Automated and simultaneous flashing of SOMs (Variscite)
Context & Challenges
In this project, our client wanted to integrate a SOM (System on Module) directly into their industrial equipment, particularly charging strips. The goal was clear: provide a reliable solution that could easily be deployed at scale.
However, the starting point was far from simple. SOM modules are delivered as “blank” platforms, without applications or a ready-to-use software environment. The challenge was therefore to take this standard hardware base and turn it into a fully operational solution capable of running the client’s application without complicating the integration process.
Several key challenges quickly emerged: how to standardize installations, reduce manual intervention during commissioning, and most importantly, ensure that every deployed system remained identical, stable, and secure.
Developed Solution
At Neosoft, we handled the entire software layer to transform these raw modules into platforms ready for integration.
The solution is based on the VAR-SOM-MX8M-PLUS module from Variscite, powered by the NXP i.MX 8M Plus processor, known for its performance and flexibility.
Although this type of module is commonly used with embedded Linux environments, we made a different choice for this project by deploying a Windows-based architecture in order to fully leverage LabVIEW, which perfectly matched the client’s requirements.
Concretely, we built an optimized software environment around this stack, combined with an automated system capable of deploying the client’s applications as soon as the unit is commissioned.
The objective was not simply to “make the system work,” but to deliver something robust, repeatable, and easy to integrate into an industrial environment.
Deployment Automation
One of the key aspects of the project was full deployment automation.
We developed a dedicated tool capable of fully configuring each system starting from a blank module. Once launched, the process handles everything:
- installation of a Windows environment adapted for embedded use
- deployment of the client’s LabVIEW applications
- system service configuration
- network setup and communication parameters
- system validation and functional checks
The result: almost no manual intervention, fewer errors, and significant time savings during commissioning.
Flexible & Scalable Architecture
The solution was designed to be durable and easy to evolve over time.
The SOM module provides a solid hardware foundation capable of adapting to different needs. On the software side, having a controlled and standardized base makes it much easier to evolve applications without starting over from scratch.
This allows the client to integrate the solution into multiple products while maintaining overall consistency, greatly simplifying maintenance and future developments.
At the same time, the processing capabilities and wide range of available interfaces open the door to more advanced use cases without major limitations.
Results & Benefits
In the end, the client moved from a standard SOM module to a complete solution ready for direct integration into their products.
The automated deployment process significantly reduced production setup time while improving overall reliability.
Today, the client benefits from:
- fast and consistent deployment
- significantly reduced manual intervention
- improved software stability
- simplified maintenance
- a strong foundation for future product evolution
This approach allows the client to confidently integrate their applications into their charging strips while improving day-to-day operational efficiency.
Applications
This type of solution is particularly relevant for companies integrating embedded systems into their own products.
It is commonly used in connected equipment, instrumentation systems, IoT solutions, or any environment where software deployment must be fast, reliable, and repeatable.
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