Shenzhen Tianmao Technology
Machine Learning
Laptops & PCs

GenBook RK3588

A modular, expandable, open source ARM laptop with up to 32 GB of RAM

$9,800 raised

of $60,000 goal

16% Funded

Back this project to help bring it into existence.
Funding ends on Dec 19, 2024 at 03:59 PM PST.

$500 - $700

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GenBook RK3588 is an open-source laptop with Rockchip’s RK3588 at its heart. This powerful CPU integrates four Cortex-A76, four Cortex-A55 cores, and four Mali G610 graphics cores. An integrated NPU unit with 6 TOPS of computing power can meaningfully boost local machine learning tasks. This popular new chip allows users to use many popular open-source operating systems, including Ubuntu, Debian, and Armbian.

GenBook RK3588 adopts a modular design approach consisting of a System on Module and motherboard, facilitating future upgrades and developments. Users can also install higher-performance Wi-Fi modules and bigger 2280-size M.2 NVMe SSDs. And if you need more ports, the accessibility of UART, I2C, and a 50-pin FPC interface will allow you to modify your laptop however you can imagine.

Powerful & Flexible

Powered by Rockchip’s latest flagship SoC, the GenBook RK3588 is more than capable of tackling modern, intensive computing tasks. It can power three displays simultaneously, creating a super productive desktop setup. Demanding Linux apps like KiCAD and Qt benefit from its multicore power and up to 32 GB of RAM, compiling code and displaying complex models quickly. Finally, machine learning tasks like LLMs or machine vision can leverage the RK3588’s NPU—check out the table below to find out how it performs in several scenarios:

ScenarioModelCPU speed (ms)NPU speed (ms)
ClassificationResNet50_vd-33
DetectionPicodet162112
DetectionYOLOV5-s-relu-57
DetectionYOLOV8-n192119
Character SegmentationPPHumanSegV2Lite-Portrait13343
Face DetectionSCRFD-2.5G-kps-64010842
Face RecognitionAdaFace/ArcFace/CosFace(R18)8112

Upgradable & Modifiable

The GenBook RK3588 has a modular design, allowing users to easily upgrade or repair their laptops. For instance, the SoM can be replaced with other configurations, giving users upgrade options, such as a module with the same CPU and more RAM or another processor architecture in the future.

GenBook RK3588 supports internal displays with eDP interfaces up to 4K60P. It also supports the addition of touch screens with extended I2C interfaces. No software modifications are required to install a new or upgraded higher-resolution LCD panel. Multiple vendors’ panels are verified as compatible with the GenBook chassis.

Optional 5G expansion board connected via FPC interface.

We’ve designed GenBook RK3588 with a 50-pin FPC connector, providing even more interfaces for user expansion. We’ve already created an accessory PCB that provides 5G WWAN over the FPC connection and are investigating other boards to add PCIe, low-speed encryption chips, or an FPGA. Given its open-source nature, we hope the community will embrace and add to the options available for GenBook RK3588 expansion.

Features & Specifications

GenM5 System on Module

Display

Wireless

Storage

I/O

Battery and charging

Other Features

Operating systems

Comparisons

GenBook RK3588ExpertBook B3Apple 2022 MacBook AirHuawei Qing Yun L420
Manufacturer Tianmao ASUS Apple Huawei
Processor RK3588 Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 Apple M2 kylin9006C
OS Ubuntu, Debian, Uos, KylinOS, Android Windows 11 Pro macOS KylinOS
Size (closed)323.4 x 219.9 x 19.9 mm260.3 x 172.1 x 8.9 mm304.1 x 215 x 11.3 mm307.5 x 223.8 x 15.9 mm
CPU8 Core8 Core8 CoreUnknown
GPU4 CoreQualcomm Adreno GPU 61810 CoreUnknown
NPU4 Core 6 TOPsNone16 Core Neural EngineUnknown
Memory8 G or 32 G LPDDR5X4 GB LPDDR58 GB LPDDR58 GB
Storage64 GB eMMC or 1 TB SSD128 GB eMMC256 GB SSD or 512 GB SSD512 GB UFS Hard Disk
Screen size14.1 inch10.5 inch13 inch14 inch
Display resolution1920x1080‎1920 x 12002560 x 16642160 x 1440
Wi-Fi connectivityWi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)Wi-Fi 6
BluetoothBT 5.2BT 5.1BT 5.3BT 4.2
Battery capacity38 Wh (7.6 V, 5000 MAh)38 Wh52.6 Wh56 Wh
Adapter36 W DCN/A30 W USB Type-C65 W USB Type-C
Camera2 Megapixel5 or 13 Megapixel2.1 MegapixelNone
Charging4-mm barrel jackUSB Type-CMagSafe 3 charging portUSB Type-C
Expansion3.5-mm headphone jack, HDMI 2.1, USB Type-A, USB 3.0+DP 1.4 Type-C, M.2 2280 PCIE (built-in)USB Type-C, USB 3.0 Type-A, 3.5-mm headphone jack,3.5-mm headphone jack, 2x ThunderboltUSB Type-C, USB 2.0+DC, 2x USB Type-A, USB 3.2 Gen1, HDMI 1.4, 3.5-mm headphone jack, Mini RJ45
Open hardwareYesNoNoNo
Support DIYYesNoNoNo

Support & Documentation

GenBook-RK3588 is open hardware, and we have already made materials ready for you to download. Schematics for the motherboard (OrCAD, PDF, PCB pad file) and GenM5 system on module (PDF) are on our website for you to download and modify. If you’re curious about what components are on our SoM, a BOM is public.

On the software side, we’ve made the kernel and Uboot source are both available (see our website for more information). Finally, we’ve made OS images ready for download.

Want to work with others in this community? We invite you to join our forum!

Manufacturing Plan

We have significant experience in procurement, production, testing, and transportation of products. We will produce the core of GenBook RK3588 ourselves. This includes PCB assembly of the motherboard and core board. We built and maintain the system image, and we will design and print all user manuals. We are working with a manufacturing partner who will provide laptop shells, display panels, cables,batteries, adapters, packaging material, and screws. This partner will also leverage their intelligent-manufacturing experience to handle final assembly, QA, and packaging for each device.

Fulfillment & Logistics

After our production run is complete, we will package everything up and send it along to Crowd Supply’s fulfillment partner, Mouser Electronics, who will handle distribution to backers worldwide. You can learn more about Crowd Supply’s fulfillment service under Ordering, Paying, and Shipping in their guide.

Risks & Challenges

We are confident in our ability to deliver GenBook RK3588, but we acknowledge the potential risks and challenges inherent in the production and fulfillment process. These include navigating the extensive, time-consuming paperwork and certification logistics required to comply with product and accessory regulations.

Additionally, we may face challenges related to supply chain issues for specific components or production delays from our laptop manufacturer. If the initial production order is large, we may spend more time and effort on procurement, production, and quality.

You can trust that our team is fully prepared to address these challenges. We are well acquainted with the various developments that cause delays, and we are taking preemptive action to avoid them. We will keep you informed of progress and any potential delays throughout the life of the project. We are dedicated to delivering GenBook RK3588 as promised.

In the Press

Liliputing

"[The GenBook RK3588] stands out from most laptops not only because of its ARM-based processor, but also its modular design: the processor module can be removed and replaced."

CNX Software

"[The] GenBook RK3588 is... powered by a Rockchip RK3588 Arm system-on-module (SoM), and easily serviceable by the user who can add M.2 MVMe SSD storage, switch wireless module, and eventually update to a more powerful SoM, or even change the display."

Ask a Question

Produced by Shenzhen Tianmao Technology in Shenzhen, China.

Sold and shipped by Crowd Supply.

GenBook RK3588 (32 GB / 1 TB)

A modular, upgradable, open-hardware laptop powered by Rockchip's powerful RK3588 CPU and an integrated, 6-TOPS NPU that gives local machine-learning tasks a significant boost. Comes with 32 GB of RAM and a 1 TB, M.2 2280, NVMe solid-state drive (SSD). Compatible with many popular, open-source operating systems, including Ubuntu, Debian, and Armbian. Includes the core RK3588 board, a motherboard, and modules to support for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, charging, and power management. Expandable through UART, I²C, and a 50-pin FPC connector.

$700 Free Worldwide Shipping

GenBook RK3588 (8 GB / 64 GB)

A modular, upgradable, open-hardware laptop powered by Rockchip's powerful RK3588 CPU and an integrated, 6-TOPS NPU that gives local machine-learning tasks a significant boost. Comes with 8 GB of RAM and 64 GB of integrated eMMC storage. Compatible with many popular, open-source operating systems, including Ubuntu, Debian, and Armbian. Includes the core RK3588 board, a motherboard, and modules to support for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, charging, and power management. Expandable through UART, I²C, and a 50-pin FPC connector.

$500 Free Worldwide Shipping

About the Team

Shenzhen Tianmao Technology

 · 

Our company was established to develop open-source modules and devices. We provide a stable, diverse hardware and software platform that enables users to customize their products quickly.

Alisa Liu
George Yang
 coolpi-george
Linda Li

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