Power-sipping Raspberry Pi goes to market

 

Raspberry Pi, the small and affordable microcomputer that has inspired a cult following, now has a new power-sipping sibling.

 

The Raspberry Pi foundation said the Raspberry Pi Model B+ can be bought for $35, tech site The Next Web reported.

 

"The Model B+ uses the same BCM2835 application processor as the Model B, runs the same software and still has 512MB RAM, but the key improvements include reduced power consumption and more GPIO pins," it said.

 

 

It added the GPIO header now has more pins - 40 - for more reading from sensors or writing output. A Micro SD card slot replaces the old SD card slot, while audio is improved with a low-noise power supply.

 

Also, it has four USB 2.0 ports, up from two on the Model B.

 

On the other hand, The Next Web said the USB connectors have been aligned with the board edge, while composite video has been moved onto the 3.5mm jack.

 

It added there are now four squarely-placed mounting holes.

 

Yet, the entire package consumes less power at 0.5 to 1 watt.

 

Raspberry Pi gained popularity among hobbyists and children interested in coding.

 

Meanwhile, the report said the Model B will remain in production while there is demand for it. — Joel Locsin/TJD, GMA News