Portable And Inexpensive Computer Using A

Raspberry Pi
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Syed Afwan , KS Ankith Kumar , Dayashankar Kumar , Ravikant Aryan

Guided By : Dr. Vijayaraghavan A. (Prof. & Head, CSE)

Dept. of Computer Science & Engineering

HMS Institute of Technology, Tumakuru, Karnataka – 572104

Abstract - The Internet of Things – IoT, can be looked as a highly dynamic and
radically distributed networked system. The presence of smart devices able to sense
physical phenomena and translate them into a stream of information data, as well as
the presence of devices able to trigger actions, maximizes safety, security, comfort,
convenience and energy-savings. The Raspberry Pi brings the advantages of a PC to the
domain of sensor network, what makes it the perfect platform for interfacing with wide
variety of external peripherals. The main purpose of this paper is to introduce an all-in-
one and portable computational device. This computer is approximately 40% smaller
than the laptop. This computer has complete and easy functionality as it contain the key
components like a battery pack, a working motherboard, a display unit, a wireless
keyboard and lastly a sleek case, all the components are assembled together.

Introduction:
The Raspberry Pi, a compact and versatile computer board launched in 2012, has garnered
attention for its affordability, power, and adaptability. It has become a cornerstone in the
realm of user-programmable devices, empowering non-professional users to tailor products to
their specific requirements.

The rise of user programming trends has ushered in a plethora of products catering to end-
user customization. Leveraging cost-effective hardware and open-source software, users can
programmatically control various devices to create bespoke solutions tailored to their needs.
This symbiotic relationship between end-users and product developers fosters mutual benefit,
as it not only fulfills user demands but also provides invaluable insights for enhancing future
product iterations.

This study focuses on exploring prototype platforms that facilitate end-user programming,
with particular attention to the Raspberry Pi. Through a comparative analysis of its
capabilities and limitations against other popular prototyping platforms, we aim to illuminate
its unique contributions to the landscape of user-driven innovation.

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What makes the Raspberry Pi (R-Pi) stand out?

The Raspberry Pi, often abbreviated as R-Pi, has carved a niche for itself due to a multitude
of reasons:

Firstly, its compact size belies its powerful capabilities. Despite its diminutive stature, the R-Pi
boasts impressive computing power, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

Secondly, affordability is a hallmark of the R-Pi. Its low cost democratizes access to
computing technology, opening doors for enthusiasts, hobbyists, and educational institutions
alike.

Moreover, the R-Pi's hackability is a key selling point. Its open design encourages
tinkering and exploration, allowing users to modify and extend its functionality to suit their
specific needs. Furthermore, the educational orientation of the R-Pi is noteworthy. It serves
as an invaluable tool for learning programming, electronics, and computer science
concepts, fostering a generation of digitally literate individuals.

Lastly, the R-Pi's versatility cannot be overstated. From DIY projects to industrial
applications, its flexibility makes it a preferred choice across diverse domains. In essence,
the Raspberry Pi's blend of power, affordability, hackability, educational focus, and
versatility makes it a compelling platform for an innumerable of uses.

Proposed System:
The required essential components are listed below:

1. Raspberry Pi Model 4B

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 Fig: Raspberry Pi Model 4B

Raspberry Pi 4 Model B offers ground-breaking increases in processor speed, multimedia

performance, memory, and connectivity compared to the prior-generation Raspberry Pi 3
Model B+, while retaining backwards compatibility and similar power consumption. For the
end user, Raspberry Pi 4 Model B provides desktop performance comparable to entry-level
x86 PC systems. This product’s key features include a high-performance 64-bit quad-core
processor, dual-display support at resolutions up to 4K via a pair of micro-HDMI ports,
hardware video decode at up to 4Kp60, up to 4GB of RAM, dual-band 2.4/5.0 GHz wireless
LAN, Bluetooth 5.0, Gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.0, and PoE capability (via a separate PoE
HAT add-on). The dual-band wireless LAN and Bluetooth have modular compliance
certification, allowing the board to be designed into end products with significantly reduced
compliance testing, improving both cost and time to market.

Here's a table outlining the specifications and features of the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B:

Specification/Features Description
Processor Broadcom BCM2711, Quad-core Cortex-A72 (ARM v8) 64-
bit SoC @ 1.5GHz
Memory 1GB, 2GB, or 4GB LPDDR4 SDRAM
Connectivity Gigabit Ethernet, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz IEEE 802.11b/g/n/ac
wireless LAN
Bluetooth 5.0, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy)

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 USB Ports 2 × USB 2.0, 2 × USB 3.0
Video Output 2 × micro HDMI ports (up to 4Kp60 supported)
Audio Output 3.5mm analogue audio-video jack, HDMI, Bluetooth
Storage microSD card slot for operating system and data storage
Power 5V DC via USB-C connector/2 Lithium-Ion 2200mAh Cells

2.Display (3.5 inch)

Fig: 3.5 Inch Display

High Resolution - The 3.5 inch IPS LCD Monitor, supporting key operation.
Wide Visual Angle - IPS screen features the wide visual angle, fast response speed
and accurate color rendition.
Multiple Interfaces - Supports multiple video input interfaces: HDMI, VGA and USB output
of 5V/3A.
Reserved Fixing Ports - Reserved fixing ports for control boards - suitable for Raspberry Pi 4
model B.

3. 5V DC via USB-C connector (minimum 3A1 ) / 2 Lithium-Ion 2200 mAh Cells.

Basically, can be given through the USB type C connector from the power source
directly. For this, a second component can be used in case of loss of power and that is 2
lithium ion 2200 mAh cells. This cell can be really useful for the portable service.

This can be shown in the below picture.

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4.Keyboard and Mouse.

Experimental Setup:

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Proposed Work:

i) Raspberry Pi Model 4B Motherboard Assembly:

(a) Beginning a computer requires the installation of an operating system (OS), with the
choice of OS being determined by the specific tasks you perform.

(b) Customization of storage and code is necessary to ensure compatibility between

the screen and motherboard.

(c) The motherboard is securely housed within a reduced-size cuboidal case, affixed in
place with glue.

(d) Layouts are carefully arranged for ports and cable connections to ensure
efficient management.

ii) Screen (Display) Assembly:

Screen assembly on Raspberry Pi involves the following steps:

(a) Physical Mounting: Fixing the screen onto the Raspberry Pi board.

(b) Connection: Ensuring proper connection between the screen and the Raspberry Pi's
GPIO pins or through HDMI/DisplayPort interface.

(c) Software Configuration: Installing necessary drivers or software packages to

enable communication between the Raspberry Pi and the screen.

(d) Adjustments: Making any necessary adjustments to screen resolution, orientation, or

other display settings within the Raspberry Pi's operating system.

iii) Power Supply:

Power can be supplied in two ways: firstly, by directly connecting a 5V DC power source
via a USB-C connector, which can be sourced from devices such as power banks, laptops, or
directly from a power outlet.

Alternatively, you can integrate two 2200 mAh Lithium-Ion cells into the circuit board
to create a battery pack for powering the system.

Conclusion:
This computer is designed primarily for educational use, offering capabilities such as word
processing, spreadsheet creation, and presentations. It provides internet access, connecting users
to vast educational resources. Moreover, it serves as a valuable tool for learning coding

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and software development. One of its key advantages is its affordability and
portability, making it accessible to a wider audience due to its low manufacturing cost.

Comparative analysis with other popular development platforms highlights the Raspberry
Pi's notable performance in terms of computing power, size, and overall cost-effectiveness.
While platforms like Udoo may offer superior performance, they often come with a higher
price tag. Conversely, Raspberry Pi excels as an ideal platform for projects involving sensor
networks, offering seamless interfacing with a diverse array of external peripherals and
finding application across various domains.

References:

[1] Matt Richardson and Shawn Wallace, Getting Started with Raspberry Pi, United States of
America: O’Reilly Media, 2013.
[2] Peter Membrey and David Hows, Learn Raspberry Pi with Linux. New York City: Apress, 2012,
pp. 1-149
[3] Maik Schmidt, Raspberry Pi, A Quick Start Guide. Pragmatic Programmers, LLC, 2012, pp. 1-47
[4] Gareth Mitchell, the Raspberry Pi single-board computer will revolutionize computer
science teaching, Vol.7, NO.3, pp. 26, 2012.
Links -
[1] How to make Mini Computer at Home Online: -
https://www.creativitybuzz.org/make-mini-computer/

[2] “This Is The Raspberry Pi Mini Laptop That We Want” Jenny List Online: -
https://hackaday.com/2019/05/14/this-is-the-raspberry-pi-mini-laptop-that-we-want/

Dr. Vijayaraghavan A. (Prof. & Head) CSE, HMSIT, Tumakuru.

Ravikant Aryan (BE, CSE) KS Ankith Kumar (BE, CSE)

Dayashankar Kumar (BE, CSE) Syed Afwan (BE, CSE)

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