Raspberry Pi use cases
Nowadays, the Raspberry Pi is more well-liked than ever. Originally created for educational purposes, it is today a well-liked option for computer enthusiasts who enjoy playing around. Consequently, several relevant use cases have surfaced. They are:
Constructing a desktop PC
A typical desktop PC can be constructed with a Raspberry Pi. The hardware consists of the Raspberry Pi, a micro SD card that is installed by the operating system, a reliable power source, and an output display device, like an old TV or monitor. Additionally required are a USB keyboard and mouse. With all of them, the user can operate with fully functional devices at a very minimal cost.
Enabling media usage
A popular Kodi media player, the Raspberry Pi has many more uses. Install Kodi, a free, open-source media player, from official websites. Add-ons must be installed. However, utilising a Raspberry Pi as a Kodi media centre may compromise security. VPNs can easily prevent this by encrypting data.
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Controlling IoT robots
IoT and robotics could shape the future. Thus, future technology depends on the Raspberry Pi. Currently, there are a lot of Raspberry Pi projects for robot controllers. Many Pi communities allow anyone to acquire fully packaged robot parts, do-it-yourself programs, and instructions. You can also build your robot from the ground up.
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The Raspberry Pi has the best core a robot can have. Its compact size, light weight, and reasonable price make it perfect. The Pi Zero is quite popular for robotics since it is even more portable and smaller than earlier Pi models.
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Acting as a printer server
The Raspberry Pi can also be used as a printing server. This is especially important for older printers. Setting up this printing server requires installing the file-sharing application CUPS (Common Unix Printing System). The user should install the several printer drivers that CUPS offers, depending on the type of printer.
Replacing web servers
Another practical use for the Raspberry Pi device is as a web server. This just means configuring the computer to host HTTP pages. It can function as a web server locally, like in a home or workplace, or online. To achieve this, install PHP, MySQL, Apache, and Linux (LAMP). After that, HTML pages may be saved in the www directory and the Raspberry Pi can be used as a fully functional web server.
Converting into retro gaming machines
Users can even turn the Raspberry Pi into a game console. Without any additional modifications, Minecraft comes with Raspbian, the default Pi operating system. In addition to Minecraft, other multiplayer games can be configured on the Raspberry Pi. The best possible gaming experience can be achieved by utilising many Raspberry Pis, one of which serves as a server.
Attaching to surveillance cameras
For homes, workplaces, and even corporations to identify and prevent security concerns, surveillance cameras are essential. For some people, especially small businesses, this can be extremely expensive. However, the Raspberry Pi is a fantastic alternative. By adding a camera module, anyone can create a personal surveillance system.
Supporting digital signage
These days, digital signage is used extensively by most businesses for marketing purposes. Information like the newest product, restaurant menus, ads, appropriate behaviour, maps, etc. can be displayed on large screens or specialist platforms. This program does not exclude the Raspberry Pi, a little device that is perfect for displaying text and images. It can display animations, but it will consume more data and electricity. When everything is taken into account, using Raspberry Pi for digital signage is a cost-effective process.
Conducting network penetration tests
In today’s hyperconnected world, network and computer security is a worry for everyone. Numerous websites store personal and financial information that could fall into the wrong hands. As a result, the cybersecurity software business has expanded dramatically. But the only way to be sure you have enough security is to test. You may create an offensive security hacking tool with a Raspberry Pi to “attack” your network. If a breach is found, it is immediately rectified and shut down.
Providing data to business intelligence dashboards
Business information dashboards, in one form or another, are a crucial part of any successful organisation. This data visualization and analysis tool displays the present status of the business metrics and key performance indicators of a team or organisation. A Raspberry Pi can be used by any business to display real-time data on a dashboard. The computer helps collect data from many sources by using business intelligence tools like Power BI.
Takeaway
Raspberry Pi Limited CEO Eben Upton reported 46 million Raspberry Pi sales in 2022, the minicomputer’s ninth year. Raspberry Pi 5 is still popular, and a version is being developed. IT professionals can use the device to test their networks and other components, as well as to evaluate new applications under challenging circumstances. According to a press release from 2020, commercial users and the industrial sector account for 44% of Raspberry’s annual sales, highlighting the device’s huge potential.
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