Single board computers (SBCs) are computer systems built onto a single circuit board. They contain the processor, memory and input/output interfaces of a standard PC motherboard.
They’re often used in hobbyist projects, from home automation to video game emulation and media streaming. They can also be used in robotics, machine learning and more.
What is a Single Board Computer?
Single-board computers are small, credit card-sized PCs that have all components baked right into the board itself. They’re often based on ARM processors and include a system-on-chip (SoC).
A single-board computer can be used for a variety of purposes. For example, it can be used to build a media center or NAS device for storage and sharing. It can also be used to perform basic computing tasks like web browsing and word processing.
Other uses include digital signage, edge computing, and the Internet of Things. Lastly, single-board computers can be used as development boards for software and hardware experimentation.
While SBCs may not be as powerful as desktop computers, they offer more flexibility and portability than traditional computers. They are ideal for projects that require a compact design and low power usage. Moreover, they are easier to work with than full-size computers because you don’t have to worry about additional cases and crowded cables. Additionally, they are often cheaper than desktop PCs.
What are the Different Types of Single Board Computers?
The different types of single board computers range from tiny, inexpensive options like the Raspberry Pi Zero and Zero W to powerful desktop replacement SBCs such as the UDOO Bolt and LattePanda Alpha. Depending on the type of project you’re planning, you’ll want to consider things like storage technology (microSD, eMMC, USB, and PCIe), processing power, and input/output interfaces.
Many SBCs come with various ports and interfaces geared toward specific applications, making them more convenient to use for certain projects. For example, some SBCs have HDMI ports that support up to 4K resolution, while others offer digital input/output pins that can be used for audio applications.
Other SBCs may include ports that are standardized in other computer backplane formats such as CompactPCI, PXI, VMEbus, and ISA. You’ll also find some SBCs with expansion slots that can be used to add specialized hardware such as ethernet, wireless connectivity, and more. The amount of processing power and data transfer rate offered by an SBC is also something to take into consideration.
What Can Single Board Computers Be Used For?
Single-board computers are ideal for a wide range of applications, including educational systems and embedded computer controllers. They integrate all the necessary functionality of a computer into a small, compact printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB is designed and fabricated by manufacturers who choose and solder electronic components that include microprocessors, memory, storage, and input/output interfaces onto the circuit board.
When choosing a single-board computer for a specific application, consider factors like the processing speed and power, memory capacity, connectivity options, form factor, and operating system compatibility. Also, look for a single-board computer with an ample number of expansion ports and GPIO pins to support future upgrades.
Other important considerations include community support and software support. Many SBCs feature large communities of users, programmers, and enthusiasts who provide extensive documentation, tutorials, and assistance. In addition, most SBCs can run a variety of Linux-based operating systems. Moreover, many of them have dedicated neural processing units and graphics processing units to perform advanced computing tasks.
How to Use a Single Board Computer
Unlike traditional desktop or laptop computers, single board computers include all the essential parts of a computer system in one circuit board. They can be used in a wide range of applications, including data acquisition and process control. They are also more rugged and can withstand harsh environments.
Single board computers can be connected to network devices, and can even be equipped with dedicated neural processing units (NPUs) or graphics processing units for performing artificial intelligence tasks. They can also be connected to high-definition displays and audio systems for an optimal visual and audible experience.
When selecting a single board computer, it is important to consider factors such as processor, memory and storage capacity, operating system compatibility and application-specific requirements. Some SBCs have less powerful processors, which may limit how well they perform certain computing tasks. They can also be limited in software support, especially when using alternative boards based on the ARM architecture. To avoid this, look for a GNU/Linux distribution that is free of non-free software.