A Computer-On-Module, or COM, is a Module with all components necessary for a bootable host computer, packaged as a super component. A COM requires a Carrier Board to bring out I/O and to power up. COMs are used to build single board computer solutions and offer OEMs fast time-to-market with reduced development cost. Like integrated circuits, they provide OEMs with significant freedom in meeting form-fit-function requirements. For all these reasons the COM methodology has gained much popularity with OEMs in the embedded industry. COM Express® is an open industry standard for Computer-On-Modules. It is designed to be future proof and to provide a smooth transition path from legacy parallel interfaces to LVDS (Low Voltage Differential Signaling) interfaces. These include the PCI bus and parallel ATA on the one hand and PCI Express and Serial ATA on the other hand.
