Kontron Electronics Establishes OSM Design-In Network

Embedded system developers increasingly rely on standardized module concepts to shorten design cycles and reduce hardware risk in distributed industrial environments. In this context, Kontron Electronics introduced a Preferred Design-In Partner Program centered on compact Systems-on-Module (SoM) designs based on the Open Standard Module™ (OSM) Size-S specification.

The initiative formalizes cooperation with one selected partner per country to develop and implement customized SoM-based embedded platforms.

OSM Size-S as the Technical Foundation
The program focuses on the OSM Size-S form factor, defined at 30 mm × 30 mm. OSM is an open hardware standard intended for highly integrated, solderable SoM designs that combine processor, memory, and essential interfaces on a compact module.

By standardizing the mechanical and electrical interface, OSM enables vendor-independent hardware integration within a digital supply chain. For OEMs, this reduces redesign effort and component obsolescence risks compared with fully custom board-level processor integrations.

Kontron Electronics’ partner-developed SoMs are based on ARM processor architectures. While specific processor variants are not detailed, ARM-based designs are typically selected in embedded environments for their power efficiency, scalable performance, and broad ecosystem support. The modular approach allows application-specific customization while retaining a standardized carrier-board interface.

Application areas cited include industrial automation, medical technology, and IoT deployments—segments where compact dimensions, deterministic behavior, and lifecycle stability are central requirements.




Structured Local Collaboration Model
Under the Preferred Design-In Partner Program, Kontron Electronics appoints one exclusive partner per country. Each partner develops and implements OSM-based SoM solutions tailored to regional customers’ requirements.

Kontron Electronics provides development support across the project lifecycle, from concept validation and prototyping through to manufacturing. Where required, the company also assumes responsibility for the series production of assemblies. This model consolidates design and production within a coordinated framework, which can reduce handover friction between development and manufacturing phases.

The structured partnership approach is intended to align technical expertise in embedded hardware design with local market access and customer-specific engineering capabilities.




First Partner Named in Germany
HY-LINE Technology GmbH has been appointed as the first Preferred Design-In Partner for the German market. The company will integrate OSM-based SoM modules into its development projects to deliver customized embedded solutions.

Through this collaboration model, Kontron Electronics extends its 30-year experience as a full-service electronics provider into a partner-driven framework, linking standardized SoM hardware with country-specific engineering support.

For developers working with OSM-based architectures, the program defines a structured pathway from module selection and customization to scalable production—addressing common integration questions around lifecycle management, time-to-market, and modular system design.

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