System-on-Chip vs Single Board Computers

Full form: SoC stands for System on Chip. SBC stands for Single Board Computer. Definition: SoC is an integrated circuit or silicon chip that has all the components fabricated on a silicon chip. SBC is a whole computer constructed on a single printed circuit Board that contains memory, processor, I/O devices, and other slots.

 

SoC, which stands for System on Chip, refers to a compact integrated chip that incorporates all essential components and circuits of a specific system. On the other hand, SBC stands for Single Board Computer, representing an entire computer assembled on a single printed circuit board. This board includes memory, a microprocessor, I/O devices, and other necessary functions for a fully operational computer. In this article, we will explore the fundamental distinctions between SoC and SBC.

 

RK3588 Development Board

 

System on Chip (SoC)

 

The components within an SoC encompass memory, oscillator, voltage regulator, ADC, DAC, processor, power management unit, USB, and UART. The processor serves as the central element of the SoC and often incorporates multiple co-processors, such as microcontrollers, microprocessors, or DSPs. In terms of storage, the SoC integrates various types of memory, including RAM, ROM, EEPROM, or Flash memory. Additionally, SoCs feature a GPU for graphical processing.

 

Key components like voltage regulators, oscillators, clocks, and ADC/DAC are integral to the SoC's design. The Universal Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter (UART) included in the SoC facilitates the transmission and reception of serial data. Overall, the SoC combines these elements into a compact, integrated unit to fulfill diverse functionalities within electronic systems.

 

Advantages of SoC

 

It is small in size and includes many features and functions.

It consumes low power.

SoC is flexible in terms of size, and power factor.

It is cost-effective.

 

Disadvantages of SoC

 

Time-consuming designing process. usually, the designing process of SoC takes six to twelve months.

Visibility of SoC is limited.

 

Applications of SoC

 

Used in smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, and computers.

Internet of Things applications such as home automation.

Embedded systems applications especially where the microcontroller is used.

 

Single Board Computers (SBC)

 

The components of an SBC encompass a power supply, memory, Ethernet port, GPIO pins, processor, SD card slot, HDMI connectors, and USB port. At the core of the SBC is the processor, commonly an ARM processor. SBCs predominantly utilize static RAM memory with sizes typically ranging from 8-bit to 16-bit. GPIO pins serve as interfaces for connecting various input-output devices, including sensors, displays, and keyboards.

 

The inclusion of an Ethernet port allows SBCs to connect to wired networks. SBCs typically operate on a 5V DC power supply, contributing to their versatile use in diverse applications.

 

Advantages of SBC

 

SBCs are easy to use.

SBCs have verified hardware.

Low power consumption.

Good performance at a low price.

 

Disadvantages of SBC

 

Lots of customization on SBC can be difficult.

SBCs have less capability than multi-board computers.

 

Applications of SBC

 

Flexible IoT gateways.

Smart assets monitoring.

Artificial Intelligence

 

Difference between SoC and SBC

 

Full form: SoC stands for System on Chip. SBC stands for Single Board Computer.

Definition: SoC is an integrated circuit or silicon chip that has all the components fabricated on a silicon chip. SBC is a whole computer constructed on a single printed circuit Board that contains memory, processor, I/O devices, and other slots.

Components: SoC has all the components integrated on it. Many peripherals are connected to SBC through slots given on it.

Adaptability: SoC is less adaptable as compared with SBC. SBC is more adaptable as compared with SoC.

Price: SoC is more expensive compared with SBC. SBC is less expensive compared with SoC.

Application areas: SoC is widely used in industry as they have a small form factor, less power consumption, and small size. They are used in IoT applications and embedded system applications. SBC is used to advance the end product. They are used in IoT applications also used in artificial intelligence.