C20Module

C20Module is a standardized modular compute platform designed for scalable deployment in embedded systems, edge computing, and light data-center workloads. A C20Module system assembles one or more Core Modules on carrier boards that provide power, I/O, and enclosure-specific interfaces. The standard emphasizes interchangeability and upgradeability, allowing modules to be replaced or expanded without redesigning the surrounding hardware.

Each Core Module contains a processor, memory subsystem, and storage interface, plus optional accelerators. CPU options span multiple families and configurations, enabling setups from low-power to high-performance footprints. Memory supports DDR or LPDDR with ECC in higher-end variants; storage interfaces include eMMC and NVMe. The module exposes standard interfaces for boot, management, and data transfer to the carrier board and attached peripherals.

The C20 interconnect provides a scalable fabric for modules and carrier boards, using high-bandwidth serdes and multi-lane links. It supports PCIe, Ethernet, USB, NVMe over fabrics, and general-purpose I/O through standardized connectors. Modules are designed for hot-swap operation in supported chassis and can be daisy-chained or switched to build small to mid-range multi-module systems.

Power and cooling are configurable to match workloads, with per-module envelopes ranging from single-digit watts to tens of watts. Thermal management may employ passive heatsinks or active cooling on the carrier board.

Software and security features include a firmware-driven boot sequence, health monitoring, and OS support for Linux derivatives and real-time operating systems. Containerization and virtualization are supported, with security options such as secure boot and cryptographic hardware interfaces.

Applications include industrial automation, edge AI inference, telecom edge, and analytics at the edge. The C20 Consortium maintains the standard, defining module dimensions, connector pinout, interconnect protocol, and compliance tests to enable ecosystem-wide compatibility.