What is SBC (Single Board Computer)?
A Single-Board Computer (SBC) is a complete computer built on one small circuit board. It has everything it needs to work, like the processor, memory, and connections for other devices.
You’ll often see SBCs used in projects, schools, or as controllers in other machines. Unlike regular desktop computers, SBCs don’t need extra slots to add new parts; everything is included on the board.
Some popular examples are the Raspberry Pi and BeagleBoard, and they can use different types of processors, like affordable ARM chips.
What is Industrial SBC (Single Board Computer)?
Industrial Single Board Computers (SBCs), like the Raspberry Pi and Arduino, are made to work in tough conditions, and they’re changing how industries automate their processes.
These SBCs come with software that follows important standards, helping to create smart solutions for factories, environmental monitoring, and even smart homes.
You can find them in machine controllers, industrial PCs (IPCs), and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) gateways. One great thing about Industrial SBCs is that their open hardware and software make it easy for developers to customize them.
They support popular programming languages like Java, Python, and C, giving you a lot of choices.
Plus, many of these devices have strong security features to keep your data safe while it travels to cloud systems or other platforms like enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.
Also read, Why Raspberry Pi Dominates the Industrial SBC Market
Main differences Between SBCs and Industrial SBCs
The differences between Single Board Computers (SBCs) and Industrial Single Board Computers (Industrial SBCs) are quite interesting! General SBCs, like the Raspberry Pi, are great for everyday projects and hobbies, but they might not work well in tough conditions.
In contrast, Industrial SBCs are specially designed to handle harsh environments, making them perfect for industrial use.
They come with software that follows important standards for automation and control. You’ll often find them in machine controllers, industrial PCs (IPCs), and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) gateways.
Industrial SBCs also allow for easy customization and have stronger security features to keep sensitive data safe when it’s sent to cloud systems or enterprise resource planning (ERP) platforms.
So, if you need something that can handle the demands of an industrial setting, Industrial SBCs are definitely the way to go!
Also know The Role of Raspberry Pi Technology in Yodeck’s Success Story.
List of Top 6 Raspberry Pi Industrial SBCs
Compute Module 4
The Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 is a compact version of the Pi 4, perfect for embedded applications like industrial automation and consumer electronics. It features a 1.5GHz quad-core processor, dual 4K display support, up to 8GB RAM, Gigabit Ethernet, USB 2.0, and optional eMMC storage (8GB, 16GB, or 32GB). It also offers optional dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0, with modular compliance certification for easier product integration and reduced testing costs, making it an ideal choice for embedded systems.
Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | Broadcom BCM2711 quad-core Cortex-A72 (ARM v8) 64-bit SoC @ 1.5GHz |
| Memory | 1GB, 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB LPDDR4 (depending on variant) |
| Storage | 0GB (Lite), 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB eMMC Flash (depending on variant) |
| Connectivity | Optional wireless LAN, 2.4GHz and 5.0GHz IEEE 802.11b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 5.0, BLE, onboard and external antenna options |
| Ethernet | Onboard Gigabit Ethernet PHY supporting IEEE1588 |
| USB Interface | 1 × USB 2.0 interface |
| PCIe Interface | PCIe Gen 2 x1 interface |
| GPIO | 28 GPIO signals |
| SD Card Interface | SD card interface (for variants without eMMC) |
| Video | Dual HDMI interface (supports up to 4Kp60) |
| Display Interface | 2-lane MIPI DSI, 4-lane MIPI DSI |
| Camera Interface | 2-lane MIPI CSI, 4-lane MIPI CSI |
| Multimedia | H.265 (4Kp60 decode), H.264 (1080p60 decode, 1080p30 encode), OpenGL ES 3.0 graphics |
| Input Power | 5V DC |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to 85°C ambient |
| Dimensions | 55 × 40 × 4.7 mm |
Document: Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 datasheet - DOWNLOAD
Compute Module 4 IO Board
The Compute Module 4 IO Board extends the features of the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 (CM4). It helps you easily connect to different components like HATs, PCIe, NVMe, SATA, and USB, making it great for quickly building and testing projects. If you’re developing or integrating the CM4 into a final product, this board makes everything easier.
Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| CM4 Socket | Compatible with all Compute Module 4 variants |
| Raspberry Pi HAT Connectors | Standard connectors with PoE support |
| PCIe Interface | PCIe Gen 2 x1 socket |
| Real-Time Clock (RTC) | Includes battery backup |
| HDMI | Dual HDMI connectors |
| MIPI Camera Connectors | Dual MIPI camera connectors |
| MIPI Display Connectors | Dual MIPI display connectors |
| Ethernet | Gigabit Ethernet socket with PoE HAT support |
| USB | On-board USB 2.0 hub with 2 USB 2.0 connectors |
| SD Card Socket | Available for CM4 variants without eMMC |
| eMMC Programming | Supports programming for eMMC variants of CM4 |
| Fan Controller | PWM fan controller with tachometer feedback |
| Input Voltage | 12 VDC |
| Dimensions | 160 mm (Length) x 90 mm (Width) |
| Item Type | Development Board |
| Model Type | CM4 |
Document: Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 IO Board Datasheet - DOWNLOAD
Compute Module 4 Antenna Kit
The Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 Antenna Kit is made for use with the Compute Module 4, providing strong wireless performance for embedded projects. It works in two frequency ranges: 2400MHz to 2500MHz and 5100MHz to 5800MHz, with vertical signal direction and coverage in all directions. The antenna is small (108mm x 10mm) and has an SMA (female) connector with an easy screw installation. It offers 2dBi gain, 50Ω impedance, and can handle up to 10W of power. Built to last, it works in temperatures from -35°C to +75°C.
Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | 2400-2500 / 5100-5800 MHz |
| Bandwidth | 100–700 MHz |
| VSWR | ≤ 2.0 |
| Gain | 2 dBi |
| Impedance | 50 ohm |
| Polarization | Vertical |
| Radiation | Omnidirectional |
| Maximum Power | 10W |
| Antenna Dimensions | 108 mm × 10 mm |
Document: Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 Antenna Kit product brief - DOWNLOAD
Compute Module 4S
The Compute Module 4S is built on the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B and is made for industrial users moving from the Compute Module 3 or 3+. It keeps the SODIMM shape, allowing for more memory while still working with older systems. This System on Module (SoM) includes the processor, memory, eMMC Flash, and power components, making it easy for designers to use Raspberry Pi technology in their own projects. It also has extra GPIO pins for more design options. For budget-friendly projects, there's a version called the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 SODIMM Lite (CM4SLite) that doesn’t include eMMC. The CM4S is compatible with the previous Compute Module 3 and 3+ models.
Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | Broadcom BCM2711 quad-core Cortex-A72 (ARM v8) 64-bit SoC @ 1.5GHz |
| Memory | 1GB, 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB LPDDR4 (depending on variant) |
| Storage | 0GB (Lite), 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB eMMC Flash (depending on variant) |
| Connectivity | 1 × USB 2.0 interface, 46 GPIO signals |
| SD Card Interface | For variants without eMMC |
| Video | 1 × HDMI interface (up to 4Kp60 supported) |
| Display Interface | 2-lane MIPI DSI display interface, 4-lane MIPI DSI display interface |
| Camera Interface | 2-lane MIPI CSI camera interface, 4-lane MIPI CSI camera interface |
| Multimedia | H.265 (4Kp60 decode); H.264 (1080p60 decode, 1080p30 encode); OpenGL ES 3.0 graphics |
| Input Power | 2.5~5V / 3.3V DC |
| Operating Voltage | -20°C to 85°C ambient |
| Dimensions | 67.6 mm × 31 mm |
Document: Compute Module 4S datasheet - DOWNLOAD
Compute Module 3+ Development Kit
The Compute Module 3+ Development Kit is a full platform for the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 3+. It provides all the ports needed for engineers to design and test their prototype applications. This kit makes development easier by letting users focus on their own I/O board and application software instead of dealing with the BCM2837B0 processor directly. This helps speed up the development process. The kit also includes a Camera Display Adaptor, which makes it simple to connect standard Raspberry Pi camera boards or displays to the Compute Module I/O Board.
Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | Broadcom BCM2837B0 Cortex-A53 64-bit @ 1.2GHz |
| Memory | 1GB LPDDR2 SDRAM |
| Storage | 32GB eMMC flash memory on-board |
| Camera Ports | 2 x CSI ports for camera boards |
| Display Ports | 2 x DSI ports for display boards |
| HDMI Port | Full size HDMI port |
| Power Connector | Micro USB power connector |
| Included Accessories | Raspberry Pi Compute Module I/O Board Camera Display Adaptor |
Document: Compute Module 3+ Development Kit Datasheet
Read this Industrial Raspberry Pi Case study - How Raspberry Pi Powers Yoto Player.
Compute Module 1/3/3+ IO Board
The Compute Module 1/3/3+ IO Board is a development kit that lets you use Raspberry Pi technology in a flexible way, especially for industrial uses. It works with Compute Module 1, 3, and 3+ (also called the Compute Module IO Board V3) and includes the BCM2837 processor and 1GB of RAM. This open-source board has 120 GPIO pins, an HDMI port, a USB port, and two ports each for cameras and displays. It makes it easy to design custom systems since all the complex parts are included in the Module, so you can easily add and arrange other components as needed. You can buy the Compute Modules individually or in larger quantities.
Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Compatibility | Compute Module 1, 3, and 3+ |
| Processor | BCM2837 (Raspberry Pi 3) |
| Memory | 1GB RAM |
| GPIO Pins | 120 GPIO pins |
| HDMI Port | Yes (HDMI® port) |
| USB Port | Yes (1 USB port) |
| Camera Ports | 2 x Camera ports |
| Display Ports | 2 x Display ports |
| Board Type | Open-source breakout board |
| Application | Intended for industrial applications |
Document: Compute Module 1/3/3+ IO Board - DOWNLOAD
These are the best models for using in factory automations. In India Raspberry Pi partners with Robocraze for Industrial SBC products and services.
Click here to know how Robocraze can help you in Industry automation with prototyping assistance & best prices.
Conclusion:
Raspberry Pi industrial SBCs are really changing the game for many uses, from factories to smart homes. They are small but powerful, making them great for tough jobs. With options like the Compute Module 4 and its IO Board, developers can easily create solutions that fit their needs. As more industries start using smart technology, these Raspberry Pi boards will help make things run smoother and smarter. It's a great time for technology, and these tools are leading the way to new ideas and better systems!
