# WLAN Pi M4

### Use case

Modular, PoE powered, Wi-Fi 6E capable WLAN Pi. more affordable than the [WLAN Pi Pro](https://userguide.wlanpi.com/hardware/wlan-pi-pro-eos).

### What is it?

Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 (CM4) is the brains of a raspberry pi 4 but without any of the IO ports, instead we start with a 'carrier board' possessing the desired IO ports and we add a CM4 to it.

The board we are testing with the WLAN Pi CE is manufactured by 'Mcuzone', can be purchased from AliExpress [here](https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005003823642614.html), the solution is still to be validated. We don't recommend ordering one just yet.

### Parts

* Sandisk Edge or similar 32 GB or larger micro SD card - From $10.99
* Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 (we recommend one with built-in Wi-Fi, so we can use the bluetooth module)
* Mediatek MT7921K or MT7922 (Wi-Fi 6E module)
* antennas
* Waveshare screen and buttons
* GPIO riser

We have identified two Mcuzone carrier boards of interest!

### [**Mcuzone CM4\_wifi6\_PoE Expansion board**](https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005003823642614.html)

$76 + $12 (shipping) Total $88 USD

Pros

* PoE power input
* Type-C power (limited, see below)
* 40-pin GPIO (requires pin header) for display connection
* Bluetooth works on MediaTek adapters (USB bus is internally connected to M.2 slot)
* Slightly smaller than the WLAN Pi Pro carrier board

Cons

* No OTG - you can't establish data connection between your laptop and the board via USB
* No Real Time Clock (RTC)
* Potentially limited type-C options, varied results in testing regarding power from Macbook Type-C to Type-C or PD charger
* Only one M.2 slot for Wi-Fi adapters