Adafruit and timonsku Team Up to Revolutionize Camera Carrier Boards for Raspberry Pi CM4 and CM5

In a move to address the growing demand for advanced hardware solutions, Adafruit has partnered with the mysterious but talented maker known as “timonsku.” Together, they aim to redesign a camera carrier board for the Raspberry Pi CM4 and CM5, targeting a solution for a vital component that had seemingly reached its end-of-life.

The Problem and the Solution

According to Adafruit’s Phillip Torrone, the company previously sold a PiCam Module that fitted onto Raspberry Pi CM4 and CM5. However, recently contacting the vendor, Adafruit noticed a lack of response over several months, suggesting the module might be discontinued.

Seeing this as an opportunity to innovate, Adafruit took action and assigned the task to timonsku, with a brief as straightforward as inspiring: “Make the best thing ya can.” The result was a board packed with advanced features and designed to cater to a variety of needs.

Features of the New Carrier Board

Designed to integrate seamlessly with the Raspberry Pi CM4 or CM5, this new board aims to transform the computer-on-module into a pseudo-single board computer. At its base, it accepts the module itself, while at the top, it provides a connection for Raspberry Pi Camera Module or a compatible MIPI Camera Serial Interface (CSI) sensor.

However, the simplicity ends there. Unlike its predecessor, the rapid advancements in technology have allowed timonsku to incorporate a variety of new features. The board includes a USB Type-A connection with USB 3.0 Host support compatible with the Compute Module 5, offering enhanced data transfer capabilities. For even more versatile multimedia output, it features a micro-HDMI port that supports video and audio.

Storage isn’t neglected either; the new board comes equipped with a microSD Card slot, making it possible to add an external storage solution for Raspberry Pi CM Lite variants. This addition enables users to store operating systems, applications, and data directly on the board without the need for additional components.

For those requiring a dual display setup, the board includes a second MIPI DSI connector, allowing for two separate display outputs. Furthermore, Adafruit has included a fan connector, facilitating cooling and perfect for projects that demand optimal thermal management.

External hardware integration is simplified with a STEMMA QT/Qwiic connector, a standard interface designed for easy electrical connections. For those looking to enhance the functionality of their Raspberry Pi with real-time capabilities, a battery slot for a real-time clock (RTC) is also integrated into the design.

Extras and Future Additions

Phillip Torrone adds that there is a single shutdown button present for the Compute Module 5 model, with two GPIO (General-Purpose Input/Output) buttons and one LED light for the CM4 version. Looking to the future, timonsku plans to add an EYESPI connector to allow for easier access to I2C, SPI, and PWM outputs.

Pricing and Release

Though the exact pricing and launch date have yet to be finalized, Torrone has confirmed that Adafruit is aiming for a price point under $30. This target, combined with the exceptional functionality of the board, suggests that the device will offer significant value to the Raspberry Pi community.

At the time of writing, Adafruit hadn’t yet announced an official launch schedule or more precise associated details, but given the quality and features of the design, the industry awaits its arrival eagerly.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Adafruit and timonsku brings innovation to the Raspberry Pi community with a camera carrier board designed for the CM4 and CM5. Boasting a rich set of features and targeting a favorable price point, this product not only addresses the current gap in compatible hardware solutions but also sets a precedent for future advancements.

The upcoming release of this board will certainly satisfy the needs of Raspberry Pi enthusiasts and professionals alike, offering substantial upgrade potential for various projects.

Stay tuned for more updates and officially launch details regarding this exciting new addition to the Raspberry Pi lineup. We anticipate that it will add significant functionality and value to the Raspberry Pi ecosystem.

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