The Raspberry Pi Foundation continues to revolutionize the single-board computer landscape, and its latest release, the Compute Module 5 (CM5), solidifies its position as a go-to platform for developers, hobbyists, and industrial applications. Announced after a sneak peek at a German trade fair earlier this month, the CM5 is now available starting at $45. Let’s dive into its key features, pricing, and how it compares to its predecessor, the Compute Module 4 (CM4).
What’s New in Raspberry Pi CM5 (Compute Module 5)?
The Compute Module 5 (CM5) packs impressive features into a compact 55 x 40mm form factor. It’s powered by the same 2.4 GHz Broadcom BC2712 ARM Cortex-A76 quad-core processor as the Raspberry Pi 5, making it a performance powerhouse. Here’s what the CM5 offers:
- Memory Options: Available with 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB of LPDDR4-4267 RAM. A 16GB RAM model is expected in 2025.
- Storage Variants: Options include no storage, 16GB, 32GB, or 64GB eMMC flash storage.
- Wireless Connectivity (Optional): Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0 support.
- Graphics Capabilities: VideoCore VII GPU with OpenGL ES 3.1, Vulkan 1.3, and 4K/60Hz HEVC video decoding.
- Display & USB: Supports up to two 4K/60Hz HDMI displays, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, and a PCIe 2.0 x1 connection.
- Backward Compatibility: Retains the same 100-pin connectors as the CM4, making it a "mostly compatible" drop-in replacement for existing CM4 designs.
Despite its smaller size compared to the Raspberry Pi 5, the CM5 shines as a modular solution for custom applications, offering flexibility through its 100-pin connectors for carrier board integration.
Compute Module 5 IO Board
To complement the CM5, Raspberry Pi introduced the Compute Module 5 IO Board, designed to unlock the full potential of the CM5 in development and prototyping. Key features include:
- Connectivity:
- 2 x HDMI 2.0 ports (4K/60Hz support)
- 2 x USB 3.0 ports
- 1 x Gigabit Ethernet jack (with PoE+ support via a PoE+ HAT)
- 1 x M.2 2280 PCIe socket
- Peripheral Support:
- 40-pin GPIO connector (Raspberry Pi-compatible)
- 2 x 4-lane MIPI DSI/CSI connectors for display or camera integration
- MicroSD card reader
- Power Options:
- USB Type-C port (27W power supply supported)
- Fan connector and RTC battery socket
- Dimensions: 160 x 90mm (6.3″ x 3.54″)
The IO Board is available for $20, while optional accessories like a case ($15), a passive cooler ($5), and an antenna kit add customization options.
Development Kit for CM5 (Compute Module 5)
For those diving deep into development, the Raspberry Pi CM5 Development Kit bundles everything you need, priced at $172. It includes:
- 4GB/32GB Compute Module 5
- IO Board
- Case and cooler
- Antenna kit
- Required cables
- 27W USB Type-C power supply
Backward Compatibility with CM4
One of the CM5's standout features is its backward compatibility with CM4 carrier boards, thanks to its identical form factor and pin configuration. While it’s mostly a drop-in replacement, note the following changes:
- Two 2-lane MIPI interfaces have been removed.
- Two USB 3.0 interfaces have been added.
This ensures broad compatibility with existing hardware while offering enhanced performance and connectivity.
Long-Term Support
Raspberry Pi continues to prioritize long-term availability. While the CM5 is now available, the CM4 will remain in production until at least January 2035, giving developers and businesses ample time to transition at their own pace.
Compute Module 5 Pricing and Availability
The Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5 is available starting at $45, with pricing varying by RAM and storage configuration. The IO Board and other accessories are sold separately, making it easy to customize your setup based on your requirements.
The Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5 and its IO Board redefine modular computing with enhanced performance, connectivity, and compatibility. Whether you're a hobbyist looking to experiment or a professional developer working on a commercial product, the CM5 offers a versatile and powerful solution.
With long-term support for the CM4 and a clear upgrade path to the CM5, Raspberry Pi continues to provide innovative solutions for the community. Grab yours today and explore the endless possibilities!
