LattePanda Sigma - The Small Hackable x86 Windows/Linux Single Board Computer Server (16GB RAM)

Jargon buster

Plain-language definitions for the technical terms used above.

edge computing

Edge computing means processing data close to where it is collected, such as on the device itself, rather than sending everything to the cloud. This can reduce delays, internet dependence, and privacy concerns in sensor, camera, and robotics projects.

eDP

Embedded DisplayPort is an internal display connection commonly used between a computer board and a built-in screen. It matters because this display needs a matching eDP connector and support on the host board, so it will not plug into a normal HDMI-only output.

GPIO

General-purpose input/output pins are microcontroller pins you can set in software to read signals, switch devices on and off, or connect to peripherals. The number of GPIO pins matters because it limits how many buttons, LEDs, sensors, and other parts you can wire directly to the board.

HDMI

HDMI is a common digital video and audio connection used by computers, media players, and many displays. If a display kit has HDMI input, it is usually much easier to test with a single-board computer because it can act like a normal monitor.

Headers

Rows of metal pins used to plug a module into a breadboard or connect it with jumper wires. Pre-soldered headers make the module easier to use straight away without needing to solder the pins yourself.

LED

A light-emitting diode is a small electronic component that lights up when current flows through it in the correct direction. In this kit, LEDs create the flashing effect, so polarity and correct soldering matter for the project to work.

M.2

A compact edge-connector format commonly used to plug small modules into a carrier board without soldering. On this product it is the physical connector used by the MicroMod system, so compatibility with the matching processor board is important.

NVMe

A high-speed storage standard commonly used by modern SSDs. NVMe support matters if you want faster storage for large AI models, video files or operating system images than a typical microSD card can provide.

PCIe 3.0 x1

A high-speed internal computer expansion connection using one PCI Express data lane. It matters because the expansion board must physically and electrically match the LattePanda IOTA’s PCIe connector to work.

PWM

Pulse Width Modulation is a way for a digital pin to simulate variable output power by switching on and off very quickly. It matters for controlling things like LED brightness, motor speed, or servo-style signals from a microcontroller pin.

RAM

RAM is temporary memory used while a device is running, and its contents are lost when power is removed. A “Run in RAM” mode is useful for testing settings without permanently programming the module, but it may not support every feature.

RJ45

The common plug and socket style used for wired Ethernet network cables. If a board has an RJ45 connector, you can usually plug it into standard Ethernet cabling without making a custom connector.

RS485

RS485 is a robust wired serial communication standard often used in factories, farms, and buildings where cables may be long or electrically noisy. It matters because it lets this controller connect to industrial sensors, meters, and control equipment over longer distances than typical hobby serial wiring.

RTC

A Real-Time Clock keeps track of time even when the main processor is asleep or powered down, usually with a small backup battery. It matters for data logging and tracking projects that need accurate timestamps.

single-board computer

A complete computer built onto one circuit board, usually including the processor, memory, ports, and connectors. This matters because accessories like heatsinks must match the board’s layout and mounting holes to fit properly.

USB 2.0

USB 2.0 is a wired connection standard used for data and power between a device and a computer or compatible host. For this camera, it tells you what kind of port it plugs into and helps indicate whether older or newer computers are likely to work with it.

USB Type-C

A reversible USB connector used for power and data on many modern devices. On this kit it indicates an alternate 5V power input, which may be useful for setup or charging without the solar panel.