To start using the Raspberry Pi, you need to follow a few simple steps:
- Connect the hardware.
- Install Raspberry Pi OS on a microSD card.
- Perform basic system configuration.
- Customize the environment for your tasks.
Let’s break it all down in order.
Main versions of Raspberry Pi
The Raspberry Pi family is divided into several main lines:
Model A
Compact boards with a minimal set of ports. Ideal for projects where size and power consumption are important.
Representatives:
- Raspberry Pi A;
- Raspberry Pi A+;
- Raspberry Pi 3A+.
Model B
Full-size boards with 4 USB ports, Ethernet and audio output. Versatile and beginner-friendly.
Representatives:
- Raspberry Pi B / B+;
- Raspberry Pi 2B / 3B / 3B+;
- Raspberry Pi 4 (1-8 GB).
Zero
Miniature and power efficient boards for compact projects and gadgets.
Tip: Start with the Model B and upgrade to the Zero if needed.
Representatives:
- Raspberry Pi Zero;
- Zero W;
- Zero 2 W.
Compute Module
Modules without standard connectors – all interfaces are brought to the edge of the board. Used in industrial and embedded solutions.
Representatives:
- Compute Module 1 / 3 / 3+ / 4 (and Lite versions).
Raspberry Pi 400
A device in the form of a keyboard with an integrated Raspberry Pi 4 board. A great option for a compact workstation.
What you need to get started
Power supply
Raspberry Pi is powered by a USB cable:
- Pi 4 – USB-C, at least 3 A;
- Pi 1/2/3/Zero – micro-USB, at least 2.5 A.
It is recommended to use the original power supply or a quality adapter.
Memory card
You need a microSD card of 8GB or more with Raspberry Pi OS written on it. You can use Raspberry Pi Imager to install the OS.
Keyboard and mouse
In the setup phase, you will need a regular USB keyboard and mouse. After that, you can move on to Bluetooth devices.
Monitor
Connect your display using HDMI. If the display has built-in speakers, the sound will go through HDMI.
Connectors by model:
- Pi 4 – two micro-HDMI;
- Pi 1/2/3 – standard HDMI;
- Zero – mini-HDMI.
It is possible to connect to displays with DVI or VGA through appropriate adapters.
Network connectivity
- Ethernet is available on all models except Zero.
- Wi-Fi is built into the Pi 3, Pi 4, and Zero W.
- The Zero without W will require a USB adapter.
Audio
Most models have a standard mini-jack 3.5mm output. Audio can also be output via HDMI to a display with speakers.
Case
Although the case is an optional part, it protects the board from dust, drops, and shorts. A case is recommended, especially for long-term use.
The Raspberry Pi is a versatile tool that is suitable for both experimentation and serious projects. After the first setup you can use it as a full-fledged computer, a home server, a media center or a base for IoT devices.