What is Raspberry Pi CM5?
Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5 (CM5) is a modular computing platform released by the Raspberry Pi in Nov 2024. Designed to meet the growing demands of embedded and industrial applications, CM5 inherits the versatility and performance of the Raspberry Pi family while offering enhanced features tailored for integration into custom systems. Its compact size and powerful capabilities make it an attractive solution for developers seeking a balance between flexibility and high performance.
Overview of Raspberry Pi CM5
Raspberry Pi CM5 is a System on Module (SoM) that integrates a CPU, memory, eMMC storage, and power circuitry, making it a complete computing unit for embedded applications. Unlike traditional Raspberry Pi boards, the CM5 is designed for direct integration into custom hardware designs, offering more Input/Output (I/O) flexibility and more efficient use of space.
CM5 provides all the essential features of the Raspberry Pi 5 in a smaller form factor, with options for 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB of LPDDR4x RAM. It includes a 2.4 GHz quad-core ARM Cortex-A76 processor, and comes with PCIe support for faster peripherals, enhanced display outputs, and improved wireless connectivity, making it suitable for a wide range of industrial and commercial applications.
Key Features of Raspberry Pi CM5
- Processor: Broadcom BCM2712 quad-core Cortex-A76 2.4GHz CPU
- RAM: 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB LPDDR4x RAM with ECC support for reliability
- Storage: Optional eMMC storage (16GB, 32GB, or 64GB) and microSD card support; M.2 NVMe or mSATA SSD options available
- Connectivity: Gigabit Ethernet, dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz & 5GHz), Bluetooth 5.0, and USB 3.0
- Display Output: Dual 4Kp60 HDMI outputs and dual MIPI DSI/CSI interfaces for camera and display connection
- Expansion: Up to 30 GPIO pins, USB 3.0, PCIe x1, and M.2 interface for additional peripherals
- Power: USB-C power input with Power Delivery (PD) support, delivering up to 5V at 5A
- Form Factor: Compact design compatible with various custom carrier boards
Comparison of Raspberry Pi CM5 and CM4
| Feature | Raspberry Pi CM4 | Raspberry Pi CM5 |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Broadcom BCM2711 Cortex-A72 (4x 1.5GHz) | Broadcom BCM2712 Cortex-A76 (4x 2.4GHz) |
| RAM | 2GB, 4GB, 8GB LPDDR4 | 2GB, 4GB, 8GB LPDDR4x with ECC |
| Storage Options | eMMC, microSD | eMMC, microSD, M.2 SSD |
| USB Ports | USB 2.0 x 2, USB 3.0 x 1 | USB 3.0 x 2 |
| Display Output | Dual HDMI 2.0, MIPI DSI/CSI | Dual HDMI 2.0, MIPI DSI/CSI |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 4.2 | Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Ethernet | Gigabit Ethernet | Gigabit Ethernet |
| Expansion | PCIe Gen 2 | PCIe Gen 3 |
| Power Consumption | ~2W (idle) | ~2.3W (idle), higher under load |
Performance Comparision CM5 Vs CM4
CPU Performance:
The CM5’s CPU clock speed boost (2.4 GHz Cortex-A76) results in a 2-3x improvement in overall processing speed. Benchmarks, including High Performance Linpack tests, reflect approximately 1.5x better efficiency over CM4.
Linux Kernel Compilation:
When compiling the Linux kernel, the CM5 outperformed the CM4 by over 3x, showcasing its increased computational power.
Graphics and Video Encoding:
Video encoding speed for 4K and 1080p using x264 was 3x faster on the CM5. This was helped by the faster LPDDR4x RAM, making it an excellent choice for video-intensive applications.
GPU Performance:
While not comparable to a dedicated GPU, the CM5’s built-in VideoCore VII GPU showed a significant improvement, with GLMark scores jumping from around 750 to 1916 in the CM5.
Raspberry Pi CM5 Accessories
CM5 Development Kit: This kit includes the Raspberry Pi CM5 module, IO board, IO case, cooling fan, antenna kit, power supply, and connecting cables, helping developers quickly get started with their projects.
Raspberry Pi CM5 IO Board: Designed to support the full range of CM5 modules, this board provides various interfaces and can be used as a reference design or directly to add M.2 M Key and Raspberry Pi HAT+ functionality.
Raspberry Pi Cooler for CM5: A CNC-machined aluminum passive heatsink pre-installed with thermal conductive silicone. It provides excellent heat dissipation to reduce temperatures for the CPU, Wi-Fi module, and power management chip.
- Raspberry Pi CM5 IO Case: A metal case designed to house the IO board, featuring a built-in fan for improved cooling. This durable case offers excellent protection for the IO board and is ideal for commercial and industrial applications.
Industrial and Commercial Applications
Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5 is poised to make a significant impact on the industrial sector, with a wide range of applications and compatible accessories:
Industrial Devices:
- The ED-HMI3120 series and other industrial-grade panels are powered by CM5, offering high performance and various connectivity options, including dual network ports and PoE support.
Mini ITX Computers:
The ED-SBC3300 Mini ITX motherboard with CM5 offers a fanless design and supports dual displays, PoE, and wireless communication, making it ideal for industrial computing.Advanced Customization:
The CM5’s modular nature allows developers to customize solutions for specific applications, such as high-performance industrial control systems or smart devices.
Why Choose Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5?
The Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5 is an impressive upgrade from its predecessor, offering greater performance, faster connectivity, and more versatile storage options. Its modular design, combined with the powerful Cortex-A76 CPU and LPDDR4x RAM, makes it an ideal choice for developers and businesses seeking a flexible, high-performance solution for embedded and industrial applications.
Whether you’re upgrading from the CM4 or starting a new project, the CM5 provides a smooth transition with enhanced features and a seamless user experience.
