Background and Identification

The Raspberry Pi Model B was the first single-board computer designed by the UK-based Raspberry Pi Foundation. Released in February 2012, the Model B originally sold for $35 and was replaced by the improved Model B+ in 2014. Although it was intended for use in teaching computer science, the Raspberry Pi is also widely used by hobbyists and researchers.

The Model B has a 700 MHz ARM processor and can be powered via the built-in Micro-USB connector or the GPIO (general purpose input/output) pins. The little machine sports two USB 2.0 ports for a keyboard or mouse, HDMI and composite video outputs, and a 3.5mm headphone jack for audio output. Unlike most newer Raspberry Pi revisions, the Model B includes a full-size SD card reader (instead of microSD).

To identify this device, look at the mounting holes: the original Model B has two mounting holes, while all subsequent models have four holes near the corners. The Model B has two USB ports, whereas the Model A only has one. You can also compare your board to these simple diagrams for each revision.

Technical Specifications

Processor

  • Broadcom BCM2835
  • 700 MHz ARM processor
  • VideoCore IV graphics at 250 MHz

Memory

  • 256 MB originally
  • 512 MB after October 15, 2012

Storage

  • SD card slot
  • Works with SDHC and SDXC cards up to 2 TB

Video

  • HDMI 1.3 port
  • RCA jack (for composite video)

Connectivity

  • Two USB 2.0 ports
  • Micro-USB port for power
  • 3.5mm audio jack
  • 10/100 Mbit/s ethernet
  • MIPI display interface
  • 26 GPIO pins

Additional Information

Wikipedia: Raspberry Pi

Sparkfun page (retired)

Raspberry Pi History

Frequently Asked Questions on the manufacturer’s website