Introducing the CM5 MINIMA R3: A Compact, Open-Source Powerhouse for Raspberry Pi CM5
Introducing CM5 MINIMA R3, a compact and versatile carrier board built around the latest Raspberry Pi Compute Module (CM5) and designed for developers, makers and professionals.
Introducing CM5 MINIMA R3, a compact and versatile carrier board built around the latest Raspberry Pi Compute Module (CM5). Designed for developers, makers, and professionals, CM5 MINIMA R3 brings the power of Raspberry Pi – computing into a miniaturized, open-source platform that fuels innovation across various embedded applications – from edge AI and IoT devices to robotics, machine version, and more.
- Compact but Powerful: Most carrier boards are at least as large as the Raspberry Pi 5, but the CM5 MINIMA is far smaller at 61 × 61 mm—exactly the same size as the Compute Module 5 itself.
- Power & Connectivity: USB-C Power Delivery (PD) for efficient power, plus USB 2.0 for peripherals and Gigabit Ethernet for high-speed wired networking with a low-profile cutout magjack.
- Display & Expansion: HDMI port for video output, and M.2 M Key slot supporting 2242 Hailo accelerators or SSDs.
- Vision & Sensing: CSI/DSI connector for cameras/displays, paired with LIS3DH accelerometer for auto camera orientation; I2C/SPI for sensor/device communication.
- Practical Features: Fan connector for cooling, status LEDs for system monitoring, nRPI boot switch for on-board OS flashing.
Compared with the previous version, it comes with several improvements based on community feedback and practical application:
- Native Support for 2242 M.2 cards, making it easy to include a Hailo module for machine vision applications.
- Fixed I2C Bus Issue: Resolved conflicts between peripherals and MIPI-dedicated I2C, now allowing seamless sensor integration (e.g., cameras, environmental sensors).
- Added LIS3DH accelerometer: Enables automatic camera orientation for dynamic applications.
The Story Behind CM5 MINIMA
The CM5 MINIMA was born from the passion of a maker Pierluigi Colangeli who wanted to master high-speed board design and create a truly minimal, practical carrier board for Raspberry Pi CM5. Originating as a personal project for a compact media player, it quickly evolved into an open-source, community-supported design emphasizing manufacturability, streamlined features, and modular expandability.
Using the KiCAD EDA software, the designer prioritized simplicity without sacrificing essential connectivity, introducing PCIe and camera interfaces successfully guided by valuable community feedback. The project not only earned OSHWA certification but also aligned with Raspberry Pi’s vision through the “Powered by Raspberry Pi” program.
Brought to Market by Seeed Co-create Services
Taking CM5 MINIMA from prototype to production was made possible through Seeed Studio’s Co-create Services. Leveraging Seeed’s expertise in hardware manufacturing, supply chain management, and branding, the project seamlessly transitioned into a global product offering.
Through our collaboration with Pierluigi Colangeli, we provided essential support in the following areas:
- Production Support: Seeed provided assistance in manufacturing, including sourcing the best suppliers for PCBA, structure, and casing, ensuring high-quality production while lowering costs.
- Prototype Testing: Seeed engineers conducted comprehensive testing on the CM5 MINIMA R3 prototype to ensure all functions met quality standards.
- Product Launch: Seeed offered a robust sales and promotional platform, leveraging its influence to increase product visibility and reach a broader audience.
The CM5 MINIMA R3 is now available for pre-order at Seeed Studio for $65.
Pre-order Now: CM5 MINIMA – Compact Carrier Board for Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5, M.2 Hailo AI/SSD, CSI/DSI，Gigabit Ethernet, HDMI, USB-C PD
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