In the realm of computing technology, single board computers (SBCs) have emerged as versatile and compact solutions powering an array of applications, from DIY projects to industrial automation. These miniature yet powerful devices pack processing, memory, and input/output components onto a single circuit board, offering a cost-effective and space-efficient computing solution.
As the demand for SBCs continues to surge, especially in sectors like IoT (Internet of Things), robotics, and education, the market has witnessed a proliferation of suppliers vying to offer the best-in-class products and services. In the United States, many companies have established themselves as leading providers of single-board computers, catering to the diverse needs of enthusiasts, professionals, and businesses alike. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the top 10 single-board computer suppliers in the USA, shedding light on their product offerings, innovation prowess, customer satisfaction, and market impact.
Whether you're a seasoned developer seeking high-performance SBCs for your next project or an organization scouting reliable solutions for commercial deployment, this compilation serves as your roadmap to navigating the dynamic landscape of single-board computing in the USA. Join us as we explore the forefront of innovation and discover the key players shaping the future of embedded computing technology.
Top 10 Single Board Computer Suppliers in the USA
1. Raspberry Pi (Raspberry Pi Foundation)
Raspberry Pi, developed by the Raspberry Pi Foundation, has revolutionized the world of single-board computers (SBCs) since its inception in 2012. With a mission to promote computer science education and make computing accessible to everyone, Raspberry Pi has garnered widespread acclaim for its affordable yet powerful SBCs.
Reputation:Raspberry Pi has built a stellar reputation for democratizing computing technology. Its products are celebrated for their versatility, reliability, and affordability, making them immensely popular among hobbyists, educators, and professionals alike. The Raspberry Pi community is vibrant and supportive, contributing to its reputation as a leader in the SBC market.
Specialty:One of Raspberry Pi's key specialties lies in producing low-cost, high-performance single-board computers suitable for a wide range of applications. These SBCs are particularly renowned for their small form factor, energy efficiency, and ease of use. Additionally, Raspberry Pi offers a diverse ecosystem of accessories and software support, further enhancing its appeal.
Standout Features:Raspberry Pi SBCs stand out for their robust performance capabilities despite their compact size and affordable price point. They boast a variety of standout features, including GPIO pins for hardware interfacing, HDMI output for multimedia applications, and support for various operating systems such as Raspbian (now Raspberry Pi OS), Ubuntu, and Windows 10 IoT Core.
2. NVIDIA
NVIDIA, renowned for its prowess in graphics processing units (GPUs), extends its technological expertise into the realm of single-board computing with its Jetson series. These compact yet potent SBCs are tailored for AI (Artificial Intelligence) and robotics applications, leveraging NVIDIA's cutting-edge GPU architecture to deliver exceptional performance for machine learning and computer vision tasks.
Reputation:NVIDIA stands as a titan in the realm of computing technology, recognized globally for its innovation and excellence in GPU design. With the Jetson series, NVIDIA has earned a stellar reputation among developers, researchers, and enterprises seeking high-performance computing solutions for AI-driven projects.
Specialty:The Jetson series specializes in AI inference and deep learning, offering developers a robust platform to build and deploy AI-powered applications at the edge. These SBCs are engineered to deliver accelerated computing capabilities, enabling real-time processing of complex AI algorithms in resource-constrained environments.
Standout Features:Jetson Single Board Computers (SBCs) by NVIDIA offer a trifecta of advantages for AI developers and enthusiasts alike. Firstly, they harness the potent GPU acceleration inherent in NVIDIA's architecture, enabling swift processing of complex neural networks and deep learning algorithms.
Secondly, despite their robust performance capabilities, Jetson SBCs retain a compact form factor, making them an optimal choice for space-constrained environments like embedded systems and robotics applications.
Lastly, NVIDIA's commitment to cultivating a developer-friendly ecosystem surrounding the Jetson platform is evident through its provision of extensive documentation, software libraries, and tools, facilitating seamless AI development and deployment processes for users.
3. Intel (Intel NUC)
Intel, a household name in the semiconductor industry, extends its product portfolio to include the Intel NUC (Next Unit of Computing) series, featuring compact and customizable single-board computers. Designed for a myriad of applications ranging from home entertainment to business productivity, Intel NUCs embody Intel's commitment to innovation and performance.
Reputation:Intel stands as a beacon of technological advancement, revered for its contributions to computing hardware over the decades. The Intel NUC series enjoys widespread acclaim for its reliability, performance, and versatility, earning the trust of consumers, businesses, and developers alike.
Specialty:The Intel NUC series specializes in offering a diverse range of configurations to cater to various computing needs. From entry-level models suitable for home entertainment setups to high-performance variants tailored for demanding workloads, Intel NUCs provide flexibility and scalability to accommodate a broad spectrum of applications.
Standout Features:Intel NUCs present a compelling choice for users seeking tailored computing solutions, owing to their remarkable customizability. With a diverse range of options for processors, memory configurations, storage, and connectivity features, users can craft systems precisely suited to their needs.
Despite this flexibility, Intel NUCs maintain a compact form factor, making them an excellent fit for space-constrained environments like home theaters, digital signage setups, and small offices. Furthermore, many Intel NUC models boast integrated Intel Iris Xe or Intel UHD Graphics, ensuring proficient graphics performance suitable for multimedia content creation, casual gaming, and other tasks demanding graphical prowess.
4. EaseLink Electronics
EaseLink Electronics is a global distributor of electronic components dedicated to simplifying the sourcing process for commercial, industrial, defense, and aerospace clients. Founded with a vision to streamline procurement, EaseLink Electronics prides itself on providing an extensive range of parts and hardware while prioritizing delicate service and fostering strong customer relationships.
Reputation:EaseLink Electronics has earned a reputation as a trusted and reliable partner in the electronic components industry. With access to millions of components, the company is known for its ability to fulfill diverse sourcing needs efficiently. Whether sourcing common parts or hard-to-find components, EaseLink Electronics is esteemed for its commitment to quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction.
Specialty:EaseLink Electronics specializes in a wide array of electronic components, including active components such as IC integrated circuits, memory chips, microprocessors, diodes, and transistors. Additionally, the company offers passive components like capacitors, resistors, inductors, and electromechanical components such as connectors, switching devices, and relays. EaseLink Electronics excels in sourcing hard-to-find parts, obsolete components, and end-of-life products, providing alternative solutions to meet clients' requirements.
Standout Features:One of EaseLink Electronics' standout features is its comprehensive supply chain solution, encompassing cooperative and stable channel providers as well as flexible and fast spot suppliers. This ensures a diverse range of sourcing options tailored to clients' needs, whether they are original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), original brand manufacturers (OBMs), electronic product contract manufacturers, EMS (Electronics Manufacturing Service) suppliers, or design houses (Design House).
EaseLink Electronics is committed to continuously expanding the electronic components market and providing innovative solutions to support its clients' success. With its focus on customer satisfaction, reliability, and efficiency, EaseLink Electronics stands out as a premier partner for electronic component sourcing needs.
5. BeagleBoard.Org
BeagleBoard.Org, a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to developing open-source single-board computers, with a primary focus on fostering innovation and education in the embedded computing space. Founded in 2008, BeagleBoard.Org has been instrumental in providing developers, hobbyists, and students with accessible hardware platforms for a wide range of projects.
Reputation:BeagleBoard.Org has earned a strong reputation for its commitment to open-source principles and community collaboration. Its single-board computers, including the BeagleBone series, are lauded for their versatility, expandability, and robust performance. The organization's active community and extensive documentation further contribute to its positive reputation in the SBC market.
Specialty:BeagleBoard.Org specializes in creating open-source single-board computers tailored for embedded applications, IoT (Internet of Things) projects, and educational purposes. Its boards feature powerful processors, ample connectivity options, and support for various operating systems, making them suitable for a diverse range of projects and industries.
Standout Features:BeagleBoard.Org's single-board computers stand out for their extensive feature sets and developer-friendly design. Notable standout features include ample GPIO pins for hardware interfacing, onboard storage options, support for high-definition video output, and compatibility with a wide range of expansion boards (known as capes).
6. Odroid (Hardkernel)
Odroid, produced by Hardkernel, is a prominent supplier in the single-board computer market, renowned for its high-performance SBCs tailored for enthusiasts, developers, and industrial applications. Established in 2008, Hardkernel has consistently delivered cutting-edge solutions to meet the evolving needs of the SBC community.
Reputation:Odroid's reputation in the SBC market is characterized by its emphasis on performance, reliability, and versatility. Hardkernel's commitment to providing powerful yet affordable hardware solutions has garnered widespread praise from hobbyists, professionals, and OEMs alike. The Odroid community is known for its active engagement and collaborative spirit, further enhancing the brand's reputation.
Specialty:Odroid specializes in developing single-board computers that offer exceptional performance and flexibility. Whether it's for multimedia applications, gaming, IoT projects, or industrial use cases, Odroid SBCs are designed to excel in various environments. With a focus on open-source software and extensive hardware compatibility, Odroid caters to a diverse range of user requirements.
Standout Features:Odroid SBCs stand out for their impressive processing power, extensive connectivity options, and compact form factor. Standout features include multicore CPUs, high-resolution display support, GPU acceleration for graphics-intensive tasks, and robust community support. Moreover, Odroid's commitment to long-term availability and software support ensures continued relevance and reliability for its products, making them a preferred choice for demanding applications.
Gumstix, Inc. is a renowned provider of customizable embedded systems and single-board computers, catering to a diverse range of industries such as robotics, drones, IoT, and automation. Established in 2003, Gumstix has earned a reputation for delivering high-quality, small form-factor computing solutions tailored to the unique requirements of its customers.
Reputation:Gumstix is highly regarded for its expertise in developing custom single-board computers and expansion boards optimized for specific applications and industries. The company's commitment to quality, reliability, and rapid prototyping has earned it the trust of engineers, designers, and OEMs worldwide. Gumstix's reputation for innovation and customer satisfaction further solidifies its position as a leading provider of embedded computing solutions.
Specialty:Gumstix specializes in designing and manufacturing customized single-board computers, expansion boards, and system-on-modules (SOMs) based on industry-standard processors such as ARM and Intel architectures. By leveraging its expertise in hardware design, software development, and manufacturing, Gumstix offers tailored solutions that meet the performance, size, and power requirements of specific applications, from industrial automation to wearable devices.
Standout Features:Gumstix's standout features lie in its ability to deliver highly customized embedded computing solutions with rapid turnaround times. Whether it's a bespoke single-board computer, a specialized expansion board, or a complete system-on-module, Gumstix's flexible design process and modular approach enable customers to achieve their project goals efficiently.
UDOO is a renowned provider of single-board computers (SBCs), catering to the needs of both enthusiasts and professionals alike. Established in 2013, UDOO has swiftly gained recognition for its innovative approach towards SBCs, offering versatile and powerful solutions for a wide range of applications.
Reputation:UDOO has built a solid reputation for producing high-quality, feature-rich SBCs that boast impressive performance capabilities. Their products are well-regarded within the maker community and are often praised for their reliability and versatility.
Specialty:UDOO specializes in creating SBCs that seamlessly integrate both ARM and x86 architectures, providing users with the flexibility to develop projects that require diverse computing capabilities. This unique feature sets UDOO apart from other competitors in the market.
Standout Features:One of the standout features of UDOO SBCs is their ability to support multiple operating systems, including Linux, Android, and Windows. This versatility enables users to tailor their projects according to specific requirements, whether it's for IoT applications, robotics, or multimedia projects.
Radxa is a prominent supplier of single-board computers, dedicated to providing cost-effective yet powerful solutions for various computing needs. Since its inception, Radxa has focused on delivering SBCs that offer excellent performance and extensive connectivity options, catering to both hobbyists and professionals.
Reputation:Radxa has earned a favorable reputation within the SBC community for its commitment to delivering high-quality products at competitive prices. Their boards are well-regarded for their reliability, performance, and robust build quality, making them a popular choice among enthusiasts and developers.
Specialty:Radxa specializes in developing SBCs that strike a balance between affordability and performance, making them accessible to a wide range of users. Their products often feature advanced hardware specifications and extensive connectivity options, making them suitable for various applications, including IoT, digital signage, and DIY projects.
Standout Features:One of Radxa's standout features is its dedication to open-source development, with many of its products fully compatible with popular open-source software platforms such as Linux and Android. Additionally, Radxa boards often feature powerful processors, ample RAM, and comprehensive I/O options, providing users with the flexibility to tackle a diverse range of projects.
Pine64 is a well-known supplier of single-board computers and related accessories, committed to democratizing access to computing technology through affordable and versatile solutions. Founded in 2015, Pine64 has quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach to SBC design and its dedication to community-driven development.
Reputation:Pine64 has established itself as a reputable player in the SBC market, known for delivering feature-packed boards at competitive prices. Their products are highly regarded for their performance, affordability, and extensive community support, making them a popular choice among hobbyists, educators, and developers.
Specialty:Pine64 specializes in creating SBCs that offer a balance of performance, affordability, and expandability, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. Their products often feature powerful processors, generous amounts of RAM, and comprehensive connectivity options, enabling users to tackle diverse projects with ease.
Standout Features:One of the standout features of Pine64 SBCs is their commitment to open-source development and community-driven innovation. Many of their products are fully compatible with popular open-source software platforms, allowing users to customize and extend their SBCs according to their specific requirements.
Conclusion:
In the ever-evolving landscape of computing technology, single-board computers (SBCs) have emerged as indispensable tools, powering a myriad of applications across diverse industries. From DIY enthusiasts embarking on innovative projects to industrial pioneers revolutionizing automation, the versatility and compactness of SBCs have ushered in a new era of computing possibilities.
At the summit of this pyramid stands EaseLink Electronics, a global distributor of electronic components dedicated to simplifying the sourcing process for commercial, industrial, defense, and aerospace clients. With a commitment to quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction, EaseLink Electronics is poised to be your trusted partner in accessing the finest electronic components. Contact us today to embark on your journey towards innovation and excellence.
