What Is Compute Module 3?
Compute Module 3 (CM3) is a small form-factor computer-on-module (COM) that encapsulates the core capabilities of a Raspberry Pi 3 in a DDR2 SODIMM-shaped board. Unlike traditional single-board computers (SBCs), CM3 is meant to be integrated into custom carrier boards, giving developers more flexibility in designing hardware tailored for specific use cases.
Key Features of CM3:
- Broadcom BCM2837 SoC – Quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 processor @ 1.2GHz
- 1GB LPDDR2 SDRAM
- eMMC storage options (Lite or 4GB/8GB)
- 200-pin SODIMM edge connector
- GPIO, SPI, I2C, UART, HDMI, and camera interfaces available
- Long-term availability for industrial applications
The CM3 design is ideal for companies looking to scale embedded designs into mass production while maintaining low cost and high flexibility.
Why Compute Module 3 for Embedded Projects?
Compute Module 3 is widely used in:
- Smart home hubs and control panels
- Industrial automation systems
- Smart retail kiosks
- Portable medical devices
- Edge computing gateways
It allows developers to:
- Design custom I/O configurations
- Optimize space in embedded enclosures
- Control component selection and layout
- Increase reliability in critical deployments
Introducing PortPi CM3 – A CM3-Based Solution from Portworld
While Raspberry Pi’s CM3 is powerful, many businesses and industrial users require enhanced reliability, long-term supply, and local support. That’s where PortPi CM3 by Portworld comes in.
What Is PortPi CM3?
PortPi CM3 is Portworld’s customized embedded computing module, fully compatible with CM3 architecture but enhanced for industrial applications, customized hardware integration, and smart control systems. It is designed to work with Portworld’s full range of carrier boards and smart touch panels, making it ideal for OEM/ODM projects.
Key Advantages of PortPi CM3
| Feature | PortPi CM3 |
|---|---|
| ✅ Hardware Compatibility | Compatible with CM3 pinouts and Raspberry Pi ecosystem |
| ✅ Reliable eMMC Storage | Industrial-grade storage options (8GB–32GB) |
| ✅ Long-Term Supply | Ideal for commercial and industrial product lifecycles |
| ✅ Full Customization | Custom PCBA, I/O mapping, and mechanical integration |
| ✅ OS Support | Supports Linux (Debian/Ubuntu), Android, and Buildroot |
| ✅ Seamless Panel Integration | Works with Portworld 4-inch, 5-inch, and 7-inch smart touch screens |
Real-World Applications of PortPi CM3
1. Smart Home Touch Panels
PortPi CM3 is the core processing unit in Portworld’s compact 4” and 5” smart home control panels, providing fast UI rendering, stable system response, and seamless control over lighting, climate, and security devices.
2. Industrial Control Interfaces
Integrated into HMI terminals, PortPi CM3 offers robust control, monitoring, and edge processing capability, even in high-interference industrial environments.
3. Retail Self-Service Terminals
Compact and cost-efficient, PortPi CM3 powers kiosk screens and interactive retail devices, handling barcode scanning, payment interfaces, and real-time product management.
4. Custom Embedded Systems
PortPi CM3 is used in vertical solutions including smart agriculture, logistics, energy monitoring, and automation, especially when unique hardware and long-term software support are critical.
Portworld’s Value-Added Support for PortPi CM3
- OEM/ODM PCBA Services: Portworld supports fully customized module and carrier board development based on CM3 architecture.
- Global Export & CKD/SKD Support: Benefit from localized assembly options, reducing tariffs and import costs.
- Engineering Team Assistance: Firmware, BSP, and SDK support in Linux/Android; C, Python, Java development environments.
- Rapid Prototyping and Mass Production: PortPi CM3 can go from prototype to production quickly, backed by Portworld’s 18+ years of experience.
The Compute Module 3 form factor has opened up powerful embedded computing to a wide range of industries. With PortPi CM3, Portworld delivers a commercial-grade, customizable solution that builds on the CM3 platform and brings it to the next level of industrial readiness and productization.
If you’re looking for a reliable, scalable embedded compute solution compatible with CM3 but backed by real industrial support, PortPi CM3 from Portworld is your ideal platform.
