single board computer (SBC)
The term single-board computer ( SBC) refers to a processor board that contains all the components required to operate the system, such as the microprocessor, main memories, caches, chipsets, etc. The SBC is also known as the SBC. Further peripheral functions for output and input, graphics display or communication control can be added via additional plug-on modules.
In addition to these single-board computers, there are computer modules in which the processor with the surrounding chips is located on a small circuit board that is plugged into the carrier board. With this semi-custom principle, the carrier board can be developed by the customer and the standard functions are purchased as a small board.
Both computer architectures have developed their own standards and many manufacturer-specific versions, of which those maintained by the PCI Industrial Computer Manufacturers Group( PICMG) have the greatest industrial significance.
Since the complete functionality of single-board computers is available on the carrier board, such single-board computers do not require a bus connection. However, they do require optimum software support, as well as the ability to modify and extend the functionality. Since this cannot be fulfilled via the system bus, modularity is moved to the carrier board in the form of plug-on modules, the mezzanine modules or others. Thus, computer-related functions can be performed by PMC modules or PC-MIP modules, input/output functions by IP modules, M modules or PC/104.
Single-board computers and computer modules are used in industrial, technical-scientific, medical and other commercial applications such as in vending machines or consumer electronics. One of the best known and cheapest single-board computers is the Raspberry Pi, which is only about the size of a credit card and was developed by the British Raspberry Pi Foundation.