The NODE Mini Server Version 3 Takes Advantage of the Raspberry Pi 4
If you’re looking for an ultra-compact server that you can build yourself, NODE's latest design is perfect for the job.
Every Raspberry Pi model is an affordable computer in a tiny package, and they have potential for much more than simply replacing expensive laptops and desktop computers. They’re used in all kinds of projects, from robots to machine tools. They can even be used as compact servers. NODE has been exploring that application for years now with their Mini Server designs. Now they’re back with the NODE Mini Server Version 3, which takes advantage of the power and performance of the new Raspberry Pi 4 Model B.
The Raspberry Pi 4 Model B was released earlier this year, and it is the newest model in the Raspberry Pi single-board computer lineup. It shares the same layout and form factor as the Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+, but has a more powerful Broadcom BCM2711 SoC with a quad-core Arm Cortex-A72 process running at 1.5 GHz. There are options for 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB of RAM. It even has support for dual monitors via a pair of micro-HDMI ports. The Mini Server Version 3 is intended to run headless, so it doesn’t need those monitors — but it does take advantage of the added power.
Like the other Mini Server designs, the NODE Mini Server Version 3 was kept as compact as possible, while still integrating the additional hardware that most people will want. No modification of the Raspberry Pi Model 4 itself is necessary, as that additional hardware comes in the form of add-on boards. Those relocate the USB power port and HDMI port to the back of the device, moves the micro SD card slot to the bottom where it is accessible, and adds support for an mSATA SSD hard drive. The enclosure is constructed from a combination of a PCB and 3D-printed part. Finally, a pair of fans keep everything running nice and cool while your server toils away at whatever task you’ve assigned to it.