Product Overview: Raspberry Pi
The Raspberry Pi is a series of small, single-board computers developed by the Raspberry Pi Foundation and later by Raspberry Pi Ltd. These devices are designed to be affordable, highly versatile, and powerful, making them ideal for a wide range of applications from basic computer science education to complex industrial and embedded systems.
What it Does
The Raspberry Pi functions as a fully functional computer, capable of performing tasks similar to those of a desktop PC. It can connect to peripherals such as keyboards, mice, and monitors, allowing users to browse the internet, stream high-definition video, and engage in activities like word processing, spreadsheets, and gaming.
Key Features
Processing and Memory
- The Raspberry Pi series includes various models with different central processing units (CPUs), ranging from 700 MHz in the earliest models to 2.4 GHz in the latest Raspberry Pi 5. These CPUs are either 32-bit or 64-bit, with the newer models featuring 64-bit architecture.
- The memory capacity varies across models, from 256 MB in the earliest versions to up to 8 GB in the Raspberry Pi 4 and 5 models.
Connectivity and Networking
- Many models come with built-in Wi-Fi (dual-band 802.11ac in the Raspberry Pi 5) and Bluetooth (Bluetooth 5.0/BLE in the Raspberry Pi 5), enabling wireless communication.
- Ethernet ports are available in the Model B versions, with the Raspberry Pi 5 also supporting Gigabit Ethernet and Power over Ethernet (PoE ) with a separate HAT.
Input/Output Capabilities
- Each Raspberry Pi features a standard 40-pin GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output) header, allowing users to connect external devices and sensors. This header supports various protocols like I²C, SPI, and UART.
- The boards include multiple USB ports (up to 4 USB 3.0 and 2 USB 2.0 in the Raspberry Pi 5), an HDMI port for video output, and a 3.5 mm audio jack.
Storage
- The operating system, applications, and data are stored on a microSD card, with some models also supporting onboard eMMC storage and USB-attached SSD storage.
Graphics and Video
- The Raspberry Pi 5 features a VideoCore VII GPU, supporting OpenGL ES 3.1 and Vulkan 1.2, and is capable of dual 4Kp60 HDMI display output and 4Kp60 HEVC decoding.
Power and Other Features
- The devices are powered via a USB-C port (in the Raspberry Pi 5) or a microUSB port in earlier models. The Raspberry Pi 5 also includes a power button and a real-time clock.
- Additional features include PCIe 2.0 x1 interface for fast peripherals and MIPI camera/display transceivers.
Functionality
- Computing and Desktop Use: Raspberry Pi can run a full Linux operating system, allowing users to perform desktop tasks such as browsing the internet, using office software, and streaming media.
- Embedded and Industrial Applications: The Compute Module series is designed for industrial and embedded applications, offering high-performance hardware in a minimal form factor that requires connection to a separate baseboard for full functionality.
- Education and Hobby Projects: The Raspberry Pi is widely used in educational settings to teach basic computer science and programming. It is also popular among hobbyists for projects such as robotics, home automation, and various digital maker projects.
- Media and Entertainment: With its ability to stream high-definition video and support for gaming, the Raspberry Pi can serve as a media center or a retro game console.
In summary, the Raspberry Pi is a powerful, versatile, and affordable single-board computer that offers a wide range of features and functionalities, making it suitable for various applications from education and hobby projects to industrial and embedded systems.