A Beginners Guide To The Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4

Introduction

Let's talk about the Raspberry Pi compute module 4. This little straight-shootin' rectangle is the smallest, most powerful entry into the RPCU (Raspberry Pi Computer Universe). But what's it all about? Who's it for? How do you use it? How much is it?  Truth be told, it's probably NOT for you. With no visible ports or connectors, this Pi ain't for entry level users.  Who's it intended for, then?

What Is A Compute Module 4?

The compute module 4 is super tiny and super powerful, but compared to the other Pi's in the product line, it's not as intuitive to use or as cheap. Then the question is, how DO you use it and who is it even for?

Most of you may be more familiar with this Pi, the flagship model B series. It's got connections for a monitor, ethernet, mouse, keyboard, wifi, sd storage, camera…everything you need to run this as a tiny computer.

The problem is, the Raspberry Pi 4 can do SO MUCH more than the tiny board allows it to. It's got a lot more to offer, but it would need a lot more space…a lot more room to grow. So the Pi foundation thought it would be a good idea to just get rid of the form factor all together and just put out a chip with the raw power! And boom...you got yourself a Compute Module 4. Alright…so how do you get started with this thing?

How Much Is It?

 
Depending on how much storage and how much memory you want, they can range from $20 for the lowest end to $90 on the highest end, making it the most expensive Pi module at the time of this video.

Once you finally get your hands on one, you'll find that the Compute Module can only be used with specially designed carrier boards. So that's another $35 on top of the cost of the Compute Module, but there's starting to be several other custom boards popping up throughout web, with one of the cheapest being this one for around $15 (but it really limits what the Compute Module can do).

What Does It Require?

Who Is It For?

How Do You Use It?

Where to learn more