The Raspberry Pi Compute Module is a small form-factor computer that has been designed for use as an embedded device. The latest version of the Compute Module is the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4, which was released in June 2020.

It is likely that the next iteration of the Raspberry Pi Compute Module will feature improved performance and updated components, while retaining the small form factor and low power consumption that have made the Compute Module popular. This might include the latest generation of processors and memory, as well as improved connectivity options and expanded storage capabilities.

Additionally, the Raspberry Pi Foundation has a history of releasing new Compute Module versions every two to three years, so it is possible that the next Compute Module could be released sometime in 2023 or 2024. Overall, the Raspberry Pi Compute Module continues to evolve and improve, offering a compact and versatile platform for a wide range of embedded computing applications. Stay tuned for future updates from the Raspberry Pi Foundation.

Current version of Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4

Possible feature and specs changes

It is difficult to predict the exact specifications of a future Raspberry Pi Compute Module, as these are subject to change based on various factors, including advancements in technology and market demands. However, based on the current trends and recent releases, the next Compute Module might feature:

  • Processor: The next Compute Module might feature a more powerful processor, such as a newer generation of ARM-based chips or even a custom chip designed specifically for the Raspberry Pi. The processor might have improved performance and power efficiency, providing a faster and more efficient computing experience.
  • Memory: The next Compute Module might come with increased memory options, such as LPDDR5 RAM or larger capacity options, providing more room for larger applications and multiple tasks.
  • Connectivity: The next Compute Module might have improved connectivity options, such as faster Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6 support, or 5G connectivity. This would make the device better suited for applications that require a fast and reliable internet connection.
  • Storage: The next Compute Module might feature expanded storage options, such as larger eMMC storage or support for NVMe SSDs, providing more room for data storage and enabling faster read and write speeds.
  • Other features: The next Compute Module might also include other features and improvements, such as improved thermal management, support for more displays or cameras, or a more compact form factor.

These are just some of the potential improvements that the next Raspberry Pi Compute Module might feature. It is important to note that these are only speculations and actual specifications may differ. But before CM5 will see the light of day, meet ModBerry 500 CM4 & and it’s cousing ModBerry 500 R1, powered by Radxa CM3.

Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) is a revolutionary technology that is changing the way we think about the Internet of Things (IoT). This Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) technology is designed for IoT devices that require low data rates and long battery life. It operates in a licensed spectrum and is optimized for low power consumption, making it ideal for devices that need to run for extended periods of time on small batteries or energy harvesting sources.

One of the most exciting applications of NB-IoT is the use of ModBerry devices. ModBerry is a range of industrial computer devices based on Raspberry Pi or similar computer boards. These devices are equipped with various sensors and communication interfaces that allow them to connect to a wide range of industrial and building automation systems. The combination of NB-IoT and ModBerry devices offers a powerful solution for a wide range of IoT applications.

ModBerry and NarrowBand-IoT applications

Building and facility management is one of the key applications of NB-IoT and ModBerry. These devices can be used to monitor and control various systems in a building, such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), lighting, and security. The low power consumption of NB-IoT allows the devices to run for extended periods of time on small batteries, making them ideal for use in remote or hard-to-reach locations. This means that building managers can have real-time visibility into the systems that are critical to the operation of their buildings, and can make adjustments as needed to ensure optimal performance.

Industrial automation is another application of NB-IoT and ModBerry. These devices can be used to monitor and control various industrial systems, such as machinery, production lines, and conveyor belts. The low power consumption of NB-IoT allows the devices to run for extended periods of time on small batteries, making them ideal for use in remote or hard-to-reach locations. This means that industrial managers can have real-time visibility into the systems that are critical to the operation of their factories, and can make adjustments as needed to ensure optimal performance.

ModBerry as a Smart City controller

Smart cities is another area where NB-IoT and ModBerry can make a big impact. These devices can be used to monitor and control various systems in a city, such as traffic lights, parking, and environmental sensors. The low power consumption of NB-IoT allows the devices to run for extended periods of time on small batteries, making them ideal for use in remote or hard-to-reach locations.

ModBerry as a low-cost NB-IoT controller

The combination of NB-IoT and ModBerry devices provides a powerful solution for a wide range of IoT applications. With NB-IoT’s low power consumption and long battery life, combined with ModBerry’s flexibility and functionality, they’re ideal for a wide range of IoT applications such as building and facility management, industrial automation, and smart cities. Seeing how these technologies will evolve and improve in the future, and how they will impact our lives, is exciting.

Order now: https://www.industrial-devices.com/industrial-computers/1-46-mod-500.html

Modbus is a communication protocol that is widely used in industrial automation systems. It was developed by Modicon (now Schneider Electric) in 1979 and is used to connect different devices and control systems in a network. Modbus is based on a master-slave architecture, where one device acts as the master and the other devices act as slaves. The master device sends requests to the slaves and the slaves respond with the requested information.

ModBerry is a device that uses the Modbus protocol to communicate with other devices in a network. It is a small computer that is based on the Raspberry Pi platform and it is designed to be used in industrial automation systems. The ModBerry device can be used as a master or a slave in a Modbus network and it can be used to connect different devices such as sensors, actuators, and controllers.

ModBerry advantages in the IoT market

One of the main advantages of using ModBerry is that it is a low-cost solution for industrial automation systems. It is also easy to use and it can be programmed using different languages such as Python, C++, and Java. Additionally, the ModBerry device is small and compact, which makes it easy to install in different environments. It also has a wide range of input and output options, such as digital inputs, digital outputs, analog inputs, and analog outputs, which makes it suitable for a variety of applications.

ModBerry can be used in various industrial applications such as building automation, energy management, and process control. For example, it can be used to monitor and control the temperature, humidity, and lighting in a building. In energy management, it can be used to monitor and control the consumption of electricity, gas, and water. In process control, it can be used to monitor and control the production process in a factory.

ModBerry hardware modularity

Another advantage of ModBerry is its flexibility and scalability. It can be easily integrated with other systems and devices, such as SCADA systems, PLCs, and IoT devices. This allows for a seamless integration of different systems and devices in a single network, which improves efficiency and reduces the complexity of the system.

ModBerry as a low-cost Modbus controller

In conclusion, Modbus is a widely used communication protocol in industrial automation systems and ModBerry is a low-cost, easy-to-use device that utilizes the Modbus protocol. It offers a wide range of input and output options and can be used in various industrial applications. Its flexibility and scalability make it a great solution for integrating different systems and devices in a single network.

Order now: https://www.industrial-devices.com/industrial-computers/1-46-mod-500.html

Low Raspberry Pi availability on the IoT market

Many companies have been impacted by the global chip shortage and supply chain issues, including electronics and automotive industries. This problem also touched the main producer of small board computers, Raspberry Pi. Company’s CEO, Eben Upton said that they had difficulty meeting demand for many of its products, but that it was taking steps to ensure devices were delivered despite supply constraints. 

„We’ve consistently been able to build around half a million of our single-board computers and Compute Module products each month. Where units do appear, bots often attempt to scalp stock which is then resold at higher prices elsewhere” said Upton. 

Sadly, for the average consumer who wants to build home projects or test software with Pi products, Raspberry Pi is prioritizing commercial and industrial customers. 

TECHBASE’s ModBerry with Compute Module 4 supply

As one of leading manufacturers of industrial solutions based on Raspberry Pi Compute Modules, TECHBASE is steadily fulfilling all the orders according to the schedule agreed with customers. For best customer service TECHBASE chose to order CM4 modules in advance to provide best lead time for all deliveries. Standard configurations of ModBerry 500 devices with Compute Module 4 are now shipped within several weeks.

Alternatively TECHBASE designed a solution to provide a first experience for customers and software developers, delivering a Raspberry Pi based platform available pre-purchase. The demand for hardware is high, therefore a remote development platform can speed up the process and make it easier for users in need of testing their products.

Raspberry Pi CM4 remote access platform

As part of the service, you will be able to try out the Raspberry Pi Ecosystem based on the CM4 module. Devices equipped with this module are located at our company headquarters and will be available for testing for 1 month. After contacting our representative, we will be able to adjust specific hardware resources and connect specific sensors and meters so that you have an insight into the specific functioning of the device.

This form of device sharing will allow you to test your software on the Raspberry Pi platform without the need to physically purchase the device. After the trial period expires, you will be able to either extend the access to the remote platform after consulting our sales department or purchase devices with parameters ideally suited to you and your software’s needs.

This Remote Access Program is mainly aimed at Software Developers, application developers for monitoring and processing data from external sources, IoT startups and all industries related to home and industrial automation. Thanks to the program, you can gain access to the latest technologies, try your software without the need to purchase over-expensive solutions and establish long-term cooperation with a hardware manufacturer on preferential terms. By getting to know our hardware, you will be able to offer your customers a fully complete service.


Hardware available via Remote Access Platform

Two devices can be configured for users applying to TECHBASE’s remote access program. Both of these devices are powered with Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 and offer a wide array of applications:

ModBerry 500 CM4ClusBerry-2M

About cluster Raspberry Pi solution

For smaller projects and IoT prototyping, the company designed a smaller and ready-to-deploy cluster device including two independent ModBerry I/O mainboards and two Compute Module 4’s. The ClusBerry-2M offers similar resources as double ModBerry 500-CM4 with software cluster management tools – Docker and K3s Lightweight Kubernetes solutions.

Each module can perform various tasks, from standard I/O gateway, wireless modem, Gigabit LAN router to NAS file server and AI Gateway with Google Coral Edge TPU modules. You can manage your cluster modules at ease, boot modules from one to another, upgrade firmware crosswise and provide safe operation of each module. The modules are connected to each other to provide such features and allow quick healing of the dual cluster.

Ease of transition from remote to target hardware solutions

Remote platform users after the R&D process is complete will be able to smoothly transition to target solutions, in this case the Raspberry Pi based hardware. TECHBASE offers support for the entire process, from remote access to the solution, user manual for devices and servers, and the subsequent selection of appropriate hardware devices and their perfect adaptation to the end used needs.

Join CM4 Remote Access program

The program is available to Software Developers and customers interested in remote testing of IoT hardware solutions after brief consultation with our Sales Department. To participate in the program, contact us via email: sales@a2s.pl or Live Chat at: https://iiot-shop.com/ 

Raspberry Pi based controller with Modbus, M-Bus & MQTT support

Raspberry Pi Compute Module 3+ based ModBerry industrial computer series use latest Compute Module 3+, powered by Quad-core Cortex-A53 1.2GHz processor, 1024MB LPDDR2 RAM and up to 32GB Flash eMMC. The module increase the device’s performance up to ten times, maintaining low power consumption and optimal price of the solution. Raspberry Pi based ModBerry features industrial protocol support, e.g. Modbus, M-Bus, SNMP, MQTT and the possibility to add new protocols with ease.

ModBerry protocol modularity

ModBerry remote management

The iMod platform guarantees a quick start and full use of the ModBerry computer, without the need to write complicated software. One of the main advantages of the iMod platform is its ease of use and variety of available functionalities. Due to the available SDK, the platform can be extended with new, dedicated functionalities.

iMod can be installed directly onto ModBerry device or using external PC outside the installation (iModBOX). The third option is using dedicated hosting server to host the iMod software (iModHOST).

iModCloud Ecosystem

Another product is iModCloud software-service, which enables full control of ModBerry/iMod devices. Together they form a stand-alone solution – iModCloud Ecosystem, a combination of cloud services with web-based user interface and industrial devices, fully manageable remotely.

iModCloud can be hosted externally, using stable DELL servers to host the cloud service.(iModCloudHOST). For higher data security or depending on project features, iModCloud can be hosted internally, inside the installation (iModCloudBOX) hosted by the dedicated Mini-PC or from portable memory stick (iModCloudSTARTER).

More information Raspberry Pi based industrial device

TECHBASE provides solutions for industrial automation, telemetry, remote access and integration with IT systems. Since 2012 the company has been actively developing its competences in the market. Due to an innovative approach – based on the use of cutting-edge technologies, open standards and easy to maintain products – the company has earned the trust of Customers all over the world.

TECHBASE’s mission is to provide our Customers with tools, which will shorten and simplify the process of system implementation. With open architecture and high level of configurability, maintenance of a system is not expensive anymore.

To read more about ModBerry 500 M3 solution, download PDF datasheet: http://a2s.pl/products/ModBerry/ModBerry_500M3_EN.pdf
Read more about all ModBerry Industrial Solutions at: https://modberry.techbase.eu/

ModBerry hardware modularity

ModBerry 500 hardware modularity

The main features of ModBerry Industrial Computers series are the extension capabilities to increase input/output number, add up to 4 internal wireless communication modems and modules, support additional features such as accelerometer or opto-isolation options.

ModBerry 500 series offers wide range of industrial interfaces e.g.: digital inputs/outputs, analog inputs/outputs, relay outputs, serial RS-232/485 ports, Ethernet, 1-Wire, CAN, USB 2.0, HDMI, LTE/3G/GPRS, NarrowBand IoT/LTE, GPS, ZigBee, WiFi, Bluetooth, LoRa and many more via extension modules.

Raspberry Pi based controller with Modbus, M-Bus & MQTT support

Raspberry Pi Compute Module 3+ based ModBerry industrial computer series use latest Compute Module 3+, powered by Quad-core Cortex-A53 1.2GHz processor, 1024MB LPDDR2 RAM and up to 32GB Flash eMMC. The module increase the device’s performance up to ten times, maintaining low power consumption and optimal price of the solution. Raspberry Pi based ModBerry features industrial protocol support, e.g. Modbus, M-Bus, SNMP, MQTT and the possibility to add new protocols with ease.

ModBerry protocol modularity

ModBerry remote management

The iMod platform guarantees a quick start and full use of the ModBerry computer, without the need to write complicated software. One of the main advantages of the iMod platform is its ease of use and variety of available functionalities. Due to the available SDK, the platform can be extended with new, dedicated functionalities.

iMod can be installed directly onto ModBerry device or using external PC outside the installation (iModBOX). The third option is using dedicated hosting server to host the iMod software (iModHOST).

iModCloud Ecosystem

Another product is iModCloud software-service, which enables full control of ModBerry/iMod devices. Together they form a stand-alone solution – iModCloud Ecosystem, a combination of cloud services with web-based user interface and industrial devices, fully manageable remotely.

iModCloud can be hosted externally, using stable DELL servers to host the cloud service.(iModCloudHOST). For higher data security or depending on project features, iModCloud can be hosted internally, inside the installation (iModCloudBOX) hosted by the dedicated Mini-PC or from portable memory stick (iModCloudSTARTER).

More information Raspberry Pi based industrial device

TECHBASE provides solutions for industrial automation, telemetry, remote access and integration with IT systems. Since 2012 the company has been actively developing its competences in the market. Due to an innovative approach – based on the use of cutting-edge technologies, open standards and easy to maintain products – the company has earned the trust of Customers all over the world.

TECHBASE’s mission is to provide our Customers with tools, which will shorten and simplify the process of system implementation. With open architecture and high level of configurability, maintenance of a system is not expensive anymore.

To read more about ModBerry 500 M3 solution, download PDF datasheet: http://a2s.pl/products/ModBerry/ModBerry_500M3_EN.pdf
Read more about all ModBerry Industrial Solutions at: https://modberry.techbase.eu/

ModBerry hardware modularity

ModBerry 500 hardware modularity

The main features of ModBerry Industrial Computers series are the extension capabilities to increase input/output number, add up to 4 internal wireless communication modems and modules, support additional features such as accelerometer or opto-isolation options.

ModBerry 500 series offers wide range of industrial interfaces e.g.: digital inputs/outputs, analog inputs/outputs, relay outputs, serial RS-232/485 ports, Ethernet, 1-Wire, CAN, USB 2.0, HDMI, LTE/3G/GPRS, NarrowBand IoT/LTE, GPS, ZigBee, WiFi, Bluetooth, LoRa and many more via extension modules.

New industrial grade touch panel with Raspberry Pi

Latest addition to Industrial IoT Ecosystem from TECHBASE is TECHPANEL P500 is an industrial-grade touch panel automation controller for wide range of industrial installations. Equipped with up to date Raspberry Pi Compute Module 3/3+ or Compute Module 3/3+ Lite, 7” capacitive touch display and IP65 hermetic casing with cast gaskets, can be used in harsh conditions of industrial applications.

Raspberry Pi based touch panel features

New TECHPANEL P500 M3/3+ is powered by quad-core Cortex-A53 1.2GHz processor with 1GB RAM and up to 32GB eMMC or 8GB microSD flash memory. Wide range of modems and extra wireline/wireless interfaces via expansion cards makes the TECHPANEL micro-computer a versatile addition to Industrial IoT solutions offered by TECHBASE company.

TECHPANEL devices can easily work remotely with existing ModBerry Gateways & Moduino ESP32 Edge Controllers for data accumulation and monitoring, to perform specific actions before sending the data to cloud services. TECHPANEL with ModuinoModBerry installation can work as standalone Ecosystem (for example via MQTT), providing complex data management solution to any installation.

TECHPANEL P500 M3+ with Compute Module 3+ from Raspberry Pi
TECHPANEL P500 M3+ with Compute Module 3+ from Raspberry Pi

Visual management and available Raspbian OS

The device is equipped with compact 800 x 480 px 7-inch TFT panel with 10 points capacitive touch to allow the user to perform direct actions on-site. With IP65 casing and extended working temperature range, TECHPANEL can be placed almost everywhere.

Over 23 million Raspberry Pi’s have been sold and the Raspberry Pi is likely to stay as a new standard in the industry. Official Raspbian OS is free operating system based on Linux Debian optimized for the Raspberry Pi comes with over 35,000 packages, pre-compiled software bundled in a nice format for easy installation.

TECHPANEL P500 M3+ with Compute Module 3+ from Raspberry Pi
TECHPANEL P500 M3+ with Compute Module 3+ from Raspberry Pi

SPECIFICATION

  • Cortex A53 1.2GHz Processor
  • RAM 1GB, eMMC up to 32GB
  • 7″ TFT screen (800x600px)
  • Capactitive touch screen (10-point)
  • Wide range of expansion modules (Ethernet, RS-232/485/422,  Digital and Analog I/Os, Relay, M-Bus, CAN, optoisolated I/Os, Accelerometer, etc.)
  • Wide range of wireless modules (GPRS/EDGE, 3G/LTE, NarrowBand-IoT, GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, LoRa, ZigBee, Z-Wave, Sigfox, Wireless M-Bus, etc.)
  • Water-Resistant casing (IP65)
  • Operating temperature: -20°C ~ 70°C
  • Optional SD card support instead of eMMC Flash

UPDATE 22.10.20: ModBerry 500 with Compute Module 4 available for pre-order

TECHBASE’s ModBerry industrial computer series has received an update to Compute Module 4 and is available for pre-orders. TECHBASE is leading manufacturer of Industrial Raspberry Pi and Industrial Compute Module solutions. ModBerry 500 series is fully compatible with all releases of Compute Module from Rasbperry Pi foundation.

Main features of updated device are:

  • up to 4x faster eMMC Flash with up to 32GB storage
  • up to 2x faster performance of CPU apllications than previous CM3 version
  • up to 8x more RAM (8GB LPDDR4)
  • optional 1Gbit Ethernet interface
  • optional PCIe card support for NVMe SSD drive (via M.2)
  • optional second PCIe support for wireless modem solutions

First orders will be ready with subject to the availability of the CM4 module itself.

A day ago, Raspberry Foundation announced new member of its family, a Rasbperry Pi Compute Module 4. It’s quite obvious, even from the first look, that the new module is very different from its predecessors. Main difference is a new form factor, leaving DDR2 SODIMM in the past.

The same 64-bit quad-core BCM2711 application processor as in Raspberry Pi 4B, the Compute Module 4 brings higher performance: faster CPU cores, better multimedia, more interfacing capabilities, and, for the first time, a choice of RAM densities and a wireless Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity options.

Compute Module 4 comes in 32 variants. Lite, as always, offers no eMMC memory, a and standard versions come with up to 8GB RAM, 32 eMMC Flash and wireless modem.

New Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 in new form factor

New features of Compute Module 4

  • 1.5GHz quad-core 64-bit ARM Cortex-A72 CPU as in Raspberry Pi 4 version B
  • 1GB, 2GB, 4GB or 8GB LPDDR4-3200 SDRAM
  • 8GB, 16GB or 32GB eMMC Flash storage for Standard version, Lite version without eMMC
  • Optional 2.4GHz and 5GHz IEEE 802.11b/g/n/ac wireless LAN and Bluetooth 5.0
  • Single-lane PCI Express 2.0 interface
  • Gigabit Ethernet PHY with IEEE 1588 support
  • Dual HDMI interfaces, at resolutions up to 4K
  • 28 GPIO pins, with up to 6 × UART, 6 × I2C and 5 × SPI

Source: https://www.raspberrypi.org/blog/raspberry-pi-compute-module-4/

Compute Module 4 cutting edge in Industrial IoT

Few months ago IoT Industrial Devices predicted a possible release date for Compute Module 4 in Standard and Lite version:

Upcoming Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 possible release date
Raspberry Pi release timeline with probable Compute Module 4 release date

First Rasbperry Pi 1B model had it’s analogy in industrial Compute Module 1 after almost 2 years from it’s premiere. Compute Module 2 was probably omitted because the change from RPi1 to RPI2 mainly involved a minor change of the processor (Cortex-A7 900MHz), which was almost immediately replaced with Cortex-A53 1.2GHz in Raspberry Pi 3.

The premiere of Compute Module 3 occured a year after RPI 3 announcement, providing a significant boost of industrial market solutions. Since Raspberry Pi 4 was a great success in 2019, we might see it’s equivalent in industrial series of Raspberry Pi – Compute Module 4. A possible release date of Raspberry Pi’s Compute Module 4 is mid-2020.

Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 high-density connector

Raspberry Pi is gaining recognition in Industry

Almost a year ago, in the beginning of 2019, Raspberry Pi Foundation presented Raspberry Pi Compute Module 3+, a successor to previous CM3 version of development board, aimed at businesses and industrial users. The Compute Module uses a standard DDR2 SODIMM (small outline dual in-line memory module) form factor. GPIO and other I/O functions are routed through the 200 pins on the board.

Only a few months later, in June 2019, came big premiere of Raspberry Pi 4 Model B, the long-awaited successor of customer RPi3+. With new processor, larger RAM options and many input/output changes, became new standard in small, embedded PC world.

Raspberry Pi Compute Module 3+
Raspberry Pi Compute Module 3+

It seems a matter of time before the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 3+ will get its own successor, probably called Compute Module 4, a new milestone of professional embedded IoT module. What might be the specification of this highly expected development board?

Industrial use of Compute Module

With Compute Module 3+ options from Raspberry Pi, TECHBASE upgraded their ModBerry 500/9500 industrial computers. From now on the ModBerry 500/9500 can be supported with extended eMMC, up to 32GB. Higher memory volume brings new features available for ModBerry series.

 ModBerry 500 with Compute Module 3+
ModBerry 500 with Compute Module 3+

Higher performance of ModBerry 500/9500 with extended eMMC flash memory, up to 32GB , powered by quad-core Cortex A53 processor allows the device to smoothly run Windows 10 IoT Core system, opening up many possibilities for data management, remote control and visualisation.

UPDATE 22.10.20: ModBerry 500 with Compute Module 4 available for pre-order

TECHBASE’s ModBerry industrial computer series has received an update to Compute Module 4 and is available for pre-orders. TECHBASE is leading manufacturer of Industrial Raspberry Pi and Industrial Compute Module solutions. ModBerry 500 series is fully compatible with all releases of Compute Module from Rasbperry Pi foundation.

Main features of updated device are:

  • up to 4x faster eMMC Flash with up to 32GB storage
  • up to 2x faster performance of CPU apllications than previous CM3 version
  • up to 8x more RAM (8GB LPDDR4)
  • optional 1Gbit Ethernet interface
  • optional PCIe card support for NVMe SSD drive (via M.2)
  • optional second PCIe support for wireless modem solutions

First orders will be ready with subject to the availability of the CM4 module itself.

According to latest leaks about Compute Module 4 specifiaction and features we can be more than sure that:

  • New Compute Module will feature Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on-board! Raspberry Pi Compute Module series will probably include versions with and without these modems to provide modules for variety of industrial applications.
  • PCI-Express line will be available externally to enable extension support via PCIe
  • Ethernet support will be enabled, most probably 1Gbps, since it is a standard in latest Raspberry Pi 4B.
  • 5x UART will be available to Compute Module 4 users

Official Raspberry Pi’s information about upcoming Compute Module 4

In recent interview with Eben Upton, the CEO of Raspberry Pi Trading, we finally had Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 release confirmation, probably in 2021. He shared some details about the upcoming CM4 features, such as single-lane NVMe support.

The Raspberry Pi Compute Module, CM4, we will support NVMe to some degree on that,  because of course, it [Raspberry Pi 4] has a PCI Express channel. (…) We have a single lane Gen 2 which is used to supply USB 3.0 on the Raspberry Pi [4]. On the [Compute] Module that would be exposed to the edge connector and we’re likely to support NVMe over that.

Eben Upton, CEO of Raspberry Pi Trading

Raspberry Pi is gaining recognition in Industry

Almost a year ago, in the beginning of 2019, Raspberry Pi Foundation presented Raspberry Pi Compute Module 3+, a successor to previous CM3 version of development board, aimed at businesses and industrial users. The Compute Module uses a standard DDR2 SODIMM (small outline dual in-line memory module) form factor. GPIO and other I/O functions are routed through the 200 pins on the board.

Only a few months later, in June 2019, came big premiere of Raspberry Pi 4 Model B, the long-awaited successor of customer RPi3+. With new processor, larger RAM options and PCIe/NVMe support, CM4 might be a black horse of industrial automation in 2021.

It seems a matter of time before the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 3+ will get its own successor, called Compute Module 4, a new milestone of professional embedded IoT module. What might be the specification of this highly expected development board?

Raspberry Pi Compute Module 3+
Raspberry Pi Compute Module 3+

Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 probable specification

Compute Module 4 specifications probably will look like these:

  • Broadcom BCM2711, Quad core Cortex-A72 @ 1.5GHz will highly plausible replace previous Broadcom BCM2837B0, Cortex-A53 64-bit SoC @ 1.2GHz,
  • 1GB, 2GB or 4GB LPDDR4-3200 SDRAM will become a standard options, instead of fixed 1GB LPDDR2 SDRAM,
  • PCIe/NVMe support via single lane
  • Current flash memory (eMMC) options: 8GB / 16GB / 32GB from CM3+ will probably stay the same,
  • weight and factor will stay the same, to provide a possibility to upgrade current IoT applications of CM3 and CM3+

With much higher performance, the new Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 will, for sure, support Gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.0 expansions with PCIe/NVMe single lane. We might even see wider working temperature range, if Raspberry Pi Foundation decides to make some hardware changes, to follow, for example, ESP32 – used in end-point IoT automation.

Industrial use of Compute Module

With Compute Module 3+ options from Raspberry Pi, TECHBASE upgraded their ModBerry 500/9500 industrial computers. From now on the ModBerry 500/9500 can be supported with extended eMMC, up to 32GB. Higher memory volume brings new features available for ModBerry series. Upcoming Raspberry Pi’s Compute Module 4 will be fully compatible with TECHBASE’s ModBerry 500/9500 controllers, oferring extended features.

 ModBerry 500 with Compute Module 3+
ModBerry 500 with Compute Module 3+

Higher performance of ModBerry 500/9500 with extended eMMC flash memory, up to 32GB , powered by quad-core Cortex A53 processor allows the device to smoothly run Windows 10 IoT Core system, opening up many possibilities for data management, remote control and visualisation.

UPDATE 22.10.20: ModBerry 500 with Compute Module 4 available for pre-order

TECHBASE’s ModBerry industrial computer series has received an update to Compute Module 4 and is available for pre-orders. TECHBASE is leading manufacturer of Industrial Raspberry Pi and Industrial Compute Module solutions. ModBerry 500 series is fully compatible with all releases of Compute Module from Rasbperry Pi foundation.

Main features of updated device are:

  • up to 4x faster eMMC Flash with up to 32GB storage
  • up to 2x faster performance of CPU apllications than previous CM3 version
  • up to 8x more RAM (8GB LPDDR4)
  • optional 1Gbit Ethernet interface
  • optional PCIe card support for NVMe SSD drive (via M.2)
  • optional second PCIe support for wireless modem solutions

First orders will be ready with subject to the availability of the CM4 module itself.

Update on Raspberry Pi’s Compute Module 4 features [15.10.2020]

According to latest leaks about Compute Module 4 specifiaction and features we can be more than sure that:

  • New Compute Module will feature Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on-board! Raspberry Pi Compute Module series will probably include versions with and without these modems to provide modules for variety of industrial applications.
  • PCI-Express line will be available externally to enable extension support via PCIe
  • Ethernet support will be enabled, most probably 1Gbps, since it is a standard in latest Raspberry Pi 4B.
  • 5x UART will be available to Compute Module 4 users

Official Raspberry Pi’s information about upcoming Compute Module 4

In recent interview with Eben Upton, the CEO of Raspberry Pi Trading, we finally had Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 release confirmation, probably in 2021. He shared some details about the upcoming CM4 features, such as single-lane NVMe support.

The Raspberry Pi Compute Module, CM4, we will support NVMe to some degree on that,  because of course, it [Raspberry Pi 4] has a PCI Express channel. (…) We have a single lane Gen 2 which is used to supply USB 3.0 on the Raspberry Pi [4]. On the [Compute] Module that would be exposed to the edge connector and we’re likely to support NVMe over that.

Eben Upton, CEO of Raspberry Pi Trading

First Rasbperry Pi 1B model had it’s analogy in industrial Compute Module 1 after almost 2 years from it’s premiere. Compute Module 2 was probably omitted because the change from RPi1 to RPI2 mainly involved a minor change of the processor (Cortex-A7 900MHz), which was almost immediately replaced with Cortex-A53 1.2GHz in Raspberry Pi 3.

The premiere of Compute Module 3 occured a year after RPI 3 announcement, providing a significant boost of industrial market solutions. Since Raspberry Pi 4 was a great success in 2019, we might see it’s equivalent in industrial series of Raspberry Pi – Compute Module 4. A possible release date of Raspberry Pi’s Compute Module 4 is somewhere inbetween 2020/2021.

Raspberry Pi is gaining recognition in Industry

Almost a year ago, in the beginning of 2019, Raspberry Pi Foundation presented Raspberry Pi Compute Module 3+, a successor to previous CM3 version of development board, aimed at businesses and industrial users. The Compute Module uses a standard DDR2 SODIMM (small outline dual in-line memory module) form factor. GPIO and other I/O functions are routed through the 200 pins on the board.

Only a few months later, in June 2019, came big premiere of Raspberry Pi 4 Model B, the long-awaited successor of customer RPi3+. With new processor, larger RAM options and PCIe/NVMe support, CM4 might be a black horse of industrial automation in 2021.

It seems a matter of time before the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 3+ will get its own successor, called Compute Module 4, a new milestone of professional embedded IoT module. What might be the specification of this highly expected development board?

Raspberry Pi Compute Module 3+
Raspberry Pi Compute Module 3+

Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 probable specification

Compute Module 4 specifications probably will look like these:

  • Broadcom BCM2711, Quad core Cortex-A72 @ 1.5GHz will highly plausible replace previous Broadcom BCM2837B0, Cortex-A53 64-bit SoC @ 1.2GHz,
  • 1GB, 2GB or 4GB LPDDR4-3200 SDRAM will become a standard options, instead of fixed 1GB LPDDR2 SDRAM,
  • PCIe/NVMe support via single lane
  • Current flash memory (eMMC) options: 8GB / 16GB / 32GB from CM3+ will probably stay the same,
  • weight and factor will stay the same, to provide a possibility to upgrade current IoT applications of CM3 and CM3+

With much higher performance, the new Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 will, for sure, support Gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.0 expansions with PCIe/NVMe single lane. We might even see wider working temperature range, if Raspberry Pi Foundation decides to make some hardware changes, to follow, for example, ESP32 – used in end-point IoT automation.

Industrial use of Compute Module

With Compute Module 3+ options from Raspberry Pi, TECHBASE upgraded their ModBerry 500/9500 industrial computers. From now on the ModBerry 500/9500 can be supported with extended eMMC, up to 32GB. Higher memory volume brings new features available for ModBerry series. Upcoming Raspberry Pi’s Compute Module 4 will be fully compatible with TECHBASE’s ModBerry 500/9500 controllers, oferring extended features.

 ModBerry 500 with Compute Module 3+
ModBerry 500 with Compute Module 3+

Higher performance of ModBerry 500/9500 with extended eMMC flash memory, up to 32GB , powered by quad-core Cortex A53 processor allows the device to smoothly run Windows 10 IoT Core system, opening up many possibilities for data management, remote control and visualisation.