ARM-based single-board computers (SBCs) have quietly become the default computing platform for many embedded products. They are used in industrial control terminals, smart appliances, medical devices, network equipment, and interactive displays. While they are often grouped together under a single label, ARM SBCs are not generic components. Their behavior, strengths, and limitations are tightly connected to how ARM system-on-chip (SoC) devices are designed and how embedded systems are built around them.
This article looks at ARM-based SBCs from a practical engineering viewpoint. Instead of focusing on specifications or performance comparisons, it explains how ARM SoC architecture influences board design, how those boards are integrated into products, and why they fit so well into modern embedded system development.
The Role of the ARM SoC
Every ARM-based SBC starts with an SoC that integrates most of the system’s core functions into one chip. Unlike traditional PC-style platforms, where CPU, chipset, graphics, and I/O controllers are often separate devices, ARM SoCs combine these elements into a single package.
A typical embedded ARM SoC includes one or more Cortex-A application cores, memory controllers, a GPU, video encode/decode blocks, display controllers, and a wide range of peripheral interfaces. Ethernet, USB, SD/eMMC, UART, I²C, SPI, and sometimes CAN or PCIe are commonly built in. This level of integration reduces board complexity and lowers overall power consumption.
For embedded products that must operate continuously, run without fans, or fit into compact enclosures, this architecture offers a clear advantage. Fewer chips mean fewer failure points and simpler thermal design.
Why ARM Architecture Suits Embedded Products
ARM processors were developed with efficiency and scalability in mind. Their instruction set and core designs emphasize predictable execution, low power usage, and flexibility across performance classes. This matches the needs of embedded systems, where workloads are usually well defined and resources must be carefully managed.
One key benefit is scalability across a product range. Entry-level ARM SBCs and higher-performance models often share similar software foundations. This allows engineering teams to reuse operating systems, drivers, and application logic while adjusting hardware capability to match different product tiers.
Another important factor is ecosystem maturity. ARM-based platforms dominate smartphones, tablets, and many consumer electronics. As a result, development tools, operating systems, and middleware are widely available and well supported. Embedded developers benefit from this ecosystem even when building industrial or specialized devices.
How ARM-Based SBC Hardware Is Structured
An ARM-based SBC acts as a carrier that exposes the SoC’s capabilities in a usable and repeatable form. The board typically includes power regulation circuits, memory devices, storage, clocking, and connectors arranged to support common embedded use cases.
Memory is usually soldered directly onto the board, using DDR or LPDDR types. This improves signal integrity and reduces power consumption compared to socketed solutions. Storage is often provided through eMMC, which offers better reliability than removable media, with SD cards used mainly for development or updates.
Display support is another defining feature. Many ARM SoCs include native display controllers that connect directly to LCD panels using interfaces such as RGB, LVDS, HDMI, eDP, or MIPI DSI. This eliminates the need for separate graphics hardware and simplifies system design for embedded HMIs and control panels.
Peripheral Connectivity in Real Systems
Embedded systems must interact with the physical world. Sensors, actuators, communication modules, and user input devices all need reliable connections to the main processor. ARM-based SBCs are designed with these requirements in mind.
Low-speed buses like I²C and SPI are widely used for sensors, touch controllers, and auxiliary devices. UARTs remain common for modems, GNSS receivers, and secondary controllers. USB provides a flexible interface for expansion and external peripherals. Ethernet is essential for industrial and networked products.
Because these interfaces are integrated into the SoC, the board can remain relatively simple while still supporting complex I/O requirements. This reduces component count and helps improve long-term reliability.
Software Environment and System Architecture
Software flexibility is one of the main reasons ARM-based SBCs are so widely adopted. Most platforms support embedded Linux distributions, Android, or both. The choice depends largely on the product’s interaction model and lifecycle requirements.
Linux-based systems are often selected for devices that emphasize networking, background services, or long-term stability. Android-based systems are typically used when a rich graphical interface, multimedia support, or web-based interaction is required. In both cases, the underlying ARM hardware remains the same.
From a system design perspective, this allows teams to separate hardware decisions from user interface strategy. The same SBC may support different software configurations across multiple products or generations.
Practical Design Trade-Offs
ARM-based SBCs are not without limitations. One common consideration is real-time behavior. While ARM Cortex-A processors offer high throughput, they are not inherently deterministic. Applications that require precise timing often pair an ARM SBC with a dedicated microcontroller that handles time-critical tasks.
Lifecycle management is another important factor. Embedded products are expected to remain in service for many years. Selecting an SBC with a clear roadmap, stable board support package (BSP), and long-term component availability is essential for reducing maintenance risk.
Power management and boot time may also influence platform choice. While ARM SoCs are efficient, achieving optimal power behavior often requires careful tuning at both the hardware and software levels.
From SBC to Finished Product
Using an ARM-based SBC is rarely just a drop-in decision. Engineers must consider mechanical integration, thermal behavior, power supply design, and environmental conditions. A board that performs well on the bench may behave differently in a sealed enclosure or under continuous load.
When these factors are addressed early in the design process, ARM-based SBCs provide a flexible and scalable foundation. They allow teams to focus on application-specific features rather than building computing infrastructure from scratch.
Conclusion
ARM-based SBCs represent a balance between integration, flexibility, and efficiency. Their value lies not only in processor performance, but in how well the SoC architecture, board design, and software ecosystem align with embedded system requirements.
By understanding how these platforms are structured and where their strengths and limits lie, engineers can make more informed decisions and design products that remain stable, maintainable, and competitive throughout their lifecycle.
Top comments (0)