Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4
A technical summary of the CM4
The Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 (CM4) is a versatile and powerful system-on-module (SoM) designed by the Raspberry Pi Foundation. It offers a compact and cost-effective solution for embedding Raspberry Pi capabilities into various industrial, commercial, and consumer applications. This technical summary explores the key features, specifications, and benefits of the Raspberry Pi CM4 modules.
Form Factor and Connectors
The CM4 module follows a small form factor, adhering to the DDR2 SODIMM standard, making it compatible with existing computer-on-module (COM) carrier boards. Its dimensions are 55mm x 40mm, providing a space-efficient design for integration into custom products. The module features a 260-pin edge connector, which enables easy and reliable connections to carrier boards using custom interfaces.
Processor and Memory
The CM4 module is powered by the Broadcom BCM2711 quad-core ARM Cortex-A72 processor clocked at 1.5GHz. This processor delivers a significant performance boost compared to previous Raspberry Pi models. The module comes with multiple RAM options, ranging from 1GB to 8GB of LPDDR4 memory, enabling users to choose the configuration that best suits their application requirements.
Storage Options
For storage, the CM4 module integrates a high-speed eMMC flash memory, which is available in various capacities, including 8GB, 16GB, and 32GB. The eMMC storage ensures faster data access and improved reliability compared to microSD cards, making it ideal for industrial applications with higher reliability demands.
Graphics and Multimedia
The module includes a VideoCore VI GPU, providing OpenGL ES 3.x and H.265 4Kp60 hardware decode support. This enables smooth multimedia playback and GPU-accelerated graphics rendering, making it suitable for applications requiring graphical user interfaces or video processing capabilities.
Connectivity and I/O
CM4 modules offer comprehensive connectivity options, including dual-band 2.4GHz and 5GHz 802.11b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0. Moreover, it provides Gigabit Ethernet for high-speed wired networking. The module boasts multiple I/O interfaces, including HDMI 2.0, USB 2.0, and USB 3.0 ports, making it compatible with a wide range of peripherals.
Operating System Support
The Raspberry Pi CM4 modules support various operating systems, including Raspberry Pi OS (formerly Raspbian), Ubuntu, and other Linux distributions. This flexibility allows developers to choose the most suitable OS for their application and leverage the extensive Raspberry Pi software ecosystem.
Industrial Grade
The CM4 modules are designed with industrial applications in mind, featuring an extended operating temperature range and a more robust build compared to standard Raspberry Pi boards. This ensures reliable operation in harsh environments and under demanding conditions.
Customization and Carrier Boards
The Compute Module 4 is intended to be integrated into custom-designed carrier boards. This modularity allows product developers to tailor the I/O interfaces, connectors, and other features to meet specific application requirements, making it highly suitable for industrial automation, embedded systems, IoT gateways, and more.
In short...
The Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 (CM4) stands as a powerful and versatile SoM solution, offering enhanced performance, multimedia capabilities, extensive connectivity options, and industrial-grade reliability. With its compact form factor and customization possibilities, it serves as an ideal choice for developers seeking to embed Raspberry Pi capabilities into their specialized projects and commercial products.
