What are Single Board Computers and how do they work? 

The development of modern technology is strongly linked to increasing miniaturization, which can be seen especially in the development of ICT hardware. Single Board Computers are a prime example of this trend. The small size board has everything necessary to meet the requirements of advanced consumer and industrial applications. What are Single Board Computers and how they can be used? 

Single Board Computers (SBC) – what is it? 

Single Board Computers are small-sized devices that have all the necessary components integrated on a single PCB. These are such components as: 

• a fast and powerful processor, 
• USB and HDMI or microHDMI ports, 
• Ethernet port, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi module,  
• microSD card slot,  
• GPIO pins (general-purpose input/output pins that can be used to connect further electronics, including, e.g.: sensors).  

An example of a Single Board Computer, incidentally one of the most widely used, both by professionals and amateurs, is the Raspberry Pi, which dimensions are about 85.6 x 56.5 mm. Compared to a classic desktop or laptop computer, it takes up much less space, while offering enough computing power to perform many complex tasks, such as programming.  

How do Single Board Computers work? 

The operation of Single Board Computers does not differ from the way other computers work. When the device is connected to a power source, it starts up an operating system stored on a memory card or built-in flash memory. The operating system manages resources and allows various applications to run. 

Input and output interfaces, such as USB and HDMI ports, allow peripheral devices to be connected, so the user can interact with the computer. Thanks to built-in GPIO connectors, Single Board Computers can communicate with other electronic devices, which is useful, e.g., in IoT (Internet of Things) projects. 

Single Board Computers are programmed using standard programming languages and can perform a wide range of tasks – from simple calculations to advanced operations. Their operation is based on the ability to process data and communicate with other systems making them extremely versatile tools for both consumer and industrial applications. 

Differences between Single Board Computers and other computers 

What makes microcomputers different from PCs and laptops is primarily their size and design. All the components of SBCs fit on a single PCB, while in the case of desktops and PCs, they form separate modules put in an enclosure. This also have an impact on their application possibilities.   

Single Board Computers, thanks to their small size, are used in projects that require compact solutions; then they are part of the whole system, providing flexibility to further develop the device by adding more electronic components. In such applications, Single Board Computers are the “heart” of a device, ensuring its smooth functioning.  

Traditional computers can be expanded and upgraded quite freely due to the ability to seamlessly replace individual components, such as the processor, graphics card and RAM. These are the solutions we use on a daily basis – for working with various programs, e.g., for graphics processing, as well as watching movies or playing games.    

Among the main advantages of Single Board Computers are:  

• compact size, 
• high computing power, 
• low power consumption, 
• low operating costs, 
• ease of programming, 
• multiplicity of applications, 
• support for various operating systems. 

Single Board Computers can be integrated with a wide range of devices, both in simple and advanced projects. 

The use of Single Board Computers 

The mentioned above Raspberry Pi minicomputers are most often installed in consumer projects. They can be used, e.g., to create home automation systems, enabling remote management of lighting, heating, security systems and household appliances, increasing the convenience of those who use them. When Single Board Computers are used in industrial equipment, advanced devices are usually needed. These can be found on the offer of manufacturers such as Advantech, msi, DFI and Engicam. In some cases, a Single Board Computer may not be powerful enough to ensure the proper operation of the equipment, so the customized solution would be required. 

SBCs are often used in portable medical devices that are designed to monitor a patient’s basic vital signs. This type of equipment processes data in real time and transmits it directly to a central control system, allowing medical staff to monitor the patient remotely.  

In the transport industry, SBCs can be used to manage vehicle fleets, monitor routes and optimise logistics processes. They can be integrated with GPS systems to track the location of vehicles, analyse traffic data and suggest the best course options.  

In the industrial sector, Single Board Computers are used in automation and process control systems. They are used to monitor and control machines, collect data from sensors and send it to central systems for analysis. In industrial robotics, they can be used to control robots that perform a variety of precise tasks on the production line.    

Thanks to their flexibility and versatility, miniature computers are an important component in modern technological systems. Their ability to integrate with larger systems and act as both controllers and user interfaces allows for the creation of more advanced, intelligent and interactive solutions that benefit a variety of fields.   

Explore the range of Single Board Computers available on Unisystem’s offer.