Raspberry Pi Adds 2MB Stacked Flash for 20 Cents

Raspberry Pi is gearing up to release a new version of its RP2350 microcontroller, which will feature up to 2MB of flash memory integrated into the same package as the RP2354 for an additional 20¢. This upgrade aims to enhance the capabilities of the current RP2350, which boasts 520 kB of on-chip SRAM spread across 10 independent banks to support the two 150MHz ARM Cortex-M33 or Hazard3 RISC-V cores. Additionally, it includes 8 kB of one-time-programmable storage (OTP) and can accommodate up to 16 MB of external QSPI flash/PSRAM through a dedicated QSPI interface. The integration of 2MB of flash memory in the 2354A and 2354B variants is expected to streamline embedded designs.

One notable development is the successful porting of Rust to the RP2350 microcontroller, expanding the programming options available for this versatile device. Eben Upton, the CEO of Raspberry Pi, shared that the RP2354A and RP2354B variants equipped with 2MB of stacked flash memory are currently undergoing final development and testing in collaboration with early-access partners. The company plans to commence mass production soon and aims to make these upgraded variants accessible through their Approved Reseller partners later this year.

Upton highlighted the affordability of the RP2350, priced at under $1, making it an attractive option for integration into high-volume, cost-effective end devices. In comparison to the RP2040, the RP2350 only costs an additional ten cents in a 7×7mm, 60-pin package (80¢) or twenty cents more in a 10×10mm, 80-pin package (90¢). The forthcoming flash-in-package variants are anticipated to add approximately $0.20 to the cost, providing enhanced features at a competitive price point.

Raspberry Pi has also established a partnership with JLCPCB to facilitate the availability of the RP2350 through their rapid-turnaround PCB assembly service. Upton revealed that numerous unique RP2350-based designs have been submitted for manufacturing, underscoring the growing interest in leveraging this microcontroller for diverse applications. To encourage innovation, JLCPCB is currently offering a $12 No-Threshold SMT Coupon for new RP2350 designs, further incentivizing developers to explore the capabilities of this advanced platform.

The RP2350n variant is now accessible through approved resellers, providing developers and enthusiasts with the opportunity to leverage the enhanced features and performance of this innovative microcontroller. With the integration of 2MB of flash memory and ongoing efforts to expand the ecosystem around the RP2350, Raspberry Pi continues to empower the electronics community with cutting-edge solutions for a wide range of embedded applications.