Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ is an updated version of the Raspberry Pi 3 Model B, offering several key improvements in performance, connectivity, and power management. Here are some key details:
- Dimensions: It retains the same form factor as the Raspberry Pi 3 Model B, measuring 85.6mm x 56.5mm x 17mm.
- Processor: The Model B+ features a slightly enhanced version of the Broadcom BCM2837B0 64-bit ARMv8 processor, clocked at 1.4GHz, which is a 200MHz increase over the Model B, providing a notable performance boost.
- Memory: It comes with 1GB of LPDDR2 SDRAM, the same as its predecessor, providing sufficient memory for most applications.
- Wireless Connectivity:
- Improved onboard 802.11ac Wireless LAN (WLAN) with dual-band support (2.4GHz and 5GHz), offering faster and more reliable wireless connectivity.
- Bluetooth 4.2, which supports better power management and is backward compatible with previous versions.
- I/O Interfaces:
- 40 GPIO pins for hardware interfacing and expansion.
- Four USB 2.0 ports, with improved power distribution to support power-hungry devices better.
- An HDMI port capable of 1080p video output, with updated power management for better display compatibility.
- A microSD card slot for storage, now supporting higher capacity cards.
- A CSI camera connector and a DSI display connector.
- A micro USB power port, supporting up to 2.5A for improved power management.
- An audio jack for sound output and a 3.5mm jack for composite video output.
- Storage: Like other Raspberry Pi models, it uses a microSD card for the operating system and data storage.
- Power: Requires a 5V/2.5A power supply, with enhanced power management for better stability and efficiency.
- Price: The Model B+ was priced slightly higher than the Raspberry Pi 3 Model B, reflecting its improved features.
- Usage:
- Education: With its enhanced performance, it’s widely used in schools for teaching advanced programming, networking, and IoT concepts.
- DIY Projects: Suitable for a wide range of DIY projects, including media centers, retro gaming, smart home automation, and IoT devices with improved wireless capabilities.
- Embedded Systems: The quad-core processor and enhanced wireless make it ideal for embedded applications requiring more processing power and connectivity.
- Development: A preferred choice for developers due to its performance improvements, making it suitable for software and hardware prototyping, especially in IoT and robotics.
Advantages
- Faster Processor: The increased clock speed provides a performance boost for both CPU-intensive and multi-threaded applications.
- Improved Wireless: Dual-band Wi-Fi and better Bluetooth support enhance wireless connectivity options.
- Enhanced Power Management: Improved power distribution and management allow for better stability with various peripherals.
- Backward Compatibility: Compatible with most Raspberry Pi cases, HATs, and accessories.
Limitations
- Heat: Similar to the Raspberry Pi 3 Model B, the more powerful processor can generate heat, requiring cooling solutions for intensive use.
- Memory: While 1GB is adequate for many projects, some applications might require more memory, which would necessitate external solutions.
- No USB 3.0: Despite the performance enhancements, it still lacks USB 3.0 ports, which could limit data transfer speeds with certain peripherals.
The Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ was a significant upgrade over its predecessor, providing users with improved performance, connectivity, and power management. Its enhancements make it an excellent choice for a wide range of applications, from educational use to professional projects, further solidifying the Raspberry Pi’s position as a versatile and powerful platform for embedded computing, IoT, and general computing tasks.
Documents
- Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ product brief
- Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ mechanical drawing
- Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ schematic diagrams
- More detailed information on Raspberry Pi hardware
Software & OS
Software installation
Raspberry Pi OS is the recommended operating system for normal use on a Raspberry Pi.
Raspberry Pi Imager is the quick and easy way to install Raspberry Pi OS and other operating systems to a microSD card, ready to use with your Raspberry Pi.
Find help with installing Raspberry Pi OS on your Pi in our online Getting started guide.
You can browse basic examples to help you get started with some of the software available in Raspberry Pi OS, find more detail about Raspberry Pi OS, or read information on fundamental Linux usage and commands for navigating the Raspberry Pi and managing its file system and users.
Compliance
The Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+ has undergone extensive compliance testing, and meets the following European standards:
- Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (EMC) 2014/30/EU
- Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directive 2011/65/EU
View and download global compliance certificates for Raspberry Pi products.
The dual-band wireless LAN comes with modular compliance certification. This allows the board to be designed into end product with significantly reduced wireless LAN compliance testing, improving both cost and time to market.
The Adopted Trademarks HDMI, HDMI High-Definition Multimedia Interface, and the HDMI Logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing Administrator, Inc. in the United States and other countries.