What Is an ARM SBC and Why Is It Ideal for Embedded Design?

An ARM SBC (Single Board Computer) is a compact, all-in-one computing module built around an ARM-based processor. Unlike traditional computers that require separate boards for CPU, memory, and storage, an ARM SBC integrates all components onto a single PCB. These boards are widely used in industrial control systems, smart devices, and custom embedded applications due to their efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and small footprint.

Why ARM SBCs Are So Popular in Embedded Systems

The popularity of ARM-based SBCs is rooted in three key advantages: low power consumption, compact size, and affordability. ARM’s RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computing) architecture is optimized for minimal instruction execution, leading to lower power use and less heat generation—perfect for fanless, space-constrained devices.

Most ARM SBCs include a full range of essential interfaces: GPIO, I2C, SPI, UART, Ethernet, USB, HDMI, and display outputs such as LVDS or MIPI-DSI. This rich I/O support makes them a natural choice for building control panels, IoT hubs, and headless edge devices.

If you're developing embedded hardware and looking for practical board options, you'll want to consider this detailed breakdown of ARM SBC platforms and how they fit into modern embedded design.

Key Advantages of ARM Boards

• Energy Efficiency
  
  Many ARM boards consume under 5W, making them ideal for battery or solar-powered systems.

• Compact Form Factor
  
  With integrated design and no need for large heatsinks, ARM SBCs can be as small as a credit card.

• Affordability
  
  ARM-based SoCs are generally cheaper than x86 processors, allowing for more cost-effective designs at scale.

• OS Compatibility
  
  Most ARM boards support Linux (Debian, Ubuntu, Buildroot) and Android, offering developers flexibility and open-source support.

These traits make ARM SBCs suitable for long-lifecycle industrial and commercial devices where power, thermal management, and cost are critical.

Where ARM SBCs Excel

ARM boards are deployed in a wide variety of applications. Here are a few notable examples:

• Industrial Automation – For machine interfaces, PLC replacements, and data collection terminals.
• IoT Edge Devices – Collecting sensor data and handling lightweight AI tasks at the edge.
• Home Automation – Powering smart home panels, energy management units, and networked audio devices.
• Multimedia Interfaces – In kiosks, infotainment displays, or vending machines with touch input and media playback.
• Education and Prototyping – ARM boards like Raspberry Pi remain popular among students, makers, and engineers.

Choosing the Right ARM Board

The best ARM SBC for your project depends on several factors:

• Processor – Ranging from entry-level Cortex-A7 chips to high-performance Cortex-A72 multi-core SoCs.
• I/O and Display – Look for HDMI, LVDS, MIPI-DSI, and USB if your project involves screens and peripherals.
• Networking – Built-in Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or cellular modules may be required depending on deployment.
• Thermal and Power – For industrial use, ensure wide temperature support and flexible DC input (5V to 36V).
• Software Support – A well-maintained BSP, Linux kernel source, and documentation are vital for stable development.

Also consider certification requirements (CE/FCC), long-term availability, and enclosure options if you're planning a commercial product.

Popular ARM SBC Platforms

Some of the most recognized ARM SBCs in the market include:

• Raspberry Pi 4 – Great for general projects, education, and rapid prototyping.
• Rockchip PX30 / RK3566 Boards – Excellent for HMI applications with display/touch support and Android/Linux compatibility.
• Allwinner A64 / V3s SBCs – Well-suited for budget-sensitive designs like access control or digital signage.
• NXP i.MX6 / i.MX8 – Designed for robust industrial deployments with strong ecosystem support.

These platforms cover a range of performance levels, connectivity features, and environmental durability.

The Future of ARM SBCs

The ARM SBC landscape continues to evolve with new features and design trends:

• AI Acceleration – Integration of NPUs (Neural Processing Units) for edge inference tasks.
• Greater Modularity – System-on-Module (SOM) approaches for flexible design reuse.
• Next-Gen Interfaces – Including 5G, USB-C, and advanced hardware security.
• Improved Efficiency – Making fanless operation viable even for more demanding applications.

With rapid improvements in both hardware capabilities and software ecosystems, ARM SBCs are better positioned than ever for embedded innovation.

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For more insights on ARM board selection and embedded design best practices, explore our detailed guide:

👉 ARM SBC and Embedded Design