Banana Pi BPI-F3: Single-board computer and RISV-V alternative to the Raspberry Pi now available

The Banana Pi BPI-F3 is a new single-board computer that is now available, but currently only via direct import. This itself has its limitations, as shipping is not available for all countries internationally. However, Banana Pi single-board computers are also available via Amazon, where the entry-level price for the smallest memory model is $39.99. 

The Banana Pi BPI-F3 can be seen as an alternative to the Raspberry Pi, although there are fundamental differences in terms of processor architecture: the Banana Pi BPI-F3 is based on the RISC-V architecture. Specifically, a SpacemiT K1 SoC with eight computing chips is used. The RAM measures 2 or 4 GB. The internal memory has a capacity of 8 or 16 GB, whereby eMMC memory is used.

A microSD memory card can be installed, and there are four USB 3.0 ports for connecting external storage devices. The 148 x 100 mm board can also connect expansion cards via PCIe, while an M.2 Key M slot is available. A SIM card can be inserted so that a mobile phone connection can be utilized with a corresponding expansion board. Two Gigabit Ethernet ports are available, along with WiFi and Bluetooth support. A single HDMI output is on board, although this only complies with the HDMI 1.4 standard. External sensors and actuators can also be connected via the 26-pin pin header.