The Raspberry Pi Foundation has released the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5. This is a smaller and modular version of the Raspberry Pi 5 computer.
The Compute Module 5 has a powerful 2.4GHz quad-core processor, with the ability to connect to dual 4K displays and has a built-in 4K video decoder. It also has options for dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for wireless connectivity. It includes two USB 3.0 ports operating at 5Gbps, Gigabit Ethernet with precise timing support, and two interfaces for connecting cameras or displays. It’s similar to the Raspberry Pi 5, but more intended for use in digital signs and other mass-produced embedded devices, rather than being a general-purpose PC.
Additionally, it has a PCIe connection for fast peripherals and offers 30 general-purpose input/output pins, which can work at two voltage levels. There are various options for memory, including 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB of RAM and 16GB, 32GB, or 64GB of built-in storage. There are plans to introduce a version with 16GB of RAM in 2025. The module is designed to be compatible with the Compute Module 4, with specific connectors and mounting holes for easy installation.
The Compute Module 5 removed two smaller MIPI connections that were used on the 4, and the 5 has two additional USB 3.0 ports. To support the Compute Module 5, the Raspberry Pi Foundation is also introducing a variety of accessories. One is the Compute Module 5 IO Board ($23.75), which is designed for development and acts as a reference board. It gives access to all the different connections and features, including a standard 40-pin GPIO connector, two regular HDMI 2.0 ports, two MIPI DSI/CSI-2 ports, two USB 3.0 ports, a Gigabit Ethernet jack, a socket for an M.2 PCIe card, a slot for a microSD card, a spot for an RTC battery, and a connector for a fan. Buyers will need a separate USB-C power adapter ($12) to supply power to the board.
An IO Case ($18) is available to house a complete, high-quality industrial computer when paired with the IO Board and Compute Module 5. This case comes with a built-in fan. Users can also get a specially designed aluminum heatsink cooler that fits the Compute Module 5 to help keep it cool.
There’s an antenna kit ($5.95) available that works with the wireless versions of the Compute Module 4. A development kit ($171.60) includes a Compute Module 5 with wireless capability, 4GB of RAM, and 32GB of eMMC storage. It also comes with an IO case, an IO board, a heatsink, a USB-C power supply, an antenna kit, and HDMI and USB cables.
You can buy a completed Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5 for $45. Most people buying a Pi for home projects should probably stick to the regular Raspberry Pi 5, though.
Source: Raspberry Pi
