Raspberry Pi, the renowned single-board computer manufacturer, has announced the launch of its latest product, the Compute Module 5. This compact system-on-module variant is designed specifically for embedded applications, making it an attractive option for companies and developers seeking to integrate Raspberry Pi's technology into their commercial products.

The Compute Module 5 is a natural extension of the Raspberry Pi 5, which was introduced in September 2023. While the Raspberry Pi 5 is geared towards the education market and tech enthusiasts, the Compute Module 5 is tailored to meet the demands of industrial and embedded applications. This is reflected in the sales figures, with the "industrial and embedded" segment accounting for 72% of Raspberry Pi's single-board computer and Compute Module sales in 2023, while the "enthusiasts and education" segment represented 28%.

In terms of specifications, the Compute Module 5 shares many of the features of the Raspberry Pi 5, including a quad-core Arm Cortex-A76 processor, support for two 4K displays with a 60Hz refresh rate, Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity. The module is available in various configurations, with options for wireless technologies, RAM (2GB, 4GB, or 8GB), and on-board flash storage (up to 64GB). The prices range from $45 for the base model to $95 for the most advanced variant.

Developers working with the Compute Module 5 can also purchase an optional passive heatsink for $5, which covers the entire module, and an IO board for $20, allowing them to access all the module's interfaces and start developing. Additionally, the Compute Module 5 can be transformed into a small desktop computer with a metal case that protects the module hardware and IO board.

The introduction of the Compute Module 5 raises questions about Raspberry Pi's plans for its other products, such as the Raspberry Pi 400, a keyboard with a built-in Raspberry Pi computer based on the Raspberry Pi 4. While there is no official word on an update, the Raspberry Pi 400's unique design and functionality make it an attractive option for users seeking a compact, all-in-one computing solution.

The Compute Module 5 is a significant addition to Raspberry Pi's product lineup, catering to the growing demand for compact, powerful computing solutions in industrial and embedded applications. As the Internet of Things (IoT) continues to expand, the Compute Module 5 is well-positioned to play a key role in enabling innovative products and services.

With its competitive pricing, versatility, and Raspberry Pi's reputation for delivering high-quality products, the Compute Module 5 is likely to resonate with developers and companies seeking to integrate compact computing power into their designs.