Sparkfun Raspberry Pi 3 A+

The Raspberry Pi 3 A+ is a compact and affordable single-board computer, featuring a 64-bit quad-core processor running at 1.4GHz. It supports dual-band 2.4GHz and 5GHz wireless LAN, along with Bluetooth 4.2/BLE. While it retains the same 2x20 GPIO header and CSI/DSI connectors as its predecessor, it has removed the Ethernet connector and reduced USB ports to one. This versatile device can handle tasks like spreadsheets, word processing, and high-definition video playback, all for an economical price of around $30.

The Raspberry Pi 3 A+ is perfect for educational purposes, especially in teaching programming to kids worldwide. Its ability to run multiple Linux distributions makes it a flexible tool for learning and experimenting. Despite its small size, it packs the power needed for a range of applications, from simple projects to more complex computing tasks.

For those interested in hardware projects, the Raspberry Pi 3 A+ offers a 40-pin GPIO header with 2.54mm spacing, providing access to 27 GPIO, UART, I2C, SPI, and both 3.3V and 5V power sources. This makes it an excellent choice for hardware hacking and DIY electronics projects. Each pin is consistent with previous models, ensuring compatibility with existing HATs and peripherals.

Powering the Raspberry Pi 3 A+ is straightforward. Simply connect a 5V/2.5A USB power supply to the microUSB port to get it running. With no power button, it boots up automatically when power is applied, and shutting it down is as easy as removing the power after a proper shutdown.

For expanded connectivity, consider using a powered USB hub to connect additional peripherals like a mouse or keyboard, ensuring the onboard voltage regulator is not overloaded. This setup allows you to maximize the potential of this compact yet powerful computing platform.