Radxa: The Raspberry Pi Alternative

The landscape of single-board computers (SBCs) has seen significant growth, with various options catering to hobbyists, educators, and industry professionals. Among the notable competitors in this field are the the compute modules from Radxa and Raspberry Pi. This article dives into the architecture of the module featured in our DTV Electronics CmRat Full Node Product, the Radxa CM3 8GB (and the CM5 Lite), examines its features, and highlights how it compares with other Compute Modules such as the Raspberry Pi 4.

Unpacking the Radxa CM3 8GB

The Radxa CM3 8GB is a powerful System on Module (SoM) designed for a variety of applications, from DIY projects to embedded systems and edge computing. At the heart of the Radxa CM3 is the Rockchip RK3566 SoC, which integrates a quad-core ARM Cortex-A55 CPU. This CPU is known for its efficiency and balanced performance, operating at speeds up to 1.8GHz.

Complementing the CPU is the Mali-G52-2EE GPU, providing robust graphics capabilities suitable for high-definition video playback and moderate graphical tasks.

One of the standout features of the Radxa CM3 is its support for advanced storage options. It offers onboard eMMC storage, which ensures reliable and fast read/write speeds, and supports microSD cards and M.2 NVMe SSDs for flexible and expansive storage solutions. The module also includes up to 8GB of LPDDR4 RAM, making it well-suited for memory-intensive applications.

Connectivity is another strength of the Radxa CM3. It features onboard Gigabit Ethernet, optional Wi-Fi 5, and Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring high-speed and versatile networking options. For video output, the module supports HDMI 2.0 and MIPI DSI interfaces, enabling 4K video playback at 60fps. The inclusion of a variety of USB ports, PCIe, and SATA interfaces further enhances its versatility for various applications.

Comparing with the Raspberry Pi 4

When comparing the Radxa CM3 8GB with the Raspberry Pi 4 (more specifically the Compute Module 4), several key differences and advantages come to light. The Raspberry Pi 4 is powered by a quad-core ARM Cortex-A72 CPU, a powerful processor that provides strong performance for a range of tasks. However, it is less power-efficient compared to the Cortex-A55 cores found in the Radxa CM3, which strikes a better balance between performance and power consumption.

Graphics capabilities differ significantly between the two boards. The Raspberry Pi 4 uses the VideoCore VI GPU, which is competent but generally outpaced by the Mali-G52 GPU in the Radxa CM3. The Mali-G52 supports more modern graphical standards and provides better performance, especially in applications requiring higher graphical fidelity and efficiency.

Storage options also set the Radxa CM3 apart. While the Raspberry Pi 4 primarily relies on microSD cards for its storage needs—an option that can sometimes be a bottleneck—the Radxa CM3 supports onboard eMMC storage and M.2 NVMe SSDs, which offer faster and more reliable performance. This makes the Radxa CM3 a more flexible and robust choice for data-intensive tasks.

In terms of connectivity, both modules are well-equipped, but the Radxa CM3 edges out slightly with its more advanced options. It includes onboard Gigabit Ethernet and the choice of Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0, providing high-speed and versatile networking. The Raspberry Pi 4 also offers Gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi, but its Bluetooth version is 4.2, which is slightly less advanced than the Radxa CM3’s Bluetooth 5.0.

Practical Applications and Suitability

Choosing between the Radxa CM3 8GB and the Raspberry Pi 4 largely depends on the specific requirements of the user. The Radxa CM3, with its efficient CPU, superior graphics capabilities, flexible storage options, and advanced connectivity, is particularly well-suited for applications that demand high performance and flexibility. This includes edge computing, AI inference tasks, and high-definition multimedia applications. It works seamlessly with DTV Electronics’ partner OS, Nirvati. This all-in-one system supports a FOSS home cloud, media server, and Bitcoin node, providing a comprehensive solution for diverse applications.

On the other hand, the Raspberry Pi 4, with its strong community support and extensive ecosystem of accessories and HATs, remains a favorite for educational purposes, DIY projects, and general computing tasks. Its widespread use and robust support infrastructure make it an excellent choice for users who prioritize community and support over cutting-edge performance and features.

The New Radxa CM5

April 7, 2024, marks the release of the Radxa CM5, a high-performance compute module designed for demanding applications like edge computing, deep learning, and embedded systems. Alongside it, the Radxa CM5 Lite offers a cost-effective option for scenarios where GPU power isn’t necessary.

The Radxa CM5 is powered by the Rockchip RK3588S2 SoC, featuring:

• CPU: Quad ARM Cortex-A76 and Quad ARM Cortex-A55
• GPU: ARM Mali-G610MC4
• NPU: 6TOPs@INT8
• Multimedia: 8K video decoding and encoding

The Radxa CM5 Lite uses the Rockchip RK3582 SoC, with:

• CPU: Dual ARM Cortex-A76 and Quad ARM Cortex-A55
• NPU: 5TOPs@INT8
• Multimedia: 4K video encoding

Key Features

Both versions have been enhanced with onboard eMMC storage for faster data access and increased reliability. The CM5 series is compatible with various platforms, including the CM5 IO Board and Raspberry Pi CM4 IO Board, ensuring seamless integration into existing ecosystems.

The Radxa CM5 is ideal for projects requiring high computational power and graphics, such as handheld gaming consoles, delivering smooth performance for intensive applications. The CM5 Lite is perfect for edge computing, industrial automation, and IoT devices, focusing on cost and power efficiency without sacrificing performance.

Radxa and DTV Electronics

DTV Electronics plans to feature the Radxa CM3 and the new CM5 Lite in their upcoming products, offering customers options that balance performance and cost. The DTV Electronics CmRat various configurations will provide:

• Radxa CM3 8GB: This module is favored for its efficient performance and cost-effectiveness. It’s ideal for users seeking a reliable solution for everyday computing tasks and embedded applications.
• Radxa CM5 Lite 16GB: The CM5 Lite, featuring a dual-core ARM Cortex-A76 CPU and quad-core Cortex-A55, provides enhanced performance without the need for a GPU. This makes it suitable for more demanding applications, such as edge computing and industrial automation, while still being affordable.

Advantages of Radxa Modules in DTV Electronics Products

The integration of Radxa modules into DTV Electronics products brings several advantages:

1. Performance and Flexibility: The Radxa CM5 Lite offers significant computational power with its 16GB RAM option, making it a robust choice for high-performance needs. Meanwhile, the Radxa CM3 provides a balanced, budget-friendly option with 8GB of RAM.
2. Advanced Capabilities: Both modules support advanced multimedia processing and AI inference, making them suitable for a wide range of applications, from smart home devices to industrial automation.
3. Cost-Effectiveness: By offering both budget and regular options, DTV Electronics can cater to a broader audience, ensuring that customers can find a product that fits their needs and budget.

The decision to use both the Radxa CM3 and CM5 Lite underscores DTV Electronics’ commitment to providing cutting-edge technology at various price points. The CM5 Lite, in particular, stands out as a powerful yet affordable option, bridging the gap between cost-conscious consumers and those needing higher performance.

Upgradeability with CmRat

A standout feature of DTV Electronics’ offerings is the CmRat system carrier board, which provides users with the flexibility to upgrade their compute modules. This system allows for easy swapping of modules, enhancing product longevity and adaptability. For example:

• Upgrade from CM3 to CM5 Lite: Users can easily upgrade from the CM3 8GB to the more powerful CM5 Lite 16GB, enhancing their device’s performance without needing to replace the entire system.
• Compatibility with Raspberry Pi Compute Modules: The CmRat system also supports Raspberry Pi Compute Modules, giving users the freedom to choose the best module for their needs and future-proofing their investments.

Conclusion

The Radxa and the Raspberry Pi 4 each bring unique strengths to the table, catering to different segments of the SBC market. The Radxa CM3 and CM5 Lite offers modern hardware capabilities and flexibility, making it a powerful alternative for advanced applications. Meanwhile, the Raspberry Pi 4’s established presence and extensive ecosystem continue to make it a reliable choice for a broad range of users.

DTV Electronics’ decision to ship their full node configurations while allowing users the freedom to switch and upgrade with different models and vendors exemplifies their commitment to maximum flexibility. This approach sets them apart from other solutions on the market, offering unparalleled adaptability without compromises.