The awesome minicomputer in the form of the Raspberry Pi mini PC has this week announced that sales of the device have passed 2 million, and sales are accelerating ahead of projections.
The Raspberry Pi Foundation, responsible for creating and manufacturing the mini PC, announced the milestone over the weekend, explaining that the 2,000,000th Raspberry Pi PC was sold in the last week of October 2013.
Development and Features of the Raspberry Pi
The Raspberry Pi is a credit-card-sized single-board computer developed in the UK by the Raspberry Pi Foundation that first launched back on 29th February 2012. The Raspberry Pi mini PC is equipped with a Broadcom BCM2835 system on a chip (SoC), which includes an ARM1176JZF-S 700 MHz processor. This compact yet powerful device was designed to promote the teaching of basic computer science in schools and developing countries.
The Raspberry Pi has evolved through several versions that feature various memory capacities and peripheral connectivity options. The original model, known as the Model B, came with 256MB of RAM, which was later upgraded to 512MB. The device also includes USB ports, HDMI output, and an Ethernet port, making it versatile for a wide range of applications from simple educational tools to complex home automation systems.
“We took the web’s first Raspberry Pi unboxing picture. (below) and on getting the news about the 2,000,000th Pi at the end of last week, it struck us that every single Raspberry Pi in that pallet represents 1000 of the Raspberry Pis that are spread around the world today.
We never thought we’d be where we are today when we started this journey: it’s down to you, our amazing community, and we’re very, very lucky to have you. Thanks!”
Impact and Community Support
The success of the Raspberry Pi can be attributed to its affordability, versatility, and the strong community support it has garnered over the years. The device has been used in a myriad of projects, ranging from DIY electronics and robotics to media centers and even weather stations. Its low cost makes it accessible to hobbyists, educators, and professionals alike.
One of the most significant impacts of the Raspberry Pi has been in education. Schools and universities around the world have adopted the Raspberry Pi as a teaching tool, allowing students to learn programming, electronics, and computer science in a hands-on manner. The Raspberry Pi Foundation has also developed a range of educational resources and initiatives, such as the Code Club and Raspberry Jams, to further support learning and innovation.
Moreover, the Raspberry Pi has inspired a wave of similar devices and has played a crucial role in the growth of the maker movement. Its open-source nature encourages experimentation and collaboration, leading to a wealth of shared knowledge and resources within the community. Online forums, tutorials, and project showcases have become invaluable resources for anyone looking to explore the capabilities of the Raspberry Pi.
As the Raspberry Pi continues to evolve, with newer models offering increased performance and additional features, its potential applications are expanding. From Internet of Things (IoT) devices to artificial intelligence (AI) projects, the Raspberry Pi remains at the forefront of technological innovation, empowering individuals and communities to create and learn.
The Raspberry Pi’s journey from a simple educational tool to a global phenomenon is a testament to the power of community and the importance of accessible technology. With over 2 million units sold and counting, the Raspberry Pi has undoubtedly made a lasting impact on the world of computing and beyond.
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