- All-in-one Raspberry Pi 5 PCIe to M.2 adapter provides dual HDMI access
- Compact cards support PCIe storage expansion via a small M.2 slot
- Users can boot Raspberry Pi directly from an NVMe SSD
Waveshare has launched a new Multifunctional PCIe to M.2 adapter for Raspberry Pi 5 for $10.
This accessory is an updated version of last year’s HDMI adapter, intended to expand the connectivity options of your small single-board computer.
Plugs into the Raspberry Pi’s USB and micro-HDMI ports, allowing users to connect cables with full-size HDMI ports.
Supports dual HDMI and PCIe functions
The adapter gives the Raspberry Pi 5 more flexibility. By running a ribbon cable from the Raspberry Pi’s FPC port to the board, users can access an M.2 slot.
This slot supports PCIe NVMe SSD or other compatible M.2 add-ons. Although the card’s compact size limits the M.2 slot to 2242 or 2230 cards, it is still fully functional.
It also supports PCIe 2.0 and PCIe 3.0 modes, allowing you to install an operating system on an SSD and use it as a boot device.
The adapter measures 85 x 34mm and has a screw connector for 5V power input, 3-pin 5V output and UART pin.
Users can also power the card through the USB-C port. These add-ons increase versatility and allow the integration of compatible storage devices, display outputs or other expansions.
This configuration provides laptop-like functionality for programming while minimizing overall hardware requirements.
The new Waveshare adapter expands the capabilities of the Raspberry Pi, but only supports small M.2 cards.
This means that installations may require knowledge of FPC ribbon cable connections.
The small form factor limits the number of devices that can be connected simultaneously.
However, the board provides a convenient way to expand functionality for Raspberry Pi enthusiasts who want dual HDMI support and PCIe access.
This inexpensive adapter can be an alternative to some mini PC setups for experiments or basic computing tasks.
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