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The world of embedded computing is rapidly evolving, and at the heart of this transformation lies the industrial motherboard. As industries push the boundaries of artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and automation, the need for high-performance, reliable, and scalable motherboard solutions has never been more critical.
We spoke with Emanuele De Marinis, Senior Sales & Business Development Manager for Motherboards at Kontron, a leading provider in the embedded computing sector. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, De Marinis offered valuable insights into the current trends, challenges, and future outlook of motherboard technology.
The Evolution of Motherboards: Current Trends and Customer Demands
In 2024, industrial motherboards are undergoing significant transformation, driven by technological advancements and changing customer needs. One of the major trends is the integration of Intel’s 14th Gen processors, DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0, and WiFi 7. These technologies are enabling powerful, cutting-edge applications in AI, IoT, and edge computing. De Marinis explains, “The focus is on high-performance integration to meet the growing demand for industrial applications that require advanced processing power.”
Additionally, compact designs are gaining traction, alongside a growing emphasis on sustainability. As industries continue to digitize, there’s a clear shift toward flexible, eco-friendly solutions that don’t compromise on performance. Kontron’s motherboards are designed with this balance in mind, providing robust solutions that meet the demands of modern industrial applications.
"Our motherboards are designed with a strong focus on resource efficiency and energy conservation. We use environmentally friendly materials, low-melting solder in production, and optimized manufacturing processes to reduce energy consumption. This allows us to confidently say that our products are eco-friendly. Our approach reflects a firm commitment to sustainability and environmental protection." -Emanuele DeMarinis
What Sets Kontron Apart?
Kontron’s motherboards stand out for several reasons, notably its commitment to local manufacturing. With extensive production capabilities the company enhances supply chain reliability, which has become a critical concern for businesses in light of recent global disruptions, such as the pandemic and the ongoing chip crisis.
Security, Reliability, and Customization with German-Developed BIOS
A significant advantage of Kontron’s offering is its German-developed BIOS, which guarantees enhanced security and reliability—key concerns for industries that rely on embedded computing systems. This commitment to secure, high-performance solutions sets Kontron apart as a trusted partner in critical sectors such as automation, medical devices, robotics, digital signage, and gaming.
To further address the evolving needs of its industrial customers, Kontron offers a comprehensive customization toolset, allowing products to be tailored even at the BIOS level. This flexibility ensures that Kontron’s solutions can meet specific industrial requirements with precision and adaptability, providing an additional layer of control over performance and functionality.
Addressing Industry Needs: Features and Applications
When it comes to technical requirements, modern customers are prioritizing advanced processing power, scalability, and reliable connectivity. Kontron’s motherboards cater to these needs with high-speed Ethernet up to 10G, multiple M.2 interfaces for storage and expansion, and versatile USB Type-C ports that support data transfer, power delivery, and video output. These Type-C ports are now offered as Thunderbolt in the latest layout, providing even higher data transfer speeds and enhanced connectivity options for our industrial customer base. These features are crucial in industries such as automation, medical devices, robotics, digital signage, and gaming, where performance and reliability are essential. Added Thunderbolt information
Kontron’s commitment to energy efficiency and thermal management further strengthens its position in the market. The company integrates energy-efficient components, optimized layouts, and dynamic power management features. A unique module in the BIOS allows customers to adjust the TDP (Thermal Design Power) for optimal energy usage based on their specific application needs.
Scalability and Future-Proofing
As technology continues to evolve, scalability and future-proofing are becoming increasingly vital in the motherboard industry. Manufacturers are preparing for upcoming technologies by designing solutions that support the latest processors and provide high-performance capabilities, even in ultra-compact form factors. These advancements are tailored to meet the demands of space-constrained applications without compromising on processing power.
To ensure seamless integration, motherboard providers employ rigorous testing and validation processes. These comprehensive procedures guarantee compatibility with a wide range of components and systems, ensuring reliable performance across diverse industrial applications. This attention to detail helps ensure that motherboards can meet the growing and evolving needs of industries today and in the future.
Overcoming Challenges in Motherboard Design and Manufacturing
The ever-evolving landscape of motherboard design presents numerous challenges. One of the biggest hurdles, according to De Marinis, is selecting the right technology from platform partners. With each partner offering diverse solutions, it can be difficult to determine the best fit for specific performance, power efficiency, and compatibility needs. To address this, Kontron works closely with our technology platform providers to stay aligned with the latest developments.
The Road Ahead: Trends and Future Outlook
Looking ahead, De Marinis envisions that AI, IoT, and automation will continue to drive the demand for industrial motherboards over the next 5-10 years. There will be a focus on higher performance, smaller form factors, advanced connectivity, and energy efficiency to meet sustainability goals.
To meet these future demands, Kontron is expanding its manufacturing capabilities in Europe, recently adding two new factories. This expansion will enable Kontron to produce motherboards locally, ensuring faster delivery times, supply chain reliability, and alignment with the growing demand for locally sourced electronic solutions.
Expert Advice for Choosing the Right Motherboard
For customers looking to select the right motherboard for their needs, De Marinis offers sage advice: “Consider factors such as proximity to production, infrastructure security, and the diversification of your supply chain.” Proximity to manufacturing can mitigate risks and improve supply chain resilience, especially in times of global uncertainty. He also suggests that customers avoid over-reliance on any single region, encouraging them to consider European manufacturers to reduce dependence on regions like China, which can experience supply chain disruptions.
Our approach to motherboard technology is one that prioritizes reliability, security, and performance while staying ahead of the curve in terms of technological advancements. With a keen eye on the future and a commitment to local production, Kontron is well-positioned to continue delivering innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of industries worldwide.
For more information on Kontron’s motherboard offerings, visit www.konton.com
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