The Raspberry Pi foundation announced what it calls “an evolution” of the Raspberry Pi SBC. Compared to the previous model, the new Raspberry Pi Model B+ has more GPIO, and more USB ports. In addition, it uses Micro SD memory cards and improved power consumption.
Source: Raspberry Pi Foundation
The GPIO header is now 40 pins, with the same pinout for the first 26 pins as the Model B. The B+ also has four USB 2.0 ports (compared to two on the Model B) and better hotplug and overcurrent behavior. In place of the old friction-fit SD card socket is a better push-push micro SD version.
In line with today’s electronic concepts, the new board also lowers power consumption. By replacing linear regulators with switching ones, the power requirements are reduced by between 0.5 W and 1 W. The audio circuit incorporates a dedicated low-noise power supply, enabling better audio applications.
The new board is well organized. The USB connectors are aligned with the board edge, and the composite video now has a 3.5-mm jack. The corners are rounded with four squarely placed mounting holes.
The Raspberry Pi Model B+ uses the same BCM2835 application processor as the Model B. It runs the same software and still has 512-MB RAM.
— ADVERTISMENT—
—Advertise Here—
If you want to adapt a current project to the new platform, be sure to study the new GPIO pins and mechanical specs. To ensure continuity of supply for industrial customers, the Model B will be kept in production for as long as there’s demand for it.
At $35, the new model B+ is the same price as the older model B and is already available from Farnell/element14/Newark and RS/Allied Components.
[Source: www.raspberrypi.org] Sponsor this Article
Circuit Cellar's editorial team comprises professional engineers, technical editors, and digital media specialists. You can reach the Editorial Department at editorial@circuitcellar.com, @circuitcellar, and facebook.com/circuitcellar
Leave a Comment