Quoting tom r lopes (tomrlopes@gmail.com):
> I'll be there.
>
> Just picked up a new single board computer NanoPi M4,
> which is like a jacked up Pi 3.
> [image: IMG_20190203_182122.jpg]
> [image: IMG_20190202_154709.jpg]
Looks like a winner at least as to RAM _relative to_ any of the RPi SoCs.
https://www.friendlyarm.com/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=234
2GB RAM model $65
4GB RAM model $95
(Doesn't include optional heat sink, or case, or 12V/5A power adapter.
The heat sink would be highly recommended.)
And the other win is the pair of PCIe sockets, such that you can
potentially use real mass storage, e.g., SATA-connected SSDs or hard
drives. _Or_ you can follow the path of least resistance and buy either
a micro SD card or an eMMC flash module.
As to the ARM-family CPU: I see mention of Cortex-A72 and Cortex-A53,
inside a Rockchip RK3399 SoC (System on Chip).
http://rockchip.wikidot.com/rk3399
Comparative review:
https://www.cnx-software.com/2018/08/27/rockpro64-rk3399-board-linux-review-ubuntu-18-04/
One thing to bear in mind is that _all_ ARM systems so far are
special-snowflake hardware, in the sense that, e.g., every single ARM
system requires a special kernel constructed using out-of-tree
patchsets. Standard kernel.org code doesn't run on them.
--
Cheers, "I am a member of a civilization (IAAMOAC). Step back
Rick Moen from anger. Study how awful our ancestors had it, yet
rick@linuxmafia.com they struggled to get you here. Repay them by appreciating
McQ! (4x80) the civilization you inherited." -- David Brin
The PCI-e is on the 24 pin header. I don't see any info yet on how to interface with that.
But the manufacturer has made a prototype SATA hat that connects to that header.
I am wondering if you could just solder a nvme to those pins instead. Though that SATA
hat would maybe make this into a small NAS.
Another issue is that it is powered via the USB-C port but it is not compliant (i.e. it does not
communicate power requirements to the usb c power supply.)
Thomas