In most cases raspberrypi is used as a normal personal computer for home/office use like wordprocessing, spreadsheet, pc gaming, internet browsing and hd video viewing. It also plays a great role in the education field in the UK.
However the glory of raspberry pi lies on its applications for home automation projects as well as its uses in professional automation systems. Raspberry-pi devices are the most convenient computers which helps in custom project while boasting very low energy use.
Some of the most popular raspberry pi projects are:
- Automatic Gate Systems
- Remote Access to household appliances
- Sensor and temperature control
- Linux Webserver
- Media Streaming Server
- CCTV Remote Camera Access
Device Models Comparison
| Features | Model A | Raspberry Pi Model B |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | Broadcom BCM2835 SoC full HD multimedia applications processor | Broadcom BCM2835 SoC full HD multimedia applications processor |
| CPU | 700 MHz Low Power ARM1176JZ-F Applications Processor | 700 MHz Low Power ARM1176JZ-F Applications Processor |
| Ethernet/Network | None | Onboard 10/100 Ethernet RJ45 jack |
| GPU | Dual Core VideoCore 4 Multimedia Co-Processor | Dual Core VideoCore IV® Multimedia Co-Processor |
| On-board Storage | SD, MMC, SDIO card slot | SD, MMC, SDIO card slot |
| RAM | 256MB SDRAM | 512MB SDRAM |
| USB 2.0 | 1 Port | 2 USB Ports |
| Audio Output | 3.5mm jack, HDMI | 3.5mm jack, HDMI |
| Video Output | HDMI (rev 1.3 & 1.4) Composite RCA | HDMI (rev 1.3 & 1.4) Composite RCA (PAL and NTSC) |
| OS | Linux Operating System | Linux |
| Size | 8.6cm x 5.4cm x 1.5cm | 8.6cm x 5.4cm x 1.7cm |
Model B+ - Latest Model
The latest model released is known as the B+ with a price tag of $35. This model is more power efficient and is able to power components and peripehrals which require a dedicated power source. Another improvement on this model is its upgrade of connectors. It features an improved power management with a stable voltage regulator.
Broadcom Chip
An upgrade to Model B R2 configuration.
Ethernet
Multiple ports/connectors
4 USB Ports
40 Pins GPIO
512MB RAM/Memory
Raspberry Model B+ now has the ability to connect to a USB powered 2.5 Inch Hard Disk Drive with ease.
Model A - Specs
The details for Model A shows a basic version but quite powerful device which consumes very little power (1/3 of that used by Model B)
Dimension is 85.60 mm × 53.98 mm
Weigh: 45 grams .
No Ethernet
Only one USB port
256MB RAM/Memory
Processor same configuration as the Model B specifications.
Ideal energy power optimized projects.
There are many automation projects with power/battery constraints, in such cases model A should do the job as it has low power consumption specs.
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Model B Revision 1
The Model B is more powerful than Model A.
256 MB RAM
Operates on Linux
Intermediate device Specifications, good for intermediate/advanced automation projects
Model B Revision 2 - Raspberry Pi Specs
Broadcom BCM2835
700MHz ARM 1176JZFS processor
FPU
Videocore 4 GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)
512 MB RAM
Programmers Bundle Specs
The Programmers Bundle caters for a quick start.
The package includes Pi board
Pi case
Micro USB power cord
SD card
Raspberry Ultimate Starter kit
Board Computer
+ 11 Essential Accessories with specs:
Model B (512 MB Rev2)
Casing
4GB SD Card pre-configured with Wheezy Raspbian
USB Power Cable Micro USB
6ft High Quality HDMI Cable
Wireless Wifi Adapter
400-Tie-point breadboard
65 Jumper Wires
USB to TTL Serial Cable
GPIO Cable Ribbon and Breakout board
CanaKit Raspberry Pi
Item Weight: 0.2 ounces
Item model number: RASPBERRY-PI-STK
Ratings: 4/5
Model B
Revision 2
512 MB Memory
Transparent Case
4GB SD Card
Raspbian "wheezy" pre-loaded
USB Power Supply
HDMI Cable included
Assembly Guide for Beginners to Electronics.
1A / 5V USB power supply
Raspberry PI 5MP Camera Board Module
Supports 1080p30, 720p60 and 640x480p60/90 video
5 MP resolution sensor-capable of 2592 x 1944 px static images
Camera's support available on the latest version of Raspbian operating system
About Raspberry Pi Foundation
The Foundation is a non profit making organising based in the United Kingdom. It is the sole right holder of the rapberry pi trade mark. They have very little margin on these devices which are basically meant for the promotion of technology use in education field.The pricing for raspberry pi devices start from $25 although shipping cost and hanlding cost need to be added. It depends from which authorised seller you are considering to purchase. There are many online sellers like element14, farnell and amazon who are marketing these great devices at very affordable cost. Raspberry-pi makers are keeping the devices simple and yet very flexible for its applications. Low power consumption and modular interface make them a great buy. Enjoy your rasp pi device!