COTS Integration
Communications & Embedded Systems
Examples of commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) integrated solutions developed by SwRI
Specific problems call for specific solutions, but when the most elegant solution to a problem is beyond the budget and schedule requirements, consider implementing a commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) integrated solution. A COTS solution, which may satisfy most of the system requirements, will use existing technology and components to address different aspects of the problem.
Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) engineers have experience working with many technologies in new and innovative ways and helping clients analyze requirements so that they may decide if a commercial off-the-shelf integrated solution will fulfill their requirements.
Comparison of COTS Solution vs. Custom Solution
The table below summarizes some of the tradeoffs associated with the two different system development techniques.
| COTS Development | Custom System Development | |
|---|---|---|
| Development Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Development Time | Shorter | Longer |
| Availability of a Complete Solution | Not Guaranteed | High |
| Production Cost (low quantity) | Lower | Higher |
| Production Cost (high quantity) | Higher | Lower |
SwRI has significant experience with developing both types of systems, but the following links provide brief descriptions of systems that utilize COTS integration techniques to varying levels.
Examples of COTS Integration Projects
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Infrastructure and Network Systems
- Telecommunications Monitoring System
- LifeLink™ Mobile Video Systems
- Bus Incident Monitoring System
- Radar Systems
Related Terminology
communication devices • system development • system design • COTS • COTS integration • commercial-off-the-shelf • rapid prototyping • communications solutions • custom instruments • reverse engineering • communication networks
