Exploring The Raspberry PI

Taking ownership of a Raspberry PI-B (RPI) had eluded me for far too long since it was launched early 2012. I had read a lot about this diminutive device fitted out with an ARM processor, HDMI, USB ports, an ethernet port to mention a few.

Since the RPI runs primarily (if not almost exclusively) on a Linux based operating system, prior knowledge of basic Linux is of immense benefit considering that:

• Remote SSH connectivity allows for operational flexibility.
• Installation of new applications extends overall features.
• Headless server configuration mode is the strength of the device

Warning: The RPI being a Single Board Computer (SBC) and dressed out as such, requires prudent handling. All due care must be exercised to avoid damage through unintended forceful handling, unforeseen antistatic discharge, accidental short-circuiting of pins and any other exposed components.

The installation procedure is briefly listed below:

• Download Raspbian Wheezy.
• Download Win32DiskImager and install it (Windows OS based procedure).
• Use Win32DiskImager to burn the Raspbian image to an SD card (I used an 8GB card).
• Optionally: connect RPI to a monitor via an HDMI cable.
• Optionally: connect a wireless dongle for a keyboard and mouse (this allows for 1x USB port to remain free).
• Optionally: plug in an ethernet cable into the ethernet socket.
• Insert the SD card into the RPI slot.
• Plug in the micro USB power adapter connector.

The RPI then lights up, commences and completes the boot procedure. The boot procedure can be followed visually if the monitor is connected and switched on.

Raspberry PI - B

There is a sense of achievement when the monitor confirms a functional RPI, ready awaiting you to take control over it. From there on it is really about experimenting with the various configuration options available.

One is tempted to undermine the capability and performance of RPI, however, within a few days from installing the RPI, I managed to configure a LAMP environment. I had strange problems installing the necessary packages only to find that my 3G based broadband connection was too weak and erratic. After moving to another location, the installation proceeded seamlessly.

Presently, the RPI LAMP system has temporarily replaced the erstwhile PC based LAMP server platform. I am strongly considering a permanent arrangement at a later stage once the temporary setup has been comprehensively assessed and evaluated.

The RPI has proven to be a device that is certainly capable and easy to use - a worthwhile investment indeed.