Start9 introduces the “RISC-V Router” featuring a SpacemiT K1 octa-core RISC-V processor, 4GB RAM, and 16GB eMMC flash, providing dual GbE networking and an AsiaRF AW7915-NP1 WiFi 6 4T4R module for up to 2401 Mbps data link.
Though not a high-end model, Start9 claims it as the “most open router on the market” due to its RISC-V processor, OpenSBI boot stack, and StartWrt OS, a variant of OpenWrt.
Router specifications:
- SoC – SpacemiT K1
- CPU – 8-core X60 RISC-V, 1.3x Arm Cortex-A55
- GPU – Imagination IMG BXE-2-32, OpenCL 3.0, OpenGL ES3.2, Vulkan 1.2
- VPU – H.265, H.264, VP9, VP8 4K encoding
- NPU – 2.0 TOPS AI
- System Memory – 4GB LPDDR4
- Storage – 16GB eMMC, MicroSD slot
- Networking
- 2x Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 (1x LAN, 1x WAN)
- WiFi 6, AsiaRF AW7915-NP1, up to 2,401 Mbps
- 3x external antennas
- USB – 2x USB 3.0
- Power Supply
- 12V/3A barrel jack
- 12V/3A USB PD on USB-C
- Dimensions – TBD
Developed with Deep Computing, Start9 hardware aligns with releases like the DC-ROMA RISC-V Mainboard III, featuring the SpacemiT K3 SoC.
Start9 software includes:
- OpenSBI – A firmware layer in the boot process, facilitating system and kernel operations across RISC-V systems.
- StartWRT fork of OpenWrt includes:
- Security Profiles for device permissions
- Points of Entry – Ethernet, WiFi, VPN for profile determination
- WiFi (Identity PSK) for multiple passwords and profiles
- Inbound VPNs for remote access servers
- Outbound VPNs for privacy and chaining
- WiFi Blackout Schedules
- Dynamic DNS with one-click
- Help Mode for detailed explanations
Everything is open except WiFi radio firmware. Current closed-source boot binaries are being replaced with open-source versions. StartWRT OS repo information suggests SpacemiT K1 support is included.
Similar RISC-V devices include Banana Pi BPI-F3, Orange Pi R2S, and Banana Pi BPI-RV2. Start9 seeks Bitcoin donations or a $300+ payment for its device by September 2026, emphasizing software funding over hardware.
Via <a href="https://news.ycombinator.com/item