Compute Module 3 out now! #piday #raspberrypi @Raspberry_Pi

The MagPi has the scoop on the new, more powerful Compute Module 3.

The Raspberry Pi Foundation has launched a new version of its Compute Module – a Raspberry Pi in a more flexible form factor, intended to provide an easy and cost-effective route to producing customised products. While the original Module, launched in 2014, contained the guts of a first-generation Pi, the new Compute Module 3 (CM3) is based on the Pi 3, so offers a major boost in performance.

“It’s got the same BCM2837 processor which can run at up to 1.2HGz and 1GB of RAM,” says Foundation COO James Adams. This means it provides twice the RAM and roughly ten times the CPU performance of the original Compute Module (CM1). Just like the Pi 3, the CM3 is able to run Windows 10 IoT Core, opening up many possibilities: “An IoT project can be ported from a Pi 3 onto a custom CM3-based system very easily.”

One issue with the CM1 was the fixed 4GB of eMMC flash storage: “Some users wanted free access to add their own flash [storage],” explains James. To solve this, two versions of the CM3 are being released: one with 4GB eMMC on-board and a ‘Lite’ model which requires the user to add their own SD card socket or eMMC flash. “We expect this version to be quite popular.”

With a few caveats, the CM3 can be used a drop-in replacement for the CM1 since they are pin compatible; the CM3 is 1mm taller, however, while the CPU can pull a lot more current from the VBAT power supply line and will generate far more heat under heavy load.

The Compute Module 3 and CM3 Lite are priced at $30 and $25 respectively (excluding tax and shipping), while the CM1 (which isn’t being obsoleted) is $25. An updated IO breakout board (CMIO3) has also been launched, which will accept all three models. You can purchase yours from element14 or RS Components.

Read more.


2358Each Friday is PiDay here at Adafruit! Be sure to check out our posts, tutorials and new Raspberry Pi related products. Adafruit has the largest and best selection of Raspberry Pi accessories and all the code & tutorials to get you up and running in no time!


Have an amazing project to share? The Electronics Show and Tell is every Wednesday at 7:30pm ET! To join, head over to YouTube and check out the show’s live chat and our Discord!

Join us every Wednesday night at 8pm ET for Ask an Engineer!

Join over 38,000+ makers on Adafruit’s Discord channels and be part of the community! http://adafru.it/discord

CircuitPython – The easiest way to program microcontrollers – CircuitPython.org


New Products – Adafruit Industries – Makers, hackers, artists, designers and engineers! — New Products 11/15/2024 Featuring Adafruit bq25185 USB / DC / Solar Charger with 3.3V Buck Board! (Video)

Python for Microcontrollers – Adafruit Daily — Python on Microcontrollers Newsletter: A New Arduino MicroPython Package Manager, How-Tos and Much More! #CircuitPython #Python #micropython @ThePSF @Raspberry_Pi

EYE on NPI – Adafruit Daily — EYE on NPI Maxim’s Himalaya uSLIC Step-Down Power Module #EyeOnNPI @maximintegrated @digikey

Adafruit IoT Monthly — The 2024 Recap Issue!

Maker Business – Adafruit Daily — Apple to build another chip at TSMC Arizona

Electronics – Adafruit Daily — SMT Tip – Stop moving around!

Get the only spam-free daily newsletter about wearables, running a "maker business", electronic tips and more! Subscribe at AdafruitDaily.com !


No Comments

No comments yet.

Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.