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LimeNET Micro 2.0 Raspberry Pi CM4 carrier board for LimeSDR XTRX

LimeNET Micro 2

If you are working on a project that requires a powerful, flexible radio platform. You need something that can handle a variety of wireless tasks, from simple hobbyist projects to complex professional applications. Enter the LimeNET Micro 2.0, a new tool that’s been crafted to meet the demands of developers and professionals like you in the field of wireless communication.

At the heart of the LimeNET Micro 2.0 is its seamless integration with two key components: the Raspberry Pi CM4 and the LimeSDR XTRX. This combination provides you with a robust foundation for both embedded computing and advanced wireless tasks. The platform is designed to be user-friendly, with USB 2.0 Type-C for straightforward booting and power, as well as extra USB ports for connecting various devices.

You’ll appreciate the speed and efficiency of data transfer, thanks to the onboard Gigabit Ethernet. Plus, the convenience of Power over Ethernet (PoE) means you can reduce clutter by using a single cable for both power and data. If you need to add more capabilities, the Mini PCIe x1 Gen 2 interface has got you covered, allowing you to attach a wide range of peripherals.

LimeNET Micro 2.0

Visual and audio quality haven’t been overlooked. The LimeNET Micro 2.0 boasts dual HDMI 2.0 outputs, enabling you to enjoy 4K resolution at 60Hz. It also includes interfaces for connecting displays and cameras, as well as an audio and composite video port. Whether you’re setting up a digital signage system or creating a multimedia hub, this platform can handle it.

When it comes to storage and cellular connectivity, the LimeNET Micro 2.0 is equipped with a MicroSD card slot and a NanoSIM socket. It also features a variety of RF connectors, such as SMA and U.FL, which are crucial for connecting antennas and RF devices. This is essential for anyone looking to build a robust wireless setup.

The platform is built with expansion and customization in mind. It includes Raspberry Pi CM4 GPIO and SYS headers, which allow you to connect external devices easily. There are also connectors for additional displays, UART0 headers, and fan connectors, ensuring that the platform can support a broad range of peripheral devices.

One of the standout features of the LimeNET Micro 2.0 is its enhanced frontend module (FEM). It’s equipped with Qorvo drivers and amplifiers that significantly increase output power and coverage range. The FEM also includes low noise amplifiers (LNAs) and switches that support both FDD and TDD modes, which are crucial for effective wireless communication.

The LimeNET Micro 2.0 is a comprehensive platform that offers a wide array of features and improved specifications. It’s an invaluable tool for anyone looking to explore the possibilities of wireless technology. Whether you’re experimenting or implementing professional solutions, the LimeNET Micro 2.0 is designed to help you innovate and succeed in your wireless projects.

Features & Specifications

LimeNET Micro 2.0 provides access to all of the connectivity and functionality of the CM4 and LimeSDR XTRX boards at its heart. That includes:

  • USB 2.0 Type-C socket (boot and power delivery)
  • Dual USB 2.0 Type-A sockets (downstream ports) or a front-panel USB 2.0 header (unpopulated)
  • Gigabit Ethernet jack with PoE support
  • Mini PCIe x1 Gen 2 (5 Gbps)
  • 2x HDMI 2.0 receptacles (up to 4K 60P supported)
  • 2x 15-pin FPC connectors for MIPI DSI display and CSI camera
  • 3.5 mm, 4-pin jack for analog audio and composite video
  • MicroSD card slot
  • NanoSIM socket
  • Coaxial RF (4x SMA female + 4x U.FL female) connectors for RF frontend
  • Coaxial pass-through U.FL to external SMA connector
  • 20-pin Raspberry Pi CM4 GPIO header (3.3 V)
  • 14-pin Raspberry Pi CM4 SYS header
  • 5-pin front display connector (power, I²C, button)
  • Raspberry Pi CM4 UART0 header (unpopulated)
  • 2-pin and 4-pin fan connector at 5 V (default), 3.3 V, or VCC_INT voltage

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Raspberry Pi Computer Module 4 (CM4) clones and alternatives

Raspberry Pi Computer Module 4 (CM4) clones and alternatives

In the dynamic world of compact computing, the System on Module (SoM) technology has taken center stage, with the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 (CM4) playing a crucial role in the development of tailored computing solutions. The CM4’s design, which omits standard interfaces like USB and HDMI, necessitates the use of carrier boards to unlock its full potential. After facing significant supply issues since early 2021, the CM4 is making a comeback, much to the delight of developers and tech enthusiasts.

The scarcity of CM4s has led to the rise of alternative boards, often referred to as CM4 clones. These clones are compact computers that serve a wide range of uses, from gaming emulators to smart lighting and industrial controls. It’s important to note that these clones are not carbon copies of the original CM4. They often feature different chips and additional functionalities, which can lead to compatibility concerns and booting problems.

Raspberry Pi Computer Module 4 (CM4) alternatives

When evaluating CM4 clones, it’s essential to consider their performance and compatibility. Each clone has its own set of features and strengths, and while some may excel in certain areas, they might fall short in others. Conducting a thorough performance review and compatibility assessment is crucial to ensure that the clone you choose meets the specific needs of your project.

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Looking ahead to 2024, we’re on the brink of seeing some exciting projects come to fruition. The field of industrial touchscreen computers is advancing, and an inventive TV stick adapter for the CM4 is in the works, promising to expand the versatility of your setups. Additionally, specialized flashing tools are being developed to streamline the programming of CM4s.

In the realm of industrial computing, advancements in automation and remote sensing are noteworthy. A particularly impressive innovation is the Pi KVM box, now equipped with USB-C connectivity, which simplifies power and networking arrangements for managing servers remotely.

Despite these advancements, there are concerns about some organizations not adhering to open-source licenses. Maintaining the integrity of the open-source community by respecting these licenses is vital, as they are foundational to much of the innovation in this field.

CM5

There’s also growing speculation about the potential release of a Compute Module 5. While details are still under wraps, the community is buzzing with excitement, eagerly awaiting updates that are expected to come out in the first half of 2024. As always we will keep you up to speed as any new information, specifications or news is released. In the meantime the Raspberry Pi Computer Module 4 is available to by from a number of worldwide resellers.

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Build your own robot dog with the CM4 XGO-Lite kit

Build your own robot dog

If you would like to build your very own robot dog companion complete with moving limbs, sensors and more. You might be interested in the CM4 XGO Robot Dog Kit V2 for Raspberry Pi is a noteworthy addition to the market. This robotic dog companion kit offers an engaging and educational experience for tech enthusiasts, providing them with the opportunity to build their own robotic companion using advanced technology and open-source software.

The CM4 XGO robotic companion is powered by a Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 (CM4), a robust microcomputer with a Quad-Core Cortex-A72 CPU running at 1.5GHz. This processor ensures a smooth and efficient operation, allowing the robot dog to execute complex tasks effortlessly. The CM4 also offers wireless connectivity with dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0 BLE, ensuring seamless communication between the robot and its controller. The robot is equipped with 2GB/4GB of RAM for efficient multitasking and a 32GB Micro SD card for storing the operating system and other necessary data.

Unlike many robot kits on the market, the CM4 XGO Robot Dog boasts a sturdy metal construction, giving it a satisfyingly robust and weighty feel. This construction not only enhances the robot’s durability but also adds to its aesthetic appeal. The kit comes pre-assembled, saving users from the often complicated process of assembly and wiring.

At the heart of this robot dog is the Compute Module 4, which serves as the control center. Users can program the robot with custom code via a web browser, or they can opt for traditional programming methods by connecting it to a monitor. The kit comes with several examples of code that demonstrate the robot’s capabilities, including facial recognition using the inbuilt camera, remote control, and more. The robot’s functionality can be further expanded with the use of Python commands, as detailed in the provided documentation. For those who are not yet proficient in Python, a block code editor is also available.

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CM4 XGO Robot dog

The CM4 XGO was recently showcased at OSSUMMIT EU 2023, a leading open-source event by the Linux Foundation, held in Bilbao, Spain. This event, themed “Innovation Happens Here”, gathered global open-source developers, vendors, technologists, users, universities, and research institutes to discuss open-source innovation and the future. ELECFREAKS, a partner of the OpenAtom OpenHarmony ecosystem, demonstrated the capabilities of its open-source XGO at the event.

The XGO Robot Dog operates on the OpenHarmony lightweight system, an open-source operating system that allows the robot to perform functions like visual line inspection, self-balancing control, and motion detection. The robotic companion, made of aluminum alloy material, can perform actions like walking up and down steps, demonstrating its advanced mobility.

In addition to the XGO, ELECFREAKS also highlighted the Open Source Big Brother project at the OSSUMMIT. This project is an open-source technology education ecosystem for youth, aiming to help young people gain access to open-source hardware and develop skills in creativity education, programming education, and artificial intelligence education. ELECFREAKS has created a series of creative works using open-source hardware products suitable for teaching and display on campus, and these have been demonstrated in various schools, sparking interest among students.

The CM4 XGO Robot Dog Kit V2 for Raspberry Pi offers an exciting and educational opportunity for tech enthusiasts to build their own robot dog. With its advanced technology, open-source software, and robust construction, this robot dog kit is a valuable addition to the realm of robotics.

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CM4 Nano Raspberry Pi powered industrial SBC mini PC

Compute Module 4 CM4 Nano industrial mini PC

The CM4 Nano, an industrial-grade embedded computer, with a robust design and advanced features. Offering a ruggedised alternative to the Raspberry Pi 4, making it an excellent choice for a variety of industrial applications. At the heart of the CM4 Nano is the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 (CM4), a compact and popular choice for embedded applications.

This module is used in a multitude of commercial devices, highlighting its reliability and versatility. The CM4 Nano takes this module and enhances it with a carrier board, equipped with multiple ports and connectors, all housed within a robust metal case with a built-in heatsink. This aluminium alloy base not only provides protection but also helps to manage heat dissipation, a critical aspect for maintaining optimal performance.

One of the primary challenges in many industrial applications is managing the heat generated by the CPU, wireless module, and PMU. The CM4 Nano addresses this issue head-on with its robust design and built-in heatsink. This feature enhances the reliability of wireless communication, ensuring that the system operates smoothly even in demanding environments.

CM4 Nano

The CM4 Nano is not just about robustness and reliability; it also offers flexibility and customization. The system can be configured with a choice of 1GB, 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB RAM and 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB eMMC storage. This allows users to tailor the system to their exact needs. Additionally, the CM4 Nano offers optional 2.4/5.8G dual-band WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities, further enhancing its versatility.

Data storage is another critical aspect of industrial applications. The CM4 Nano supports large data storage capacity through its eMMC and SD card capabilities. This feature, coupled with the system’s configurable specifications, makes the CM4 Nano an excellent choice for data-intensive applications.

The CM4 Nano also includes an alarm buzzer and a battery-powered real-time clock, features that can be extremely useful in various industrial settings. Moreover, it supports a Gigabit Ethernet port with Power over Ethernet (PoE) function, allowing for simplified wiring and increased flexibility.

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In terms of compatibility, the CM4 Nano is designed to work seamlessly with the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B’s CSI and DSI interfaces. It also supports the official Raspberry Pi PoE HAT, Raspberry Pi official 8M and 12M Pixel HQ cameras, and Raspberry Pi official 7″ touch display. These features make the CM4 Nano a versatile and adaptable solution for a range of applications.

Industrial SBC

The CM4 Nano is not just about performance and compatibility; it also focuses on convenience and ease of use. It provides multiple USB interfaces, including two USB 3.0 channels and one USB 2.0 channel, which can be used for system image updates. The system supports 8V~18V DC power input and provides 5V@2A and [email protected] output power, supporting high-power expansion modules.

The design of the CM4 Nano is also worth noting. With dimensions of 95 × 58mm and a heatsink measuring 103*62mm*5mm, the system is slightly larger than the Pi4 Model B. However, this size allows for excellent cooling performance, ensuring that the system can operate reliably even in high-temperature environments. The CM4 Nano can function at ambient temperatures ranging from -25 to 60°C, further highlighting its suitability for industrial applications.

Finally, the CM4 Nano offers convenient installation options, including DIN rail mounting. It also has four M2.5 screw holes at the bottom of the case for easy installation on other equipment.

The CM4 Nano is a powerful, flexible, and robust solution for industrial applications. With its advanced features, configurable specifications, and robust design, it offers a ruggedised alternative to the Raspberry Pi 4, making it an excellent choice for a variety of industrial settings.

Source : EDATEC

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