The NanoPi R3S: A Powerful and Affordable SBC and Router

The NanoPi R3S is a compact and cost-effective Single Board Computer (SBC) and router powered by the Rockchip RK3566 processor. Designed with affordability and versatility in mind, this device caters to a wide range of applications, from IoT projects to simple NAS solutions.

Impressive Specs for its Class

The NanoPi R3S boasts impressive specs for its price point:

• Processor: Rockchip RK3566 Quad-core Cortex-A55 @ 2.0 GHz

• GPU: Arm Mali-G52 MP2

• NPU: 0.8 TOPS AI accelerator

• VPU:

  • 4Kp60 H.265/H.264/VP9 video decoder

  • 1080p60 H.264/H.265 video encoder

• Memory: 2GB LPDDR4X

• Storage:

  • Optional 32GB eMMC flash

  • microSD card slot

• Display Interface: MIPI DSI 30-pin connector (Display documentation and compatibility are not yet available)

• Networking: 2x gigabit Ethernet RJ45 ports

  • WAN via Realtek RTL8111H PCIe to GbE controller (up to 934 Mbps Tx & 936 Mbps Rx)

  • LAN via Realtek RTL8211E (up to 934 Mbps Tx & 941 Mbps Rx)

• USB:

  • 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A port

  • 1x USB-C port for power and data

• Debugging: 3-pin UART header (baudrate 1.5 Mbps)

• Other:

  • Mask button for eMMC flash update

  • User button

  • 2-pin connector for RTC

  • 3x user LEDs for SYS, LAN, WAN

• Power: 5V via USB Type-C port

• Dimensions: PCB: 57 x 57 mm; enclosure: 61.5 x 61.5 x 25 mm

• Weight: 30 grams (without enclosure), 144 grams (with metal enclosure)

• Operating Temperature Range: 0 to 80°C

Compact and Cost-Effective Design

The NanoPi R3S features a compact design, resembling the NanoPi R5C, which is a dual 2.5GbE SBC and router. The key difference lies in the additional features offered by the R5C, such as an M.2 socket for WiFi & Bluetooth, an extra USB 3.0 port, and HDMI video output. The R3S stands as a more budget-friendly alternative with dual GbE, one USB 3.0 port, and no M.2 socket.

Optimized Performance and Cooling

The NanoPi R3S is built around the Rockchip RK3566 processor, which provides a significant performance boost compared to its predecessor, the RK3328-based NanoPi R2S. With its efficient design, the R3S generates less heat compared to the R2S, especially when used in a metal enclosure.

Extensive Operating System Options

FriendlyELEC offers a diverse range of operating systems for the NanoPi R3S, including:

• Ubuntu Noble 24.04 Core

• Debian 12 Core

• OpenMediaVault 6.1

• FriendlyWrt (a fork of OpenWrt 21.02 or 23.05)

All these operating systems are based on Linux 6.1.x and u-boot v2017.09. You can flash the OS to the eMMC via a microSD card or USB-C cable using the eFlasher utility or boot directly from the microSD card. Documentation and OS images are available on the wiki.

Comparison with the NanoPi R2S

The NanoPi R3S can be considered an upgrade from the NanoPi R2S, offering improved performance, additional features like a USB 3.0 Type-A port and MIPI DSI, and a lower operating temperature.

Affordable Pricing

The NanoPi R3S is available for as low as $30 without eMMC flash or $35 with 32GB eMMC. A metal enclosure can be purchased separately for $5, bringing the total cost for a complete kit with 32GB eMMC and metal enclosure to around $40 plus shipping.

Conclusion

The NanoPi R3S is a compelling choice for anyone seeking a compact, cost-effective, and powerful SBC and router. With extensive operating system support and the ability to run a variety of applications, the NanoPi R3S delivers exceptional flexibility and value.

Source: emka.web.id