Hackaday · Creativity & design

Raspberry Pi Firmware Restricts RAM Upgrades

Recent analysis reveals that Raspberry Pi firmware, updated around 2024, now restricts the size and type of RAM modules that can be used with the boards.

This limitation, not widely publicized, can hinder users attempting to upgrade or repair their Raspberry Pi.

The firmware checks a specific code on each board, which identifies the model, RAM size, and manufacturer, to ensure compatibility.

Symptoms of using unsupported RAM can range from the system not recognizing the additional memory to failing to boot entirely.

While reverting to an older EEPROM firmware version can bypass this restriction, it remains a significant inconvenience.

The decision is frustrating for users who expect greater hardware flexibility from a platform known for its open-source ethos.

This hardware-level restriction on RAM upgrades is seen as contrary to the Raspberry Pi's open hardware image and reminiscent of proprietary hardware practices.

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