Raspberry Pi hits a high note with the ‘mini' Compute Module

The Raspberry Pi Foundation has unveiled a new module, in which the Raspberry Pi’s BCM2835 processor and 512 MB of RAM, coupled with 4 GB of storage, are integrated onto a board that fits into the space of a tiny DDR2 memory stick. Pi's new Compute Module will allow circuit board developers to attach desirable interfaces into the small standard connector of the module.

The Compute Module bids adieu to the age-old tradition of using the built-in ports on a conventional Pi design. The module will come along with a starter IO board and is expected to be launched sometime during June this year. There's still no word about the pricing; however, folks back at Raspberry Pi have revealed that large scale buyers like educators can buy the module in batches of 100 at a price of around US$ 30 per piece. from Dell on sales of devices that are powered by Google's Android or Chrome software. Microsoft believes that Android can conflict with its patents, and this deal will work to protect its interests. The company has already signed similar deals with other big players like Samsung.

Acknowledging the fierce competition, Microsoft has secured itself against Google's open source platforms by asking the device makers to pay their Microsoft licence fee. Most mobile phone makers like Samsung, LG and HTC have agreed to pay royalties to the Windows maker.