The Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 Just Got Beefier

The journey started with the original Raspberry Pi Compute Module, which was a hit for its adaptability in various industrial applications. Fast forward to the Compute Module 3 and 3+, these models introduced more robust processing capabilities and started seeing action everywhere from automated manufacturing lines, to quirky DIY projects based on the Compute Module 4. But as industrial applications have gotten more complex, so too have the need for even more RAM and better graphics.

Enter the Compute Module 4S

Based loosely on the beloved Raspberry Pi 4 Model B architecture, the new Compute Module 4S (CM4S) is here, and it’s a game-changer for industrial users who are fans of the SODIMM form factor. 

Compute Module 4S Key Features

• Form factor: Very different to the Compute Module 4, and same as the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 3 and 3+, which are mechanically (but not electrically!) compatible with DDR2-SODIMM.
• Beefed-up brainpower: Sporting the Broadcom BCM2711, this quad-core beast clocks in at 1.5GHz, making it a powerhouse for any workhorse task thrown at it.
• Remember the RAM : You can now pick from 1 GB, 2 GB, 4 GB, or 8 GB of LPDDR4 SDRAM with ECC. No more running out of memory when you're halfway through your project and side-eying other small form-factor PCs for the production line.
• Flexible storage options: Choose from 8 GB, 16 GB, or 32 GB eMMC flash storage. And for the minimalists, there’s the CM4SLite variant with 0 GB eMMC, perfect if you prefer to use your own storage solutions or have a cost-sensitive application.
• Connectivity and more: It has a high-speed USB 2.0 port, an impressive array of 46 GPIO (18 more than a regular Raspberry Pi) signals for all your sensor and actuator needs, and exclusive SDIO 2.0 on the CM4SLite.
• Visuals and cameras covered: With HDMI 2.0 supporting up to 4Kp60, dual MIPI DSI and CSI interfaces, your visual setup is ready for anything from digital signage to custom surveillance and machine vision applications.
• Multimedia mastery: Handling H.265 and H.264 video formats with ease and supporting OpenGL ES 3.0 graphics, it’s geared for just about any media application you can think of.

   

Why This Matters

For the makers and shakers using Raspberry Pi in industry, this means projects can be bigger, faster, and more complex without requiring a much bigger investment in footprint, cost, or energy consumption. Whether it’s powering a sophisticated home automation system or something as ambitious as building a custom drone, the CM4S provides the reliability and flexibility needed in industry.

For Industry Only (for Now)

The CM4S is currently available only to industrial customers in batches of 200 each — a far cry from the Raspberry Pi shortages we experienced in recent years — and no word yet on when smaller users can get their hands on one. But, if you’re already using the widely-available Compute Module 3 series modules, you can now start planning those projects that were just too big for your previous modules. The old dog has new tricks!