Here's what you need to know about Raspberry Pi 2, a mini Linux computer board that's built by the Raspberry Pi Foundation, and why it rocks
Raspberry Pi 2
Every once in a while a device arrives that changes the way we look at everyday computing. Few years ago, it was the Android OS, the latest seems to be the Raspberry Pi 2, built by UK-based organisation, Raspberry Foundation.
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What's Raspberry Pi? It's an "ultra low-cost deck-of-cards-sized computer board" (don't be disappointed) that's capable of running most Linux distributions, and, will be able to run the upcoming Microsoft Windows 10 (Microsoft is yet to give a final update on it, though).
The Raspberry Pi 2 comes with 1GB RAM, a quad core 900MHz ARM A7 processor, a microSD card slot (to load OS), four USB 2.0 ports, an HDMI port, a LAN Ethernet port and a 3.5mm audio jack, a CSI camera port, and uses Micros USB adapter (sold separately) as a power source. It's ultra-portable and consumes very little power.
The board is priced less than '3,000; however, you will need accessories such as a case, an HDMI cable, a LAN cable, minimum 8GB SD MicroSD card, a 5V 2A power adapter and heat sinks to get it running. There are also complete kits available for Rs 4,500 onwards.
The next question is, what purpose will it serve. Well, the Raspberry Pi 2 is a fully capable Linux computer. So, one can use it to make any gadget — a local media server, a home surveillance system, a personal cloud, theft alarm systems, or an always on torrent downloader. It also doubles up as the ideal starting kit for students who are keen to learn about hardware and build their own fun projects.
Though, a bit of knowledge about Linux programming can come handy, don't be disappointed; there's plenty of documentation available on Raspberry Pi's website, and project video tutorials on fan websites to help you understand its components and build different gadgets.
Price: Rs 2,900 onwards