Despite initial uncertainties regarding the release of the Raspberry Pi 5 this year, the most recent iteration of this microcomputer has debuted, boasting several notable improvements with a starting price of $60. Notably, it not only promises enhanced performance compared to its predecessor but also represents the first Raspberry Pi to feature proprietary silicon.
At the heart of the Raspberry Pi 5 lies a 64-bit quad-core Arm Cortex-A76 processor, operating at 2.4GHz, resulting in a performance boost two to three times greater than that of the four-year-old Raspberry Pi 4. Furthermore, the device incorporates an 800MHz VideoCore VII graphics chip, which, according to the Raspberry Pi Foundation, delivers a substantial enhancement in graphics capabilities.
I had the opportunity to personally test the device, and while I didn’t have much time for extensive experimentation, I observed that it starts up rapidly and loads webpages swiftly in comparison to my older Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+. It does tend to generate some heat, but fortunately, Raspberry Pi provided an active cooling accessory that can be directly mounted onto the board for mitigation.
Regarding its connectivity, the Raspberry Pi 5 offers a range of ports, including dual 4Kp60 HDMI display outputs with HDR support, a microSD slot, two USB 3.0 ports, two USB 2.0 ports, gigabit ethernet, and a 5V DC power connection via USB-C. Some additional appealing features include Bluetooth 5.0 and Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) support, as well as a peak SD card performance that is described as “doubled” thanks to the inclusion of the SDR104 high-speed mode. These enhancements collectively contribute to making the Raspberry Pi 5 even more versatile, whether it’s utilized as an ultra-budget desktop PC, a media server, or a DIY security system.
Upon its launch, the Raspberry Pi 5 will present several RAM options to consumers. The 4GB version will be priced at $60, while the 8GB variant will be available for $80. This positions it slightly above the price of the Raspberry Pi 4, which can be purchased for $55 with 4GB of RAM and $75 for the 8GB model. Potential buyers worldwide can anticipate the availability of the Raspberry Pi 5 for purchase before the end of October.
However, it’s worth noting that the Raspberry Pi 5 will only be accessible for purchase in South Africa once ICASA, the relevant certification authority, grants the necessary certification. The Raspberry Pi Foundation foresees the certification process being finalized in November or December.
Experience the future of computing with the Raspberry Pi 5, a true marvel of technology that combines power, versatility, and innovation like never before. Crafted with precision and packed with features, this latest iteration redefines what’s possible in the world of single-board computers. Let’s dive into what makes the Raspberry Pi 5 a game-changer.
Incredible Performance: At the heart of the Raspberry Pi 5 lies the powerhouse Broadcom BCM2712 2.4GHz quad-core 64-bit Arm Cortex-A76 CPU, complete with cryptography extensions and 512KB per-core L2 caches. With a 2MB shared L3 cache, this CPU is designed to handle complex tasks and applications with ease. Whether you’re tinkering with AI, gaming, or multimedia projects, the Raspberry Pi 5 has the processing power you need.
Next-Level Graphics: The VideoCore VII GPU with support for OpenGL ES 3.1 and Vulkan 1.2 ensures stunning visuals and fluid graphics. Enjoy the dual 4Kp60 HDMI display output with HDR support, opening up new possibilities for immersive experiences and high-definition displays. The 4Kp60 HEVC decoder guarantees smooth video playback, making it ideal for media enthusiasts.
Ample Memory: Choose between 4GB and 8GB LPDDR4X-4267 SDRAM SKUs (available at launch), ensuring that you have the memory resources required for your projects. Say goodbye to memory bottlenecks and hello to seamless multitasking.
Connectivity at Its Best: Stay connected effortlessly with dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0/Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). Whether you’re streaming data wirelessly or connecting peripherals, the Raspberry Pi 5 has you covered.
Versatile Expansion: With a microSD card slot supporting high-speed SDR104 mode, USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports, and a PCIe 2.0 x1 interface for fast peripherals, the Raspberry Pi 5 is ready to adapt to your evolving needs. The 40-pin header provides compatibility with a wide range of add-ons and accessories, making it a versatile platform for all your projects.
Power and PoE+: Experience convenience with 5V/5A DC power via USB-C, featuring Power Delivery support. Additionally, the Raspberry Pi 5 offers Gigabit Ethernet with PoE+ support, but a separate PoE+ HAT is required for this feature.
Capture the World: Equipped with 2 × 4-lane MIPI camera/display transceivers, you can explore the world of photography and video with ease. Create your own security systems, capture stunning images, or unlock the potential of computer vision projects.
Stay on Schedule: The built-in real-time clock (RTC), powered from an external battery, ensures that your projects run on time, every time. No need to worry about losing track of time or data.
Elevated Convenience: The Raspberry Pi 5 even includes a power button, making it easier than ever to manage power and reduce energy consumption.
The Raspberry Pi 5 is not just a single-board computer; it’s a gateway to boundless creativity and innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned developer, a student, or a hobbyist, the Raspberry Pi 5 empowers you to bring your ideas to life. Get ready to embark on a journey of endless possibilities – order your Raspberry Pi 5 today and unlock the world of limitless innovation.
With each new flagship Raspberry Pi release, a suite of fresh accessories accompanies it, and the Raspberry Pi 5 adheres to this tradition. Alterations in layout, introduction of new interfaces, and notably heightened peak performance (with a minor increase in peak power consumption) have prompted us to rework existing accessories and craft entirely new ones.
Enhanced Raspberry Pi 5 Case: Cooling and Style Redefined
Priced at $10, the updated Raspberry Pi 5 case builds upon the aesthetics of its Raspberry Pi 4 predecessor while introducing a range of new usability and thermal management enhancements. It features an integrated 2.79 CFM fan equipped with fluid dynamic bearings, chosen for their low noise levels and extended lifespan. This fan connects to the Raspberry Pi 5 via a four-pin JST connector to offer temperature-controlled cooling. Air is drawn in through a 360-degree slot beneath the lid, passes over a heatsink attached to the BCM2712 AP, and exits through connector openings and vents in the base. The case has been lengthened and adjusted for easier insertion of the Raspberry Pi 5 board without necessitating SD card removal. Additionally, removing the top of the case facilitates stacking multiple cases and mounting HATs on top of the fan using spacers and GPIO header extensions.
Raspberry Pi 5 Active Cooler: Enhance Cooling for Maximum Performance
While the Raspberry Pi 5 has been engineered to handle typical client workloads without the need for active cooling, users who desire uncased operation under continuous heavy loads, without performance throttling, can opt for a $5 Active Cooler. This cooler attaches to the board via two new mounting holes and connects to the same four-pin JST connector as the case fan. It includes a radial blower selected for its low noise levels and extended operational life, propelling air through an extruded and milled aluminum heatsink. Both the case and the Active Cooler maintain the Raspberry Pi 5 comfortably below the thermal throttle point under typical ambient conditions and worst-case loads. The Active Cooler exhibits slightly superior cooling performance, making it particularly suitable for overclocking enthusiasts.
Raspberry Pi 5 27W USB-C Power Supply: Unleash the Full Potential
27W USB-C Power Supply: While the Raspberry Pi 5 consumes less power and runs cooler than its predecessor under similar workloads, the significantly elevated performance ceiling leads to higher peak power consumption, especially during intensive and demanding tasks, such as “power virus” workloads. When using a standard 5V, 3A (15W) USB-C power adapter with the Raspberry Pi 5, the default configuration restricts downstream USB current to 600mA to ensure adequate margin for supporting these workloads. This limit is lower than the 1.2A limit on the Raspberry Pi 4, but it is generally sufficient for powering low-power peripherals like mice and keyboards. For users seeking to power high-power peripherals such as hard drives and SSDs while retaining a margin for peak workloads, a $12 USB-C power adapter supporting a 5V, 5A (25W) operating mode is available. When the Raspberry Pi 5 firmware detects this power supply, it increases the USB current limit to 1.6A, providing an extra 5W for downstream USB devices and an additional 5W for on-board power. This option is particularly beneficial for those interested in experimenting with overclocking their Raspberry Pi 5. Users also have the flexibility to manually override the current limit, specifying the higher value even when using a 3A adapter. In testing, this mode has proven to be compatible with typical configurations of higher-power USB devices and all but the most extreme workloads.
The Raspberry Pi 5 New Camera and Display Cables
Due to the new higher-density MIPI connectors on the Raspberry Pi 5, adapters are essential to connect our own cameras, displays, and third-party products. To support existing camera and display users, we offer FPC camera and display cables that convert from the new higher-density format (referred to as “mini”) to the older lower-density format (referred to as “standard”). These cables are available in 200mm, 300mm, and 500mm lengths, priced at $1, $2, and $3, respectively. Camera Module 3, the High-Quality Camera, the Global Shutter Camera, and the Touchscreen Display will be shipped with both standard-to-standard and 200mm mini-to-standard cables.
Raspberry Pi 5 New PoE+ HAT: Simplified Power Delivery
In early 2024, we will introduce a new PoE+ HAT that accommodates the relocated four-pin PoE header. It features an L-shaped form factor, enabling it to fit inside the Raspberry Pi 5 case without mechanical interference or disrupting airflow. The new PoE+ HAT incorporates a planar transformer into the PCB layout and employs an optimized flyback converter architecture to maintain high efficiency across the entire range of output powers, spanning from zero to 25W.
Raspberry Pi 5 New M.2 HATs: Turbocharge Your Storage
Among the exciting additions to the Raspberry Pi 5 feature set is the single-lane PCI Express 2.0 interface. Designed to support fast peripherals, this interface is accessible through a 16-pin, 0.5mm pitch FPC connector on the board’s left-hand side. In early 2024, we will introduce a pair of mechanical adapter boards that bridge the gap between this connector and a subset of the M.2 standard. This allows users to connect NVMe SSDs and other M.2-format accessories. The first adapter, conforming to the standard HAT form factor, is designed for mounting larger devices. The second adapter, sharing the L-shaped form factor of the new PoE+ HAT, supports the installation of 2230- and 2242-format devices within the Raspberry Pi 5 case.
Raspberry Pi Beginner’s Guide, 5th Edition: Your Essential Handbook
Priced at RRP £19.99 ($24.99), this updated edition of our bestselling Raspberry Pi Beginner’s Guide features a fresh look and feel. It serves as the definitive manual for Raspberry Pi computers and accessories, comprehensively updated to cover Raspberry Pi 5 and the forthcoming release of Raspberry Pi OS based on Debian Bookworm.
Raspberry Pi 5 New RTC Battery: Ensuring Accurate Timekeeping
RTC Battery: Lastly, we’ve procured a Panasonic lithium manganese rechargeable coin cell, complete with a pre-fitted two-pin JST plug and adhesive mounting pad. Priced at $5, this battery is suitable for powering the Raspberry Pi 5 real-time clock (RTC) when the primary power supply is disconnected.
New Raspberry Pi OS - Enhanced Performance and Features
Concurrent with the final stages of the Raspberry Pi 5 development, our software team has been diligently working on a fresh iteration of Raspberry Pi OS. This official first-party operating system for Raspberry Pi devices is based on the latest Debian release, codenamed “Bookworm.” It boasts numerous enhancements, notably the transition from X11 to the Wayfire Wayland compositor on Raspberry Pi 4 and 5. Raspberry Pi OS is slated for release in mid-October and will be the exclusive supported first-party operating system for Raspberry Pi 5. Stay tuned for more updates about the new OS, and anticipate the ability to download it shortly before the Raspberry Pi 5 becomes available in late October.
In conclusion, the Raspberry Pi 5 is set to revolutionize the world of single-board computers with its incredible performance, enhanced graphics, ample memory, and versatile expansion options. With a powerful quad-core processor, next-level graphics capabilities, and a range of connectivity options, it’s a game-changer for developers, students, and hobbyists alike.
As we eagerly anticipate its release, it’s worth noting that you can be among the first to own the Raspberry Pi 5 in South Africa by purchasing it from Hashcode IoT Solutions. While there were initial uncertainties surrounding its release, the Raspberry Pi 5 has exceeded expectations, offering a substantial performance boost and introducing new features that make it a versatile platform for various projects.
This latest iteration not only showcases the dedication of the Raspberry Pi Foundation to innovation but also their commitment to providing a complete ecosystem of accessories and support. From enhanced cases and cooling options to specialized power supplies and connectivity solutions, they’ve thought of everything to ensure your Raspberry Pi 5 experience is seamless and efficient.
In addition, keep an eye out for the upcoming Raspberry Pi OS based on Debian Bookworm, which promises enhanced performance and features, further optimizing your Raspberry Pi 5 experience.
So, don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the future of computing with the Raspberry Pi 5. Pre-order yours today from Hashcode IoT Solutions and be prepared to unlock a world of limitless innovation and creativity.
