The Raspberry Pi family continues to evolve and, this time, it show us the long awaited Compute Module 5 (CM5). Designed for embedded applications and custom projects, this module takes the power of the Raspberry Pi 5 but packs it into a compact form factor that promises to revolutionize industrial and development environments.
Since its launch in 2020, Compute Module 4 marked a milestone, but its successor, the CM5, takes the experience a step further with improved specifications and new capabilities. This module maintains the same form factor as its predecessor, making it compatible with many accessories designed for the CM4, but integrates technological advances that optimize performance, connectivity and energy efficiency.
Compute Module 5 Technical Specifications
The Compute Module 5 does not disappoint in terms of hardware. It is equipped with the powerful Broadcom BCM2712 processor, a quad-core Arm Cortex-A4 chip that reaches up to 76 GHz, along with a Videocore VII GPU that supports OpenGL ES 2.4 and Vulkan 3.1. This module is designed to handle demanding tasks, including the 4K video playback and the development of artificial intelligence applications.
Additionally, the CM5 offers Multiple RAM options: 2GB, 4GB, and 8GB of LPDDR4X-4267 RAM, with a future 16GB option planned for 2025. Storage comes with models that feature eMMC up to 64GB, or options without internal storage for greater flexibility.
Connectivity and expansion are also up to par: It features two USB 3.0 ports, Gigabit Ethernet supporting IEEE 1588 protocol, and support for 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0. It also includes MIPI CSI/DSI interfaces for cameras and displays, and a PCIe 2.0 x1 lane for fast peripherals such as NVMe drives.
Improved Design and Compatibility
The CM5 retains the design of the CM4, but with slight changes in the pin assignment of their high-density connectors. This means that many accessories designed for the CM4, such as IO boards and enclosures, will remain functional, although developers will need to verify electronic compatibility before direct replacement.
A significant detail is the expanded support for USB connectivity, with two additional USB 3.0 ports, and the inclusion of error-detection and error-correction (ECC) RAM, a crucial feature for critical and industrial applications.
Accessories and Development
To facilitate its adoption, Raspberry Pi launches alongside the CM5 a range of optional accessories. The development kit includes an IO board, a metal case, HDMI and USB cables, a fan for active dissipation and a passive heatsink.. This package is designed for you the engineers and creators can start working on their projects immediately.
The IO board expands the module with multiple standard connectors, including a PCIe M.2 connector, full HDMI ports, and the classic 40-pin GPIO header. Additionally, a new optional active fan, developed by third parties such as EDATec, addresses thermal issues reported on previous configurations.
Performance and Cooling
Compute Module 5 presents significant improvements in performance, showing up to three times the power of the CM4 in intense load tests. However, these capabilities also bring with them greater energy and heat generation, so it is important to consider solutions for proper cooling, such as the fan or heatsinks included in the kits.
In stress tests, the module reached high temperatures when used without a heatsink, but remained stable with the active cooling accessory. This balance between power and thermal efficiency makes it ideal for projects that demand high performance.
Compute Module 5 Availability and Pricing
Compute Module 5 is now available for purchase, with a starting price of $45 for the base 2GB model without eMMC storage. Higher-end models with 8GB of RAM and 64GB of eMMC are priced at $95. Full development kits are offered for $130, including essential accessories for prototyping and development.
With this new iteration, Raspberry Pi consolidates its position as a leader in embedded solutions.The CM5 is designed to meet needs as diverse as industrial applications, advanced personal manufacturing projects, and consumer devices. With guaranteed support until at least 2036, it is a solid choice for any long-term project.