The Raspberry Pi Compute Module 3 Lite (CM3_L)
The CM3 Lite board (Compute Module 3 Lite) uses the same Broadcom ARM Quad Core processor (BCM2837 SoC) that is also used in the Raspberry Pi 3.
Unlike the CPU version (BCM2835) of the 1st Compute Module, this now has 4 cores. These each clock at 1.2 GHz and are significantly faster than the single core processor of the first version of the compute module. 1 GB of RAM is now available, which is double the amount of its predecessor. This now enables more memory-intensive applications and smoother operation of software and functions.
However, there is no 4 GB eMMC memory on this Compute Module Lite, as it is soldered onto the “normal” CM3 version.However, the connections are routed to the outside via the 200-pin SoDIMM interface, which now enables larger eMMC flash memory directly on the CM3 mainboard (e.g. your own circuit or the developer kit board). This was not yet possible with the “old” Compute Module. So if you want to connect your own memory solution and need more than the 4GB eMMC of the CM3 module, it is best to choose the Lite version.
The CM3 can still be used on the first generation development board. It is therefore backwards compatible. This means that a developer does not necessarily have to invest in a new developer board (carrier board).
The Raspberry Pi Compute Module 3 is available as a single board (CM3 and CM3 Lite), but also as a developer kit, i.e. including CM3 and carrier board. The features of the carrier board are based on the “old” model, with one exception. If you want to use the predecessor developer board, you will have to do without the SD card slot of the new one.
You can find more information and documents on the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 3 on the official pages of the Raspberry Pi Foundation.