Banana Pi BPI-SM10: Tiny RISC-V Compute Module with 60 TOPS AI Power

The Banana Pi BPI-SM10 represents a major leap in compact computing, combining the open RISC-V architecture with serious AI capabilities. This tiny board is built around the SpacemiT K3 processor and can handle up to 60 trillion operations per second for artificial intelligence workloads. It supports up to 32 GB of LPDDR5 memory, making it suitable for edge computing, robotics, and smart devices. While Banana Pi has not yet announced pricing, the module is expected to be affordable and developer-friendly. Below, we answer the most common questions about this exciting new compute module.

What is the Banana Pi BPI-SM10 and why is it important?

The BPI-SM10 is a compact compute module that runs on an open-standard RISC-V processor. Its importance lies in offering a RISC-V alternative to ARM-based single-board computers while packing up to 60 TOPS of AI performance. This makes it ideal for neural network inference, computer vision, and real-time data processing at the edge. The module’s tiny footprint also allows integration into custom hardware designs, from drones to smart cameras.

Which processor does the BPI-SM10 use and what are its AI specs?

It uses the SpacemiT K3 RISC-V processor. The chip integrates a neural processing unit capable of delivering up to 60 TOPS (trillion operations per second) in INT8 precision. This enables running complex AI models locally without cloud dependency. The CPU cores handle general tasks while the NPU accelerates deep learning workloads, making the board suitable for both development and production edge AI applications.

How much memory does the BPI-SM10 support and what type?

The module supports up to 32 GB of LPDDR5 RAM. LPDDR5 is a low-power, high-bandwidth memory standard that balances speed and energy efficiency. This capacity allows the board to handle large datasets, multiple AI models simultaneously, or memory-hungry applications like real-time video analysis. The memory is soldered onto the module for reliability, typical for compute modules of this form factor.

What is the form factor of the BPI-SM10?

As a compute module, the BPI-SM10 is designed to be compact and pluggable. It likely follows the popular Banana Pi M.2 or SO-DIMM form factor, similar to other modules from the company. This allows it to be mounted directly onto carrier boards for prototyping or production devices. The exact dimensions are not yet disclosed, but typical modules are around 60×40 mm or smaller.

When will the BPI-SM10 be available and how much will it cost?

Banana Pi has not announced a specific release date or price for the BPI-SM10. However, based on the company’s history, it may be launched within the coming months. Pricing is expected to be competitive with other RISC-V modules in the market, likely in the $50–$150 range depending on memory configuration. The module alone (without a carrier board) will keep costs low for developers.

What can you build with 60 TOPS of AI performance in such a tiny board?

The 60 TOPS capability opens up advanced edge AI applications:

• Real-time object detection and tracking for security cameras or autonomous robots
• Natural language processing for voice assistants without internet
• AI-driven sensor fusion in smart agriculture or industrial IoT
• On-device anomaly detection and predictive maintenance

This performance level often requires larger boards, but the BPI-SM10 makes it possible in a tiny RISC-V package.

How does the BPI-SM10 compare to other Banana Pi AI boards?

Banana Pi already offers AI-capable boards like the BPI-M5 with ARM processors and limited NPUs. The BPI-SM10 stands out because of its RISC-V architecture and significantly higher AI performance (60 TOPS vs. typical 2–10 TOPS). It also supports LPDDR5 memory, which is faster and more efficient than the LPDDR4 used in earlier models. This makes the BPI-SM10 a compelling choice for those wanting open-source hardware combined with powerful AI processing.