Why 10 Gb/s, 25 Gb/s, or 100 Gb/s? 

High-speed data interfaces are essential in today’s machine vision and automation systems. A single 4-lane MIPI camera can output 10 Gb/s of image data, while CoaXPress (CXP-12) cameras deliver 10 Gb/s per lane, supporting up to four lanes per camera. These data rates not only support high-resolution, high frame-rate imaging but also reduce latency per frame — a critical advantage in real-time control systems where tight sense-compute-communicate-actuate loops are necessary for precision in factory automation and robotics. 

While modern PCs — oftentimes augmented with GPUs — are sometimes used in high-speed, high-data rate applications, FPGAs offer a more compact and cost-effective option for powerful processing. 

Why Not Just Use a PC?

While modern PCs can support 10 Gb/s networking, they are often impractical for embedded industrial environments for three key reasons:

• High power consumption: Embedded PCs typically draw 100–250 W, requiring active cooling and clean airflow, which limits deployment in harsh or space-constrained environments.
• Bulky enclosures: Support for high-speed I/O requires add-in PCIe cards, which increase system size and reduce flexibility.
• Custom I/O challenges: Integrating specialized interfaces often demands significant engineering and validation effort.

Why Use a System-on-Module (SOM)?

Adaptive compute SoMs — combining CPUs, FPGA logic, and 10–100 Gb/s interfaces in a single compact module — are an ideal solution for high-performance embedded applications. 

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• Cost-effective: Compared to custom “chip-down” hardware designs (which can exceed $100K in NRE), SoMs have no up-front cost and are available off-the-shelf.
• Faster time-to-market: Focus on your application, not your hardware. SoM vendors handle component selection, board design, and supply chain logistics
• Small and power efficient: Perfect for OEM integration, especially in tight spaces or thermally constrained environments.
• Customizable: Need a specific I/O, connector, or form factor? Every SoM platform can be customized and scaled to your needs.

How Do You Choose the Right SOM?

With more than 500 SoMs available — varying by performance, I/O, size, and power — how do you choose the right one? We can help. Our engineers will guide you to the best solution, whether you're targeting 10 Gb/s, 25 Gb/s, or even 100 Gb/s applications. If an off-the-shelf SoM doesn’t meet your needs, we can have a custom module created for your product. We specialize in embedded high-speed systems and are here to ensure your success, especially at 10 Gb/s and beyond. Schedule a call with an engineer at Concurrent EDA.