SMARC (Smart Mobility ARChitecture) is a standardized Computer-on-Module specification designed for compact, low-power, and high-performance embedded applications. SMARC modules integrate the processor, memory, and core I/O on a single board that connects to a custom carrier board through a standardized 314-pin MXM3 connector.
The SMARC standard is available in two form factors: the short version at 82 x 50 mm and the full version at 82 x 80 mm. Both provide more I/O capacity and higher performance headroom than smaller SoM standards, making SMARC suitable for applications requiring advanced connectivity, AI acceleration, or multi-display support.
Our selection of SMARC modules from ARBOR Technology and Axiomtek includes both x86 (Intel) and ARM processor options, providing flexibility for diverse embedded system requirements.
SMARC modules support a wide range of processors, from power-efficient ARM cores to high-performance Intel Core processors. This scalability allows product families to span multiple price and performance points using a common carrier board design. As processing requirements evolve, modules can be upgraded without hardware redesign.
The 314-pin connector provides more signal lanes than smaller SoM standards like Qseven. SMARC modules support multiple display outputs (HDMI, DisplayPort, eDP, LVDS), USB 3.0/2.0, PCIe lanes, Gigabit and 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, camera interfaces, and audio. This I/O density enables complex embedded systems in a compact footprint.
Industrial SMARC modules are designed for extended product lifecycles. Manufacturers commit to multi-year availability, protecting your investment in carrier board development and system certification. When a processor reaches end of life, pin-compatible replacement modules maintain system continuity.
Pre-validated SMARC modules eliminate the need to design, validate, and certify the computing core from scratch. Engineering resources focus on the carrier board and application-specific features, reducing time-to-market and development costs compared to custom SBC designs.
SMARC modules accommodate both x86 and ARM processor architectures:
Intel Core (13th/12th Gen): High-performance processors for demanding edge computing, machine vision, and AI inference workloads. The Axiomtek SCM330 supports Intel Core processors with LPDDR5 memory and dual 2.5 GbE networking.
Intel Atom x7000 Series: Power-efficient x86 processors for industrial IoT, gateways, and always-on applications. The Axiomtek SCM330 also supports this processor family for lower-power deployments.
Intel Atom E3900 Series (Apollo Lake): Proven industrial processors with wide temperature support. The ARBOR EmSMK-i2403 provides Intel Atom x7-E3950, x5-E3940, and x5-E3930 options with 8GB memory.
MediaTek Genio 1200 (ARM): Octa-core ARM processor (Cortex-A78 + A55) with integrated AI accelerators (APU, VPU, GPU) for edge AI and vision applications. The ARBOR SM1200 delivers this platform with 4K display support, Android 13 and Yocto Linux compatibility, and industrial temperature operation (-40°C to +85°C).
SMARC modules provide extensive connectivity through the standardized carrier board interface:
This connectivity enables SMARC modules to serve as the computing foundation for complex embedded systems requiring multiple high-speed interfaces.
SMARC modules power embedded systems across demanding industrial and commercial applications:
Edge AI and Machine Vision: AI-enabled modules like the ARBOR SM1200 provide integrated neural processing for real-time inference, object detection, and quality inspection at the edge. For complete edge AI solutions, explore our edge AI computers.
Industrial IoT Gateways: Protocol conversion, data aggregation, and secure cloud connectivity for manufacturing, utilities, and building automation systems.
Medical Devices: Diagnostic imaging, patient monitoring, and portable medical equipment requiring long-term component availability and regulatory compliance.
Transportation: In-vehicle infotainment, passenger information displays, ticketing systems, and fleet management where vibration resistance and wide temperature operation are essential.
Digital Signage and Kiosks: Multi-display media players, interactive kiosks, and point-of-sale terminals requiring rich graphics and reliable long-term operation.
Robotics and Automation: Mobile robot controllers, AMR/AGV navigation systems, and industrial automation requiring real-time processing and extensive I/O.
Both SMARC and Qseven are compact Computer-on-Module standards, but they serve different requirements:
| Specification | SMARC | Qseven |
|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | 82 x 50 mm (short) / 82 x 80 mm (full) | 70 x 70 mm |
| Connector | 314-pin MXM3 | 230-pin MXM |
| Max Power | Higher (supports Core-class processors) | 12W typical |
| I/O Density | Higher (more PCIe, USB, display options) | Moderate |
| Best For | Performance-focused edge computing, multi-display, AI | Low-power, ultra-compact, cost-sensitive |
Choose SMARC when your application requires Intel Core performance, multiple high-speed interfaces, or AI acceleration. Choose Qseven for lower-power applications where the 70 x 70 mm form factor and 12W power budget align with system constraints.
For alternative embedded form factors, explore our 3.5-inch embedded boards and COM Express modules.
Westward Sales is more than a supplier; we are your strategic partner in embedded computing. We understand that SMARC modules represent a scalable, future-ready approach to system design. They provide the flexibility to span multiple performance tiers and adapt to evolving requirements while delivering the I/O density and processing power that modern embedded applications demand.
By choosing our SMARC modules, you are not just selecting a component; you are embracing a development strategy that enables faster innovation, reduced risk, and long-term product support.
Explore the full range of SMARC modules, compare their features, and contact our team to find the perfect solution for your next project.
