Understanding Single Board Computers (SBCs):A Complete Guide

What is a Single Board Computer (SBC)?

A Single Board Computer (SBC) is a complete computer system integrated onto a single circuit board (PCB). Unlike traditional desktop computers, which rely on separate components like a motherboard, CPU, and memory, all essential elements of an SBC are embedded into one board. This compact integration includes the microprocessor, memory, input/output functions, and other critical features, making SBCs small, inexpensive, and versatile.

SBCs are frequently utilized in various applications, from demonstration or development systems to educational tools and embedded computer controllers. A well-known example is the Raspberry Pi, developed in the UK in 2012,which has become a popular low-cost option supported by extensive educational resources.

Advantages of Single Board Computers

SBCs offer several distinct advantages:

1. Transportable and Compact: Due to their small size, SBCs can easily be incorporated into projects with limited space.

2.Low Power Usage: Designed with energy efficiency in mind, SBCs are suitable for embedded or battery-powered applications.

3.Versatility: SBCs can be used for a wide range of applications, including media centers, IoT devices, and educational tools.

4.Community Support: Many SBCs boast a large and active community of users, developers, and enthusiasts who provide comprehensive documentation,

tutorials, and support.

Disadvantages of Single Board Computers

Despite their benefits, SBCs also have some limitations:

1.Learning Curve: Working with SBCs may require technical knowledge,

hardware development experience, and other skills that can be challenging for non-technical users or beginners.

2.Limited Expandability: Due to their compact nature, SBCs have limited options for adding additional hardware components, which can restrict their scalability for certain applications.

3. Lack of Standardization: With numerous SBC models available, each with different specifications, form factors, and interfaces, choosing the right one for a specific project can be difficult.

4.Performance Restrictions: SBCs may have less processing power, memory, and storage than conventional computers, potentially affecting their performance in demanding tasks.

Why Use a Single Board Computer?

The popularity of SBCs stems from their community support, portability, efficiency, and adaptability. They offer cost-efficient and space-saving computing solutions,making them ideal for a wide range of projects. Applications include media centers, embedded systems, IoT devices, educational tools, prototyping, and more.

Applications of Single Board Computers

SBCs are often used in embedded applications, where they provide essential input  and output capabilities without the need for expansion. Examples include vending  machines, which use SBCs to control their functions, and rack systems, where SBCs offer reliable and fast integration. While SBCs can technically perform office tasks,  they are not typically used this way due to potential compatibility issues with mainstream software.

Key applications include:

1.   Industrial Automation: SBCs control machinery, collect sensor data, and analyze processes in real-time, contributing to improved production quality and efficiency.

2.   Education: SBCs are used to teach computer science, electronics, and robotics, making them valuable educational tools.

3.   Digital Kiosks: SBCs power ATMs, ticket machines, and vending machines.

4.   Digital Signage: SBCs are used in advertising displays and information boards.

5.   Robotics Controllers: SBCs control robotic systems, offering precise and efficient operation.

6.   IoT Devices: SBCs are integral to IoT applications, providing connectivity and data processing capabilities.

Popular Single Board Computers

Raspberry Pi

Raspberry Pi is perhaps the best-known SBC manufacturer. Their products are widely used in educational institutions, labs, and industrial applications due to their affordability and ease of use. The continuous evolution of new models keeps users updated with the latest technology.

Arduino

Arduino SBCs are similar to Raspberry Pi in terms of size, cost, and expandability. As an open-source platform, Arduino offers low-cost solutions for learners and simple  applications. However, they are not typically used for professional tasks due to compatibility issues with mainstream systems.

Intel

Intel's high-performance SBCs are suitable for commercial, IoT, and industrial applications. These boards offer full connectivity and professional cases, running on Windows or Linux. While not designed for hobbyists, their high quality justifies the higher price.

Maxtang's Intel based 3.5-inch Single Board Computers

Maxtang SBC-AL35

The Maxtang SBC-AL35 is a powerful, energy-efficient embedded motherboard designed for industrial applications. It features an Intel(r) Alder Lake/Raptor Lake U series processor, supporting up to 64GB of dual-channel SO-DIMM DDR4 memory. The board offers multiple display options, including HDMI(r), eDP, and LVDS, and includes two Intel Ethernet controllers, M.2, and SATA for storage.

Key Specifications:

   ●CPU: Intel(r) Alder Lake/Raptor Lake U Series Processor

   ●Memory: Dual Channel SO-DIMM DDR4 up to 64GB

   ●Display: Integrated Graphics via 2xHDMI(r), eDP/LVDS

   ●Ethernet: 1xIntel(r) i219 (1.0G) + 1xIntel(r) i210 (1.0G)

   ●Storage: SATA, M.2_2242 for SATA/4G, M.2_2280 for NVMe

   ●Expansion: M.2 for Wi-Fi

   ●Power: 9V-35V (2-Pin DC-IN Phoenix Connector)

Maxtang Most Powerful  SBC-ALN35

The Maxtang SBC-ALN35 is another robust and energy-efficient embedded

motherboard tailored for industrial use. It features an Intel(r) Alder Lake N series     processor, supporting up to 32GB of single-channel SO-DIMM DDR4 memory. The board offers various display options and comprehensive input/output interfaces.

Key Specifications:

  ●CPU: Intel(r) Alder Lake-N Processor

  ●Memory: Single Channel SO-DIMM DDR4 up to 32GB

  ●Display: Integrated Graphics via HDMI, DP, eDP/LVDS

  ●Ethernet: 10/100/1000Mbps

  ●Storage: mSATA, SATA3.0

   ●Expansion: 1xM.2 for WiFi

   ●Power: 12V-35V DC-IN

Maxtang EHL-35 industrial single board computer

The Maxtang EHL-35 intel(r) single board computer is a 3.5" disk-size SBC based on the Intel(r) Celeron(r) J6412 processor. It supports up to 32GB of DDR4 memory and offers various display and input/output options, making it suitable for numerous industrial applications.

Key Specifications:

   ●CPU: Intel(r) Celeron(r) Processor J6412

   ●Memory: Single Channel SO-DIMM DDR4 up to 32GB

   ●Display: Integrated Graphics via HDMI(r), DP, eDP/LVDS

   ●Ethernet: 10/100/1000Mbps

   ●Storage: SATA3.0, mSATA

   ●Expansion: 1xM.2 for WiFi

   ●Power: 12V DC input

Maxtang Cost-Performance Intel SBC-BYT35 Motherboards

The Maxtang SBC-BYT35, based on the Intel(r) Bay Trail processor, delivers powerful    performance with low power consumption. It supports dual-channel DDR3L memory up to 4GB and offers various display options. This board is ideal for various industrial applications due to its rich input/output interfaces and robust design.

Key Specifications:

   ●CPU: Intel(r) Bay Trail BGA processor

   ●Memory: Dual-channel DDR3L up to 4GB

   ●Display: Intel(r) Graphics via VGA, HDMI(r), eDP/LVDS

   ●Ethernet: 10/100/1000Mbps

   ●Storage: SATA2.0, mSATA, eMMC optional

   ●Expansion: Mini PCIe for WiFi, Micro SIM

   ●Power: 12V/19V DC input, or 12V-36V optional

Conclusion

Industrial Single Board Computers (SBCs) are compact, versatile, and powerful computing solutions that cater to a wide range of applications, from industrial automation to educational tools. Their advantages, such as portability, low power consumption, and community support, make theman attractive choice for various projects.

However, it is essential to consider their limitations, including the learning curve and limited expandability, when selecting an SBC for a specific application. With continuous advancements and a growing ecosystem, SBCs like those offered by Maxtang continue to play a pivotal role in the evolution of embedded systems and beyond.