Apacer PT25R-Pi HAT SSD for Raspberry Pi 5 integrates 60GB to 480GB BGA SSD, supports CoreSnapshot 2 Backup and Recovery function

Apacer PT25R-Pi HAT SSD is an upcoming HAT for the Raspberry Pi 5 or compatible SBCs with a PCIe FFC connector that integrates a BGA SSD chip with 60 GB to 480GB capacity, and supports advanced features like CoreSnapshot 2 backup and recovery solution, write protect, instant keychange for improved security, and power loss protection.

We’ve already seen many Raspberry Pi HATs for NVMe SSDs, but those are typically designed for M.2 SSD modules. The PT25R-Pi HAT SSD comes with built-in storage on the HAT, so it’s basically plug-and-play, and all the user has to do is install the HAT and connect the cable.

Apacer PT25R-Pi / PT25R-Pi+ HAT SSD specifications (preliminary):

• Storage – Built-in 60GB to 480GB SSD chip
• Connection to Raspberry Pi 5
  • 40-pin GPIO header
  • 16-pin Raspberry Pi FFC connector limited to PCIe Gen2 x1 for optimized power usage
• Advanced features
  • Optional support for CoreSnapshot 2 backup and recovery solution with built-in Recovery and Backup buttons and two slots for external buttons.
  • Write protect
  • Instant Keychange to enhance data protection by rapidly changing the 128-bit or 256-bit AES encryption key. Users can usually destroy the original encryption key and generate a new one in less than a second via hardware or software triggers.
  • Power loss protection using a tantalum capacitor
• Misc – Power and Act LEDs
• Dimensions – Raspberry Pi HAT+

The company mentions compatibility with the PCIe Gen4 x4 interface, but I assume that just refers to the capabilities of the BGA SSD chip, since it’s not possible through the 16-pin FFC connector…

A little explanation about CoreSnapshot 2 is in order. It’s a system disaster solution developed by Apacer that offers an instant whole disk backup and recovery mechanism for SSDs to solve unexpected data loss or OS crash by splitting the SSD into user and backup areas. The users can just press the backup or recovery button on the HAT to automatically start backing up or recovering the SSD. Since the HAT will likely be placed in an enclosure or a chassis, it also features two slots to connect external triggers/buttons.

The video demo below shows CoreSnapshot used with a Windows-based medical device. When a system failure occurs, like a blue screen of death (BSoD), the operator can just press a hidden button to quickly recover the system.

The Apacer PT25R-Pi HAT SSD for Raspberry Pi 5 is mainly designed for industrial customers who need an instant backup and recovery solution. It’s now being showcased at Computex 2025 and should become available in one or two months.

Thanks to TLS for the photos and tip.

Support CNX Software! Donate via cryptocurrencies, become a Patron on Patreon, or purchase goods on Amazon or Aliexpress. We also use affiliate links in articles to earn commissions if you make a purchase after clicking on those links.