Raspberry Pi & Python

Raspberry Pi

Raspberry Pi is a low-cost mini-computer with the physical size of a credit card. Raspberry Pi runs various flavors of Linux and can perform almost all tasks that a normal desktop computer can do. Raspberry Pi also allows interfacing sensors and actuators through the general purpose I/O pins. Since Raspberry Pi runs Linux operating system, it supports Python "out of the box".

Why Python is Perfect for Raspberry Pi

One of the biggest advantages of Raspberry Pi is its seamless compatibility with Python, one of the most beginner-friendly and powerful programming languages. Here’s why Python is ideal for programming the Raspberry Pi:

• Pre-installed: Python comes pre-installed in Raspberry Pi OS (previously called Raspbian), so there’s no need for setup.

• Simple Syntax: Python’s clear and readable code structure makes it easy for beginners.

• Strong Community Support: Countless tutorials and libraries exist for Pi + Python projects.

• Hardware Control: Libraries like RPi.GPIO and gpiozero allow direct control of the GPIO pins.

• Versatility: Ideal for automation, IoT, machine learning, image processing, and more.

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Features of Raspberry Pi

01. Processor & RAM

• Based on ARM processor.

• Raspberry Pi versions have 32-bit ARM1176JZF-S processor @ 1.2GHz.

• Models vary in RAM: 512MB or 1GB.

02. USB Ports

• 2 USB ports for connecting peripherals.

• Each port provides up to 500mA current.

03. Ethernet Port

• 10/100 Ethernet port for wired connectivity.

• Can also use USB WiFi adapter for wireless.

04. HDMI Output

• Provides audio/video output via HDMI.

• Can be converted to VGA using HDMI to VGA adapters.

05. Composite Video Output

• RCA jack to connect to older TVs using PAL/NTSC video signal.

06. Audio Output

• 3.5 mm audio jack to connect to speakers or headphones (analog).

07. GPIO Pins

• General-purpose I/O pins used for sensors, relays, etc.

08. Display Serial Interface (DSI)

• Connects LED panel to Raspberry Pi.

09. Camera Serial Interface (CSI)

• Connects camera module for image processing projects.

10. Status LEDs

• Shows system status:

  • ACT: SD card access.

  • PWR: 3.3V power present.

  • FDX: Full duplex LAN.

  • LNK: Link/activity.

  • 100: 100 Mbps LAN connection.

11. SD Card Slot

• Acts as both OS and file storage.

• Requires minimum 8GB (Class 10 recommended).

12. Power Supply

• Micro-USB connection, 5V power supply required.

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Linux on Raspberry Pi

Operating Systems:

• Raspbian: Official, Debian-optimized OS. Recommended.

• Arch: Advanced Linux OS for experienced users.

• Pidora: Fedora remix optimized for Raspberry Pi.

• RasPlex: XBMC-based media center.

• OpenELEC: Lightweight XBMC media distro.

• RISC OS: Very fast, compact OS.

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Common Linux Commands

Command	Function
cd     →	Change directory
cat    →	Show file content
ls     →	List files and folders
locate →	Search for a file
sudo   →	Run as administrator
mkdir  →	Make a directory
mv     →	Move or rename files
rm     →	Delete a file
reboot →	Restart Raspberry Pi
df     →	Show disk file system usage

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Raspberry Pi Interfaces

There are 3 types of interfaces 

1. Serial (UART)

• Transmit (TX) and Receive (RX) on GPIO14 and GPIO15.

• Used for serial communication with peripherals.

2. SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface)

• Full-duplex, master/slave communication.

• Multiple devices can be connected.

• Pins used:

  • MISO: Master In Slave Out

  • MOSI: Master Out Slave In

  • SCK: Serial Clock

  • CE0/CE1: Chip Enable (to select devices)

Note: CE selects the active device.

3. I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit)

• Allows multiple modules to communicate over 2 wires:

• SDA: Serial Data Line

• SCL: Serial Clock Line

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🔧 Starting tomorrow, we’ll dive into some basic Python programs using Raspberry Pi—perfect for beginners and hobbyists alike. Stay tuned! 💡💡💡