Raspberry Pi – More Than Just a Mini Computer
What Raspberry Pi Models Are Available?
The latest Raspberry Pi models are the Pi 4 with 4GB and 2GB RAM, which are better suited for demanding applications and versatile use cases compared to their predecessors. Whether as a small computer, weather station, home automation platform, or media server, they perform exceptionally well. Other versions are also suitable for these tasks, so comparing them is worthwhile:
|
Raspberry Pi Model |
Raspberry Pi4 4GB |
Raspberry Pi4 2GB |
|
Processor |
Broadcom 2711, Quad-core Cortex-A72 64-bit SoC @ 1.5 GHz |
Broadcom 2711, Quad-core Cortex-A72 64-bit SoC @ 1.5 GHz |
|
RAM |
4 GB LPDDR4 SDRAM |
2 GB LPDDR4 SDRAM |
|
Connectivity |
2.4GHz / 5.0GHz IEEE 802.11.b/g/n/ac wireless LAN Bluetooth 5.0, BLE 2x USB 3.0 / 2x USB 2.0 ports True Gigabit Ethernet |
2.4GHz / 5.0GHz IEEE 802.11.b/g/n/ac wireless LAN Bluetooth 5.0, BLE 2x USB 3.0 / 2x USB 2.0 ports True Gigabit Ethernet |
|
Access |
Extended 40-Pin GPIO Header |
Extended 40-Pin GPIO Header |
|
Video and Audio |
2x Micro HDMI Type D sockets 1x 15 Pin MIPI DSI Display Port 1x 15 Pin MIPI CSI Camera Port 1x Combined 4 Pin Stereo Audio and Composite Video Jack |
2x Micro HDMI Type D sockets 1x 15 Pin MIPI DSI Display Port 1x 15 Pin MIPI CSI Camera Port 1x Combined 4 Pin Stereo Audio and Composite Video Jack |
|
Multimedia |
H.265 decode (4kp60) H.264 decode (1080p60) H.264 encode (1080p30) OpenGL ES 1.1, 2.0, 3.0 graphics |
H.265 decode (4kp60) H.264 decode (1080p60) H.264 encode (1080p30) OpenGL ES 1.1, 2.0, 3.0 graphics |
|
Power Supply |
5V/3A DC via USB Type-C connector 5V DC via GPIO PoE capable via optional PoE HAT |
5V/3A DC via USB Type-C connector 5V DC via GPIO PoE capable via optional PoE HAT |
|
Resolution |
1x HDMI 4K / 3840 x 2160p @ 60Hz 2x HDMI 4K / 3840 x 2160p @ 30Hz Composite: 720x480@60i NTSC, 720x576@50i PAL |
1x HDMI 4K / 3840 x 2160p @ 60Hz 2x HDMI 4K / 3840 x 2160p @ 30Hz Composite: 720x480@60i NTSC, 720x576@50i PAL |
|
Dimensions |
85 x 56 x 17 mm Mounting holes: 2.75mm |
85 x 56 x 17 mm Mounting holes: 2.75mm |
For additional questions, you can refer to our hotline or one of the many Raspberry Pi forums. Working with the Raspberry Pi is highly rewarding; there’s no easier way to start programming. Once you catch the bug, the fun begins with Raspberry Pi’s diverse applications.
How Does a Raspberry Pi Work?
It all starts with a microSD card. This either comes with a pre-installed Linux operating system or can be downloaded from the internet. Then, using specialized programs on Windows or Apple macOS, it is prepared and flashed onto the SD card. This process is simpler than it sounds. Finding the right power source is quick and easy thanks to our new configurator, which recommends only compatible and original Raspberry Pi Foundation power supplies. Power supplies included in our Raspberry Pi kits or sold separately are labeled to indicate which Raspberry Pi models they are compatible with. You can also find suitable cases for the Raspberry Pi in the category or through the configurator. Each use case has its corresponding case solution.
The Various Applications for the Raspberry Pi
The RetroPie, for example, is appealing to gamers who grew up in the 80s and 90s and want to revisit the games of the "old days." Our RetroPie Starter Kit includes everything needed to dive into this world. Things get really exciting with an IKEA table modified with LED strips and a Raspberry Pi to create an interactive gaming table where playing Pac-Man becomes twice as much fun. For about €130, you can replicate this table; here’s the guide.
The Best Operating System for Raspberry Pi
Choosing the right operating system for the Raspberry Pi 4 or its predecessor models requires some experimentation. Everyone has different preferences for interfaces and supported components. The standard system for Raspberry Pi is Raspbian from the Raspberry Pi Foundation. This is available in various versions. Ubuntu Mate or Snappy Ubuntu Core are also great entry-level systems for the Raspberry Pi. For classrooms, PiNet and KanoOS are excellent choices. Advanced users or professionals may prefer Arch Linux, which can be tailored to fit their needs. For media centers, OpenELEC, LibreELEC, and OSMC are suitable options.
In summary, the Raspberry Pi is a small all-rounder capable of handling many applications. Try it out and be amazed!
