They are capable of so much from complex calculations, to increasing productivity, storing information, keeping you connected to others, and so much more.

The Raspberry Pi is essentially a computer that can fit in the palm of your hand, without sacrificing any of the functionalities of a typical computer.

But, is a raspberry pi an embedded system? Yes, a raspberry pi is considered an embedded system as it has all requirements of one which includes having a combination of software and hardware such as a processor, memory, and input/output peripheral devices. 

This article shall take a closer look at embedded systems and raspberry pis, to give you a better understanding of why a raspberry pi is an embedded system. 

What is an embedded system?

To better understand the question at hand, it will help to first take a deeper look at what is an embedded system.

So what exactly is an embedded system?

An embedded system can be defined as a system which is a combination of hardware and software, used to perform a set of objectives within mechanical and electrical/electronic systems. 

Different parts of an embedded system  

At the heart of all embedded systems lies the Central Processing Unit (CPU), which carries out all the instructions. 

The CPU can either be a microprocessor, or microcontroller.

It is responsible for generating instructions, as well as receiving and transmitting data to other hardware modules, much like a traffic cop directing cars at a busy intersection. 

The other hardware modules within an embedded system include;

• Memory
• User interface 
• Inputs
• Outputs
• Communication ports
• Power supply 

But, an embedded system does not necessarily have to include all these hardware components to be considered one. 

But, all this hardware needs a set of instructions otherwise it might as well be a paperweight. This is where Software comes in.

Software is written and then downloaded and stored in a special memory location. The processor is then in charge of looking at it and executing it accordingly. 

It is a set of instructions that will govern how the embedded system will operate (independently or within a larger system).  

Common example of an embedded system

The most common embedded system you will have had an interaction with is a Computer.

So why is a computer an embedded system?

Computers use a combination of hardware and software to perform various functions. 

Its hardware components include;

• Central Processing Unit (microprocessor)
• Memory
• Power supply
• User Interface (display)
• Input/Output peripherals (mouse, keyboard)
• Communication ports (USB, Serial port, ethernet)

Computers use microprocessors as their processing unit, due to their faster capabilities compared to microcontrollers. 

All computers come with what is known as an Operating System (OS), which is the software aspect of the embedded system. 

It governs how all parts of the system (hardware and software) interact with each other.

Different types of embedded system

We are surrounded by embedded systems. 

They have many purposes and are used for a myriad of applications varying in complexity from very simple, to very complex.

Embedded systems with less memory, processing power, hardware components, are considered less complex to ones that need more of the things just mentioned.

The smartphone that you use to check the time (and other complex tasks of course), is an example of a complex embedded system.

Whereas, a toaster doesn’t need much in terms of processing power and hardware to function and that is why it is classed as a simple embedded system. 

Below is a list of many varying embedded systems (this is by no means an exhaustive list);

• MP3 players
• Smart televisions
• Gaming consoles
• Digital wristwatch
• Calculators
• Air fryer
• Kitchenware (refrigerators, microwaves, toaster, ovens,etc). 
• Self driving cars
• Smartphones
• Weather stations
• Digital cameras 

Closer look at the raspberry pi

You might have one of your own, or might have heard about their awesome abilities.

But what exactly is a Raspberry Pi?

The raspberry pi is a small sized computer on a single board that can fit in the palm of your hand.

While it might be slower than a laptop or desktop computer, it still has all the capabilities and features that you would expect from a normal computer.

At its size, the raspberry pi definitely punches above its weight!

Different parts of a raspberry pi

The raspberry pi has evolved over the years and now includes many different variations. Each variation might have different unique capabilities to its peers.

For example, one version might have wi-fi capabilities. 

Below is a list of the different versions;

1. Raspberry Pi 1 Model A
2. Raspberry Pi 1 Model A+
3. Raspberry Pi 1 Model B
4. Raspberry Pi 1 Model B+
5. Raspberry Pi 2 Model B
6. Raspberry Pi 3 Model B
7. Raspberry Pi Zero

However, while they might have different capabilities, the overall construction of raspberry pis are quite similar.

The image below shows the different parts of a raspberry (note,this highlights the latest version of the raspberry pi which has more features compared to the earlier versions).

High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI):

This is an output port used for transmitting video and audio data to HDMI capable devices like a computer screen or television. This allows you to display information on these devices.

Camera Serial Interface (CSI):

If you ever needed to include a camera in your next project, you would need to use the camera serial interface. 

Display Interface (DSI):

You might not need the extent of a Computer screen or Television screen as a display. A simple LCD might suffice. The DSI allows you to interface an LCD to the raspberry pi. 

Stereo Audio:

The stereo audio port allows you to add sound to your project! 

USB ports:

Universal Serial Bus (USB) is a standard of communication and connection between USB capable devices,cables and connectors. They allow computers to interface with peripheral devices like a keyboard, mouse, printer, and more. So you have the ability to connect these devices to your raspberry pi as well.

Ethernet Port:

The internet is a treasure trove of information and entertainment. If you want to get a piece of this using your raspberry pi, you will need to be able to connect to it. The ethernet port gives you the ability to access the internet via a RJ45 port which supports CAT 5/6 cables. 

USB-C:

The raspberry pi without any source of power is a redundant paper weight. The USB-C port allows us to power it using chargers rated at 5V / 3A. 

SD-Card Slot:

This is used to house SD-Cards, which is the memory of the raspberry pi. Things like the raspberry pi’s operating system, audio/video files, etc, are stored on the SD-Card. 

Bluetooth:

USB allows us to communicate with other devices via cables. Bluetooth on the other hand allows us to communicate with other bluetooth capable devices wirelessly. 

General Purpose Input/Output pins (GPIO):

If you need to interface the physical world with your raspberry pi, you will need to use any of the 32 GPIO pins. 

They allow you to connect and control electronic inputs and outputs such as sensors, Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs), motors, buttons, switches and much more. 

Is a raspberry pi an embedded system?

We have learnt the definition of an embedded system and taken a closer look at the raspberry pi.

So, is a raspberry pi an embedded system?

Yes, the raspberry pi is an embedded system. This is because the raspberry pi matches the definition of what an embedded system is, which is a system that is a combination of software and hardware used to perform a set of operations within a mechanical or electrical/electronic system.

Also we found out that a computer is an embedded system, and the raspberry pi is a small computer. 

However, a note has to be made. 

As mentioned, an embedded system also needs to have a software aspect to it. A brand new raspberry pi out the box (or one that hasn’t been loaded with an operating system yet), does not have any software. 

It is just hardware. 

At this instance in time it cannot be considered an embedded system. Only once loaded with an operating system and other appropriate software can it be fully considered to be an embedded system.

Applications of a raspberry pi embedded system

Due to its number of capabilities and versatility, the raspberry pi has an abundance of uses, and can be found in many different applications. 

The raspberry pi is used by the daily DIYer, as well as the experienced engineer. It can be used as a standalone embedded system, or integrated into a bigger system. 

Below are some of the many applications where the raspberry pi is used as an embedded system;

• Desktop PC
• Wireless printing network
• Media center
• Gaming servers
• Retro arcade machines
• Robotics
• Image and Video capture
• Music player
• Web servers
• Home automation

I could go on, but you get the jist. 

It can essentially be used in any application as the main processing hub as long as the needs of the application and the capabilities of the raspberry pi align. 

The rest is up to your imagination. 

Are all the different versions of raspberry pi embedded systems?

Yes, all raspberry pis are embedded systems (as long as they have software).

The only difference between different versions of the raspberry pi is that features and specifications will vary from one version to the next.

Speed is one example of how they can vary. 

The Raspberry Pi A+ has a 700 MHz processor, while its peer the Raspberry Pi Zero Wireless has one that reaches speeds of 1GHz.

The table below includes the popular raspberry pi versions and highlights key features that they have or do not have.

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You can connect outputs like monitors or televisions, as well as connect inputs like a keyboard and mouse just like you would a normal computer.

The great added benefit of the raspberry pi is that it can be programmed according to your needs for a certain purpose or project. It is programmed using coding languages like Scratch and Python. 

You might be on the lookout for a new raspberry pi, or already have one lying around and are wondering if it is a microcontroller. 

So is a raspberry pi a microcontroller? The raspberry pi is not a microcontroller. It is a single-board (the size of a credit card) that emulates a computer. However, just like a computer, it requires a processor as its brains to operate. It uses a microprocessor (not a microcontroller) as the main processor.

This article shall take a deeper look as to why a raspberry pi is not a microcontroller. 

What is a raspberry pi? – A closer look

To better understand why a raspberry pi is not a microcontroller, it will help to take a closer look at the raspberry pi individually. 

The first raspberry pi was launched in 2012, created by the Raspberry Pi Foundation, which is a UK charity whose main focus is to make it easier and more accessible for people to learn about computing.  

So, what exactly is it?

The raspberry pi has all the makings of a small computer which can fit in the palm of your hand. It uses Linux as its operating system.

It is very similar to a development board as it includes a set of General Purpose Input-Output (GPIO) pins allowing you to connect a range of inputs and outputs for prototyping personal projects such as home automation.

Different parts of a raspberry pi

Just like a computer, the raspberry pi is an embedded system comprising different hardware sections that each have its own functionality contributing to the overall system. Below are the hardware components;

• Central Processing Unit (CPU)
• Memory (RAM)
• Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
• Ethernet port
• GPIO pins 
• Xbee socket
• Power source connector 
• Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter (UART)
• HDMI 

Central processing unit (CPU)

The first and most crucial hardware component of a raspberry pi is the Central Processing Unit (CPU). 

The CPU is the brain of the entire system which has the job of undertaking all operations (logical and mathematical) that occur within the raspberry pi. 

It is very similar to how our brain handles all operations and tasks within the system of the human body. 

The raspberry pi uses an ARM11 series microprocessor as the CPU (we shall take a more in-depth look at this when we discuss why a raspberry pi is not a microcontroller).

Memory (RAM)

Random Access Memory (RAM), is where a computer stores its short term memory. It uses it for all active programs and apps. 

It is used for the same purposes in a raspberry pi for things like compiling large pieces of software, running server workloads, and running applications. 

Graphics processing unit (GPU)

The Graphics Processing Unit is a chip within the raspberry pi that is responsible for accelerating the process of graphics rendering. It is capable of processing many pieces of information simultaneously. 

Ethernet port

The great ability of the raspberry pi is to be able to access the internet. It does this through its Ethernet port which connects to a router. 

GPIO pins

The General Purpose Input Output (GPIO) pins are used to interface digital and analog inputs and outputs to the raspberry pi such as buttons, sensors, motors, LEDs, etc. This allows you to give the raspberry pi added abilities. 

XBEE socket

Wireless communication is very prominent in the electronic scene. The Xbee socket is used to give the raspberry pi the means of wireless communication.

UART

The Universal Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter (UART) is another form of communication that the raspberry pi utilises. It is an input/output port used to transfer data serially (one at a time) in the form of text. 

HDMI

Last but not least, is the HDMI port.

HDMI or High Definition Multimedia Interface is an audio/video interface used for transmitting uncompressed video and audio data. The raspberry pi has an HDMI port to be able to interface with other HDMI compatible devices such as monitors and televisions.

Why the raspberry pi is not a microcontroller

Now that we have taken a closer look at the raspberry pi, we can answer the question if it is a microcontroller or not.

So, is a raspberry pi a microcontroller? 

No, the raspberry pi is not a microcontroller. As we just saw, it is essentially a miniature embedded computing system the size of a credit card, which comprises different parts such as the CPU, GPU, GPIO pins, etc. It is a development board similar to an Arduino (however, a raspberry pi has greater computing power). 

A microcontroller on the other hand is also very similar to a computer, which is embedded on a single integrated chip. It is used as the brain of embedded systems to handle computations and manage tasks.

The key difference is that a raspberry is an embedded system already set up with all necessary hardware components which we saw earlier, whereas the microcontroller is just a single chip and does not come set up. 

Does a raspberry pi use a microcontroller or microprocessor?

Earlier we saw that one of the key components of the raspberry pi is its central processing unit (CPU), which has the job of undertaking all operations (logical and mathematical).

The CPU is the brain, and without it the raspberry pi would be useless. 

We just saw that a raspberry pi is not a microcontroller. 

But, what you need to know is that the CPU in embedded systems use devices like a microcontroller which are capable of handling operations. 

There are two main options of devices used for CPUs; Microcontrollers and Microprocessors.

The real question is, does a raspberry pi use a microcontroller or microprocessor? 

The raspberry pi uses a microprocessor. Since the raspberry pi is a mini computer, it needs to have hardware specifications to match. For that reason, a raspberry pi primarily uses a microprocessor as the CPU. This comes down to the microprocessor having faster processing speeds than the microcontroller. It is capable of handling more instructions per second. 

Differences between a microcontroller and microprocessor

The speed of a microprocessor and microcontroller is just one of the key major differentiations between the two. However, there are many other notable differences. 

Let’s take a look at some of them. 

The first difference is that a microprocessor contains only a CPU within a single chip, whereas a microcontroller consists of a CPU, memory, input/outputs and other peripherals all on a single chip.

A microprocessor uses an external bus to connect to memory and other peripherals, while a microcontroller uses an internal bus. 

The architecture that these two devices are built on is also different. A microcontroller utilises the Harvard architecture, and a microprocessor is built on the Von Neuman architecture.

Microprocessors are capable of much higher speeds compared to a microcontroller (in the order of gigahertz vs megahertz). 

Applications of microprocessors include;

• Computers
• Home security systems
• Gaming systems
• Transportation such as planes and cars
• Medical devices
• Mobile phones 

Applications of microcontrollers include;

• Calculators
• Washing machines 
• Robotic arms
• Cameras
• Digital multimeters 

Why does raspberry pi use a microprocessor and not a microcontroller?

By looking at the differences and some of the applications, you can see that microprocessors are used in more complicated systems where millions of instructions are executed every second. 

The raspberry pi isn’t any different. It is used for many complex applications such as home automation, internet of things, etc, which would require a microprocessor for its heavier and faster lifting powers. 

Is there a raspberry pi that uses a microcontroller?

There isn’t one single version of the raspberry pi.

It has many different versions and variations, each having its own unique uses and characteristics. Things that will vary from one pi to the next include speed, memory, physical size and weight, cost, and number of input/outputs.   

For example, one version might have more GPIO pins, lower power consumption, a different type of microprocessor etc. 

Below are some of the different types of raspberry pi;

• Raspberry Pi 1 model B
• Raspberry Pi 1 model A
• Raspberry Pi 1 model B+
• Raspberry Pi 1model A+
• Raspberry Pi Zero
• Raspberry Pi 2 B
• Raspberry Pi 3 B
• Raspberry Pi Zero Wireless

All the versions listed above use a microprocessor as the CPU. However there is one specific, raspberry pi board that uses a microcontroller; the Raspberry Pi Pico.

This particular board is created using the RP2040 microcontroller, designed by the Raspberry Pi foundation.

What types of microprocessors does a raspberry pi use?

As different  raspberry pi boards will have their own specific uses and characteristics, each of them also use different types of microprocessor specific for certain applications. 

The table below highlights the different types of microprocessor used for the different raspberry pi boards.

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But, do not be fooled by its size, this little board has the same capabilities of a desktop computer. 

A raspberry pi is essentially a small sized computer that you can connect to a computer monitor/ Television screen and operate it using a standard mouse and keyboard. 

It is a great way to learn about the world of computing, as well as programming using languages such as Scratch and Python. 

This board comes ready to use not requiring much physical setup.

But, do you need a soldering iron for a raspberry pi?

No, you do not need a soldering for a raspberry pi. When starting out using the raspberry pi for simple projects that do not require a lot of inputs or outputs, you will not need a soldering iron. Also, you can set up circuits on a breadboard which again does not require a soldering iron. 

However, there are certain instances when you might need a soldering iron as well as the skill of soldering. 

If you are using the Raspberry Pi Zero or Zero W, these two types of boards will require a soldering iron. As well as when your projects get a bit more advanced and include more inputs/outputs like buttons, lights, sensors etc. 

Reasons why you do not need a soldering iron for a raspberry pi

If you are just starting out on your journey with the raspberry pi, you might have plenty of questions and concerns as to what you need.

One of those questions is if you need a soldering iron. 

Here are a couple of reasons why you will not need a soldering iron if you are just starting out with a raspberry pi.

Reason #1 why you do not need a soldering iron for a raspberry pi: No physical setup required

If you have ever had the misfortune of having to assemble something when you buy it, like a dining table, or computer desk, you know how frustrating it can be.

It may look like an easy process, but it never goes as planned.

The less you have to do for setting up the better!

Lucky for you and me, if you have just acquired a Raspberry Pi, there isn’t any physical setup required. 

This means that you will not need a soldering iron when you first unbox your raspberry pi before using it.

All components and header pins are already soldered.

However, the raspberry pi does require some software setup. But, this is a less annoying process than having to solder.

Reason #2 why you do not need a soldering iron for a raspberry pi: Less complex projects

We all have to learn to crawl before we walk. 

I’m sure you have heard this many times before. 

Whether you are learning how to skateboard, play the guitar or program a raspberry pi, learning the fundamentals is key to building a solid foundation.

When you start out with the raspberry pi, the projects that you will be learning will mostly be software based and will not require many inputs/outputs. 

Therefore you will not need a soldering iron in the early stages of learning and creating with the raspberry pi. 

Connecting components to a raspberry pi without a soldering iron

What if you get to the stage where you need to connect some inputs and outputs so you can interface with the outside world? 

Will you need a soldering iron then?

No, even if you do need interface inputs and outputs to the raspberry pi you will not need a soldering iron.

The raspberry pi has 40 dedicated General Purpose Input Output (GPIO) header pins where electronic inputs and outputs can be connected to without the need of a soldering iron.

Connecting electronic components to the raspberry will require a few other things;

• Breadboard
• Female-Male jumper wires. 

Breadboard – a breadboard is a tool used to help set up temporary circuits during the prototyping phase of your project. 

Electronic components, inputs, outputs etc, can be connected to the breadboard without the need of a soldering iron. 

Female-Male jumper wires – You will need a way to connect the raspberry pi GPIO pins to the breadboard. Since the header pins are male, you will need a female to male jumper wire.

When you might need a soldering iron for a raspberry pi

While you can get away with no using a soldering iron in the early stages of using a raspberry pi, there will come a time when you will need one. 

As you get better, the projects you will undertake with your raspberry pi are going to get a bit more complex requiring many more wires, components, inputs and outputs. 

Also, using a breadboard is good for prototyping initial ideas but, if you need to create more permanent fixtures, the breadboard is not really ideal.

So, there is a point in time when a soldering iron might come in handy. 

Below are some possible scenarios where you will need a soldering iron when using a raspberry pi. 

Scenario #1 when you might need a soldering iron for your raspberry pi: Soldering wires to components

As mentioned earlier, as you advance in skill, the projects you undertake are going to get a bit more complex and require a variety of electronic components. 

While some of these components can be placed onto a breadboard without any hassle, there are going to be certain inputs and outputs that will have terminals that are a bit too big for the breadboard. 

To combat this, wires will need to be soldered to their terminals to make it easier to connect to the breadboard.

Sure you could twist the wire, but from experience this can get quite annoying as a permanent electrical bond is not created. 

Also, you might need to extend some sensors, or buttons away from the breadboard which will require soldering on longer wires. 

So opt for soldering them. 

Scenario #2 when you might need a soldering iron for your raspberry pi: Permanent stable setup

Say you are designing a project that has a lot of motion. The raspberry pi and other circuitry are going to undergo some forces. 

These forces could cause connections to come loose when they are set up on a breadboard (as the breadboard is designed more for temporary setups).

To avoid this, you will need a more permanent stable setup.

A Stripboard (or veroboard), is a premade circuit board with copper tracks where you can set up a more stable circuit. 

You will need a soldering iron to solder components onto the veroboard. 

Which type of raspberry pi might need a soldering iron

When it comes to the raspberry pi, you are not limited to one board.

Over the years the company has developed many different boards that vary in speed, weight, memory, Inputs/Outputs, networking and more.

Each type of raspberry pi will have its own advantages for different applications. So choosing the right raspberry pi comes down to the application as well your skill level.

The Raspberry Pi Model A and B are the boards you will typically use when you start out so you won’t need a soldering iron as you can set up circuits using its pre-soldered header pins and a breadboard.

However, there are two models of the raspberry pi that will require a soldering iron.They are the Raspberry Pi Zero and the Raspberry Pi Zero W models. 

This is because they do not come pre-soldered with header pins. 

So, header pins will have to be soldered onto them. 

Do you need an expensive soldering iron for a raspberry pi?

So, you can get away with not using a soldering iron when starting out. 

However, as you saw above there are certain scenarios where the soldering iron can lend a helping hand. 

But, do you need an expensive soldering iron?

No, you will not need an expensive soldering when using a raspberry pi as there isn’t a lot of soldering involved. 

Saying that, I wouldn’t recommend buying the cheapest soldering iron you get your hands on. Cheap soldering irons do not provide an even heat source to melt solder.

There are soldering irons which bridge the gap between quality and price which will a better option. 

Final thoughts

I hope this article shed some light on whether you need a soldering iron for a raspberry pi.

• If you are starting out your journey with the raspberry pi, you will not need a soldering iron as you can set up circuits using a breadboard, and jumper wires.

• When you advance in your skill, and your projects get a bit more complex, a soldering iron will come in handy especially when you need a more permanent stable circuit setup.

• Also, the Raspberry Pi Zero and Raspberry Pi Zero W will need a soldering iron as its header pins do not come soldered.

• You do not need an expensive soldering iron.

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