Tag: Single-board Computer

  • YouTubers Transform LattePanda Iota into 720p Emulation Machine

    YouTubers Transform LattePanda Iota into 720p Emulation Machine

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Iota features the advanced Processor N150 from Intel’s Twin Lake range, improving performance over the previous Mu model with Processor N100.
    2. Initial reviews show that the Iota performs well in gaming, running older titles like Left for Dead II at 720p with 60 FPS.
    3. The Iota struggles with more demanding games like Doom 2016, achieving less than 30 FPS at low settings.
    4. It excels in lighter gaming and emulation, successfully running most classics from Dreamcast and PlayStation Portable, with mixed results for GameCube and PlayStation 2 games.
    5. The Iota is priced at approximately $165 for the 8 GB RAM version and $215 for the 16 GB RAM model with a heatsink.


    The Iota is the new addition to the series of single-board computers made by LattePanda. It was launched in September, following the Mu, which was priced at $199 on Amazon and came with the basic Processor N100 from Intel’s Alder Lake N lineup.

    Newer Processor

    In contrast, the Iota is equipped with the more advanced Processor N150 from Intel’s Twin Lake range. Benchmarks indicate that the Processor N100 and the Processor N150 are nearly the same in performance. However, initial reviews reveal that the Iota handles gaming surprisingly well, which might not have been what LattePanda expected.

    Gaming Performance

    The Iota is capable of running many older games that are still quite popular, such as Left for Dead II at 720p with a smooth 60 FPS. However, it struggles with Doom 2016, particularly when the Vulkan back-end is turned on. The device can manage 720p for this game, but Interfacing Linux found that it does not reach even 30 FPS at the lowest graphics settings, which is a letdown.

    Emulation Capabilities

    Despite this, the Iota is good for lighter gaming options like Hollow Knight: Silksong and is also effective for emulation. ETA Prime reports that the latest device from LattePanda is capable of emulating most classics from Dreamcast and PlayStation Portable with ease. The YouTuber also mentioned successes with many, but not all, GameCube and PlayStation 2 games. Currently, the Iota is available for just over $165 for the 8 GB RAM version or $215 for the 16 GB RAM model, which comes with a heatsink.

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  • Aaeon SBC: Compact Power with 12-Core Intel CPUs at Premium Price

    Aaeon SBC: Compact Power with 12-Core Intel CPUs at Premium Price

    Key Takeaways

    1. Aaeon has launched the PICO-ARU4, a new single-board computer (SBC) for industrial applications, featuring Intel Core Ultra 200 series processors.
    2. The PICO-ARU4 is the first SBC to combine the Pico-ITX form factor with 15-watt Intel Core Ultra 200 processors for enhanced performance.
    3. Users can choose between the Intel Core Ultra 7 255U and Core Ultra 5 225U CPUs, both offering strong multi-threaded performance with integrated graphics.
    4. The compact SBC measures 100 x 72 mm, making it suitable for space-constrained environments, and supports memory expansion up to 32 GB.
    5. The PICO-ARU4 includes options for storage and wireless connectivity, and is available for purchase on Aaeon’s official website.


    Aaeon has made a name for itself in the single-board computer (SBC) market, focusing on products mainly for industrial applications. They’ve just introduced the new PICO-ARU4 single-board computer, which is powered by advanced Intel Core Ultra 200 series processors. This product can be bought now from Aaeon’s official website.

    Innovative Features of the PICO-ARU4

    As per Aaeon, the PICO-ARU4 is the first SBC to merge the Pico-ITX form factor with the strong computing abilities of 15-watt Intel Core Ultra 200 processors. Users can opt for the Intel Core Ultra 7 255U CPU, which includes 2 performance cores, 2 LP cores, and 8 efficiency cores, providing multi-threaded performance that competes with the AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS.

    Diverse Options for Users

    Alternatively, the SBC can also be configured with the Intel Core Ultra 5 225U CPU. This option has the same core count, but it has lower clock speeds. Both chips come with a 4-core Xe LPG iGPU, which matches the performance of the Radeon 760M iGPU found in mid-range Zen 4 APUs. The PICO-ARU4 SBC is quite compact at just 100 x 72 mm, making it ideal for use in tight spaces.

    Connectivity and Pricing Details

    Memory can be expanded up to 32 GB with soldered RAM. For storage, there is a single SATA slot and an M.2 2280 slot. Wireless connectivity is also an option thanks to the M.2 2230 slot. As mentioned before, the SBC is available for purchase straight from Aaeon. Pricing information can be found below.

    Aaeon, as noted by TechPowerUp.

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  • Ebyte Launches Raspberry Pi 5 Rival with Allwinner SoCs and 4K Support

    Ebyte Launches Raspberry Pi 5 Rival with Allwinner SoCs and 4K Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ebyte has launched two new single-board computers: ECB32-PGB2E16-I with T527M processor and ECB32-PGBN4E32-I with T527MN processor (featuring a neural processing unit).
    2. The NPU in the T527MN offers up to 2 TOPS performance, which is lower than modern AMD and Intel chips.
    3. Both models can have either 2GB or 4GB of RAM and come with 32 or 64GB of built-in storage.
    4. Connectivity options include two 1Gbps Ethernet ports, a PCIe 2.1 interface, HDMI, and MIPI DSI supporting 4K resolution.
    5. Ebyte’s single-board computers are available for purchase on Amazon Germany and other global retailers.


    Ebyte has introduced some new single-board computers to their collection. The ECB32-PGB2E16-I comes with the T527M processor, while the ECB32-PGBN4E32-I is equipped with the T527MN. The ‘N’ in T527MN indicates the presence of a neural processing unit (NPU), which is designed to speed up AI tasks. This NPU is said to deliver performance of up to 2 TOPS, which isn’t all that impressive when compared to the NPUs found in modern AMD and Intel chips, which typically have double-digit TOPS capabilities. However, the Allwinner T527M does come with four Cortex-A55 CPU cores.

    Specifications and Features

    Depending on the setup, these single-board computers can have either 2 or 4GB of RAM. In contrast to the Raspberry Pi 5, Ebyte’s SBCs come with 32 or 64GB of built-in storage, which can be utilized for installing an operating system. The dimensions of the board are 5.75 x 3.98 inches.

    Connectivity Options

    Both models provide two Ethernet ports, each capable of 1Gbps. There is also a PCIe 2.1 interface with a single lane, offering a bandwidth of 5Gbps. For connecting displays, users can choose between HDMI and MIPI DSI, with the latter supporting 4K resolution at up to 45Hz, whereas HDMI allows for the usual 4K at 60Hz. Additionally, these alternatives to the Raspberry Pi 5 include two 40-pin headers for connecting various sensors and actuators. Ebyte’s latest single-board computers are already available for purchase on Amazon Germany and other retailers globally.

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  • Forlinx S12 Mini SBC: Raspberry Pi-Compatible GPIO & Features

    Forlinx S12 Mini SBC: Raspberry Pi-Compatible GPIO & Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Forlinx has launched the OK3506-S12 Mini SBC, featuring a 40-pin GPIO header compatible with Raspberry Pi.
    2. The SBC is powered by a Rockchip RK3506B SoC with three Cortex-A7 cores and one Cortex-M0 core, supporting up to 512 MB DDR3 RAM and 512 MB built-in flash memory.
    3. The S12 Mini is a smaller, more budget-friendly version compared to the earlier OK3506J-S model, but has fewer features, including only one Ethernet port and fewer USB ports.
    4. It supports various communication interfaces and display options, but lacks eMMC storage and wireless networking capabilities.
    5. The product is available for purchase directly from Forlinx or through their official Alibaba store.


    Forlinx has launched a new SBC (Single-Board Computer) that comes with a quite appealing range of features, including a 40-pin GPIO header compatible with Raspberry Pi. You can buy this product directly from Forlinx or through their official store on Alibaba.

    Powerful Specifications

    The Forlinx OK3506-S12 Mini SBC is driven by an ARM-based 22 nm Rockchip RK3506B SoC, which includes three Cortex-A7 cores running at speeds up to 1.5 GHz, along with a single low-power Cortex-M0 core that clocks at 200 MHz. This SoC can handle up to 512 MB of DDR3 RAM, and the board includes up to 512 MB of built-in flash memory. When compared to the earlier OK3506J-S SBC, the S12 Mini is noted to be a smaller and more budget-friendly option, according to Forlinx.

    Trade-offs for Compactness

    To keep the design compact, some features have been compromised. For example, the S12 Mini is equipped with just one Ethernet port, while the OK3506-S model has two. Additional differences include a reduced number of USB ports, the absence of eMMC storage, and no wireless networking capabilities. Here are more prominent features of the OK3506-S12 Mini SBC:

    The System on Module (SoM) supports the DSMC parallel bus for communication between FPGA and ARM. In addition, the FlexBUS interface allows connections to devices such as DACs, DVP cameras, LCDs, and more. It also supports display interfaces like the 2-lane MIPI DSI. However, for those who need greater computing power, options like the Forlinx FET3562-J SoM may be a better choice (currently priced at $99.27 on Amazon).

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  • Radxa Orion O6N: High-Performance SBC with 64GB RAM and Multiple Ports

    Radxa Orion O6N: High-Performance SBC with 64GB RAM and Multiple Ports

    Key Takeaways

    1. Soldered RAM Limitation: The Orion O6N has soldered LPDDR5 RAM options of 8 to 64GB, preventing users from upgrading the memory.

    2. High-Performance SoC: It features a CIX P1 SoC with eight L720 cores, four A520 cores, an ARM Immortalis G720-MC10 GPU, and a neural processing unit (NPU) for 30 TOPS of AI performance.

    3. Multiple Storage Options: The board supports internal storage via UFS modules and allows for two additional M.2 SSDs through PCIe slots.

    4. Versatile Connectivity: Equipped with HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C, USB 3.2, USB 2.0 ports, and dual 2.5Gbps Ethernet ports, it also supports camera connections for AI applications.

    5. Compact Design with Cooling: Measuring 4.7 x 4.7 inches, the Orion O6N allows for active cooling with a fan and includes a 40-pin header for connecting sensors and actuators.


    The Radxa Orion O6N is a small Nano-ITX board that can also be used like a standard single-board computer. One limitation is that users can’t add more RAM since it is soldered directly to the board. The Orion O6N comes with LPDDR5 memory options of 8, 16, 24, 32, 48, or 64GB.

    Powerful Performance

    No matter what configuration you choose, the device runs on the CIX P1 SoC, which has eight L720 cores and four A520 cores, along with an ARM Immortalis G720-MC10 GPU and a neural processing unit (NPU) that delivers 30 TOPS of AI performance. The internal storage can use UFS modules, and users can also add two M.2 SSDs through PCIe slots.

    Versatile Connectivity

    This Radxa single-board computer is equipped with HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4, and USB-C for video outputs. MIPI CSI is included for connecting one or more cameras, enabling users to apply AI for analyzing video footage, for instance. Additionally, it has several USB 3.2 and USB 2.0 Type A ports, plus two Ethernet ports that offer a bandwidth of 2.5Gbps each. For those who enjoy tinkering, there’s an option to enhance connectivity with a WiFi and cellular M.2 card.

    Compact Size with Cooling Options

    The Radxa Orion O6N has dimensions of 4.7 x 4.7 inches and supports active cooling through a fan. It also features a 40-pin header to connect various sensors and actuators. The board is already available at select retailers, including Arace, where the 32GB version is priced at $199.

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  • Orange Pi 4 Pro: Raspberry Pi 5 Alternative with 16GB RAM

    Orange Pi 4 Pro: Raspberry Pi 5 Alternative with 16GB RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Orange Pi 4 Pro is a versatile single-board computer but may not be suitable for everyday users.
    2. It features HDMI 2.0 for 4K video output, powered by an Allwinner A733 SoC with 8 cores and up to 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM.
    3. Storage options include eMMC (16, 32, 64, or 128GB) and the ability to connect an M.2 SSD via PCIe 3.0.
    4. Connectivity options include Gigabit Ethernet, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.4, and a color-coded pin header for sensors and actuators.
    5. The board measures 3.5 x 2.2 inches and includes one USB 3.0 port and three USB 2.0 ports.


    The Orange Pi 4 Pro is a fresh single-board computer that seems ideal for a variety of applications. It’s worth noting, however, that it might not be the best choice for everyday users. It can function as a desktop system, provided that users are comfortable with the Linux-based operating system.

    Specs and Features

    In terms of competition, the Orange Pi serves as a rival to the Raspberry Pi 5, offering HDMI 2.0 support for 4K video output at 60Hz. The device is powered by the Allwinner A733 SoC, which includes two Cortex-A76 cores and six Cortex-A55 cores. It can also have up to 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM. For storage, it offers eMMC options of 16, 32, 64, or 128GB. In addition, there is a microSD card slot and the ability to connect an M.2 SSD through PCIe 3.0.

    Connectivity Options

    Much like the Raspberry Pi 5 (with the 16GB version priced from $119 on Amazon), the Orange Pi SBC includes a color-coded pin header for connecting sensors and actuators. Cameras can be linked through MIPI CSI, and displays can connect via MIPI DSI. The board is also equipped with an NPU that has 3 TOPS, which, while not particularly powerful by today’s standards, could still manage tasks such as image analysis or processing a live feed using an AI model.

    Networking and Dimensions

    For networking, users have the option of Gigabit Ethernet or wireless connections through WiFi 6. Bluetooth 5.4 is also available, which can be handy for pairing accessories like keyboards and mice. Finally, the Orange Pi 4 Pro measures 3.5 x 2.2 inches and includes one USB 3.0 port alongside three USB 2.0 ports.

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  • Raspberry Pi Trixie OS Update: Free Major Release for SBCs

    Raspberry Pi Trixie OS Update: Free Major Release for SBCs

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Raspberry Pi 500 Plus is a new, upscale version of the Raspberry Pi 500, priced at $151.
    2. The Raspberry Pi OS update, named Trixie, includes enhancements like a polished desktop interface and better system management tools.
    3. Trixie utilizes a 64-bit time representation, allowing system clocks to function until the year 292,277,026,596.
    4. A new Control Centre application merges multiple system settings, supports third-party extensions, and allows custom settings pages.
    5. Visual upgrades in Trixie include a new font, wallpapers, desktop theme, and icons, with a recommendation against direct upgrades from Bookworm to Trixie.


    The dust has hardly settled from the debut of the Raspberry Pi 500 Plus, which is a more upscale version of the current Raspberry Pi 500 (currently priced at $151 on Amazon) that also serves as a mechanical keyboard. In spite of this, the company has revealed a significant update to the Raspberry Pi OS, which comes with some unfortunate news about the ongoing pricing of single-board computers (SBCs), which we have discussed in another article.

    New Features in Trixie

    This OS update, dubbed Trixie after the Toy Story character, brings a variety of enhancements that include both behind-the-scenes fixes and better system management tools, along with a polished desktop interface. For example, Trixie now utilizes a 64-bit time representation, enabling system clocks to function past January 19, 2038. In theory, Raspberry Pi OS Trixie can operate without any problems in this regard until the year 292,277,026,596.

    Control Centre and Simplified Settings

    Moreover, Trixie merges system settings into a newly designed Control Centre application, which replaces the previous Appearance, Mouse and Keyboard, Raspberry Pi Configuration, and Screen Configuration tools. Even better, Control Centre is compatible with third-party extensions and allows for the creation of custom settings pages. Additionally, the new OS organizes desktop image components into meta-packages to make it easier to switch between Lite and desktop environments.

    Visual Enhancements and Recommendations

    Furthermore, Trixie rolls out the Nunito Sans Light font, new wallpapers, a refreshed desktop theme, and a brand-new set of icons. It’s important to note that Raspberry Pi does not suggest upgrading a Bookworm image directly to Trixie. For more information about this new OS release from Raspberry Pi, you can check out their official website.

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  • IBR500: A Raspberry Pi Alternative with COM Port Connectivity

    IBR500: A Raspberry Pi Alternative with COM Port Connectivity

    Key Takeaways

    1. The IBR500 single-board computer offers two processor options: MediaTek Genio 510 and Genio 700, and runs on Yocto 5.15 or Android 14.
    2. It features 4 or 8 GB of LPDDR4X RAM and storage options of 64 or 128 GB of eMMC, with expandable storage via a USB 3.0 port.
    3. The device includes a COM port for industrial applications, six GPIO ports, and one I2C port for connecting external sensors and devices.
    4. Users can connect two monitors via HDMI, with support for 4K at 30 fps and 60 fps on the second monitor.
    5. AI capabilities are rated at up to 3.2 TOPS for real-time video analysis; however, pricing and availability details are currently unknown.


    A new single-board computer called the IBR500 is trying to capture customer interest. This device offers two different processor options: the MediaTek Genio 510 and the MediaTek Genio 700. It’s compatible with both Yocto 5.15 and Android 14. The IBR500 provides either 4 or 8 GB of LPDDR4X RAM, clocked at 3,733 MHz, along with storage options of 64 or 128 GB of eMMC. Users can expand storage through USB mass storage, thanks to one available USB 3.0 port. The network connection is solely wired, using Ethernet, although a wireless module can be added later with an M.2 2230 card (Key E).

    Industrial Use and Connectivity

    The IBR500 comes equipped with a COM port, which is quite important for industrial applications, allowing the connection of external devices such as measuring instruments. The dimensions of the board are 147 x 102 millimeters, and while it doesn’t have a large pin header, it does include six GPIO ports and one I2C port, enabling connections to various external sensors and actuators. Users can connect two monitors via HDMI, with one capable of displaying 4K content at 30 frames per second, while the other supports 60 frames per second. The AI capability is rated at up to 3.2 TOPS, enabling real-time analysis of video content.

    Availability and Pricing Information

    Currently, there is no information available regarding the pricing or availability of the IBR500.

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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