– AI acceleration (6 TOPS) useful for tasks like object recognition, but not sufficient for LLMs
– Dual MIPI-DSI and HDMI 2.1 (up to 8K@60Hz) for flexible display output
– M.2 2280 SSD via PCIe 2.1 plus eMMC and microSD for storage options
– 30-pin GPIO header and MIPI-CSI for sensors, actuators, and camera connectivity
– Price: $172 ($187 with metal case)
Single-Board Computer With Rockchip Power
FriendlyElec is offering a new single-board computer that could certainly be a viable alternative to the Raspberry Pi (in terms of price). The NanoPi M6V2 is, unsurprisingly, a revised version of the NanoPi M6, with no fundamental changes. The NanoPi M6V2 comes with Rockchip’s RK3588S SoC, which features four Cortex-A76 and four Cortex-A55 cores and is accompanied by 8 GB of LPDDR5 RAM. According to FriendlyElec, AI applications can be accelerated directly on the SoC with up to 6 TOPS.
AI and Camera Connectivity
While this isn’t necessarily sufficient for LLM models, its at least enough for tasks such as object recognition. Cameras can be connected not only via USB 3.0 or USB 2.0, but also via MIPI-CSI, a connection type well known in the maker community. Two MIPI-DSI ports are available for displays, but video output is also possible via HDMI 2.1 with resolutions up to 7680 x 4320 and a 60 Hz refresh rate. The board measures 62 x 90 mm and features a 30-pin header for sensors and actuators.
Storage and Expansion Options
An eMMC storage option is available, and an M.2 2280 SSD can also be installed via PCIe 2.1. A microSD card is slot also on board, which should make installing an operating system quite straightforward. The 62 x 90 mm board features a 30-pin header for connecting sensors and actuators. An IR receiver is already integrated.
Networking and Pricing
Out of the box, network connectivity is provided via Gigabit Ethernet, while Wi-Fi and Bluetooth can be added via an M.2 2230 card. The NanoPi M6V2 is available for $172. A metal case is included for an additional $15. This price point makes it an interesting choice for developers or hobbiests wanting higher performance then basic Raspberry Pi models.