Description

Raspberry Pi 4 Model B is the latest product in the popular Raspberry Pi range of computers. It 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, 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. Operating temperature: 0 – 50 degrees C ambient.

About this item

• Broadcom BCM2711, quad-core Cortex-A72 (ARM v8) 64-bit SoC @ 1. 5GHz—4GB LPDDR4-2400 SDRAM
• 2. 4 GHz and 5. 0 GHz IEEE 802. 11B/g/n/ac Wireless LAN, Bluetooth 5. 0, double-true Gigabit Ethernet
• 2 × USB 3. 0 ports, 2 x USB 2. 0 Ports—2 × micro HDMI ports supporting up to 4Kp60 video resolution
• 2-lane MIPI DSI/CSI ports for camera and display–4-pole stereo audio and composite video port–Micro SD card slot for loading operating system and data storage
• Requires 5. 1V, 3a power via USB Type C or gpio-poep (power over Ethernet) enabled (requires PoE hat-not included)

Item details

Your new desktop computer

The speed and performance of the new Raspberry Pi 4 is a step up from earlier models. For the first time, we’ve built a complete desktop experience. Whether you’re editing documents, browsing the web with a bunch of tabs open, juggling spreadsheets or drafting a presentation, you’ll find the experience smooth and very recognisable — but on a smaller, more energy-efficient and much more cost-effective machine.

Silent, energy-efficient

The fanless, energy-efficient Raspberry Pi runs silently and uses far less power than other computers.

USB 3

Your new Raspberry Pi 4 has upgraded USB capacity: along with two USB 2 ports you’ll find two USB 3 ports, which can transfer data up to ten times faster.

Fast networking

Raspberry Pi 4 comes with Gigabit Ethernet, along with onboard wireless networking and Bluetooth.

Your choice of RAM

We’re making different variants of the Raspberry Pi 4 available, depending on how much RAM you need — 1GB, 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB.

Raspberry Pi 4 Model B

The Raspberry Pi 4 Model B is a powerful single-board computer that brought significant upgrades over previous models, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, from desktop computing to IoT projects, and even light AI and machine learning tasks. Here’s an in-depth look at its features, specifications, and applications:

Key Specifications of Raspberry Pi 4 Model B

1. Processor:
   • CPU: Quad-core ARM Cortex-A72 (64-bit) running at 1.5GHz.
   • This processor delivers significantly more performance than previous models, especially in multi-threaded applications, and is comparable to some entry-level desktop CPUs.
2. Memory (RAM):
   • Available in 1GB, 2GB, 4GB, and 8GB LPDDR4 SDRAM versions.
   • The memory capacity is versatile enough to handle everything from basic programming tasks to complex applications like database management, small web servers, or multiple application instances.
3. Storage:
   • Primary Storage: microSD card slot for OS and data storage.
   • USB Booting: Supports USB booting, allowing users to run the OS from a USB drive or SSD for better speed and reliability compared to microSD cards.
4. Graphics:
   • VideoCore VI graphics.
   • Dual micro-HDMI ports, supporting up to two 4K displays at 60 frames per second (one display at 60fps, the second at 30fps).
   • Hardware decoding for H.265 (HEVC) video, allowing smooth playback of high-resolution media.
5. Connectivity:
   • USB: 2 USB 3.0 ports and 2 USB 2.0 ports.
   • Ethernet: Gigabit Ethernet, providing fast wired network speeds.
   • Wireless: 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0.
   • This connectivity suite is great for network-intensive applications and makes the Pi a viable option for networking and IoT projects.
6. GPIO:
   • 40-pin General-Purpose Input/Output (GPIO) header, compatible with previous Raspberry Pi models.
   • Supports SPI, I2C, and UART interfaces for connecting sensors, modules, and custom hardware.
7. Power:
   • Powered by USB-C, requiring a 5V 3A power supply.
   • Enhanced power management compared to previous models, allowing stable operation with power-hungry peripherals.
8. Operating System:
   • Official OS: Raspberry Pi OS (based on Debian Linux).
   • Compatible with a variety of operating systems, including Ubuntu, Kali Linux, and even some lightweight versions of Windows 10.

Applications of Raspberry Pi 4 Model B

The Raspberry Pi 4 Model B’s improved performance and versatile connectivity make it suitable for a wide range of applications:

1. Desktop Computer Replacement:
   • With up to 8GB RAM and dual 4K display support, the Raspberry Pi 4 can serve as a basic desktop replacement.
   • It’s capable of running web browsers, office applications, coding environments, and media players smoothly, especially with an SSD for storage.
2. Media Center:
   • Using software like Kodi or Plex, the Raspberry Pi 4 can function as a media streaming device for local or networked content.
   • It supports 4K video decoding, making it ideal for use with high-resolution displays.
3. IoT and Home Automation Hub:
   • The Pi 4 can act as a central controller for IoT devices, gathering data from sensors, running automation tasks, and connecting with cloud platforms.
   • It’s commonly used with software like Home Assistant or Node-RED for building custom home automation systems.
4. Retro Gaming Console:
   • With emulators and frontends like RetroPie or Lakka, the Raspberry Pi 4 can emulate consoles up to the PlayStation and N64 era.
   • With two HDMI outputs and USB game controller support, it makes for an excellent, affordable gaming setup.
5. Network Applications:
   • Network Attached Storage (NAS): Connect USB drives and run a NAS server using OpenMediaVault or similar software.
   • Network Monitoring: Use tools like Pi-hole to create a network-wide ad blocker, or run network monitoring software like Nagios to track network health.
   • Web Server: Host small web applications or development projects with software stacks like Apache, Nginx, or Django.
6. Programming and Development:
   • Supports a range of programming languages like Python, JavaScript, Java, and C++.
   • Popular for learning hardware control with GPIO, and great for teaching or experimenting with microcontroller-like applications in robotics, data logging, and sensor-based projects.
7. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning:
   • Although limited compared to dedicated AI hardware, the Raspberry Pi 4 can handle lightweight AI applications, especially when paired with an add-on like the Google Coral USB Accelerator.
   • Suitable for small-scale computer vision projects using libraries like OpenCV and TensorFlow Lite.

Getting Started with Raspberry Pi 4 Model B

1. Set Up Hardware:
   • Insert a microSD card with the Raspberry Pi OS or another compatible OS.
   • Connect to peripherals: HDMI display(s), keyboard, mouse, and Ethernet if needed.
2. Flash and Boot OS:
   • Use software like Raspberry Pi Imager or Balena Etcher to write the OS image to the microSD card.
   • Boot up the Pi and follow the OS setup instructions, including setting up Wi-Fi and updating the software.
3. Enable GPIO and Install Libraries:
   • Access GPIO via libraries like RPi.GPIO (Python), allowing control of connected sensors, LEDs, and other devices.
   • Install other libraries or software tools based on your project requirements.
4. Build Projects:
   • Explore starter projects or tutorials for your chosen application, whether it’s a desktop setup, media server, or IoT project.
   • The Raspberry Pi community provides countless resources and guides for getting the most out of your Pi.

Accessories for Raspberry Pi 4 Model B

1. Cases: Various cases with or without fans to keep your Pi cool, like the official Raspberry Pi case or aluminum passive cooling cases.
2. Power Supply: A reliable USB-C power supply (5V, 3A) is essential to prevent power issues.
3. microSD Card or SSD: Use a high-speed card or an SSD for better performance, especially for desktop or media applications.
4. Heatsinks and Fans: For heavy-duty use, additional cooling helps maintain performance and stability.
5. HATs (Hardware Attached on Top): GPIO expansion boards add functions like motor control, displays, and sensors.

The Raspberry Pi 4 Model B’s performance and versatility have made it one of the most popular SBCs on the market, useful for everyone from beginners to advanced developers. Whether you’re looking to learn coding, automate your home, or set up a media server, the Pi 4 offers a reliable and flexible platform.