Hardware Platform Overview

Pimeleon hardware platform overview and navigation hub for Raspberry Pi router deployments

Hardware Platform Overview

Pimeleon is a professional-grade router solution available on multiple Raspberry Pi platforms. This section provides platform navigation, selection guidance, and links to detailed hardware documentation.

Supported Platforms

Pimeleon supports two Raspberry Pi platforms, each with distinct capabilities and operational profiles:

Raspberry Pi 3B+ Platform

Processor: Quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 @ 1.4 GHz
RAM: 1GB LPDDR2
Ethernet: Gigabit over USB 2.0 (practical throughput: ~300 Mbps)
Network Connectivity: 802.11ac WiFi, Bluetooth 4.2
Optimal For: Networks <150 devices with <300 Mbps bandwidth requirements

Platform Documentation: Raspberry Pi 3B+ Platform Guide

Covers specifications, thermal characteristics, architecture analysis, and upgrade considerations specific to this platform.

Raspberry Pi 4 Platform

Processor: Quad-core ARM Cortex-A72 @ 1.5-1.8 GHz
RAM: 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB LPDDR4 options
Ethernet: True Gigabit Ethernet (practical throughput: 900+ Mbps)
Network Connectivity: 802.11ac WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.0
Optimal For: Gigabit networks, 200+ devices, advanced filtering features

Platform Documentation: Raspberry Pi 4 Platform Guide

Covers specifications, thermal profiles, deployment scenarios, and capability guides specific to this platform.

Shared Hardware Resources

Regardless of platform selection, all Pimeleon deployments share common hardware considerations:

Shared Hardware Resources contains:

Storage - SD card selection, brand recommendations, performance classes
Power - Power delivery, supply specifications, UPS considerations
Cooling - Thermal management principles and monitoring strategies
Cases - Physical protection options for various deployment scenarios
Accessories - Essential components, recommended additions, optional enhancements

Platform Selection Framework

Choose your platform based on operational requirements, not model age:

Network Device Count

<100 devices: Both platforms suitable; evaluate bandwidth requirements
100-200 devices: RPi4 optimal; RPi3B+ requires careful tuning
>200 devices: RPi4 platform required for stable operation

Bandwidth Requirements

<300 Mbps sustained: Both platforms can handle with appropriate configuration
300-900 Mbps: RPi4 platform required for consistent performance
>900 Mbps: RPi4 platform with careful load distribution

Feature Set

Basic routing and DHCP: Both platforms capable
Advanced filtering, DNS caching, connection tracking: RPi4 platform provides additional capacity
Multiple network services simultaneously: RPi4 platform optimal

Environmental Constraints

Limited cooling options: Pi 3B+ lower power consumption may be advantageous
Noise-sensitive: Pi 3B+ can operate passively; Pi 4 often requires active cooling
High ambient temperature: Consider cooling requirements for both platforms

Hardware Ecosystem

Essential Components

All Pimeleon deployments require:

Quality SD card (evaluation at Storage)
Adequate power supply (specifications at Power)
Cooling solution suitable for 24/7 operation (guidance at Cooling)
Physical protection (case recommendations at Cases)

Considerations for 24/7 Routing

Continuous operation differs fundamentally from desktop computing:

Thermal loads are sustained, not intermittent
Component reliability takes priority over peak performance
Regular maintenance becomes essential for longevity
Environmental factors have amplified impact on stability
Quality components reduce downtime and extend hardware lifespan

Deployment Scenarios

Reference guidance for common deployment profiles:

Home Network (<20 devices): Deployment Scenarios for component suggestions
Small Office (20-50 devices): Deployment Scenarios for configuration guidance
Enterprise Edge (50+ devices): Deployment Scenarios for professional deployment

Getting Started with Hardware

Read this overview to understand available platforms
Review this index for common hardware guidance
Consult your platform guide (RPi3 or RPi4) for specifications
Reference Storage for SD card selection
Plan thermal management with Cooling

Detailed Resources

Cooling - Temperature monitoring, thermal thresholds, troubleshooting
Accessories - Complete accessory guide with component selections
Cases - Physical protection options from desktop to enterprise

Platform-Specific Guides

RPi 3 Specifications - Detailed RPi3 technical specifications
RPi 3 Thermal Management - RPi3-specific thermal characteristics
RPi 3 Upgrade Considerations - Considerations for RPi3 deployments
RPi 4 Specifications - Detailed RPi4 technical specifications
RPi 4 Capabilities - RPi4 capability analysis and performance profiles
Deployment Scenarios - Common deployment patterns

Deployment Guide - Physical setup and installation procedures
Getting Started - Installation instructions and initial configuration
Network Architecture - Network design and topology considerations

Note: All information applies to Pimeleon deployments on supported Raspberry Pi platforms. Hardware recommendations are based on operational requirements and environmental constraints, not on model preference.