November 2015
32
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Building blocks for IoT: COM Express
modules with latest Intel processors
By Konrad Löckler,
MSC
Embedded systems specially
optimized for IoT applications,
to satisfy customer requirements,
can only be quickly implemented
with a comprehensive pallet of
predefined building blocks. As core
blocks, MSC Technologies offers
three new module families with
scalable performance based on
state-of-the-art Intel processor
technologies.
Modern embedded systems are becoming
ever more intelligent and complex because
of the close integration of hardware, soft-
ware and mechanical systems. To ensure
short innovation cycles, compact products
can be implemented purely on the basis of
standardized Computer-on-Modules (COM).
The immediately deployable modules provide
state-of-the-art PC functionality with scal-
able processor and graphics performance. The
COM is simply inserted with a standardized
connector onto the baseboard that imple-
ments all application-specific functions. This
not only reduces the development complexity
and the development costs, but also signifi-
cantly optimizes the time-to-market of the
complete system.
Most of embedded modules nowadays meet
form factor and performance parameters
defined in internationally recognized stan-
dards. The COM Express form factor defined
by the PICMG organization and the Qseven
form factor defined by the SGET consortium
have become well established in recent years.
COM Express addresses mainly the high-end
market with powerful modules that integrate,
for example, a fifth or sixth generation Intel
Core processor. Low-power solutions are
available in the compact and mini format.
The Qseven standard, which specifies com-
pact modules in the form factor of 70 mm x
70 mm, supports both x86 and ARM/RISC
architectures. Over the next few years, numer-
ous interesting applications for powerful com-
puter modules promise a strong demand. A
particular challenge is the development of
embedded solutions for future markets such
as building automation, power engineering
and the Internet of Things (IoT). Scalable
low-power processor technologies, mainte-
nance-free system solutions, well thought out
remote management and intelligent commu-
nications structures are a necessity for the
IoT. The embedded hardware must operate
reliably 24/7 and have sophisticated security
functions.
Tailored embedded systems to meet customer
requirements can be implemented quickly
and with optimized costs only thanks to the
availability of a comprehensive pallet of stan-
dard products and an integrated platform
concept. The design-in specialist MSC Tech-
nologies has defined various building blocks
for the design of custom-optimized systems.
The building blocks are scalable in their per-
formance and are ready-to-use on the cus-
tomer’s demand. The building block system
includes standardized Computer-on-Mod-
ules, baseboards, standard mainboards, flex-
ible industrial housings, cooling solutions,
modern memory modules, solid state disks
and displays with or without touch technol-
ogy – everything from a single source. A focal
area is the provision of the principal building
blocks required for the rapid implementa-
tion of IoT applications, including complete
gateways for M2M systems. This includes the
definition, development and production of
scalable core blocks, such as energy-efficient
Computer-On-Modules or compact Box-PCs.
Modules for wireless connectivity marketed
by distribution channels are also important.
Software integration also plays an important
role, in particular when implementing the
required security features. Secure gateway
solutions are available for reliable commu-
nication with the appropriate cloud services.
Various security solutions, such as Intel Gate-
way Moon Island, can be integrated as a func-
tional building block. A particular strength of
MSC Technologies lies in Secure Boot solu-
tions that are implemented in close coopera-
tion with the associated customer.
Data security of the communication and pro-
tection against external spy and hacker attacks
is an essential basis for implementation of a
smart factory using the Internet of Things
(IoT). Today, embedded modules already
have special security features as standard and
can thus make a substantial contribution to
system security. An on-board Trusted Plat-
form Module (TPM) offers security func-
tionality in accordance with the specification
Figure 1. COM Express Type 6
module families MSC C6C-BW
and MSC C6B-8SB
