Standardization Drives Success: OSM-based Systems-on-Module pave the way for modern embedded solutions

Anyone developing embedded systems is constantly under pressure: increasingly complex tasks, short development cycles, rising demands for flexibility, and all at the lowest possible cost. Thanks to their modular design and standardization according to OSM, Systems-on-Module (SoM) offer decisive advantages. But what does this mean for product managers, system architects, and developers seeking to create sustainable products in the long term?

We spoke to Martin Schiller, Channel Sales Manager at Kontron Electronics.

Mr. Schiller, why is the OSM standard gaining such momentum right now?

Martin Schiller: The OSM standard finally brings a clear, cross-manufacturer definition for directly solderable Systems-on-Module to the market. This greatly simplifies development processes for our customers and reduces time-to-market. The compact Size-S variant, just 30 x 30 millimeters, enables maximum functionality in the smallest space, and with 332 pads, there are plenty of connections for a wide variety of signals. This is a huge advantage for many industrial applications with limited space.

How do companies benefit in terms of costs and investment security specifically?

Martin Schiller: The direct solderability of OSM modules without expensive connectors allows for fully automated production, saving material and assembly costs. Since CPU, memory, and peripherals are already integrated into the SoM, the development team can focus on the essentials: application-specific functionality. Moreover, the open standard guarantees that modules can be exchanged independently of manufacturer, securing investments for many years to come.

Interface diversity and scalability are decisive from a developer’s perspective. What makes OSM SoMs stand out in this regard?

Martin Schiller: Thanks to the high pad count, OSM Size-S modules offer extensive interfaces -such as CAN, Ethernet, USB, and many more. Developers have the freedom to choose exactly the module with the required performance or peripherals, without having to redesign their entire hardware. This makes scaling, further development, and future upgrades easier, regardless of project size.

ARM processor architecture continues to be on the rise in the embedded sector. How do Kontron Electronics’ customers benefit?

Martin Schiller: ARM-based SoM solutions are synonymous with outstanding energy efficiency, performance, and long-term availability. Planning and investment security are also vital for industrial applications. Thanks to modern ARM architecture, our OSM modules can be flexibly adapted to various requirements. On the software side, we offer KontronOS, a Linux-based, CRA-compliant operating system that is hardened especially for industrial and edge applications.

You’ve just added the new OSM-S AM62L module to the portfolio. What makes this SoM special?

Martin Schiller: The OSM-S AM62L is based on a powerful and energy-efficient dual-core Arm® Cortex®-A53 processor from Texas Instruments running at 1.25 GHz. The balance of performance, efficiency, and attractive pricing makes it a compelling choice for many new projects. Especially in price-sensitive yet demanding environments whether automation, Industry 4.0, or edge computing the AM62L is the ideal solution for custom designs based on the OSM standard.

And what about cybersecurity and regulatory requirements such as the EU Cyber Resilience Act?

Martin Schiller: Cybersecurity is becoming increasingly important. Our own operating system, KontronOS, meets the requirements of the EU CRA and ensures secure embedded and edge solutions. Our industrial clients increasingly value this, as it’s about meeting standards, CE compliance, and protecting sensitive data and critical infrastructure. At Kontron Electronics, customers get hardware, software, and services from a single source, covering every step from development, through rapid prototyping and volume manufacturing, to lifecycle management.

In conclusion – what added value does Kontron Electronics provide for customers in the OSM sector?

Martin Schiller: Our customers benefit from a comprehensive offering starting with OSM-compliant Systems-on-Module, through customized Baseboards and extensive software integration. We contribute our development expertise specifically and guarantee manufacturing to the highest quality standards at our European locations.

This ensures reliable support for companies on their path to innovative, cost-effective, and future-proof embedded solutions. Furthermore, close cooperation within the Electronics² group, which includes Kontron Electronics, brings additional advantages thanks to a strong network and consolidated know-how.

Conclusion:

Whether it’s cost, speed, interfaces, or future security, Systems-on-Module according to the OSM standard with ARM processor architecture are today’s first choice for modern embedded systems. Those who start now gain twice the benefit: technological advantages and genuine market leadership.

Find out more about OSM Size-S modules—including OSM-S i.MX93, i.MX8M Plus, i.MX8M Mini, and the brand new OSM-S AM62L—directly from Kontron Electronics or visit Kontron at the Embedded World trade fair in Nuremberg, Hall 3, Stand 159.

If you would like to learn more, visit us at https://www.kontron-electronics.com/products/som/