A couple of years ago, Shenzhen Xunlong Software launched Orange Pi R1 board powered by Allwinner H2+ processor with two Fast Ethernet ports, and some I/Os which could be useful for intelligent controllers and simple IoT gateways. FriendlyElec has now launched a similar, but improved product with their NanoPi R1 featuring Allwinner H3 processor coupled with 512MB or 1GB memory, two Ethernet ports, WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, packaged in a neat metal case.
- SoC – Allwinner H3 quad-core Arm Cortex-A7 processor @ up to 1.2GHz with Mali-400MP2 GPU
- System Memory – 512MB or 1GB DDR3 RAM
- Storage – MicroSD Slot, optional 8GB eMMC flash
- Connectivity
- 1x Gigabit Ethernet, 1x Fast Ethernet
- 802.11b/g/n WiFi 4 with SMA antenna interface
- Bluetooth 4.0 dual mode (Classic / LE)
- USB – 2x USB Type-A host ports, 1x micro USB OTG port
- Debugging – 3-pin 2.54mm pitch header for serial console
- Serial – 4-pin 2.54mm pitch UART header (compatible with Seeed Studio Grove modules?)
- Misc – 3x LEDs, 1x user key/reset button
- Power Supply – DC 5V/2A via micro USB port
- Dimensions – 60 x 50.5mm
- Temperature Range – -40 to 80
The company provides U-boot 2017-11, Linux 4.14, Ubuntu-Core 16.04, and OpenWrt for NanoPi R1 gateway, and you’ll find links and resources to get started in the Wiki.
Two versions of the gateway are available: one with 512MB RAM and no internal storage (boots from micro SD card), and the other with 1GB RAM, and 8GB eMMC flash selling for respectively $29 and $39 on FriendlyElec store as part of a kit with a custom metal case, a heatsink with paste and screws, one antenna, and a micro USB cable.
Thanks to theguyuk for the tip.

Jean-Luc started CNX Software in 2010 as a part-time endeavor, before quitting his job as a software engineering manager, and starting to write daily news, and reviews full time later in 2011.
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