Raspberry Pi VS Arduino
Raspberry Pi and Arduino are both well-known devices. Even though many people believe the two are competing hardware platforms, they are actually very different. A Raspberry Pi is a fully functional mini-computer while the Arduino is a microcontroller. A microcontroller is a microcomputer that runs a program instead of an operating system.
Although the Arduino is a microcontroller, it contains a piece of software called a bootloader. The bootloader allows new programs to be uploaded without the help of a specialized hardware programmer. It also makes to possible to use higher level languages to create new programs.
Both the Pi and the Arduino are designed to be easy-to-use platforms for electronics projects. However, there are a number of differences between the two.
Capabilities
The Raspberry Pi is a mini-computer that runs a complete operating system. It has almost unlimited functionality. The Arduino provides a very small amount of specialized computing power which is generally used for interfacing and hardware. Programming a Raspberry Pi is like programming a computer. The Arduino can be programmed using C++, its own language or a combination of the two.
Because of its direct interface, the Arduino is the better choice for hardware-focused projects. The Raspberry Pi is better for projects where software integration and computing is required. With varying levels of scripting and soldering, both devices are able to connect to and control other hardware.
The Arduino is available in a variety of sizes and capabilities. The type used for each job depends on a variety of factors such as speed, memory, power consumption, IO pins and physical factors. The Raspberry Pi is known as a single board computer. This means that it has everything required on a single board.
Power Usage
The Raspberry Pi features impressive specifications and requires more power than the Arduino. This makes the Arduino a better option for small, portable projects. The Raspberry Pi is better suited for complex projects with software components.
Daughter Boards
Daughter boards can be used to extend the capabilities of both the Raspberry Pi and the Arduino. These boards are referred to as HATs for Raspberry Pi and Shields for Arduino.
There are a number of daughter boards that are compatible with the Arduino. These can be added depending on the needs of the project. The Raspberry Pi does not have as many compatible boards but it does include several built-in features such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Ethernet and HDMI connectivity.
Choosing which board we use depends on the nature of each project. Large projects might require a combination of the two. These devices can work together with incredible results.
Mint Controls provides build to suite solutions for businesses of all shapes and sizes. Please contact us for more information.