What to Know About the Raspberry Pi 4

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2019-11-11 | By Maker.io Staff

The Raspberry Pi 4 — the latest release of the Raspberry Pi computer systems — has many new features, making it an ideal option for a variety of projects. In this article, we will take a look at what features the new Pi includes, what projects it can be used for, and how it differentiates from previous versions of Raspberry Pi computers.

Raspberry Pi 4: The New Features

The Raspberry Pi 4, like its predecessors, is an ARM-based single-board computer that includes a 1.5GHz 64-bit quad-core ARM Cortex CPU, on-board wireless LAN, USB, GPIO, display port, and Ethernet. But unlike its earlier versions, the Raspberry Pi 4 comes with a whole range of new features to drastically improve the maker field, as well as provide users with a range of options when it comes to programming. The Raspberry Pi 4 is available with different amounts of RAM, including 1GB, 2GB, and 4GB. The Pi also comes with two dedicated micro HDMI ports, allowing for multiscreen operation, on-board Bluetooth 5.0, gigabit Ethernet, and two USB 3.0 ports for high-speed data transfers. The power port to the Pi changed from using a USB B Micro connector to a USB-C power connector, which means that users should remember to have a USB-C type cable available.

What are the Differences?

One of the most notable differences between the Raspberry Pi 3 B+ and Raspberry Pi 4 is the upgraded CPU, from an A53 to an A72. This upgrade, according to the Raspberry Pi Foundation, can provide users with up to three times the performance. Additionally, the Raspberry Pi 4 has wider available RAM options, allowing users more flexibility in choice when designing an application with the Pi in mind.

The Pi 4 also provides users with two display ports instead of 1 for multi-screen operation and the option of 4K resolution at 60 frames per second on one screen, or 4K resolution at 30 frames per second on two screens.

Practical Applications of the Raspberry Pi 4

With an improved core, increased RAM, and higher performance GPU, the practical applications of the Raspberry Pi 4 have expanded greatly. Not only is the Raspberry Pi 4 able to run most (if not all) projects more efficiently, but the inclusion of dual monitors, increased RAM, and processor speed is especially useful for AI and machine learning projects. The use of USB 3.0 ports and gigabit Ethernet also make the Raspberry Pi 4 far more suitable as a networked device than its predecessors, making it an ideal network storage device and web host. The use of low-energy Bluetooth 5 allows the Raspberry Pi to connect to the vast majority of Bluetooth devices including pointing devices, speakers, and sensors. If the wireless capability of the Pi 4 is combined with its network capability and ability to run machine learning algorithms then the Pi 4 quickly becomes highly suitable for home automation applications requiring device control over LAN, reading wireless sensors, and recognizing users entering a room or property.

Projects with the New Pi

Although it may not show every project the Raspberry Pi 4 is capable of creating, this list offers several examples of what it can be used for thanks to the many improved features.

Home Automation – Including facial recognition and wireless connectivity
Automated Security System – Using facial recognition
Network Drive – High-speed USB 3.0 port and the Ethernet capability
Web Host – High-speed USB 3.0 port, high processing capability, and Ethernet connectivity
Data Monitoring Station – Dual screen support for vast data showing
Networked Device / IoT
- Robotic Arm
- Automated placement system
- Object recognition + sorting
- Remote measurement
- IIoT Device

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