Raspberry Pi
Everything you require to get started...And more!
The Raspberry Pi was first 'baked' in 2012 as a single board ARM-based computer that developed in response to the growing need for computing and programming skills within children. Fast forward to years later and the Raspberry Pi has an expanding community of enthusiasts and designers. This group are looking to build their latest projects with Pi at the core.
Why Pi?
• Affordable.
• REALLY easy to use.
• Linux-based open source, which means you can have access to free software and downloads to help you with your project.
• It has great connectivity.
• It is flexible to the user. Want to play games? Stream music and/or video? Do your homework? Create a weather station? Create a home security camera? No limits!
But most importantly, it is a great way for beginners, young, and old, to get into computing!
Let's take a look at the Pi models;
Pi B+ BCM2835 SoC/ARM11/700 MHz/512 MB RAM/4 USB PORTS/ 85 x 56 x 17 mm
Pi A+ BCM2835 SoC/ARM11/700 MHz/256 MB RAM/1 USB PORT/ 66 x 56 x 14 mm
Pi 2 B BCM2836 SoC/ARMv7/900 MHz/1GB RAM/4 USB PORTS/ 85 x 56 x 17 mm
What do I require to get started?
You need a keyboard, a mouse, SD card with or without NOOBS, a power supply, HDMI, or RCA jack (to connect to a screen). Also required is either an ethernet cable or a dongle for internet connection. Pi A+ cannot connect to the Internet. Available is a constantly expanding range of accessories to give your Pi that extra flavour. These include cases, USB hubs, ethernet cables, dongles, 'how to' books, camera, and expansion boards.
How do I set up my Pi?
Once you are all connected install NOOBS which helps set up your Pi. SD cards are available with NOOBS pre-installed or you can download NOOBS from the Raspberry Pi Foundation website onto your SD card. Now you have NOOBS, you can easily install an operating system (no Internet needed!), with the choices being;
•RASPBIAN
Great for beginners with SCRATCH - An interactive stories, games, and animation programming tool for anybody over the age of 8! PYTHON is the Raspberry Pi recommended programming language – it is where the 'Pi' part comes from!
