Tag: Raspberry Pi 5

  • Banana Pi BPI-M4: New Raspberry Pi 5 Rival with PCIe and 8GB RAM

    Banana Pi BPI-M4: New Raspberry Pi 5 Rival with PCIe and 8GB RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. Banana Pi has launched the BPI-M4 Super, a new single-board computer aimed at various projects, especially in smart home technology.
    2. The BPI-M4 Super runs on a Rockchip RK3568B2 SoC with four Cortex-A55 cores at 2GHz and offers memory options of 2, 4, or 8GB.
    3. It features multiple ports, including two Ethernet ports (one supporting up to 2.5 Gbps), HDMI 2.0 for 4K output, and two USB 2.0 ports.
    4. The device supports WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, and has an M.2 slot for SSDs, along with a microSD slot for additional storage.
    5. Pricing and release date for the BPI-M4 Super have not yet been announced.

    Banana Pi has introduced a new single-board computer named the BPI-M4 Super. While the company isn’t revolutionizing the category, this device is expected to deliver strong performance for various projects, especially those involving smart home technology. Additionally, the BPI-M4 Super can serve as a traditional desktop computer, offering a variety of ports and connections. Competing with the Raspberry Pi 5, the BPI-M4 Super runs on a Rockchip RK3568B2 SoC, featuring four Cortex-A55 cores clocked at 2GHz. Depending on how it’s configured, the SBC comes with either 2, 4, or 8GB of LPDDR4x memory. Plus, it includes 32GB of eMMC storage, with future versions anticipated to offer 8, 16, or even 64GB.

    Specifications Overview

    The dimensions of the SBC are 3.62 x 2.44 x 0.57 inches, and it includes two Ethernet ports, one of which can handle speeds up to 2.5 Gbps. The HDMI 2.0 port allows for video output at 4K resolution with a refresh rate of 60Hz. There are also two USB 2.0 ports available, which can be utilized to connect various accessories. In addition, the M.2 slot supports full-sized SSDs and connects through a single PCIe 3.0 lane. Storage can further be expanded with a microSD slot. The device supports WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3, and its 40-pin header is compatible with expansion boards made for the Raspberry Pi 5, although compatibility with the BPI-M4 Super is not guaranteed. However, as of now, Banana Pi has not disclosed any pricing or a specific release date.

    Conclusion

    Banana Pi’s new offering, the BPI-M4 Super, is positioned to be a versatile tool for both hobbyists and professionals. Even though the device does not have groundbreaking features, its performance and expandability make it a solid choice for those looking to dive into projects involving smart technology or simply wanting a reliable desktop solution.

    Source:
    Link

    Banana Pi BPI-M4: New Raspberry Pi 5 Rival with PCIe and 8GB RAM

     

    Tags:
  • High-Performance Raspberry Pi 5 Alternative with Intel Core Ultra 7

    High-Performance Raspberry Pi 5 Alternative with Intel Core Ultra 7

    Key Takeaways

    1. Aaeon has launched the Up Extreme ARL, a powerful single-board computer similar to the Raspberry Pi 5 but with enhanced performance.
    2. The device features an Intel Core Ultra 5/7 processor and offers AI performance of up to 97 TOPS for local AI application execution.
    3. The board includes up to 64GB of non-upgradable LPDDR5 RAM, two M.2 2280 slots for storage, and supports traditional SATA drives.
    4. Connectivity options include dual Ethernet ports (2.5 Gbps and 1 Gbps), two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, and expansion for wireless connectivity.
    5. The Up Extreme ARL supports multi-monitor setups with two HDMI 2.1 ports and one DisplayPort 2.1, but pricing details have not yet been released.

    Aaeon has launched a new single-board computer named the Up Extreme ARL. This compact device is somewhat similar to the Raspberry Pi 5, though it offers much greater power. Interestingly, the GPIO pin header closely resembles that of the Raspberry Pi, suggesting that expansion boards created for the Raspberry Pi could work with this SBC too. Regardless, the Up Extreme ARL comes equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 5 225H, Core Ultra 7 255H, or Ultra 7 265H. It boasts an AI performance of up to 97 TOPS, enabling local execution of AI applications.

    Memory and Storage

    The memory on this board is soldered in place and cannot be upgraded. Depending on which model you choose, Aaeon’s new single-board computer can come with as much as 64GB of LPDDR5 RAM. There are two M.2 2280 slots for additional storage, and you can connect a traditional spinning hard drive or a 2.5-inch SSD using SATA. The dimensions of the board are 4.74 x 4.82 inches, and it provides two HDMI 2.1 ports along with one DisplayPort 2.1, allowing for multi-monitor setups. It also includes MIPI CSI.

    Connectivity Features

    For wired networking, the device supports Ethernet with a speed of 2.5 Gbps, while the second Ethernet port is capped at 1 Gbps. You can enhance wireless connectivity (WiFi or cellular) on the Up Extreme ARL using the two M.2 slots designed for M.2 3052 and 2230 cards. Furthermore, the board features two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, and it can be powered with voltages ranging from 9 to 36 volts. Unfortunately, Aaeon has yet to announce any pricing details for this robust competitor to the Raspberry Pi 5.

    High-Performance Raspberry Pi 5 Alternative with Intel Core Ultra 7

     

    Tags: ,
  • Affordable Elecrow Case Transforms Raspberry Pi 5 into Gaming PC

    Affordable Elecrow Case Transforms Raspberry Pi 5 into Gaming PC

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Elecrow mini PC case is specifically designed for the Raspberry Pi 5 and features an aluminum alloy construction with clear acrylic panels.
    2. It includes a 1.3-inch OLED screen that displays system information and can show the date and time.
    3. The case offers multiple ports for various connections and comes with extender boards for easy access to the GPIO interface and SSD installation.
    4. An alternative version is available for the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano, but it lacks certain features like the M.2 SSD module and RTC battery.
    5. The Raspberry Pi 5 model is priced at $39.90, while the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano version costs $31.90.

    The Elecrow mini PC case is a new accessory designed for the Raspberry Pi 5. It boasts an aluminum alloy construction complemented by clear acrylic panels on the left and front sides, resembling gaming PC cases. Additionally, it includes RGB lighting and is equipped with three system fans.

    Unique Features

    One of the standout features of this mini PC case is its integrated 1.3-inch OLED screen located on the top. This screen displays system details and can be modified to show the current date and time. Moreover, Elecrow emphasizes that the chassis provides a wide array of ports for various connections, including:

    Furthermore, the package of the mini PC case comes with extender boards, one of which allows straightforward access to the 40-pin GPIO interface of the Raspberry Pi 5. Another extender board facilitates the installation of an SSD, supporting sizes like 2280, 2260, 2242, and 2230 SSDs (the 2 TB Samsung 990 EVO Plus is currently priced at $139.97 on Amazon).

    Alternative Version

    Elecrow also has an alternative version of its mini PC case that accommodates an Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano. This variant, however, seems to be slightly less equipped compared to the one designed for the Raspberry Pi 5. Notably, it doesn’t include the M.2 SSD module, and it lacks support for an RTC battery.

    In terms of pricing, the model meant for the Raspberry Pi 5 is available for $39.90 in the official store. Meanwhile, the version compatible with the Nvidia Jetson Orin Nano is offered at a lower price of $31.90.

    Affordable Elecrow Case Transforms Raspberry Pi 5 into Gaming PCAffordable Elecrow Case Transforms Raspberry Pi 5 into Gaming PC

     

    Tags:
  • ArmSoM CM1: New Developer Board with Extra Board Support

    ArmSoM CM1: New Developer Board with Extra Board Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ArmSoM-CM1 is a single-board computer that includes multiple connectors such as MIPI DSI, USB-C, and GPIO headers.
    2. It features an RK3506J SoC with three Cortex-A7 cores and one Cortex-M0 core, along with options for 256 or 512 MB of NAND storage and DDR3L RAM.
    3. The board measures 70 x 42 millimeters and is designed to work with a carrier board for additional functionality.
    4. An expansion board, CM1 IO, is available, providing two extra USB 2.0 ports, two Ethernet ports, WiFi 5, and Bluetooth 4.2.
    5. The CM1 board is priced at $15, while the kit with the expansion board costs $28.50, with varying shipping costs and delivery times.

    We’ve shared details on many single-board computers at Notebookcheck, and the Raspberry Pi 5 is likely the most well-known among them. The Raspberry Pi also comes in a Compute Module version, which is smaller and designed to work with a specific circuit board, but it lacks the usual connections found on a standard single-board computer.

    Features of ArmSoM-CM1

    The ArmSoM-CM1 is another single-board computer that can be paired with a carrier board, but it already includes multiple connectors. These consist of MIPI DSI with two lanes for video output, a USB-C port for power, and a microSD card slot. Additionally, there are two GPIO headers: one has 44 pins, while the other has 40 pins. The main chip is an RK3506J SoC, which features three Cortex-A7 cores and one Cortex-M0 core, along with either 256 or 512 MB of NAND storage and 256 or 512 MB of DDR3L RAM. The board’s size is 70 x 42 millimeters.

    Expansion and Connectivity

    This single-board computer is also available with a CM1 IO hardware interface, an expansion board that measures 100 x 70 millimeters and includes two extra USB 2.0 ports. Other specifications include two Ethernet ports that can handle a maximum data transfer rate of 100 Mbit/s, WiFi 5, and Bluetooth 4.2. The price for the CM1 board is set at $15, and the kit that includes the expansion board is available for $28.50. Shipping costs and delivery times will vary based on where the buyer is located.

    Source:
    Link

    ArmSoM CM1: New Developer Board with Extra Board Support

     

    Tags: ,
  • VisionFive 2 Lite: Affordable Raspberry Pi Alternative with WiFi

    VisionFive 2 Lite: Affordable Raspberry Pi Alternative with WiFi

    Key Takeaways

    1. The StarFive VisionFive 2 Lite is a new single-board computer using RISC-V architecture and is available through Kickstarter for a $20 pledge.
    2. It features dimensions of 3.35 by 2.2 inches and is powered by a JD7110S SoC with four cores, reaching speeds up to 1.25 GHz, with memory options of 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB.
    3. The board supports external monitors via HDMI and includes a MIPI-DSI connector for additional display options.
    4. Connectivity options include Gigabit Ethernet, built-in WiFi 6 (in certain versions), one USB 3.0 port, three USB 2.0 ports, an M.2 slot, and a 40-pin GPIO header for sensors and actuators.
    5. It can be powered by 5 volts through GPIO or USB Type-C, and features a 2-pin connector for a fan.

    We have shared many times about new single-board computers, including several options that rival the well-liked Raspberry Pi 5. These SBCs are often built on either x86 or RISC-V architectures. The StarFive VisionFive 2 Lite is a fresh board that uses the RISC-V architecture and is currently up for grabs through a Kickstarter campaign, requiring a pledge of $20. Note that shipping costs are separate, and like all crowdfunding projects, there is a risk that backers may not receive their money back if the product doesn’t reach the market.

    Specs and Size

    This single-board computer has dimensions of 3.35 by 2.2 inches and comes with a JD7110S SoC, featuring four cores that can reach speeds of up to 1.25 GHz. Depending on how it is configured, it can have memory options of 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB. A microSD card is available for the storage of an operating system. You can connect it to external monitors via HDMI for video output. Additionally, it includes a MIPI-DSI connector, which many hobbyists will likely recognize.

    Connectivity Features

    Onboard is Gigabit Ethernet, and certain versions of the VisionFive 2 Lite come with built-in WiFi 6. You can connect other external or storage devices through one USB 3.0 port and three USB 2.0 ports. It also has an M.2 slot that can fit shorter M.2 2242 modules. For those looking to connect external sensors and actuators, a 40-pin GPIO header is included. Finally, this competitor to the Raspberry Pi 5 can be powered by 5 volts via GPIO or USB Type-C, and it also has a 2-pin connector for a fan.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: ,

  • CrowPi 3: Crowdfunding Raspberry Pi 5 AI Learning Station

    Key Takeaways

    1. Crowdfunding Campaign: The CrowPi 3 is currently being crowdfunded by Elecrow, with a pledge of approximately $159 for early backers, excluding the Raspberry Pi 5.

    2. Portable Design: The CrowPi 3 is designed for portability, compatible with Raspberry Pi 5, Arduino Nano, and other single-board computers, and includes a 4.3-inch IPS screen.

    3. Comprehensive Kits: It comes with a “Basic Accessories Kit” (IR remote, SD card, card reader, RFID tags) and an “Expansion Accessories Kit” (main board, gaming controllers, NFC tags).

    4. Versatile Connectivity: Users can connect external sensors and actuators easily, with built-in modules like a smaller display and ultrasonic sensors for various projects.

    5. Focus on Learning: The CrowPi 3 aims to enhance the learning and development experience for makers and developers, particularly in AI applications.

    Some readers might already know about CrowPi and its maker, Elecrow, who is currently running a crowdfunding campaign for the new CrowPi 3 development and learning platform. Those who support the campaign can secure a unit for a pledge of approximately $159, with the first units expected to ship in August. This amount covers the platform and essential sensors and components, but it does not include the Raspberry Pi 5. As with most preorders, there are financial risks involved, though these are likely minimal this time since Elecrow is a well-established company with a good track record in crowdfunding.

    Portable Learning Tool

    Moving on, the CrowPi 3 is designed to be portable and suitable for use on the go. It is made for a Raspberry Pi and works with the latest Raspberry Pi 5 (available from $75 on Amazon), as well as the Arduino Nano and various other single-board computers. Additionally, this innovative AI station boasts a 4.3-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels. The so-called “Basic Accessories Kit” provides an IR remote, an SD card loaded with the operating system, a card reader, and RFID tags. Moreover, the “Expansion Accessories Kit” includes the main board, two gaming controllers, and NFC tags. The system also features built-in speakers and a camera, weighing in at 2.4 lbs.

    Versatile Connectivity

    You can easily connect external sensors and actuators through a breadboard. However, there are also various modules located directly on the board, such as a smaller display and ultrasonic sensors. The Elecrow CrowPi 3 is versatile enough to be used in many projects, including AI applications like object recognition, just to give one example.

    Crowdfunding Future

    The CrowPi 3 represents an exciting opportunity for makers and developers alike. With its combination of portability, compatibility, and built-in features, it aims to provide a comprehensive learning and development experience for all users.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: ,

  • Prionman 5-Max Turns Raspberry Pi 5 into Dual NVMe Tower PC

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dual M.2 NVMe SSD Support: The Pironman 5-Max can support dual NVMe SSDs with RAID 0/1, enabling a high-speed NAS setup.

    2. Enhanced Cooling System: It includes a strong tower cooler with one PWM fan and two RGB fans, optimized for better airflow and low noise levels.

    3. Built-in OLED Display: The case features a 0.96-inch OLED screen for real-time system information, with an auto-sleep function and customizable options.

    4. Improved Connectivity: Maintains the same port setup as the Raspberry Pi 5, with additional features like an external GPIO extender and RTC battery support.

    5. Pre-order Availability: The Pironman 5-Max is available for pre-order at $71.24, with options to customize packages with various components.

    The Pironman 5 was released last year as a compact tower-like case for the Raspberry Pi 5. It made the single-board computer (SBC) much more versatile by including an NVMe PiP expansion board, a cooling system with a PWM fan, and a tiny OLED display. Now, SunFounder has unveiled the enhanced version of this case, called the Pironman 5-Max.

    Enhanced Features

    One of the significant upgrades is the capability to support dual M.2 NVMe SSDs with RAID 0/1, featuring a 2 TB Samsung 990 EVO Plus, priced at $139.99 on Amazon. SunFounder mentions that this enhancement will enable users to create a “high-speed” NAS setup using the Raspberry Pi 5. Additionally, the Pironman 5-Max introduces support for the Hailo-8L AI Kit, which should provide a boost in performance for AI-related tasks.

    Improved Cooling

    It seems that SunFounder has also made improvements to the cooling system. The Pironman 5-Max reportedly includes a “strong” tower cooler, which comes with one PWM fan and two RGB fans. The design of the panel has been optimized for better airflow, and the company asserts that noise levels will remain low, even when the SBC is under heavy loads.

    Display and Connectivity

    The Pironman 5-Max features a built-in 0.96-inch OLED screen. This display can provide real-time system information, including temperature, memory, CPU usage, and disk status. SunFounder emphasizes that this screen has an auto-sleep function and customizable options.

    In terms of connectivity, the Pironman 5-Max maintains the same port setup as the standard version of the Raspberry Pi 5 case. It includes the following:

    Other important features of the Pironman 5-Max consist of an external GPIO extender, support for an RTC battery, and a layout designed for “clean” cable management. This new Raspberry Pi 5 case is currently open for pre-order, with the chassis priced at $71.24 on the official website. Customers can customize their package by adding SSDs, a SBC, a camera module, a power supply, and an AI kit.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: ,
  • Walnut Pi 2B: PCIe & NPU Raspberry Pi Alternative for AI Workloads

    Walnut Pi 2B: PCIe & NPU Raspberry Pi Alternative for AI Workloads

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Raspberry Pi 5 is a popular choice among single-board computer (SBC) enthusiasts, starting at $68.
    2. The Walnut Pi 2B is a new alternative to the Raspberry Pi, featuring an Allwinner T527 SoC with eight Cortex-A55 cores and an NPU for AI tasks.
    3. The Walnut Pi 2B offers options for 1GB, 2GB, or 4GB of built-in memory and comes with 32GB of eMMC storage, expandable via microSD.
    4. Connectivity features include USB 3.0, three USB 2.0 ports, microHDMI 2.0a (4K 60Hz), Gigabit Ethernet, and WiFi 6 support.
    5. The Walnut Pi 2B can be powered through PoE or USB Type-C and was available for around $50 on AliExpress.

    SBC enthusiasts have a variety of products to pick from these days, yet the Raspberry Pi 5 (starting at $68 on Amazon) remains a standout option in this field. On the other hand, the Walnut Pi 2B has emerged as a fresh alternative to the Raspberry Pi.

    Specifications Overview

    This device measures about 3.3 x 2.2 inches and runs on an Allwinner T527 SoC. The chipset includes eight Cortex-A55 cores along with a neural processing unit (NPU) that offers 2 TOPs of AI performance. Depending on the model chosen, the built-in memory can be 1GB, 2GB, or 4GB. Currently, the Walnut Pi 2B comes with only 32GB of eMMC storage, but it does allow for microSD card expansion. There is also one PCIe 2.1 lane, enabling the connection of an NVMe SSD.

    Connectivity Options

    This compact computer also features a 40-pin color-coded header. It includes USB 3.0 and three USB 2.0 ports for attaching external devices or accessories. In addition, the Walnut Pi 2B has a microHDMI 2.0a port that supports a 4K 60Hz output.

    For additional functionality, MIPI DSI and MIPI CSI interfaces are available, allowing for the connection of a camera or display. The single-board computer also supports Gigabit Ethernet and WiFi 6 connectivity. Powering the Walnut Pi 2B can be done through PoE or USB Type-C. It was briefly available on AliExpress for around $50.

    Conclusion

    With its impressive specifications and affordability, the Walnut Pi 2B presents a compelling option for anyone in search of a single-board computer alternative to the Raspberry Pi.

    Source:
    Link

    Walnut Pi 2B: PCIe & NPU Raspberry Pi Alternative for AI Workloads

     

    Tags: ,
  • Radxa Dual 2.5G Router HAT for Raspberry Pi with NVMe SSD Support

    Radxa Dual 2.5G Router HAT for Raspberry Pi with NVMe SSD Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Radxa offers single-board computers (SBCs) to compete with Raspberry Pi, with products like the Rock 5B Plus and Rock 5T priced at $226.99.
    2. The new Dual 2.5G Router HAT enhances Raspberry Pi 5 functionality by adding two 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports using the Realtek RTL8125B controller.
    3. The HAT features an M Key slot for installing M.2 2280 SSDs, which can operate at speeds up to PCIe 3.0 x1.
    4. The product includes an IPEX to FPC adapter, screws, standoffs, and a heatsink for heat management.
    5. The Radxa Dual 2.5G Router HAT is available for approximately $40 on AliExpress and Arace Tech.

    Radxa makes several single-board computers (SBCs) aiming to challenge the more widely used Raspberry Pi ecosystem. The company sometimes takes inspiration from the naming of Raspberry Pi devices, like with the Rock 5B Plus and the Rock 5T, which is currently priced at $226.99 on Amazon.

    New Expansion Board

    Recently, Radxa introduced an add-on board that enhances the functionality of the Raspberry Pi 5. This product, named the Dual 2.5G Router HAT, adds two 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports to the Raspberry Pi 5 through the SBC’s 40-pin GPIO header. Notably, these ports use the Realtek RTL8125B controller, unlike alternatives from MediaTek or Intel.

    Added Features

    The new product also includes an M Key slot, allowing users to install an M.2 2280 SSD. Radxa claims that these SSDs can operate at speeds of up to PCIe 3.0 x1 via an IPEX connector. However, there is a bit of confusion since the company markets the HAT as using FPC, yet it includes an IPEX to FPC adapter in the package. The HAT comes with screws, standoffs, and a heatsink to help manage heat and prevent throttling.

    Currently, you can buy the Radxa Dual 2.5G Router HAT on AliExpress for roughly $40. You can also find it at Arace Tech for a similar price. For more information, check out Radxa’s wiki.

    Source:
    Link

    Radxa Dual 2.5G Router HAT for Raspberry Pi with NVMe SSD SupportRadxa Dual 2.5G Router HAT for Raspberry Pi with NVMe SSD Support
    Tags: ,
  • New PCIe HAT for Raspberry Pi 5 with Dual M.2 Slots

    New PCIe HAT for Raspberry Pi 5 with Dual M.2 Slots

    Seeed Studio has recently launched an exciting new expansion board tailored for the Raspberry Pi. Specifically, this PCIe 3.0 switch to dual M.2 HAT is designed exclusively for the Raspberry Pi 5 because of its special PCIe connector, which is crucial for high-performance SSDs and other expansion cards.

    Features and Compatibility

    The board is aptly named, as it comes with two M.2 module slots and supports various sizes including 2230, 2242, 2260, and 2280. While the primary purpose of these slots is to enhance SSD storage, they can also be utilized for AI accelerators like the Hailo-8 or Hailo-8L, boosting machine learning functions.

    Performance Specs

    Equipped with the ASM2806 chip, this Raspberry Pi 5 HAT is capable of supporting PCIe 3.0, achieving sequential read speeds of up to 822 MB/s, and writing speeds reaching 716 MB/s. Though these numbers are quite impressive, the PCIe interface of the single-board computer can become a limiting factor when paired with a modern high-performance SSD, like the Crucial P3. Nonetheless, the expansion board does enable users to boot smoothly from an SSD.

    Design and Accessibility

    In contrast to many Raspberry Pi accessories, Seeed Studio’s expansion board is not a standard HAT, as it connects to the underside of the Raspberry Pi 5. This unique setup allows the GPIO pins on the top of the SBC to remain accessible. This design also means that users can stack another expansion board on top, utilizing the flexible GPIO interface. However, this arrangement does not work with the official Raspberry Pi case due to the increased height. To remedy this, Seeed Studio has provided 3D printing plans for a custom enclosure.

    The new HAT is currently up for grabs at a price of $45 USD. The add-on board is shipped directly from China, so those tinkering with SBCs may need to be a bit patient.

    Source:
    Link

    New PCIe HAT for Raspberry Pi 5 with Dual M.2 Slots

     

    Tags: