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Raspberry Pi 3 Model B — Classic Quad‑Core 64‑bit Single‑Board Computer
The Raspberry Pi 3 Model B is the classic credit‑card‑sized Linux computer that helped popularize modern maker culture. With a quad‑core 64‑bit CPU, 1 GB RAM, on‑board Wi‑Fi/Bluetooth, HDMI, USB, and GPIO, it remains a solid platform for education, kiosks, media centers, and lightweight servers.
Choose the Pi 3 Model B when you want a well‑understood, well‑documented Raspberry Pi with huge community support, stable operating system images, and compatibility with a wide range of HATs, cases, and accessories.
Why the Pi 3 Model B is still relevant
- Quad‑core performance: 64‑bit Broadcom BCM2837 CPU @ 1.2 GHz with 1 GB RAM for multitasking and light desktops.
- Built‑in wireless: 2.4 GHz Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth 4.1 mean fewer dongles and cleaner setups.
- Full‑size connectors: HDMI, 4 × USB 2.0, Ethernet, and 40‑pin GPIO header for serious I/O and expansion.
- Massive ecosystem: Works with countless HATs, cases, and Raspberry Pi‑optimized Linux distributions.
Project ideas and applications
- Classroom Linux workstations: Teach Python, Scratch, and basic Linux administration on real hardware.
- Media centers: Run Kodi or similar software for living‑room streaming and local media playback.
- Retro gaming consoles: Build an emulation box for classic consoles with USB controllers.
- IoT hubs and gateways: Aggregate sensor data, host dashboards, and bridge to cloud services.
Starter bundles
- Pi 3 desktop starter: Board + official‑style 5 V PSU + case + microSD card + HDMI cable.
- Learning lab: Pi 3 + HDMI monitor + GPIO kit + breadboard and jumper wires.
- Media center kit: Board + low‑noise case with cooling + remote + large microSD card.
Recommended add‑ons
- 5 V 2.5 A or higher power supply to handle USB devices and HATs.
- microSD card (16 GB or higher) for the OS and storage.
- Raspberry Pi 3 case with good airflow, plus optional heatsinks.
- Raspberry Pi HATs for relays, motor drivers, sensors, and expansion I/O.
Technical specifications
| Processor | Broadcom BCM2837, quad‑core Arm Cortex‑A53 64‑bit @ 1.2 GHz |
|---|---|
| Memory | 1 GB LPDDR2 RAM |
| Wireless | 2.4 GHz 802.11b/g/n Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth 4.1, BLE |
| Ethernet | 10/100 Mbps Ethernet port |
| USB | 4 × USB 2.0 ports |
| Display | Full‑size HDMI port; DSI display connector for official LCDs |
| Camera | CSI camera connector for official and third‑party camera modules |
| Storage | microSD card slot for boot and filesystem |
| GPIO | 40‑pin header, 3.3 V logic, standard Raspberry Pi pinout |
| Power input | 5 V DC via micro‑USB (2.5 A recommended) |
| Dimensions | Approx. 85 × 56 mm (classic Raspberry Pi form factor) |
Pinout & power notes
- 3.3 V GPIO: Use level shifting when connecting 5 V sensors, relays, or logic devices.
- Power budget: Remember that USB devices and HATs share the same 5 V rail, so size your PSU generously.
- Cooling: For sustained high load or warm environments, add a heatsink or small fan inside the case.
What’s in the box
- 1 × Raspberry Pi 3 Model B board
FAQ
- Is Raspberry Pi 3 still good today?
- Yes. For many educational, kiosk, and light server tasks, the Pi 3 Model B remains very capable and is supported by current Raspberry Pi OS releases.
- Which operating system should I use?
- Most users run Raspberry Pi OS, but there are also specialized images for media centers, retro gaming, and IoT use cases.
- What accessories do I need to start?
- At minimum, you’ll want a reliable 5 V power supply, microSD card, HDMI cable, and USB keyboard and mouse. From there you can add HATs, sensors, and a camera as needed.
Manila stock. Order before 16:00 PHT, ships today via J&T or LBC. Provincial: 1–3 working days.
Schools / class POs: we accept Purchase Orders for accredited schools and universities. contact us with your PO details.
Returns: 7-day inspection window for DOA units. Email proof of issue and we ship a replacement.
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