The Raspberry Pi Compute Module CM4 is a compact yet powerful board designed for developers, makers, and engineers looking to integrate Raspberry Pi’s performance into embedded systems. Whether you’re building industrial automation, Raspberry Pi solutions, or custom computing projects, the Raspberry Pi CM4 Compute Module 4 offers versatility and efficiency in a small form factor.
In this post, we’ll explore the key features of the CM4, its advantages over previous Compute Modules, and how you can get started with the Raspberry Pi Compute Module CM4 IO Board to unlock its full potential.
What is the Raspberry Pi Compute Module CM4?
The Compute Module 4 (CM4) is a system-on-module (SoM) version of the Raspberry Pi 4, designed for industrial applications and custom hardware development. Unlike the standard Raspberry Pi boards, which include multiple ports and peripherals, the CM4 is a compact board that requires a carrier board (like the Raspberry Pi Compute Module CM4 IO Board) to access its full range of connectivity options.
The CM4 comes in over 30 different variants, offering combinations of RAM, eMMC storage, and wireless connectivity, making it highly adaptable to different use cases.
Key Features of the Raspberry Pi CM4 Compute Module 4
- Broadcom BCM2711 Processor – The same quad-core Cortex-A72 (ARM v8) processor found in the Raspberry Pi 4, delivering high performance for demanding applications.
- Multiple RAM & Storage Options – Available with 1GB, 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB LPDDR4 RAM, and with no eMMC, 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB eMMC flash storage for embedded applications.
- Wi-Fi & Bluetooth Variants – Choose between models with or without dual-band 2.4GHz/5.0GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0, based on your project’s requirements.
- PCIe Support – A PCIe Gen 2 x1 interface allows you to connect high-speed peripherals like NVMe SSDs or additional network adapters.
- Dual HDMI Output – Supports two HDMI 2.0 ports, each capable of outputting 4K resolution at 60Hz, making it ideal for digital signage and multimedia applications.
- Extensive GPIO & Interfaces – The CM4 features 28 GPIO pins, I2C, SPI, UART, PWM, and SDIO, giving developers access to a wide range of hardware integrations.
- Compact Size – Measuring 55mm × 40mm, the CM4 is smaller and more powerful than its predecessor, making it perfect for space-constrained applications.
The Raspberry Pi Compute Module CM4 IO Board: A Must-Have for Development
To fully unlock the CM4’s capabilities, developers often use the Raspberry Pi Compute Module CM4 IO Board, a carrier board that provides easy access to all of the CM4’s interfaces.
Key Features of the IO Board:
- Full-sized HDMI ports for video output
- Gigabit Ethernet for high-speed networking
- PCIe slot for adding NVMe SSDs or other peripherals
- Camera and display connectors for MIPI CSI/DSI integration
- Standard Raspberry Pi 40-pin GPIO header
- Multiple USB ports for connecting peripherals
The IO Board is an essential tool for prototyping, allowing developers to test and refine their designs before creating custom carrier boards.
Why choose the Raspberry Pi Compute Module CM4?
The CM4 is perfect for projects that require custom enclosures, compact designs, and industrial reliability. Some key benefits include:
Scalability – With multiple configurations, you can choose the right balance of power, memory, and connectivity for your project.
Long-Term availability – The CM4 is designed for industrial applications, meaning it will be supported for several years, unlike consumer-grade Raspberry Pi models.
Industrial applications – Ideal for IoT devices, smart home solutions, robotics, automation, and embedded computing.
Community support – As part of the Raspberry Pi ecosystem, developers have access to a vast community, extensive documentation, and open-source resources.
Popular projects using Raspberry Pi Compute Module CM4
Smart Home Automation – Use the CM4 for custom home automation hubs, smart security systems, or IoT-connected appliances.
Digital Signage & Kiosks – With 4K dual-display support, the CM4 is perfect for interactive kiosks, advertising screens, and media players.
AI & Machine Learning – Combine the CM4 with a Google Coral TPU or NVIDIA Jetson Nano for edge AI applications.
Industrial Automation – Use it for monitoring sensors, controlling machinery, or data logging in factories.
Custom Gaming Consoles – The CM4’s processing power makes it great for retro gaming emulation and custom handheld gaming systems.
Getting started with the Raspberry Pi Compute Module CM4
Choose Your CM4 Variant – Decide if you need Wi-Fi, eMMC storage, or extra RAM for your project.
Get an IO Board or Carrier Board – Use the Raspberry Pi Compute Module CM4 IO Board for easy development, or design your own carrier board.
Install an Operating System – Use Raspberry Pi OS or another Linux distribution. If using eMMC storage, flash the OS using rpiboot.
Start Building! – Connect peripherals, write your software, and bring your project to life.
Is the CM4 Right for You?
If you need a powerful yet compact computing module for embedded systems, the Raspberry Pi Compute Module CM4 is a game-changer. Its high performance, modularity, and extensive I/O options make it the perfect choice for IoT, automation, AI, and industrial applications.
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