MICROCONTROLLER AND

EMBEDDED SYSTEMS

(MTS -331)
DE-43 Mechatronics
Syndicate – C
Assignment no. 02
Comparative Analysis of Nano ESP32, Raspberry Pi 4, and
Portenta H7

Student Credentials:

1. NS Salman Sadiq Reg # 394350

Submitted to: Dr. Anjum Malik

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Abstract
This report presents a comprehensive comparison of three prominent microcontroller
platforms widely used in embedded systems and IoT applications: Nano ESP32, Raspberry Pi
4, and Radxa Rock5 Model B. Referred to colloquially as "Nano ESP32," this term
encapsulates the integration of Arduino Nano and ESP32, making it a singular focus of this
analysis.
The study aims to elucidate the distinctive features, strengths, and limitations of Nano
ESP32, Raspberry Pi 4, and Radxa Rock5 Model B, aiding developers, researchers, and
enthusiasts in making informed decisions for their specific project requirements. Key
evaluation parameters include performance, power consumption, connectivity options,
community support, and overall versatility.
The report provides insights into programming ecosystems, development
environments, and hardware specifications of each microcontroller, offering a nuanced
understanding of their suitability for various applications. Real-world use cases and practical
considerations are highlighted to guide users in selecting the most appropriate microcontroller
for their project goals.

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Table of Contents
Introduction ............................................................................................................................................. 4
Arduino Nano ESP32.............................................................................................................................. 4
Overview ............................................................................................................................................. 5
Key Features ....................................................................................................................................... 5
Microcontroller: .................................................................................................................................. 5
Techinical specifications..................................................................................................................... 6
Protenta H7 ............................................................................................................................................. 7
Overview ............................................................................................................................................. 7
Key features ........................................................................................................................................ 7
Technical specifications ...................................................................................................................... 8
Raspberry Pi 4 ......................................................................................................................................... 9
Overview ........................................................................................................................................... 10
Key features ...................................................................................................................................... 10
Technical Specifications ................................................................................................................... 11
Conclusion: ........................................................................................................................................... 11

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Introduction
In the ever-evolving landscape of embedded systems and IoT applications, the advent
of microcontrollers has played a pivotal role in shaping the way we approach and implement
technological solutions. Among the myriad choices available, three distinct microcontroller
platforms have emerged as frontrunners, embodying the latest advancements in the 21st
century. This report focuses on the Nano ESP32, Raspberry Pi 4, and Radxa Rock5 Model B –
collectively referred to as "Nano ESP32" – as they represent the forefront of innovation and
are increasingly becoming the go-to solutions for a myriad of projects in the contemporary
technological ecosystem.
The Nano ESP32, a fusion of Arduino Nano and ESP32, encapsulates the synergy of
two powerful components, offering a versatile and compact solution for developers and
enthusiasts alike. Raspberry Pi 4, with its enhanced computational capabilities and multimedia
prowess, has become synonymous with high-performance embedded systems. Meanwhile, the
Radxa Rock5 Model B stands out for its compact form factor and remarkable computing power,
positioning itself as a formidable contender in the microcontroller arena.
The choice of Nano ESP32, Raspberry Pi 4, and Radxa Rock5 Model B for this
comparative analysis is grounded in their widespread adoption and recognition as the latest
technological avatars of the 21st century. These microcontrollers have become integral to the
development of diverse projects, from DIY hobbyist ventures to complex industrial
applications. Their widespread popularity can be attributed to their robust performance,
extensive connectivity options, and active community support, making them versatile solutions
for a broad spectrum of applications.
As we delve into this comparative analysis, we aim to unravel the distinctive features,
strengths, and limitations of each microcontroller, providing readers with a nuanced
understanding of their capabilities. Through this exploration, we endeavor to empower
developers, researchers, and enthusiasts to make informed decisions based on their specific
project requirements, contributing to the ongoing dialogue within the embedded systems
community. The following sections will delve into the intricacies of Nano ESP32, Raspberry
Pi 4, and Radxa Rock5 Model B, shedding light on their individual contributions to the
technological landscape of the 21st century.

Arduino Nano ESP32

This board brings all the power of the well-known ESP32-S3 with the full support of
the Arduino ecosystem, allowing makers to explore the world of Arduino and MicroPython
without any blocker.

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 Figure 1: Arduino Nano ESP32

Overview
The Nano ESP32 is an important modification to the Arduino environment, bringing
the popular ESP32-S3 to the world of Arduino and MicroPython programming. Whether
you're new to IoT or MicroPython or an experienced user trying to include it into your next
project, the Nano ESP32 is an excellent choice. It meets all of your requirements for a smooth
start to your IoT or MicroPython project.
Key Features
Let's look at the Nano ESP32's essential features:
 Small footprint: The modest size of this board, designed with the well-known Nano
form factor in mind, makes it ideal for embedding in standalone applications.
 Bluetooth® and Wi-Fi®: Utilize the power of the well-known ESP32-S3
microcontroller in the IoT sphere, with complete Arduino support for WiFi and
Bluetooth® connectivity.
 Arduino with MicroPython compatibility: With a few simple steps, you can
seamlessly switch between Arduino and MicroPython programming. We even have
an introduction course for people who are new to the MicroPython realm; more
information may be found on the documentation website.
 Arduino IoT Cloud compatible: Create IoT projects quickly and easily with just a few
lines of code. Our arrangement ensures security while allowing you to monitor and
operate your project from anywhere via the Arduino IoT Cloud app.
 HID support: Over USB, emulate human interface devices such as keyboards or mice,
offering up new ways to communicate with your computer.
Microcontroller:
The Nano ESP32 features the NORA-W106-10B stand-alone radio module,
embedding an ESP32-S3 series SoC as well as an embedded antenna. The ESP32-S3 is based
on an Xtensa® LX7 series microprocessor.
Xtensa® Dual-Core 32bit LX7 Microprocessor

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 The microprocessor for the ESP32-S3 SoC inside the NORA-W106 module is a dual-core
32-bit Xtensa® LX7. Each core can run at up to 240 MHz and has 512 kB SRAM memory.
The LX7 features:
 32-bit customized instruction set
 128-bit data bus
 32-bit multiplier/divider
The LX7 has a 384 kB ROM (Read Only Memory), and 512 kB of SRAM (Static Random
Access Memory). It also features an 8 kB RTC FAST and RTC SLOW memory. These
memories are designed for low-power operations, where the SLOW memory can be accessed
by the ULP (Ultra Low Power) coprocessor, retaining the data in deep sleep mode.

Techinical specifications
Board Name Arduino® Nano ESP32
SKU ABX00092
Microcontroller u-blox® NORA-W106 (ESP32-S3)
USB connector USB-C®
Pins Built-in LED Pin 13
Built-in RGB 14-16
LED pins
Digital I/O Pins 14
Analog input 8
pins
PWM pins 5
External All digital pins
interrupts
Connectivity Wi-Fi® u-blox® NORA-W106 (ESP32-S3)
Bluetooth® u-blox® NORA-W106 (ESP32-S3)
Communication UART 2x
I2C 1x, A4 (SDA), A5 (SCL)
SPI D11 (COPI), D12 (CIPO), D13
(SCK). Use any GPIO for Chip
Select (CS)
Power I/O Voltage 3.3 V
Input voltage 6-21 V
(nominal)
Source Current 40 mA
per I/O Pin
Sink Current per 28 mA
I/O Pin
Clock speed Processor up to 240 MHz
Memory ROM 384 kB
SRAM 512 kB
External Flash 128 Mbit (16 MB)
Dimensions Width 18 mm
Length 45 mm
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Protenta H7
The Portenta H7 follows the Arduino MKR form factor, but enhanced with the
Portenta family 80 pin high-density connector. Program it with high-level languages and AI
while performing low-latency operations on its customizable hardware.

Figure 2: Portenta H7

Overview
Portenta H7 can be used to create your next smart project. From anywhere in the
world, you can connect devices, visualize data, control, and share your projects. Portenta H7
executes both high-level code and real-time operations at the same time. The architecture
incorporates two processors that can run tasks concurrently. Portenta has two modes of
operation: it can serve as an embedded microcontroller board or as the main processor of an
embedded computer.
Portenta can easily run TensorFlowTM Lite processes; for example, one core may be
computing a computer vision algorithm on the fly, while the other performs low-level
activities such as operating a motor or acting as a user interface.
Key features
Key features of Potenta H7 includes:
1) Two Parallel corers:
The main CPU of the H7 is the dual-core STM32H747, which has two Cortex® M7
processors operating at 480 MHz and 240 MHz, respectively. A Remote Procedure Call
method connects the two cores and enables smooth calling of operations on the other CPU.
All on-chip peripherals are shared by both CPUs, which can execute:
 Arduino sketches on top of the Arm® Mbed™ OS
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  Native Mbed™ applications
 MicroPython / JavaScript via an interpreter
 TensorFlow™ Lite

2) Graphics Accelerator
The ability to create your own specialized embedded computer with a UI by
connecting an external monitor is likely one of the most interesting features of the Portenta
H7. The Chrom-ART AcceleratorTM on-chip GPU of the STM32H747 processor makes this
possible. The chip has a specialized JPEG encoder and decoder in addition to the GPU.
3) A new standard for pinout
Two 80-pin high-density connections are added to the board's bottom by the Portenta
series. By just updating your Portenta board to the model that best meets your requirements,
you can ensure scalability for a variety of applications.
4) On-board connectivity
The inbuilt wireless module makes it possible to control Bluetooth® and WiFi
connectivity at the same time. The WiFi interface has a 65 Mbps transmission rate and can be
used as an Access Point, Station, or dual mode simultaneous AP/STA. Bluetooth Classic and
Bluetooth Low Energy are supported by the Bluetooth® interface. Additionally, a number of
additional wired interfaces, such as SPI, I2C, and UART, can be exposed via the new
Arduino industrial 80 pin connector pair or various MKR-styled connectors. In addition, the
80-pin connector pair offers Ethernet functionality.
5) USB-C multipurpose connector
The programming connector on the board is a USB-C port that may be used to power the
board, attach a DisplayPort monitor, operate as a USB hub, and supply power to OTG-
connected devices.
6) Multiple options in one board.
 STM32H747 dual-core processor with graphics engine
 8MB SDRAM
 16MB NOR Flash
 10/100 Ethernet Phy
 USB HS
 NXP SE050C2 Crypto
 WiFi/BT Module
 External Antenna
 DisplayPort over USB-C
Technical specifications
The Arduino Portenta H7 is based on the STM32H747 microcontroller, XI
series.
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Microcontroller STM32H747XI dual Cortex®-M7+M4 32bit low power Arm®
MCU
Radio module Murata 1DX dual WiFi 802.11b/g/n 65 Mbps and Bluetooth®
(Bluetooth® Low Energy. 5 via Cordio stack, Bluetooth® Low
Energy 4.2 via Arduino Stack)
Board Power Supply 5V
(USB/VIN)
Supported Battery Li-Po Single Cell, 3.7V, 700mAh Minimum (integrated charger)
Circuit Operating 3.3V
Voltage
Display Connector MIPI DSI host & MIPI D-PHY to interface with low-pin count large
display
GPU Chrom-ART graphical hardware Accelerator™
Timers 22x timers and watchdogs
UART 4x ports (2 with flow control)
Ethernet PHY 10 / 100 Mbps (through expansion port only)
SD Card Interface for SD Card connector (through expansion port only)
Operational -40 °C to +85 °C
Temperature
MKR Headers Use any of the existing industrial MKR shields on it
High-density Two 80 pin connectors will expose all of the board's peripherals to
Connectors other devices
Camera Interface 8-bit, up to 80 MHz
ADC 3× ADCs with 16-bit max. resolution (up to 36 channels, up to 3.6
MSPS)
DAC 2× 12-bit DAC (1 MHz) available, only one is accessible by the user
through the external A6 pin
USB-C Host / Device, DisplayPort out, High / Full Speed, Power delivery

Raspberry Pi 4
Raspberry Pi 4 Model B is the latest product in the popular Raspberry Pi range of
computers. This Raspberry Pi module offers ground-breaking increases in processor speed,
multimedia performance, memory, and connectivity compared to the prior-generation
Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+. The Raspberry Pi 4 development board is the latest product in the
Raspberry Pi range, boasting an updated 64-bit quad-core processor running at 1.5GHz with
built-in metal heatsink, USB 3 ports, dual-band 2.4GHz and 5GHz wireless LAN, faster
Gigabit Ethernet, and PoE capability via a separate PoE HAT.

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 Figure 3: Raspberry Pi 4 Model B

Overview
With its powerful 64-bit quad-core processor, dual-display support up to 4K
resolutions through two micro HDMI ports, hardware video decode at up to 4Kp60, up to
8GB of RAM, dual-band 2.4/5.0 GHz wireless LAN, Bluetooth 5.0, Gigabit Ethernet, USB
3.0, and PoE capability (with an additional PoE HAT add-on), the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B is
a high-performance device. The desktop performance offered by the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B
to the end user is comparable to that of entry-level x86 PC systems.
This device offers significant improvements in CPU speed, multimedia performance,
memory, and connectivity while maintaining backward compatibility with the previous
generation Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ and consuming comparable amounts of power.
Due to their modular compliance certification, dual-band wireless LAN and Bluetooth
boards can be integrated into final products with a great reduction in compliance testing,
which lowers costs and accelerates time to market.
Key features
Key features of Raspberry pi 4 concerning past Pi modules include:
1) Silent, energy-efficient
The fanless, energy-efficient Raspberry Pi runs silently and uses far less power
than other computers.
2) Fast networking
Raspberry Pi 4 comes with Gigabit Ethernet, along with onboard wireless
networking and Bluetooth.
3) USB 3

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 Raspberry Pi 4 has upgraded USB capacity: along with two USB 2 ports you'll
find two USB 3 ports, which can transfer data up to ten times faster.
4) Your choice of RAM
Raspberry Pi 4 different variants are available, depending on how much RAM you
need — 1GB, 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB.

Technical Specifications
Processor: Broadcom BCM2711, quad-core Cortex-A72 (ARM v8) 64-bit SoC @
1.5GHz
Memory: 1GB, 2GB, 4GB or 8GB LPDDR4
(depending on model) with on-die ECC
Connectivity: 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz IEEE 802.11b/g/n/ac wireless LAN,
Bluetooth 5.0, BLE
Gigabit Ethernet
2 × USB 3.0 ports
2 × USB 2.0 ports.
GPIO: Standard 40-pin GPIO header
(fully backwards-compatible with previous boards)
Video & sound: 2 × micro HDMI ports (up to 4Kp60 supported)
2-lane MIPI DSI display port
2-lane MIPI CSI camera port
4-pole stereo audio and composite video port
Multimedia: H.265 (4Kp60 decode);
H.264 (1080p60 decode, 1080p30 encode);
OpenGL ES, 3.0 graphics
SD card support: Micro SD card slot for loading operating system and data storage
Input power: 5V DC via USB-C connector (minimum 3A1)
5V DC via GPIO header (minimum 3A1)
Power over Ethernet (PoE)–enabled
(requires separate PoE HAT)
Environment: Operating temperature 0–50ºC

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this comparative analysis contributes to the collective knowledge base
surrounding Nano ESP32, Raspberry Pi 4, and Radxa Rock5 Model B microcontrollers. The
findings empower users to navigate the nuances of each platform effectively, facilitating
optimal decision-making in the dynamic landscape of embedded systems technology.

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