PCIe HAT/Base for Raspberry Pi 5 with MakerDisk NVMe SSD

Note: NVMe 2242 M-Key MakerDisk SSD 512GB, 256GB, and 128GB shipped from January 2024 onwards are loaded with the latest Raspberry Pi OS (64-bit) - Bookworm. We have tested all capacities of MakerDisk NVMe 2242 with this PCIe HAT/Base and Raspberry Pi 5, and they all work.

Note: The bootloader of Raspberry Pi 5 needs to be updated to Version: 30de0ba5 – 2024/01/5 to enable the NVMe driver and boot from it.  Please refer to this tutorial to update the bootloader of Raspberry Pi 5. Of course, you will need a microSD card to do that.

Note: This page contains 3 different PCIe HAT/Base versions and MakerDisk SSD bundle variants. Please select the preferred variant.

X1001	X1002	X1003

This PCIe HAT/Base series unlocks the true potential of the Raspberry Pi 5 by leveraging its new PCIe interface. This innovative add-on board transforms your Raspberry Pi into a high-performance computing powerhouse, thanks to its compatibility with NVMe M.2 SSDs.

Blazing-fast data transfers: Ditch the sluggishness of traditional storage solutions. The X100* harnesses the power of PCIe, offering significantly higher bandwidth than the Raspberry Pi's standard USB interface. This translates to dramatically faster data transfer speeds, ideal for large file transfers, and database management applications. NVMe M.2 SSDs, with their lightning-fast read and write speeds, further amplify the performance gains, making the Raspberry Pi a true contender for resource-intensive tasks.

Ultra-fast booting and improved responsiveness: The X100* paired with an NVMe SSD slash boot times, allowing your Raspberry Pi to run in a flash. This translates to improved responsiveness across the entire system, whether launching applications, opening files, or multitasking between different tasks. Your Raspberry Pi will feel snappier and more efficient than ever before.

Flexibility and expandability: The X100* isn't just about speed. It also offers a level of flexibility and expandability that opens up a world of possibilities for your Raspberry Pi projects. The shield remains compatible with other HATs, allowing you to stack functionalities like cameras, sensors, and displays on top of the storage boost. Additionally, the reserved space for a POE (Power over Ethernet) module allows for powering the Raspberry Pi and the shield directly through a network cable, eliminating the need for a bulky power adapter.

The X100* shield is more than just a hardware upgrade. It's a gateway to unlocking the full potential of the Raspberry Pi 5, transforming it into a versatile and powerful computing platform for a wide range of applications.

Installation Guide

Note: You can also install this PCIe HAT with the official active cooler and case,

• X1001: Cannot be used with the official case, but can be used with the official active cooler
• X1002: Cannot be used with the official case, but can be used with the official active cooler
• X1003: Need to remove fan plate and can replace it with official active cooler

Compatibility:

So far we have tested the following MakerDisk NVMe SSD and they all boot up with this HAT on Raspberry Pi 5 (updated bootloader):

• MakerDisk NVMe M.2 2242 SSD - 512GB
• MakerDisk NVMe M.2 2242 SSD - 256GB
• MakerDisk NVMe M.2 2242 SSD - 128GB

• Compatible with other HAT shields. (except for X1003)
• FFC length is only 30mm.
• Supports installation of the official active cooler.
• Minimalist design, easy to install
• With ACT LED indicator: 
  • On: Power OK/Standby
  • Flashing: Reading/Writing
• Support NVME Length:
  • X1001: 2230/2242/2260/2280
  • X1002: 2230/2242/2260/2280
  • X1003: 2230/2242
• No limit on NVME SSD capacity, which is dependent on the Raspberry Pi OS.
• Power:
  • X1001: Can power the HAT directly from the FFC PCIe ribbon (providing a maximum of 5W of continuous power).
  • X1002: Can power the HAT directly from the FFC PCIe ribbon (providing a maximum of 5W of continuous power).
  • X1003: Supports additional GPIO power supply in addition to FPC power supply.

• X1001 + NVMe SSD
  • 1 x X1001 NVMe SSD Hat
  • 1 x NVMe 2280 M-Key MakerDisk SSD (based on your preferred capacity)
  • 6 x M2.5 Screws (5mm)
  • 3 x M2.5 F/F Spacers (17mm)
  • 1 x M2 Screws (4mm)
  • 1 x PCIe FFC Cable (30mm)

• X1001 HAT Only
  • 1 x X1001 NVMe SSD Hat
  • 3 x M2.5 Screws (5mm)
  • 3 x M2.5 F/F Spacers (17mm)
  • 1 x M2 Screws (4mm)
  • 1 x PCIe FFC Cable (30mm)

• X1002 + NVMe SSD
  • 1 x X1002 NVMe SSD Base
  • 1 x NVMe 2280 M-Key MakerDisk SSD (based on your preferred capacity)
  • 4 x M2.5 Screws (10mm)
  • 4 x M2.5 F/F Spacers (5mm)
  • 1 x M2 Screws (4mm)
  • 1 x PCIe FFC Cable
  • 1 x SSD Copper Pillar

• X1002 Base Only
  • 1 x X1001 NVMe SSD Base
  • 4 x M2.5 Screws (10mm)
  • 4 x M2.5 F/F Spacers (5mm)
  • 1 x M2 Screws (4mm)
  • 1 x PCIe FFC Cable
  • 1 x SSD Copper Pillar

• X1003 + NVMe SSD
  • 1 x X1003 NVMe SSD Hat
  • 1 x NVMe 2242 M-Key MakerDisk SSD (based on your preferred capacity)
  • 1 x M2.5 Screws (13mm)
  • 1 x M2 Screws (4mm)
  • 1 x PCIe FFC Cable (22mm)

• X1003 HAT Only
  • 1 x X1003 NVMe SSD Hat
  • 1 x M2.5 Screws (13mm)
  • 1 x M2 Screws (4mm)
  • 1 x PCIe FFC Cable (22mm)

• User Manual 
• Update Bootloader and Boot from NVMe SSD, tutorial by Cytron
• Raspberry Pi 5 PCIe