Upgrade Your Jetson Nano with RK3588 AI Module7 – More Power, More RAM

The RK3588 AI Module7 is an advanced system-on-module (SoM) designed for high-performance AI, machine learning, and edge computing applications. Built around the Rockchip RK3588, this module offers an upgrade for developers seeking an alternative to the NVIDIA Jetson Nano.

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Watch Ian talk about the RK3588 AI Module7 in this episode of The Electromaker Show

Designed in the same form factor as Jetson Nano modules, the RK3588 AI Module7 slots into existing Jetson carrier boards, enabling a seamless upgrade path. Whether you’re working on AI-powered automation, computer vision, or industrial robotics, this module delivers significantly more power without being locked into NVIDIA’s software ecosystem.

As a pre-launch project on Crowd Supply, interested users can subscribe for updates on pricing and availability.

Key Features and Performance

  • Rockchip RK3588 SoC – Octa-core ARM Cortex-A76 & Cortex-A55 CPU with clock speeds up to 2.4 GHz.
  • 6 TOPS NPU – Optimized for deep learning inference and AI acceleration.
  • Up to 32GB LPDDR4X RAM – Handles high-performance workloads like real-time AI inference.
  • AI & Video Capabilities – Supports 8K@60fps decoding and 8K@30fps encoding, making it ideal for computer vision and edge AI.
  • OS Support – Runs Ubuntu, Debian, Android, and other Linux-based distributions.

Unlike NVIDIA’s Jetson line, this module does not include JetPack, providing a more open-source-friendly development environment with greater flexibility.

RK3588 AI Module

How It Compares to Jetson Nano & Orin Nano

The RK3588 AI Module7 is designed as a drop-in replacement for Jetson Nano users looking for more power. Here’s how it stacks up:

  • Form-Factor Compatibility – Fits NVIDIA Jetson Nano carrier boards, allowing seamless hardware upgrades.
  • More RAM & Processing Power – Outperforms Jetson Orin Nano with better CPU, RAM, and NPU performance.
  • More OS Flexibility – Runs standard Linux distributions without requiring NVIDIA’s JetPack ecosystem.
  • Expanded I/O & Connectivity – Supports PCIe 3.0, M.2 SSDs, USB 3.0, DisplayPort, and HDMI.

For developers looking for a high-performance AI module without being locked into NVIDIA’s ecosystem, the RK3588 AI Module7 is a compelling choice.

Who Should Consider the RK3588 AI Module7?

  • AI Developers & Machine Learning Engineers – Ideal for deep learning inference, neural network training, and AI-driven applications.
  • Embedded Systems Engineers – A powerful alternative for robotics, industrial automation, and IoT applications.
  • Edge Computing Solutions – Handles real-time video analytics, AI-powered surveillance, and smart security systems.
  • DIY Makers & Developers – If you have an existing Jetson Nano carrier board, this module offers a major performance upgrade.

The AIM-IO Carrier Board – Expanding Capabilities

For users without a Jetson Nano baseboard, ArmSoM offers the AIM-IO carrier board, designed to expand the module’s connectivity. Features include:

  • Multiple USB 3.0 ports for high-speed peripheral connections.
  • M.2 slot for NVMe SSDs to enable high-speed storage solutions.
  • Dual HDMI + DisplayPort output for multi-display setups.
  • Gigabit Ethernet for high-bandwidth networking.

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