How Raspberry Pi Works

[Cloned Boy]

Raspberry Pi is a credit card-sized, single-board computer designed for education, DIY projects, and automation.

1. Main components​

Part	Function
Processor (CPU)	Processes commands (ARM architecture, 1–4 cores).
RAM	From 512 MB to 8 GB (depending on model).
GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output)	Contacts for connecting sensors, relays, LEDs.
USB port	For keyboard, mouse, external drives.
HDMI	Output video to monitor/TV.
MicroSD slot	OS and data storage (instead of HDD).
Wi-Fi/Bluetooth	Wireless connections (on most models).

2. How does Raspberry Pi work?​

Step 1: Install OS​

• The OS (most often Raspberry Pi OS based on Linux) is written to the MicroSD card.
• Alternatives: Ubuntu, Windows IoT, Kali Linux (for pentesting).

Step 2: Download​

• When turned on, the Pi boots the OS kernel from the SD card.
• Interface:
  • Graphic (via HDMI + mouse/keyboard).
  • Terminal (SSH if connected to the network).

Step 3: Usage​

• Like PC: Web surfing, office applications (LibreOffice).
• For programming: Support for Python, C++, Java.
• For DIY projects: Controlling sensors via GPIO.

3. Project examples​

A. Media Center (Kodi)​

• Installing OSMC → Turning Pi into a Netflix box.

B. Home Server​

• Pi-hole: Block ads on the web.
• NextCloud: Personal cloud.

C. Robotics​

• Connecting motors, cameras (OpenCV), sensors (DHT11 for temperature).

D. Pentest-tool​

• Kali Linux on Pi for network testing.

4. Why is Raspberry Pi popular?​

• Cheap ($35–75).
• Low power consumption (~5W).
• Open ecosystem (thousands of tutorials and libraries).

5. Limitations​

• Weak for heavy tasks (video editing, AAA games).
• No built-in storage - depends on SD card.

How to start?​

1. Buy a Raspberry Pi 4/5 + SD card (16+ GB).
2. Download Raspberry Pi Imager and flash the OS.
3. Connect the monitor, power on and get to work!

Example code (Python + GPIO):
{CODE=python]import RPi.GPIO as GPIO
GPIO.setmode(GPIO.BCM)
GPIO.setup(18, GPIO.OUT)
GPIutput(18, GPIO.HIGH) # Turn on the LED[/CODE]

Need instructions for a specific project? Ask!