The Raspberry Pi Foundation released the Raspberry Pi 3 Model B as a major upgrade over its predecessors. Here are some key features of the Raspberry Pi 3 Model B:
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64-Bit Processor: The Raspberry Pi 3 Model B was the first in the Raspberry Pi lineup to feature a 64-bit quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 processor, offering improved performance and efficiency compared to earlier 32-bit models.
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Integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: One notable upgrade was the inclusion of onboard Wi-Fi (802.11n) and Bluetooth 4.1 connectivity. This eliminated the need for external Wi-Fi dongles and enabled seamless wireless communication with peripherals.
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Improved Thermal Management: The Raspberry Pi 3 Model B incorporated better thermal management features to ensure stable operation even under heavy workloads, making it suitable for a wider range of applications.
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Increased System Memory: The RAM was upgraded to 1GB, providing more headroom for multitasking and running resource-intensive applications, enhancing the overall user experience.
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Enhanced Multimedia Capabilities: The Raspberry Pi 3 Model B supported Full HD video playback and had improved graphics processing capability, making it well-suited for media center applications and digital signage projects.
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Multiple USB Ports: The addition of four USB 2.0 ports allowed for more peripheral connections, expanding the possibilities for users to connect various devices to the Raspberry Pi.
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GPIO Expansion: The general-purpose input/output (GPIO) pins remained a key feature, enabling users to interface with sensors, actuators, and other hardware components for a wide range of DIY projects.
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Operating System Support: The Raspberry Pi 3 Model B was compatible with various operating systems, including Raspbian, Ubuntu Mate, Windows 10 IoT Core, and OSMC, providing flexibility for different project requirements.
Overall, the Raspberry Pi 3 Model B marked a significant advancement in the Raspberry Pi series, offering improved processing power, connectivity options, and versatility for hobbyists, educators, and DIY enthusiasts.