The Odroid-XU4: A Versatile and Powerful SBC

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If you’re looking for a powerful single-board computer that can handle a wide range of applications, the Odroid-XU4 is worth considering. This compact device has features and offers excellent performance, making it a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts, hobbyists, and developers.

At the heart of the Odroid-XU4 is a Samsung Exynos5422 octa-core processor, which provides plenty of power for demanding applications. This processor is complemented by 2GB of DDR3 RAM, which ensures smooth multitasking and fast data processing. The device also features a Mali-T628 MP6 graphics processing unit, which delivers excellent graphics performance and can easily handle 4K video playback.

Odroid-XU4 Single Board Controller
Odroid-XU4 Image source

In terms of connectivity, the Odroid-XU4 has plenty of options. It features Gigabit Ethernet, two USB 3.0 ports, two USB 2.0 ports, an HDMI output, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a micro-USB port for power. The device also has a 40-pin GPIO header, which provides access to a range of input and output pins, making it ideal for projects that require interfacing with external hardware.

One of the standout features of the Odroid-XU4 is its support for eMMC storage. This high-speed storage technology delivers significantly faster read and write speeds than traditional microSD cards, making it ideal for applications that require fast storage access. The device also has a microSD card slot, which can be used for additional storage.

Another notable feature of the Odroid-XU4 is its support for various operating systems, including Ubuntu, Debian, Android, and even Arch Linux. This makes it an incredibly versatile device that can be used for multiple applications, from media centre PCs to web servers and everything in between.

Despite its impressive performance and feature set, the Odroid-XU4 is relatively affordable, with a current price of around $59. This makes it an excellent option for anyone looking for a powerful, versatile, single-board computer on a budget.

Single-board computers (SBCs) have become increasingly popular due to their compact size and versatility. The Odroid-XU4 is a powerful SBC with impressive performance and a wide range of features, making it a popular choice for hobbyists, makers, and professionals.

Specifications of Odroid-XU4

SpecificationDetails
ProcessorSamsung Exynos5422 Cortex™-A15 2Ghz and Cortex™-A7 Octa-core CPUs
GPUMali-T628 MP6(OpenGL ES 3.0/2.0/1.1 and OpenCL 1.1 Full profile)
RAM2GB LPDDR3 RAM PoP stacked
StorageeMMC5.0 HS400 Flash Storage (up to 128GB)
ConnectivityGigabit Ethernet, 2x USB 3.0, 1x USB 2.0, HDMI 1.4a, and 3.5mm audio jack
Expansion40-pin GPIO header, IR receiver, and RTC battery holder
Power5V/4A DC input (micro-USB)
Odroid-XU4 specs Table

Price: The Odroid-XU4 is priced at around USD 59.

Pros:

  1. High Performance: The Odroid-XU4 is powered by a Samsung Exynos5422 Cortex™-A15 2Ghz and Cortex™-A7 Octa-core CPUs, making it one of the most potent SBCs available. It also features Mali-T628 MP6 graphics, providing excellent graphics performance for various applications.
  2. Connectivity: The Odroid-XU4 offers a range of connectivity options, including Gigabit Ethernet, 2x USB 3.0, 1x USB 2.0, HDMI 1.4a, and a 3.5mm audio jack. This makes connecting to a wide range of devices and peripherals easy.
  3. Storage: The Odroid-XU4 features eMMC5.0 HS400 Flash Storage (up to 128GB), providing fast and reliable project storage.
  4. Expansion: The Odroid-XU4 features a 40-pin GPIO header, IR receiver, and RTC battery holder, allowing for easy expansion and customization of your projects.

Cons:

  1. Price: While the Odroid-XU4 offers impressive performance and features, it is priced higher than many other SBCs.
  2. Power Consumption: The Odroid-XU4 requires a 5V/4A DC input, which may be higher than other SBCs. This can result in higher power consumption and increased operating costs.

Conclusion

The Odroid-XU4 is a powerful and versatile SBC with excellent performance and a wide range of features. While it may be priced higher than some other SBCs, it is well worth the investment for those who need the extra power and connectivity options. With its expandability and storage options, the Odroid-XU4 is an excellent choice for various projects, from media centres and gaming systems to industrial automation and robotics.

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