With the expansion of applications such as data centers, high-performance computers, medical imaging, precise layout traces, specialized PCB materials, shape limitations, and thermal management, the demand for FPGA is also constantly increasing. Previously, hardware designers would choose a "chip down" architecture, selecting specific silicon devices for applications and developing fully customized circuit boards. Although this method can achieve highly optimized implementation, it requires a significant amount of development time and cost to reach production readiness. In order to save time and costs, the design team is now considering more integrated solutions such as multi chip modules (MCM), system in package (SiP), single board computers (SBC), or system in module (SoM).

The FPGA SoM market is rapidly expanding, enabling more users to adopt FPGA based platforms. These SoMs are widely adopted in various applications due to their adaptable architecture and user-friendly design.

Overview of FPGA System Level Modules
Unlike standalone single board computers, FPGA SoM is a compact computing module designed for integration into larger systems. This module includes basic components such as high-speed DDR memory, flash memory, power management, universal interface controller, and board level support package (BSP) software, as well as support for high-speed transceiver modules and various communication protocols such as Ethernet, USB, and PCIe.

The SoM method has significant advantages in providing a pre built and pre tested module that includes core computing components and software, thereby shortening development time, reducing costs, and simplifying the component procurement process. This enables the R&D team to focus on the specific needs of the company, resulting in more predictable design cycles and better business outcomes. In addition, SoM also has scalability and flexibility, making it easy to upgrade or modify components without the need for a comprehensive overhaul of the entire system. By utilizing SoM, companies can bring products to market faster, reduce the risk of design errors, and improve overall efficiency, making SoM an attractive solution for various advanced applications.

Release date
The SoM based approach can significantly shorten development time, resulting in a faster time to market. Due to pre testing and certification by manufacturers such as iWave, SoM allows designers to integrate these modules into products faster and with fewer errors. This pre validation ensures that the module meets high reliability and performance standards, eliminating the need for extensive internal testing and troubleshooting. By utilizing SoM, companies can simplify the development cycle and reduce the time and resources spent on design and validation processes (Figure 1). This allows the company to focus on its unique value proposition and core competencies without getting entangled in complex system integration. The modular nature of SoM also provides flexibility for the design process, allowing for changes and adjustments even in the later stages of development without the need for large-scale rework.

The use of SoM can significantly shorten the design time of images
Figure 1: The use of SoM can significantly shorten design time, resulting in a faster time to market. (Image source: iWave)

Development cost and complexity
The use of production ready and qualified SoM can significantly reduce the complexity of FPGA system design. By integrating pre-test SoM into product development, companies can reduce the risks associated with hardware design errors and compatibility issues. This method not only accelerates product launch, but also reduces overall development and certification costs. The testing system of SoM is very strict, including rigorous electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing, as well as various environmental stress tests such as thermal cycling and aging testing. These tests ensure that the module can withstand harsh working conditions while maintaining reliable performance, thereby minimizing the need for extensive internal testing and validation work.

Product modularity and scalability
One of the main advantages of using a SoM based approach for FPGA system on chip (SoC) solutions is enhanced modularity and scalability. SoM design supports various FPGA logic densities, I/O configurations, and transceiver functions. This flexibility allows product designers to choose the appropriate SoM that meets their specific application requirements without the need to redesign the entire hardware architecture. For example, a single board architecture can accommodate different SoM configurations, ranging from small FPGAs with basic functionality to larger FPGAs with advanced processing capabilities and greater complexity. This modularity benefits the seamless scalability and future oriented capabilities of the design, making it easy to upgrade to newer generations of FPGAs or add other features according to market demand changes.

FPGA SoC provides images of enhanced modularity and scalability
Figure 2: FPGA SoC provides enhanced modularity and scalability. (Image source: iWave)

Supply Chain and Product Lifecycle Management
The supply chain management of FPGA based systems involves coordinating the procurement of numerous components from different suppliers. The SoM centric approach simplifies this complexity by integrating procurement and supply chain management responsibilities with SoM suppliers such as iWave. These suppliers can maintain strategic partnerships with key component suppliers and adopt forward-looking forecasting techniques to ensure stable supply capacity and competitive pricing. This forward-looking management approach can shorten delivery times, minimize procurement risks, and optimize inventory management, ultimately helping the company save costs and improve operational efficiency.