Available · 6 piece · 1-3 days
Available · 11 piece · 1-3 days
Available · 4 piece · 1-3 days
Available · 10 piece · 1-3 days
Available · 14 piece · 1-3 days
Available · 13 piece · 1-3 days
Available · 12 piece · 1-3 days
Available · 5 piece · 1-3 days
Available · 2 piece · 1-3 days
Available · 73 piece · 1-3 days
What is a Compute Module?
A Compute Module is a minimalist computing platform in module format, designed specifically for use in embedded systems. Unlike traditional single-board computers, which integrate all interfaces, a Compute Module only includes the core components: ARM processor, RAM, and optional flash storage. This compact approach allows developers to implement only the required peripheral interfaces, enabling customized hardware solutions.
Originally created for the Raspberry Pi, the Compute Module makes it easier for manufacturers to integrate into industrial equipment and specialized products. Using standardized SO-DIMM connectors, the module can be easily plugged into IO boards that provide interfaces such as USB, HDMI, or Ethernet. This makes the Compute Module a flexible foundation for automation systems, media technology solutions, and professional IoT devices.
The modular architecture supports long product lifecycles: if new standards like USB 4.0 or PCIe Gen3 become relevant, a new Compute Module can be inserted into the same IO board design. This protects investments and simplifies updates in long-term applications.
IO Board: The Interface Platform
An IO board expands the Compute Module with essential interfaces: USB, HDMI, Ethernet, GPIO header, and often Power-over-Ethernet. This creates a complete system that can be directly integrated into control cabinets or industrial housings.
Typical examples such as the CM5 IO Board provide PCIe Gen2 ×1, USB 3.0 ×2, dual HDMI, Gigabit Ethernet, and PoE support. This allows flexible use cases such as video streaming, AI inference, or edge computing without the need to design custom boards.
The modular design also lets you swap or combine IO boards, making it possible to adapt your system to new requirements at any time. This makes Compute Modules a future-proof platform for ongoing product development.
Compute Module vs. Standard Single-Board Computer
A standard single-board computer such as the Raspberry Pi comes with all ports pre-installed, making it ideal for quick prototyping and hobby projects. USB, HDMI, network, and GPIO pins are already included, so you can get started without additional hardware.
In contrast, the Compute Module separates the processing core from the peripherals. The module only provides CPU, RAM, and storage, while an IO board supplies the necessary interfaces. This separation leads to more compact, robust designs and reduces material costs, since only the required components are implemented.
In industrial applications, this flexibility is crucial: customized IO boards can integrate features such as multiple cameras, Wi-Fi modules, or serial connections, without altering the Compute Module itself. This saves development time and improves efficiency in production and maintenance.
Comparison: Compute Module 4 vs. Compute Module 5
| Image | Model | Release Year | CPU/GPU | RAM | Storage | Interfaces | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Compute Module 4 | 2020 | Quad-Core Cortex-A72 @ 1.5 GHz, VideoCore VI | 1–8 GB LPDDR4 | optional 8–32 GB eMMC | HDMI ×2, USB 2.0 ×4, GbE, PoE HAT, PCIe ×1, GPIO | View |
|
Compute Module 5 | 2024 | Quad-Core Cortex-A76 @ 2 GHz, VideoCore VII | 2–16 GB LPDDR4X | 16–64 GB eMMC | PCIe Gen2 ×1, USB 3.0 ×2, HDMI ×2, GbE, GPIO | View |