Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5 Debuts Featuring Broadcom’s Quad-Core BCM2712 SoC

Introducing the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5

Exciting news in the tech world today! The much-anticipated Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5 has officially launched, and it’s ready to shake up the embedded computing landscape. Priced starting at just $45, this modular marvel is the latest iteration of the beloved Raspberry Pi 5 single-board computer, and it’s packed with features that are sure to impress both hobbyists and industry pros alike.

A Journey of Innovation

Let’s take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey that led us here. Back in 2008, the Raspberry Pi Foundation was founded with a simple yet powerful mission: to provide today’s youth with an accessible, programmable, and affordable computing experience. Think of it as a modern-day homage to the BBC Micro, a computer that played a pivotal role in the BBC’s Computer Literacy Project. Just like the BBC Micro found its way into classrooms and beyond, the Raspberry Pi has blossomed into a platform that fuels innovation across various industries. In fact, today, a staggering 70-80% of Raspberry Pi units are used in industrial and embedded applications.

As we’ve grown, we’ve listened to our community. Many commercial users love the classic single-board format, but some have unique needs that require a different approach. That’s where the Compute Module comes in. Launched in 2014, the first Compute Module provided the essential components of the Raspberry Pi 1 in a compact SODIMM format, making it easier for businesses to create tailored solutions. Fast forward to today, and we’re thrilled to unveil the Compute Module 5, a modular version of our flagship Raspberry Pi 5.

What’s Inside Compute Module 5?

So, what makes the Compute Module 5 stand out? It packs all the power and versatility of the Raspberry Pi 5 into a smaller, more flexible package. Here’s a quick rundown of its impressive specs:

– A lightning-fast 2.4 GHz quad-core 64-bit ARM Cortex-A76 CPU
– A VideoCore VII GPU that supports OpenGL ES 3.1 and Vulkan 1.3
– Dual 4Kp60 HDMI display output for stunning visuals
– A 4Kp60 HEVC decoder for high-quality video playback
– Optional dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0 for seamless connectivity
– Two USB 3.0 interfaces that allow for simultaneous 5 Gbps operation
– Gigabit Ethernet with IEEE 1588 support for precise timing
– Two 4-lane MIPI camera/display transceivers for versatile multimedia applications
– A PCIe 2.0 x1 interface for connecting fast peripherals
– 30 GPIOs that support 1.8 V or 3.3 V operation
– A rich selection of additional peripherals, including UART, SPI, I2C, I2S, SDIO, and PWM

And it’s available in configurations of 2 GB, 4 GB, or 8 GB of LPDDR4X-4267 SDRAM, along with 16 GB, 32 GB, or 64 GB of MLC eMMC non-volatile memory. For those eagerly awaiting even more options, a 16 GB SDRAM variant is on the horizon for 2025.

Compatibility and Customization

One of the best parts? The Compute Module 5 is mechanically compatible with its predecessor, the Compute Module 4. This means you can easily integrate it into existing designs without a hitch. It features high-density connectors that link to your custom carrier board, along with four M2.5 mounting holes for added stability. While there are a few tweaks in the pin-out and electrical behavior—like the removal of two MIPI interfaces and the addition of two USB 3.0 ports—these changes are designed to enhance functionality. You can find all the nitty-gritty details in the Compute Module 5 datasheet.

Accessories to Enhance Your Experience

But wait, there’s more! The Compute Module 5 isn’t just about the core module; it’s also supported by a range of new accessories designed to maximize your experience.

IO Board

Every Compute Module release comes with an IO board, and Compute Module 5 is no exception. The Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5 IO Board breaks out every interface, serving as both a development platform and a reference baseboard. This means you can jump-start your designs with ease, reducing your time to market. Key features include:

– A standard 40-pin GPIO connector
– Two full-size HDMI 2.0 connectors
– Two 4-lane MIPI DSI/CSI-2 FPC connectors
– Two USB 3.0 connectors
– A Gigabit Ethernet jack with PoE+ support
– An M.2 M-key PCIe socket for additional modules
– A microSD card socket for use with Lite modules
– An RTC battery socket
– A 4-pin fan connector

Powering the IO Board is simple, thanks to a USB-C power supply (sold separately).

Metal Case and Cooling Solutions

For those looking to deploy the IO Board and Compute Module as a finished product, we’re also offering a sleek metal case. This transforms your setup into a complete, industrial-grade computer, complete with an integrated fan for improved thermal performance. Speaking of cooling, the Raspberry Pi Cooler features a finned aluminum heatsink designed specifically for the Compute Module 5. It even includes thermal pads for optimal heat transfer.

Wireless Options and Development Kits

For the wireless variants of Compute Module 5, you’ll find both an onboard PCB antenna and a UFL connector for an external antenna. Plus, our Raspberry Pi Antenna Kit is fully compatible, ensuring you stay connected without a hitch.

And if you’re ready to dive in, our Raspberry Pi Development Kit includes everything you need to get started: a Compute Module 5, an IO Board, the metal case, cooling solutions, and more. It’s the perfect setup for prototyping embedded applications.

What’s Next?

We’re thrilled to see early adopters already announcing their Compute Module 5-based products. Companies like KUNBUS and TBS are leading the way, and we can’t wait to see what other innovative solutions will emerge in the coming weeks and months. The world is brimming with creative engineering minds, and we’re excited to see how they’ll leverage the power of the Compute Module 5.

So, whether you’re a seasoned developer or a curious tinkerer, now’s the time to explore the possibilities with the Compute Module 5. Try it out for yourself, and let us know what you create!

Background Information

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About ARM:

ARM, originally known as Acorn RISC Machine, is a British semiconductor and software design company that specializes in creating energy-efficient microprocessors, system-on-chip (SoC) designs, and related technologies. Founded in 1990, ARM has become a important player in the global semiconductor industry and is widely recognized for its contributions to mobile computing, embedded systems, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. ARM's microprocessor designs are based on the Reduced Instruction Set Computing (RISC) architecture, which prioritizes simplicity and efficiency in instruction execution. This approach has enabled ARM to produce highly efficient and power-saving processors that are used in a vast array of devices, ranging from smartphones and tablets to IoT devices, smart TVs, and more. The company does not manufacture its own chips but licenses its processor designs and intellectual property to a wide range of manufacturers, including Qualcomm, Apple, Samsung, and NVIDIA, who then integrate ARM's technology into their own SoCs. This licensing model has contributed to ARM's widespread adoption and influence across various industries.

  

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Technology Explained

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CPU: The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the brain of a computer, responsible for executing instructions and performing calculations. It is the most important component of a computer system, as it is responsible for controlling all other components. CPUs are used in a wide range of applications, from desktop computers to mobile devices, gaming consoles, and even supercomputers. CPUs are used to process data, execute instructions, and control the flow of information within a computer system. They are also used to control the input and output of data, as well as to store and retrieve data from memory. CPUs are essential for the functioning of any computer system, and their applications in the computer industry are vast.

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GPU: GPU stands for Graphics Processing Unit and is a specialized type of processor designed to handle graphics-intensive tasks. It is used in the computer industry to render images, videos, and 3D graphics. GPUs are used in gaming consoles, PCs, and mobile devices to provide a smooth and immersive gaming experience. They are also used in the medical field to create 3D models of organs and tissues, and in the automotive industry to create virtual prototypes of cars. GPUs are also used in the field of artificial intelligence to process large amounts of data and create complex models. GPUs are becoming increasingly important in the computer industry as they are able to process large amounts of data quickly and efficiently.

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M.2: M.2, also known as Next Generation Form Factor (NGFF), is a computer expansion card format that is designed to replace the outdated mSATA standard. It is thinner and longer than mSATA, which gives it a much higher data transfer rate. The M.2 format measures 22mm in width and can measure up to 110mm in length. It uses the M-key and B-key connectors to interface with PC host systems, and can connect to both SATA III and PCIe for data transfer. Due to its small size, M.2 is often used for ultra-slim laptops and netbooks, as well as in embedded SSDs for tablets and other mobile devices. It is also becoming increasingly popular in the desktop computer industry, thanks to its compactness and fast transfer speeds. This makes M.2 ideal for gaming PCs, workstations, and other demanding applications that require high levels of data throughput.

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OpenGL: OpenGL (Open Graphics Library) is a cross-platform application programming interface (API) for rendering 2D and 3D vector graphics. It is used in computer graphics, such as video games, virtual reality, and scientific visualization. OpenGL is used to create interactive 3D applications, such as video games, simulations, and virtual reality. It is also used in CAD (Computer Aided Design) software, such as AutoCAD, and in 3D animation software, such as Maya. OpenGL is widely used in the computer industry, as it is a powerful and efficient way to create interactive 3D applications. It is also used in the development of computer graphics hardware, such as GPUs (Graphics Processing Units). OpenGL is an important tool for developers, as it allows them to create high-quality graphics quickly and efficiently.

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PCB: Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) are the backbone of the modern computer industry. They are thin boards made of a non-conductive material, such as fiberglass, with a thin layer of copper on top. This copper layer is etched with a pattern of electrical pathways that connect the various components of a computer together. PCBs are used in almost every electronic device, from computers to cell phones, and are essential for the functioning of these devices. They provide a reliable and efficient way to connect the components of a computer, allowing for faster and more reliable communication between them. The use of PCBs has revolutionized the computer industry, allowing for smaller, faster, and more reliable computers.

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PCIe: PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) is a high-speed serial computer expansion bus standard for connecting components such as graphics cards, sound cards, and network cards to a motherboard. It is the most widely used interface in the computer industry today, and is used in both desktop and laptop computers. PCIe is capable of providing up to 16 times the bandwidth of the older PCI standard, allowing for faster data transfer speeds and improved performance. It is also used in a variety of other applications, such as storage, networking, and communications. PCIe is an essential component of modern computing, and its applications are only expected to grow in the future.

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PWM: Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) is a type of technology used in the computer industry that allows for control over pulse and frequency. It works by modulating an output signal’s pulse width or duty cycle to vary the on and off times of the signal. This technology can be used to control and regulate different DC motor, lighting, and other devices. In the computer industry, PWM is often used to control the speed of CPU and GPU fan speeds for improved cooling. It is also used to control backlighting levels on devices such as keyboards or monitors. PWM is versatile, cost-effective, and efficient; as such, it is an important technology in the computer industry.

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USB-C: USB-C is a new type of USB connector that is quickly becoming the industry standard for connecting devices to computers. It is a reversible connector, meaning it can be plugged in either way, and it is capable of transferring data at speeds up to 10 Gbps. It is also capable of providing up to 100 watts of power, making it ideal for charging laptops and other devices. USB-C is quickly becoming the go-to connector for connecting peripherals to computers, such as external hard drives, monitors, and printers. It is also being used to connect smartphones and tablets to computers, allowing for faster data transfer and charging. USB-C is quickly becoming the industry standard for connecting devices to computers, and its applications are only expected to grow in the future.

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