Embedded Single Board Computers - SBC - Raspberry Pi

Single board computers such as the Raspberry Pi can be used in a huge range of embedded applications, as well as for teaching and experimentation

Single board computers (SBCs) are complete, standalone computing or control devices that contain all necessary computing and control functionality, including CPU, storage, communications, audio and graphics/video – and possibly analogue and digital input/output (I/O) lines – on a single, compact printed circuit board. With an operating system installed on a Flash memory device such as a MicroSD card, the board only needs connection to a power supply and its required inputs/outputs to start operation.

Extra functionality and I/O can often be added using expansion hardware, such as the industry-standard PC/104 bus or Raspberry Pi’s HAT. Along with their compact form factor, SBCs are typically designed to consume minimal power and require only passive cooling. All of these features make them ideal for embedded applications, where they can be built into a device or machine to perform a single, dedicated control function.

SBC-controlled devices can be found in every aspect of our lives, for as many different functions as the devices, designers can imagine. The Raspberry Pi, for example, is widely used for student, teaching and experimental purposes – but it is also employed by NASA engineers to help estimate the amount of uncertainty in the position where a Mars lander or rover will touch down.

Other applications for single board computers include:
1. Energy and smart grid control
2. Transportation
3. Factory and industrial automation
4. Robotics
5. IoT gateways
6. Drones/UAVs
7. Digital signage
8. Video surveillance
9. Mobile computing
10. Smart agriculture and irrigation