Technology is moving in different directions., from solving environmental problems to taking care of our health. But one of the clearest paths is to create smaller and more comfortable electronic components.
On the other hand, the development of free software grows in the same way as the interest of users in meddling in this world. These features gave rise to two of the most popular computer components among developers.
In this post we will show you the best features of the and . In turn, you will know if it is possible to use both electronic devices in the same project.
Arduino and Raspberry Pi What are these components and what are they for?
To better understand what each of these technologies is about, it is important know a little about its history and with it, its philosophy. let’s start with . It began as an internal project of the Ivrea Institute of Interactive Design in 2005. However, before the inevitable closure of said institution, it was decided to release the project to the world.
From here begins one of the pillars of the Arduino project, that of being open in every way, so that anyone can participate in the evolution and improvement of software and hardware. As for Raspberry, shares with Arduino the pedagogical origin of its purpose. Its beginnings date back to 2006, but it was not until 2009 when the Raspberry Pi foundation was created. It would bring together academics and people interested in computing to create a microcomputer.
However, it wasn’t until early 2012 that the first final version of the board was released to the general public. In addition to its origins, We can say that both technologies have in common the objective of being the development base for computer and robotics projects. The two boards can be used in conjunction with a wide variety of external physical components for different purposes. In turn, there are many software libraries developed for both boards.
What are the main differences between Arduino and Raspberry Pi?
These two developments share a similar goal, that of stimulating the creation of systems based on free programming. Both offer an affordable hardware platform that is compatible with many components. But it’s also important mention that they are not exactly the same.
Let’s look at some of the most important differences:
Hardware Philosophy
Although they share the opening of their software so that it can be modified, improved and shared, the truth is that The Raspberry Foundation is the sole manufacturer of the boards. raspberry. For his part, Arduino is also open so that any user can build their own version for free.
microcontroller v microprocessor
It is important to clarify that Arduino It is a design designed for control different processes a through their connections analog and digital and its integrated microcontroller. Secondly, The Raspberry was designed from the beginning as a miniature computer.Therefore, it has its own microprocessor, this gives it greater computing power, although less versatility.
connectivity
Raspberry boards have an integrated . That is to say, unlike Arduino, this plate does not require any external component to achieve these functions. Keep in mind that, being small boards, each port counts.
Execution
Here we find two important aspects that differentiate both plates. On one side, Arduino, once connected it runs immediately the task for which it was programmed. That is, for example, if it contains a code that makes a led light blink, it will do so as soon as we start the hardware. In the case of Raspberry, first it is necessary to start the native operating system, to then give the execution order. This makes whatever task we give the board a bit slower.
This difference brings us to the second aspect, the complexity of the functions. Given the respective powers, Arduino is indicated for more basic electronic projects that do not require much processing power. In this line Raspberry has the advantagesince it is a computer with its own operating system, capable of performing more complicated tasks.
Can Arduino and Raspberry Pi be used in the same development project?
Despite the differences between the Arduino and the Raspberry Pi they are a great complement to each other. Although it is advisable to start with a device that is easier to program such as Arduino boards, dabbling in Raspberry won’t make you stop loving the microcontroller. On the contrary, you will find for yourself dozens of ways to use them together.
Such is the compatibility of both boards, that there is a project called Arduberry. It combines both platforms to take full advantage of the power of the Raspberry in combination with the wide range of shields and accessories based on Arduino that exist today. Among some devices created by users, we can find the NFC card reader that combines a shield adafruit NFC.
Which can be used as a security access key or perhaps as a controller of working hours. In turn, many users have begun to use the capabilities of both boards at the same time. That is, connecting them together to achieve a specific objective. A Raspberry Pi board with the function of a small laptop is usually used to control the code of . In this way it is not necessary to have a desktop PC, maintaining the portable essence of the devices.
For example, it can be used to take a home garden to the next level. As we show in one of the examples of this post of we can use Arduino to control the light and humidity sensors of our crop. But by also combining Raspberry it is possible to make adjustments, inspect and execute commands remotely over the web. At the same time as generating automatic detailed reports.
In conclusion, not only possible combine the best aspects of both boards and languages, but it is one of the best steps you can take in your journey learning about electronics, programming and robotics.
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