supply commitments, COM Express remains the natural choice for engineers building reliable, upgradeable embedded systems
COM-HPC
COM-HPC is the next-generation Computer-on-Module standard designed for AI, edge computing, and data-intensive embedded applications.
Whether you're designing an edge AI system, a high-speed data acquisition platform, or a next-generation medical imaging device, COM-HPC provides the bandwidth and compute headroom your application demands.
OSM
The OSM standard offers several advantages, including manufacturer independence, easy and affordable embedded application development, and shortened time-to-market due to its low design risk.
For cost-sensitive embedded applications and high computing performance, we offer OSM boards that combine a microprocessor, flash, RAM, and a power supply on a compact printed circuit board.
Qseven
Qseven modules from leading manufacturers congatec, TQ-System and Arbor.
Qseven is a compact, low-power Computer-on-Module standard built around a credit-card-sized 70 × 70 mm form factor, designed specifically for fanless, battery-powered, and rugged embedded applications.
With both ARM and x86 processor options, a cost-efficient edge connector, and a proven track record across industrial and mobile applications, Qseven delivers reliable embedded computing where power and space budgets are tight.
SMARC
SMARC modules from leading manufacturers congatec and TQ-Systems. SMARC (Smart Mobility ARChitecture) is a compact, low-power Computer-on-Module standard optimised for ARM and low-power x86 processors, with a rich set of multimedia, display, and camera interfaces.
Designed for embedded Linux and Android platforms where power and thermal budgets are tight, SMARC has become one of the fastest-growing module standards for IoT, mobile, and multimedia-rich embedded applications.
VPX Computing Modules
Embedded Modules: Compact Computing Solutions for Every Application
Explore our extensive range of embedded modules, designed to deliver high-performance computing in space-constrained, power-sensitive, and mission-critical environments
To facilitate this we provide a variety of embedded modules for industrial applications, including:
COM Express Modules: Industry-standard pin-out for x86 and ARM processors. Available in Mini, Basic, and Compact sizes. COM Express modules are best suited for mid-to-high performance applications where a mature ecosystem, wide processor choice, and proven longevity are priorities, especially where upgrading to a newer processor generation without redesigning the carrier board is important.
COM HPC: The next-generation Computer-on-Module standard supporting high-speed PCIe Gen 5, USB4, and 25GbE, built for AI, edge HPC, and data-intensive workloads. COM HPC is best suited for applications that demand maximum processing power, high-bandwidth I/O, or AI inference at the edge, where COM Express has reached its performance ceiling.
OSM Modules: Open Standard Module (OSM) is the newest embedded module standard, defining solderable SoMs at sizes starting from just 30 × 30 mm. Unlike connector-based standards, OSM modules are soldered directly to the carrier board, eliminating connector cost and improving shock and vibration resilience. OSM modules are ideal for high-volume, cost-sensitive products where board space is at a premium and long-term connector reliability is a concern, particularly in industrial IoT devices, wearables, and compact consumer electronics where direct solder attachment lowers BOM cost and improves robustness.
SMARC Modules: SMARC (Smart Mobility ARChitecture) modules are compact, low-power designs primarily built around ARM and low-power x86 SoCs. The small 82 × 50 mm or 82 × 80 mm form factors make SMARC ideal for embedded Linux platforms where thermal and power budgets are tight. SMARC modules are best suited for battery-powered, fanless, or thermally constrained designs that need a full Linux or Android OS environment with multimedia and connectivity features, without the power overhead of a full desktop-class processor.
QSeven Modules: Qseven is a compact 70 × 70 mm form factor using a single MXM edge connector, designed for fanless, battery-powered, and rugged embedded designs. It bridges the gap between SMARC’s ultra-compact footprint and the richer I/O of COM Express, making it well suited to mid-range embedded applications with space-constrained designs. They can’t accommodate a full COM Express carrier, particularly in ruggedised or outdoor environments where passive cooling is essential.
congatec Embedded Modules
congatec is a embedded computing specialist from Germany, known for producing highly reliable COM Express, COM HPC, SMARC, and Qseven modules based on Intel, AMD, and NXP processors.
congatec modules are engineered for long-term availability, extended temperature operation, and seamless scalability, making them a go-to choice for industrial automation, medical, and transportation applications.
TQ-Systems Embedded Modules
TQ-Systems (TQ-Embedded) is a German manufacturer renowned for high-quality, rugged embedded modules built to exacting standards.
Their TQMa and TQMx series SoMs and COM Express modules are based on NXP i.MX, ARM Cortex, and x86 architectures and are widely used in safety-critical and harsh-environment applications including energy, defence, and industrial control.
An embedded module, also known as a Computer-on-Module (COM) or System-on-Module (SOM), is a compact computing platform that integrates a processor, memory, graphics, and essential I/O functions on a single board. It is designed to be mounted on a carrier board, enabling faster development and easier hardware upgrades.
Embedded modules reduce development time, lower design complexity, and simplify future processor upgrades. By separating application-specific I/O on a carrier board from the computing core, developers can create scalable and cost-effective embedded systems.
Embedded modules are widely used in industrial automation, transportation, medical technology, defense, robotics, digital signage, edge AI, and IoT applications. Their modular design enables long product lifecycles and simplified hardware upgrades
The right module depends on your application’s performance, power, and size requirements. COM Express is typically chosen for high-performance systems, while SMARC and Qseven are better suited for compact, low-power designs. SMARC is often preferred for modern embedded and IoT applications due to its flexibility and support for both ARM and x86 processors
Yes. Modern embedded modules are available with high-performance processors, integrated GPUs, and AI acceleration capabilities. They are commonly deployed in machine vision, intelligent automation, predictive maintenance, and edge AI systems
Need help selecting a right embedded module?
Our technical team is ready to help you find the best module for your application, whether you’re in the early stages of design or ready to place an order.
Contact us, and we’ll respond promptly.