Intel Galileo
Introduction
- Intel Galileo is an Arduino-certified single-board computer (SBC) developed by Intel.
- It is designed for makers, students, and IoT developers.
- Runs on Linux and supports Arduino shields & software.
- Discontinued in 2017 but still useful for learning embedded systems.
Versons & Release Dates
- Galileo Gen 1: Released on October 17, 2013
- Galileo Gen 2: Released on July 10, 2014
- Discontinued: June 16, 2017
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Galileo Gen 1 | Galileo Gen 2 |
| Processor | Intel Quark X1000 (32-bit, 400 MHz) | Intel Quark X1000 (32-bit, 400 MHz) |
| RAM | 256 MB DDR3 | 256 MB DDR3 |
| Storage | Micro SD up to 32 GB | Micro SD up to 32 GB + 8 MB Flash |
| Power Input | 5V | 7V - 15V (Better Power System) |
| Ethernet | Yes (10/100 Mbps) | Yes (10/100 Mbps) |
| USB Ports | USB 2.0 host & device | USB 2.0 host & device |
| PWM (for motor control) | 8-bit | 12-bit (More precise) |
| PoE (Power over Ethernet) | No | Yes (With extra module) |
Key Features & Benefits
Runs Linux (Yocto Project based) – Powerful OS support.
Compatible with Arduino IDE – Easy to program.
Supports Arduino Shields – Works with existing Arduino accessories.
Has Built-in Real-Time Clock (RTC) – Can track time even without power.
Supports PCIe, Ethernet, and USB – Expandable with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and storage.
Ideal for IoT & Robotics – Good for learning embedded systems.
Main Differences Between Gen 1 & Gen 2
Gen 2 has better PWM (12-bit) for precise motor control.
Gen 2 supports Power over Ethernet (PoE).
Gen 2 has an improved power system (7V-15V input).
Comparison with Raspberry Pi
| Feature | Intel Galileo Gen 2 | Raspberry Pi 3 |
| CPU | Intel Quark (400 MHz) | ARM Cortex-A53 (1.2 GHz) |
| RAM | 256 MB DDR3 | 1 GB LPDDR2 |
| Storage | Micro SD (up to 32GB) | Micro SD |
| OS | Linux (Yocto, Arduino) | Linux (Raspberry Pi OS) |
| Arduino Support | Yes |  No
|
Conclusion
Intel Galileo was a powerful development board for students, but it was discontinued in 2017. It is still useful for learning Arduino, Linux, and IoT development. However, Raspberry Pi is a better choice for general computing projects.
Best for:
Embedded Systems Learning
IoT & Robotics Projects
Arduino Programming
