Pineberry Pi Introduces Five New HAT+ Boards for Raspberry Pi 5

Pineberry Pi has expanded its lineup with five new HAT+ boards for the Raspberry Pi 5, leveraging the device’s PCIe FPC connector for a range of functionalities including enhanced networking capabilities and storage expansion. These new offerings build on the company’s initial launch, bringing more versatility to Raspberry Pi 5 users.

• HatNET! 2.5G: Offers 2.5GbE connectivity using a Realtek RTL8125BG controller, and features a dedicated MAC address range with an RJ45 jack that has Activity and Link LEDs.
• HatDrive! NET 1G: Combines Gigabit Ethernet (Realtek RTL8111H) with an M.2 M-Key socket for NVMe 2230 or 2242 SSDs, through an ASMedia PCIe switch. Booting from SSD is currently unsupported.
• HatDrive! AI: Provides two M.2 PCIe sockets, an M-Key for 2230 or 2242 NVMe SSDs, and an M.2 E-Key for AI modules like the Google Coral Edge TPU, via an ASMedia PCIe Switch.
• HatDrive! Dual: Similar to the AI model but with two M.2 M-Key PCIe sockets for NVMe SSDs, supporting RAID-1 for data redundancy.
• HatBRICK! Commander: Adds two PCIe FPC connectors to the Raspberry Pi 5 via an ASMedia PCIe switch, allowing daisy-chaining of multiple PCIe HAT+ boards. Includes a 5V DC input for additional power if needed.

Additionally, Pineberry Pi has updated the design of its original HatDrive! TM1 HAT+ to the new TM1S version, which features an opening for easier access to the MIPI CSI/DSI connectors and a custom CNC machined metal bracket for easier SSD installation.

The HAT+ boards are available for purchase on Pineberry Pi’s online store, with prices ranging from €16.99 to €45.99. Some boards are available for pre-order and are expected to start shipping around March 20.

Source: CNX Software – Embedded Systems News.