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The Raspberry Pi platform is a low-cost, high-performance computer that comes in a few different shapes and sizes. The Raspberry Pi Zero runs just $5, while the version we use, the Raspberry Pi 3, can be purchased for $35. Either way, this is significantly less than the iMacs in our lab or even the Chromebook that you use throughout the day. Due to its low price, the Raspberry Pi platform has become an incredible resource for inventing, making, experimenting and more! A Raspberry Pi computer was even used in space on the International Space Station. In this project, you'll get a Raspberry Pi computer up and running on your own and then choose from a variety of activities to explore that will give you a taste of what is possible with this platform.
Setting Up Your Raspberry Pi for the First Time
Setting Up Your Raspberry Pi for the First Time
It may seem like there are a lot of parts to get your Raspberry Pi up and running, but you'll soon see that it looks a lot more difficult than it really is. These directions will show you the order in which to plug all of your components into each other. Make sure that you plug in the power cord (micro-USB) after you plug in everything else or you may find that your computer monitor won't turn on or the screen may not look quite right.
Choose a Learning Activity to Explore
Choose a Learning Activity to Explore
The Raspberry Pi website has a great selection of activities that let you see the power of the Raspberry Pi platform. Make sure to read the What You Will Need section before choosing a project. Each activity will vary in length, so you may find yourself doing more than one project during your time using the Raspberry Pi. I've included four of my favorite projects for beginners below. If this is your first time with Raspberry Pi, I suggest completing one of these projects before you try anything else.
Getting Started with Pi Camera
Get started with the Raspberry Pi Camera Module, using Python and picamera. You’ll take still pictures, record video, and apply image effects.
Getting Started with the Sense Hat
In this project, you will learn how to control the Sense HAT’s LED matrix and collect sensor data, and you will combine these ideas in a number of small projects.
In this resource you will build a cardboard robot with a real flashing LED antenna, and use Scratch to create a robot twin that beeps.
In this resource you will use the Pi Camera to take low-resolution selfies, and then with some additional Python code you will render the image using blocks in Minecraft.
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