SMARC as a standard for compact embedded systems

A SMARC module is a standardized computer-on-module for compact, energy-efficient embedded systems. It is combined with an application-specific carrier board to create a complete system.

The SMARC pinout describes the standardized pin assignment between the module and the carrier board. This allows interfaces to be clearly planned and designs to remain stable across product generations.

The SMARC connector is the defined plug connection between the module and carrier board. It is part of the standard concept and ensures that electrical and mechanical framework conditions can be implemented consistently.

The carrier board provides the connections and additional functions for your application, for example USB, Ethernet, display, audio or radio. The SMARC module provides the computing platform.

SMARC defines two module sizes that cover different space and function requirements. This means that both very compact devices and platforms with an extended range of functions can be realized.

The SMARC 2.0 specification is the hardware specification of the SMARC standard in version 2.0. Among other things, it defines key mechanical data, the plug-in concept and the basic interfaces so that a SMARC module and the associated carrier board work together properly from a technical perspective. The specification is always relevant if you want to develop your own carrier board, assign signals correctly or design a platform to be maintainable over several product generations.