Single-Board Computers and Dev Kits

Computer, microcontroller or AI module: pick the job first

Three kinds of board share this section. A single-board computer runs a full operating system such as Linux, with HDMI, USB and networking, and suits servers, media players and desktop-style projects. A microcontroller board, built around a chip like an Arm Cortex-M, runs one program with precise timing and tiny memory, which suits sensors, motors and learning kits. AI and robotics modules in the Jetson class add a powerful Arm processor with a GPU for vision and machine-learning work.

Memory is fixed on almost all of these boards, so choose the size for the job: 1 or 2 GB is enough for a headless Linux task, 4 to 8 GB suits desktop use and containers, and the largest kits carry far more for AI workloads. Look at the processor line too, since an older Cortex-A53 board and one with newer A-class cores differ widely in speed. Many of these boards are sold bare, so the title or box contents tell you what is actually supplied.

Power, storage and the accessories a bare board lacks

Check what the board needs to start: a power supply of the stated voltage and current through the right connector, usually USB-C or a barrel plug, and a microSD card, eMMC module or NVMe drive holding the operating system. Cases and heatsinks are made for one board model, as are some HATs, so read the model name in the title, because a layout change between generations can stop a case fitting. M.2 HATs and base boards add NVMe storage on boards that expose PCIe, and GPIO accessories must match the board's logic voltage, commonly 3.3 V or 5 V.

Questions about Single-Board Computers and Dev Kits

Which do I need, a single-board computer or a microcontroller?

Choose a single-board computer for anything that needs a full operating system, networking or a display. Choose a microcontroller board for simple, real-time control of sensors and motors with minimal power use. Many projects pair the two.

Does a development board come with a power supply?

Often not. Many boards are sold bare, and the listing's box contents show what is included. Check the voltage, current and connector it needs, and whether you also require a storage card, cable or case before you start.

Can I add faster storage to a small board?

On boards that expose a PCIe connection, an M.2 HAT or base board lets you fit an NVMe drive, which beats a microSD card for speed and endurance. Boards without PCIe are limited to SD, eMMC or USB storage.