First open standard for FPGA modules
SGET publishes the FPGA module standard oHFM
The Standardisation Group for Embedded Technologies (SGET) heralds a paradigm shift in embedded design: With the publication of the specification for the oHFM standard (Open Harmonized FPGA Module), it has defined an open and manufacturer-independent module concept for FPGAs for the first time.
The oHFM standard transfers the proven principles of Computer-on-Modules (CoM) to FPGA and SoC-FPGA-based systems and opens up new degrees of freedom for developers.
More flexibility in system design
Until now, FPGA-based designs often required highly specialised carrier board layouts that were closely tied to a specific chip architecture. The oHFM standard breaks down these rigid structures: At the technical heart of oHFM is a harmonised pin and interface architecture that corresponds to the FPGA portfolios of leading semiconductor manufacturers and simplifies their use in modular designs. This makes it much easier for developers to scale their solutions across different performance classes and manufacturers, reducing development complexity and significantly shortening time-to-market.
“oHFM marks the end of the era in which every FPGA project had to start from scratch,” explains Ansgar Hein, Chairman of the Board of SGET. “By harmonising hardware interfaces across manufacturers, we are creating planning security and scalability. oHFM will become for the FPGA world what SMARC, OSM or COM Express already are for the embedded market: a global anchor point for modular design.”
One standard, two options: oHFM.c and oHFM.s
To meet the diverse requirements of industry, medical technology and other fields of application, the oHFM standard offers two complementary versions that follow the same design philosophy:
• oHFM.c (with connector): Optimised for high-performance applications and high modularity. This variant uses high-speed connectors, offers four scalable sizes (S to XL) and is ideal for prototyping, high I/O density and easy upgrades in the field.
• oHFM.s (solderable): Ideal for cost-sensitive large series production. This version is also available in four scalable sizes (S to XL). It is based on the concept of solderable modules to combine high mechanical resilience with a particularly flat height.
Future-proof performance
oHFM is technically designed for longevity. The specification covers the entire spectrum – from cost-optimised entry-level FPGAs to high-end SoC FPGAs with 112 Gbit/s PAM4 SerDes and integrated RF ADCs/DACs. oHFM thus offers a future-proof roadmap for AI-enabled edge computing and 5G/6G infrastructure.
Joint further development of the standard
“The publication of the oHFM specification marks the beginning of a new era in FPGA design,” explains Ansgar Hein. “SGET calls on developers, semiconductor manufacturers and system integrators to actively participate in the further development of the standard and to actively shape the future of FPGAs.” To support smooth implementation, a detailed design guide is currently being developed, and the first reference platforms will also be available shortly.
Free download of the specification
The oHFM specification is available for free download at the following link: https://sget.org/standards/ohfm/
