2026-09-06

Raspberry Pi has released an official Programming Jig for the Compute Module 5, and if you're running CM5-based nodes in your homelab it's worth knowing about.

What is it?

The jig is a purpose-built board that lets you flash the eMMC on a CM5 without needing a full IO board. You slot the module in, connect USB, and write your image directly. Raspberry Pi designed it primarily for production environments — think flashing dozens of units — but it's genuinely handy for homelabbers running CM5 clusters or embedded projects where you're swapping modules around.

Why homelabbers should care

If you've ever wrestled with putting a CM4 or CM5 into USB boot mode using jumpers on an IO board, you know it's fiddly. The programming jig simplifies the workflow to something close to "drop in and flash." For anyone building a compact CM5-based cluster, a NAS controller, or a kiosk setup, being able to re-image modules quickly without tearing down your build is a real time-saver.

It also matters if you're buying eMMC variants of the CM5 (which are cheaper than pairing a Lite module with a separate NVMe drive in some configurations). Easier flashing removes one of the main annoyances of the eMMC route.

Caveats

This is a niche tool. If you only have one CM5 sitting in an IO board, you probably don't need it — the existing rpiboot method works fine for occasional flashing. Pricing wasn't finalised at time of writing, so check the Raspberry Pi approved reseller list for UK availability and cost. It's also worth noting this doesn't add any new capability; it just makes an existing process less painful.

What to do

Keep an eye on Raspberry Pi CM5 Programming Jig at the usual Pi stockists. If you're connecting your CM5 builds with USB-C, our 240W USB-C Fast-Charging & Data Cable – Braided, LED Indicator is a solid, cheap data cable to have on the bench.