It’s only relatively recently that Intel has been producing x86-based, multi-cored processors with a specification suitable for use in credit-card sized development boards. The UP board uses the same form factor as a Raspberry Pi2 but packs a quad-core Intel Atom x5-Z8300 CPU running at 1.84 GHz (burst mode).

The board comes equipped with 1GB of RAM, 16GB of eMMC Flash, Gigabit Ethernet, five USB 2.0 ports (one on a pin header) and one USB 3.0 port (on the underside of the board). UP also features an HDMI port, real-time clock, the same 40-pin GPIO pin header used on the Raspberry Pi2 model B with CSI and DSI connectors for interface to a Raspberry Pi camera and touch screen.

UP at a glance:

• SoC – Intel Atom x5-Z8300 “Cherry Trail” quad core processor @ 1.44 GHz (Burst frequency: 1.84 GHz) with Intel Gen8 HD graphics @ 500 MHz
• System Memory – 1 GB DDR3L-1600
• Storage – 16 or 32 GB eMMC
• Video Output / Display – HDMI, DSI connector
• Audio I/O – HDMI
• Connectivity – Gigabit Ethernet
• USB – 4x USB 2.0 host ports, 1x USB 2.0 pin header, 1x micro USB 3.0 port
• Camera – CSI connector for 4MP camera
• Expansion – 40-pin Raspberry Pi compatible header with GPIOs, I2C, SPI, UART.
• Misc – Power button, RTC
• Power Supply – 5 V via power barrel
• Dimensions – 85.60 x 56.50 mm

The board is up for funding on Kickstarter and early adopters can pre-order the board for 89.00 Euros, delivery is expected in February 2016.