The Raspberry PI has finally gone on sale, and the model version which costs $35 is now available to buy online. The model B version comes with an Ethernet port and 2 USB ports, making it a versatile and affordable option for various computing projects.
The Raspberry PI team have also announced that the $25 model has been changed slightly and will now come with 256MB of RAM, although this model won’t be available yet. This adjustment aims to enhance the performance of the lower-cost model, making it more appealing to budget-conscious consumers and educational institutions.
Six years after the project’s inception, we’re nearly at the end of our first run of development – although it’s just the beginning of the Raspberry Pi story. Now we start developing educational tools and initiatives, at the same time as continuing research and development on Raspberry Pi hardware.
Features and Specifications
The Raspberry PI Model B is equipped with a Broadcom BCM2835 system on a chip (SoC), which includes an ARM1176JZF-S 700 MHz processor, VideoCore IV GPU, and 512MB of RAM. The inclusion of an Ethernet port allows for easy network connectivity, making it suitable for a variety of applications such as home automation, media centers, and even small-scale servers. The two USB ports provide ample connectivity for peripherals like keyboards, mice, and external storage devices.
One of the standout features of the Raspberry PI is its ability to run a full-fledged operating system. The most popular choice is Raspbian, a Debian-based OS optimized for the Raspberry PI hardware. This allows users to perform a wide range of tasks, from basic computing to more complex programming and development projects.
Educational Impact and Future Developments
The Raspberry PI Foundation has always emphasized the educational potential of the device. With its low cost and robust capabilities, the Raspberry PI is an excellent tool for teaching computer science and programming in schools. The Foundation is actively developing educational tools and initiatives to make learning more accessible and engaging for students worldwide.
For example, the Foundation has launched several educational programs, including Code Club and Raspberry Jams, which are community-led events where people of all ages can learn about coding and digital making. These initiatives aim to inspire the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.
In addition to educational tools, the Raspberry PI team is continually working on hardware improvements. Future iterations of the Raspberry PI are expected to feature more powerful processors, increased memory, and additional connectivity options. These enhancements will further expand the range of applications for the device, making it even more versatile and capable.
It looks like you may have to wait a while though to get your hands on one, as one of the retailers has it listed with a 30-day wait, and the other is letting you register your interest in the device. This high demand is a testament to the Raspberry PI’s popularity and the excitement it has generated among tech enthusiasts and educators alike.
The Raspberry PI has already made a significant impact in the world of computing and education, and its future looks even brighter. As the Foundation continues to innovate and expand its offerings, the Raspberry PI is poised to become an even more integral part of the tech landscape.
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