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Raspberry Pi - Getting Started

Raspberry Pi is a small computer that fits in your hand. It costs about $35. It was created by the Raspberry Pi Foundation in 2012. The goal of producing it was to get computers in the hands of kids all around the world and to teach them to code. It is hugely popular with DIYers and Makers. For $35, you get a caseless computer that includes an HDMI output, up to four USB ports, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. There are several different models but you probably want to start with the Raspberry Pi Model 3. With just a little skill, you can create some cool projects!

To get started, you'll need the following items:

Raspberry Pi Model 3
An HDMI television or monitor
A USB keyboard and mouse
An 8GB (or more) MicroSD card and card reader
Power supply (micro USB cable charger)

Arduino vs. Raspberry Pi

Arduino and Raspberry Pi may seem similar at first. And, there are many projects that can be accomplished by using either system. Below are a few highlights of the differences to help you decide when to use one over the other.

Arduino

Microcontroller motherboard
Runs one program at a time
Very easy to use
Used for simple or repetitive tasks such as garage door opener/closer; monitoring your plants and having them tweet you when they need water; making a night lamp; or, a motion following camera.
You can find more ideas at https://goo.gl/rGwYjX

Raspberry Pi

A general purpose computer (usually with Linux OS)
Can run multiple programs
Can be more complicated than Arduino
You can use Raspberry Pi to create items like an Arduino but can also create projects such as a radio; design video games; make your own MakeyMakey musical instrument; create a netbook; make a magic mirror; create a solar weather station...and more.

Getting Started Guides

MagPi Educator's Edition

Get ideas, helpful tips/hints, and reviews of all things Raspberry Pi with the MagPi. You can subscribe to the print version or opt for the electronic newsletter. Download the 60-page Educator's Edition for ideas on how Raspberry Pi can help educators teach computing.

Best Practices for Using Kits in the Classroom

Science Buddies has compiled a list of best practices for educators using Raspberry Pi kits in their classroom. They share practices related to training teachers as well as implementing Raspberry Pi with students. Site: https://goo.gl/tngzM6

15 Useful Commands Every Raspberry Pi User Should Know

When you buy a Raspberry Pi it will most likely come with at least one manual you can go online and download. If not, or to add to it, here is a simple rundown of common commands to use. For a more extensive library, consider referring to the list of 42 commands.

Raspberry Pi Infographic

This infographic summarizes a lot of information to help you get started, identify parts you'll need, and step-by-step instructions for writing your first "hello world" program. Directions here are for downloading and using the Raspbian OS - the best programming language choice for students.

Project Ideas

Magic Mirror

This has to be my favorite project. Using an old monitor and some see-through mirror (and a few other things) you can create a mirror that detects when you get close and displays information for you (weather, date, headlines, etc.). You can find the project here, here and here.

Wall Mounted Calendar & Notification Center

This handy notification center shows you calendar events, weather, and other notifications that you can program in. Think if this as the 21st century version of the calendar hanging on your fridge at home. Or, you can take a look at a few other picture frame products.

DIY Arcade Table

With just a little skill you can create an arcade table that runs your very own Raspberry Pi game(s). For folks who are not gamers, you might find the touch screen coffee table a bit more exciting.

Push Button Stop Motion Camera

While claymation may have been around for a long time, you'll find using your Raspberry Pi to create a push button stop motion camera to be really cool. Pull out your action figures, pipe cleaners, or Play-doh and start creating movies!

FREE Online Courses

Teaching Programming in Primary Schools by Raspberry Pi Foundation

Understand key programming concepts and apply them using Scratch. This introductory course is designed specifically for K-5 teachers. This 4-weeks, online course begins February 20th. You should anticipate about 2 hours per week of work and you can get a certificate when complete! Go here for more information.

Teaching Physical Computing with Raspberry Pi and Python by Raspberry Pi Foundation

Create simple systems that respond to and control the physical world using the Raspberry Pi and Python. This 4-weeks, online course begins February 20th. You should anticipate about 2 hours per week of work and you can get a certificate when complete! Go here for more information.

Raspberry Pi Class by Instructables

"In this class, you will learn how to work with the Raspberry Pi board. Throughout the class, you will learn basics such as how to program the RPi how to make music with it, how to take GIFs and more. You will do programming exercises and build simple circuits. This class culminates with a final project of a photo booth."

Raspberry Pi Course by Geek University

This course is designed for beginners looking to get into the exciting world of Raspberry Pi. You will learn how and where to buy the device; how to download and install Raspbian, the most popular operating system for Raspberry Pi; and, how to install applications for your device using command line and GUI tools.

Sites with Project Ideas

101+ Raspberry Pi Projects For Electronics Students https://goo.gl/gq6IaT

16 Fun Projects for Your New Raspberry Pi https://goo.gl/CLY9ks

47 Raspberry Pi Projects You Can Build at Home https://goo.gl/ev6Vl7

50 Greatest Raspberry Pi Projects https://goo.gl/D6dBCD

9 Raspberry Pi Projects For Your Summer Vacation https://goo.gl/izRaS3

MagPi's Official Project Book (PDF, 200 pp.) https://goo.gl/qkrrN5

Raspberry Pi Projects for Beginners (MakeUseOf) https://goo.gl/oR0XFw

Raspberry Pi Projects for Beginners (PiMyLifeUp) https://goo.gl/X43FNe

Raspberry Pi Projects https://goo.gl/vnikvs

Top 22 Projects to Try Yourself https://goo.gl/wavpZu

Raspberry Pi Jams

Raspberry Jams are events organized by the community for people to share knowledge, learn new things, and meet other Pi enthusiasts. They’re a great way to find out more about the Raspberry Pi and what you can do with it, and to find like-minded people.

Go to https://www.raspberrypi.org/jam/ to find out if there is a Raspberry Jam planned for your area.

If you are interested in hosting a Raspberry Jam, then follow these tips and you'll be sure to have a great time! Be sure to check out the Featured Raspberry Jams for more ideas.

Raspberry Pi Infographics

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