IoT Edge Device / Development Board

Modern development boards integrate multiple ICs, processors, interfaces, and essential controllers on a compact PCB to enable dedicated functions. Many platforms also include networking, core logic, security, and multimedia engines to accelerate embedded system design, IoT prototyping, and edge AI. Engineers, students, and hobbyists rely on these boards to learn, prototype, and rapidly iterate from concept to production.

Different Development Boards Create Unique Projects

Microcontroller boards (MCUs) typically run one focused program (or a lightweight RTOS) for real-time control—ideal for sensors, robotics, and automation. They use efficient processors and offer low power consumption. Single Board Computers (SBCs) are complete, low-profile microcomputers built on a single PCB—perfect where space is tight, such as kiosks or maker projects. SBCs boot full operating systems, support displays, and provide a strong foundation for AI, IoT hubs, and connected applications. FPGA / SoC FPGA boards can be reconfigured via HDL (Verilog/VHDL) and excel at low-latency, high-throughput tasks. Many combine programmable logic with ARM® or RISC-V cores for heterogeneous computing. If you’re new to hardware, start with beginner-friendly DIY boards, then scale to AI-capable platforms as your projects grow. Choose easy-to-program and re-flashable devices to save time and simplify prototyping.

Create Custom Computer Setups With Developer Kits

Developer kits include everything needed to get started—CPU, GPU, accelerators, memory, storage slots, and key I/O interfaces. Many boards feature multi-core processors for responsive performance across daily computing and embedded workloads. A microSD™ slot allows quick OS installation and data storage, while built-in RAM provides ample capacity for multitasking. USB 3.x and Type-C ports support peripherals like keyboards, mice, and cameras, while HDMI® or DisplayPort outputs simplify monitor connections. Extended GPIO headers make it easy to integrate sensors and custom circuits. Built-in Bluetooth® 5.x, Wi-Fi® 6, and Gigabit Ethernet™ enable flexible connectivity, and headless configuration over Ethernet allows remote setup. Many kits also include protective cases to safeguard components during development.

Modern AI & Edge Jetson Boards to Watch

Explore NVIDIA’s latest Jetson developer kits designed for AI, robotics, and edge computing:

• NVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano Super Developer Kit — Compact and power-efficient with up to 67 TOPS of AI performance, ideal for embedded and robotics projects.
• NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin Developer Kit (64 GB LPDDR5) — High-performance platform with superior memory bandwidth for advanced multi-sensor AI workloads.
• NVIDIA Jetson AGX Thor Developer Kit (128 GB LPDDR5X) — NVIDIA’s flagship edge-AI kit featuring next-gen architecture, delivering extreme computing power for robotics, automation, and vision systems.

For specifications, use cases, and buying tips, see our guide to NVIDIA Jetson Orin developer kits.

These Jetson boards offer scalable AI performance from entry-level to flagship, making them ideal for real-time perception, robotics, and edge inference workloads.

Expansion Boards Add Functionality to Your Build

Enhance your project with expansion boards and HATs/shields: motor drivers for brushed, brushless, or stepper motors; display boards for LCD/OLED output or VGA/HDMI monitors; audio modules to convert analog signals to digital; and interface boards for buttons, joysticks, and rotary encoders. Sensor modules measure air pressure, light, and motion—essential for robotics or industrial designs. Add high-bandwidth LTE™/5G modules for connected IoT systems. Pin-compatible ecosystems and M.2/PCIe/USB expansion allow plug-and-play scalability as technology advances.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Expansion Boards Add Functionality to Your Build

Adding motor boards to your build allows the control of brushed, brushless and stepper motors. A display module lets you add an LCD to your setup or generate video signals for VGA and HDMI monitors. Convert signals from an analog audio input into digital using audio boards. Physical interfaces enable adding push buttons, joysticks or knobs to your project. Measuring and sensing modules let you measure air pressure, light, rotation and other sensors critical for the specialist build. Add sound to your development boards with MP3 parts, synthesizers and breakouts. LTE™ modules add high-bandwidth functionality to an IoT project. Pin-compatible expansion boards enable plug-and-play functionality for scaling up your platform based on future requirements and technologies.