Olimex ESP32-P4-PC: Dual-core RISC-V IoT board packs extensive I/O for $29

Olimex has released the ESP32-P4-PC, a feature-rich development board built around Espressif's upcoming ESP32-P4 RISC-V processor. Priced at €25 (~$29), this open-hardware platform targets IoT developers needing extensive connectivity options in a compact form factor.

The board centers on Espressif's ESP32-P4 chip containing:

• Dual-core 400 MHz RISC-V main processor
• Additional 40 MHz RISC-V ultra-low-power coprocessor
• 768 KB SRAM for system operations
• 32MB PSRAM for expanded memory needs
• 16MB SPI flash storage

While insufficient for desktop computing, this configuration provides ample resources for sensor networks, edge computing nodes, and industrial control systems. The board's 90x60mm footprint incorporates an exceptional array of I/O interfaces:

Interface	Capabilities
4x USB 2.0 Type-A	Host connectivity for peripherals
HDMI 1.4	Video output up to 1080p resolution
RJ45 Ethernet	10/100 Mbps with PoE expansion option
USB Type-C	5V power input with battery management
microSD slot	External storage expansion
MIPI-CSI/DSI	Camera and display interfaces
3.5mm audio	Analog audio input/output
UEXT connector	Standardized expansion bus
20-pin GPIO	General-purpose I/O and serial protocols

Power flexibility includes 5V USB-C input, LiPo battery support with charging circuitry, and optional Power-over-Ethernet capability. The UEXT connector maintains compatibility with Olimex's expansion modules for sensors, displays, and industrial interfaces.

All hardware documentation, including schematics and KiCAD design files, is available in the official GitHub repository. This open approach enables full customization - developers can modify the design or integrate the ESP32-P4-PC's core components into custom PCBs.

The board is available now from Olimex's store. Its combination of RISC-V processing power, extensive connectivity, and open-source design creates a compelling platform for prototyping industrial IoT devices, smart home hubs, and embedded systems requiring multiple physical interfaces.

Key considerations for developers:

1. ESP32-P4 SDK support is evolving as Espressif prepares the chip's full release
2. Power-efficient coprocessor enables always-on sensor monitoring
3. Direct video output simplifies human-machine interface development
4. PoE compatibility reduces wiring complexity in installed systems
5. Open hardware allows compliance with industry-specific certifications

This board demonstrates the growing capabilities of RISC-V in embedded systems, providing Arduino-level accessibility with near-industrial-grade connectivity at consumer pricing.