Compute Module 5 carrier design: which reference-board details should not be copied blindly?

Read the current module datasheet and reference design together. Identify required power, reset, boot and configuration circuits separately from optional interfaces. A component near an omitted connector may still serve a shared rail or signal, so remove circuitry by function rather than by its drawing location.

Recheck supply capacity and startup behavior for the assembled system, including USB devices and other loads. Review signal integrity, connector pinout and return paths for the interfaces retained. A reference layout's routing assumptions may not survive a different layer stack or placement.

Create a bring-up plan with accessible power, reset and diagnostic points before releasing the PCB. Validate the minimal carrier first, then each interface and operating mode. Keep the exact module variant and board revision with the design files and software configuration.