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Raspberry Pi and Arduino in Business

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Raspberry Pi and Arduino in Business

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angelarushi23
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© All Rights Reserved
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Tech Notes Presentation Report: The Raspberry Pi (and Arduino) Revolution

Group 2:

Jared Thomas – 191902690

Clare Van Bommel – 190294980

Jensen Tait - 190768610

Rachel Turner - 190285150

Regan Smith - 190307780

Lazaridis School of Business and Economics

BU415: Introduction to Management Information Systems

Dr. Samaneh Kakavand

June 7th, 2023


The Arduino and Raspberry Pi systems allow anyone to perform large-scale computing functions on a

physically small scale. This report will go over the value, applications, benefits, and concerns with the

adoption of Raspberry Pi and Arduino systems and provide an assessment of whether it would be

advisable for organizations to adopt them.

The Arduino is an input-output system that can perform a variety of tasks that interact with both the

digital and physical world, such as turning on a light or online publishing ([Link], 2023). Raspberry

Pi is a fully functional computer about the size of a debit card ([Link], n.d.). Raspberry Pi “uses a

standard keyboard and mouse… [and is] capable of doing everything you’d expect a desktop computer to

do,” ([Link], n.d.). Due to its wide-ranging functionality, the Raspberry Pi can perform standard

computing tasks such as connecting to Wifi and interacting with IoT devices ([Link], n.d.).

The Arduino and Raspberry Pi devices have several differences, the main one being their

functionality. As previously mentioned, the Arduino is an input-output system. “Arduino boards are able

to read inputs… [such as] a finger on a button… and turn it into an output [like] activating a motor,”

([Link], 2023). A Raspberry Pi is much more complex and “has everything a computer needs to

function… The GPU and CPU are in a single, integrated circuit. Other components, including a USB

port, RAM, and an SD card slot are soldered on,” (Whitmore, 2022).

The Raspberry Pi and Arduino computing systems provide value for individuals, society, and

organizations in a variety of ways. The Raspberry Pi was originally created to help “people of all ages

explore computing, and to learn how to program in languages like Scratch and Python,” ([Link],

n.d.). The CEO of the Raspberry Pi Foundation wants youth to use the device to be actively involved in

the digital revolution (Colligan, 2019). As a result, the Foundation creates a number of classes for youth

to learn to code using the Raspberry Pi system ([Link], n.d.).

The Raspberry Pi also allows technology enthusiasts to create unique DIY projects, and experiment

with computational power that would have been out of their reach previously. This is taken one step

further by organizations, which can derive a lot of value from both the Raspberry Pi and Arduino systems.

The low cost and small size of Raspberry Pi and Arduino systems ([Link], 2014) allow

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organizations to effectively create first-order technological changes and automate some or all of their

business processes (Kakavand, 2023).

The Raspberry Pi has many applications in a business context. One application of the Raspberry Pi

in business would be for monitoring equipment using its ability to pair with sensors and its connectivity

abilities (Hilatech, 2022). Sensors can test different parameters for the business and then pass on this

information to employees through notifications or displays (Hilatech, 2022). A factory that produces Sony

cameras uses a Raspberry Pi system to monitor equipment, as they are equipped with vibration, motion,

and visual sensors. The manager of the factory has stated that this integration of Raspberry Pi has resulted

in an increase in efficiency by 30% (Digiteum, 2021). Another application of the Raspberry Pi is as a

gateway solution - the Raspberry Pi can receive data from node devices, process it, and then send

commands and messages to the cloud for storage using its processing capabilities and low power

requirements (Digiteum, 2021). Raspberry Pi can also be used to monitor and improve an organization’s

security as a VPN or email server (Trueman, 2019). Other use cases include running digital signage and

dashboards, basic servers, and simple automation.

A real-world example can be seen through the digital signage company Yodeck using the

Raspberry Pi to run their signs on a local remotely controlled computer (Yodeck, 2023). Previously their

process consisted of plugging a USB into a screen, which created a risk of reputational damage through

tampering (Yodeck, 2023). The Raspberry Pi has now increased security and functionality for Yodeck.

Another example is the Vineyard Kikushima in Japan. The owner of the vineyard used a Raspberry Pi

system to evaluate weather and climate conditions and apply chemicals and pesticides accordingly

(Vineyard Kikushima, 2023). Without the Raspberry Pi, this process would have been done using a large

computer system or manually. The Raspberry Pi allowed the vineyard to save time and resources and

increase wine quality and efficiency in the vineyard (Vineyard Kikushima, 2023).

We can also see applications of Arduino in a business context. Arduino has many applications in

the medical industry such as wearable medical devices that monitor vitals such as heart rate to provide

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data in real time for analysis, and automation of medical equipment like ventilators, so that patients can

receive efficient and accurate delivery of their various treatments (Kashif, 2022). Arduino can also be

utilized in robotics, to build autonomous robots that are able to perform various tasks for businesses

(Kashif, 2022). Arduino is often used in manufacturing facilities because of its ability to automate

different processes. It can be used to monitor production lines as well as for optimization of energy

consumption in facilities. Some other applications of Arduino include prototyping (as it results in lower

costs in building a prototype), embedded systems, PLCs, and more (Armenta, 2022).

There are alternatives that differ slightly from Raspberry Pi, with some being more suitable based on

company needs. The first alternative is the Asus Tinker Board S R2.0. This alternative technology

provides a faster quad-core CPU, but Raspberry Pi outperforms it in connectivity options, affordability,

and display outputs (Bruno, 2020). The second alternative is Rock Pi 4 Model C+. Rock Pi’s advantages

include eMMC and M.2 SSD connections, which perform better than the micro-SD card found on both

boards, providing Rock Pi with increased speed and flexibility. (Russel, 2020). Raspberry Pi beats Rock

Pi in several areas including support for 4K monitors and increased memory options.

The first alternative to Arduino is the Teensy. Teensy can easily integrate with a company’s pre-

existing Arduino projects and they make this process extremely user-friendly (Murray, 2021). The Teensy

is better suited for projects that require more accuracy and processing power than Arduino currently

provides (Murray, 2021). Another alternative to Arduino is Esp8266 DevKitC. DevKitC provides

increased memory, more I/O pins, and built in Wi-Fi capabilities. (Tan, 2023) It is also cheaper than

Arduino and provides the same 32-bit microcontrollers and 3.3 V of power.

The COVID-19 pandemic along with supply chain issues, including the chip shortage, has

caused a shortage of Raspberry Pi devices since 2021 and select Arduino devices (PC World, 2023). The

shortage of the product has resulted in inflated prices often by resellers and difficulty purchasing the

product, making it challenging for individuals and businesses to rely on the device (Tom’s Hardware,

2021). Additionally, Raspberry Pi devices were not designed with commercial products in mind (All

3
About Circuits, n.d.). Meaning some developers will turn to professional boards that offer guaranteed

availability for multiple years, industrial grade quality and the option for scalability (All About Circuits,

n.d.). Secondly, Raspberry Pi devices have limited processing functionalities compared to traditional

computers. The process functions of the Raspberry Pi device are not as quick as a traditional computer,

which in turn leads to long download and software installation times (Pantech eLearning, n.d.). Another

limitation of the Raspberry Pi device is related to its technological functions. Raspberry Pi units are

unable to viably run Windows (Make Use Of, 2023). Although able to install Windows, the device will

run Windows slow and laggy (Make Use Of, 2023). This poses a challenge for individuals interested in

using Windows software on their device. Lastly, there are ethical concerns with hacking related to

Raspberry Pi devices. Unfortunately, in some cases, the Raspberry Pi and Arduino have become a tool for

hacking due to its affordable price and small size (How to Geek, 2021). In 2019, a small Raspberry Pi

computer was used to steal data from NASA (BBC, 2019).

Raspberry Pi itself is not designed to replace any specific technology, but rather to provide

accessible learning for a younger generation of coders and programmers (Raspberry Pi Foundation, n.d.).

It holds the potential to disrupt traditional instruction of coding and programming, particularly with the

gradual introduction of coding to earlier grade levels (Opensource, n.d.). However, the versatility and

low-cost nature of Raspberry Pi have made it a popular choice for various applications, which might have

previously required more expensive and specialized hardware. Especially within the technology industry,

Raspberry Pi has the ability to enhance multiple technologies such as laptops, desktop computers,

televisions, home automation, robotics, and more (Opensource, n.d.). But while the computer can create

Twitter Bots or home media systems, it is important to note that Raspberry Pi’s processing power and

resources are generally limited and unlikely to completely replace the desktop computer.

Similarly, Arduino is not specifically intended to replace any particular technology, but instead

functions as a versatile instrument for developing interactive electronic projects and facilitating

prototyping ([Link], 2023). Arduino is intended more for prototyping rather than being a final

4
production-ready solution. Arduino can replace some basic automation processes, including

programmable logic controllers (PLCs), however, the required levels of performance, capacity, and

robustness limit its application (Armenta, 2022). Instead, Arduino serves a unique purpose in the realm of

industrial automation by providing a flexible and accessible platform for rapid prototyping, proof of

concept development, and small-scale automation projects (Armenta, 2022). While it may not be the

primary choice for large-scale industrial automation systems, Arduino’s simplicity and affordability make

it a valuable tool for experimentation in diverse industrial settings (Armenta, 2022).

Finally, while Raspberry Pi and Arduino have many similarities, they are often used in

conjunction rather than viewed as replacements for one another. In this case, both technologies are

considered sustaining rather than disruptive due to the fact that they build upon existing technologies.

Each technology has different strengths and serves different purposes, which allows for leveraging their

respective advantages in various projects or complementing existing technologies. Therefore, when

considering a plan of action regarding the implementation of these technologies, it is crucial to carefully

assess the specific use cases, define project scope, and continuously monitor implementation.

Organizations should leverage the advantages of Raspberry Pi and Arduino when needed but should not

solely rely on their capabilities. Though they would prove useful in education, prototyping, and smaller,

focused projects, both technologies lack the capacity and complexity required for typical applications in

the technology industry. In conclusion, when considering Raspberry Pi and Arduino for their real-world

applications, it is essential to strike a balance between their capabilities and limitations while considering

their role as supporting tools in larger-scale industry projects.

5
References
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Bruno, P. (2020, December 17). Asus Tinker Board vs Raspberry Pi 4: The differences. All3DP.

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Colligan, P. “The Next Generation of Digital Makers.” TEDxOpenUniversity Speech (2019, December

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Kakavand, S. Information Systems – Week 1. BU415 Lecture (Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo). May

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Common questions

Powered by AI

The Raspberry Pi and Arduino platforms differ significantly in their functionality, which impacts their application in technical projects. The Arduino is primarily an input-output system, designed to read inputs like a press of a button and turn them into outputs such as activating a motor. This makes Arduino valuable for prototyping and automation in contexts like manufacturing and medical devices, where real-time processing of simple commands is necessary . Conversely, the Raspberry Pi is a more complex device, functioning as a fully operational computer capable of performing desktop tasks. It offers computing capabilities such as connecting to Wi-Fi and integrating with IoT devices, which makes it suitable for projects involving data processing, sensor monitoring, and more extensive automation processes . These differences determine the scope of their applicability; Arduino is better suited for simple, direct control tasks, while Raspberry Pi can handle more complex computing tasks.

Raspberry Pi's primary limitations in industrial applications include its processing capabilities, design not oriented for commercial longevity, and the susceptibility to being used for cybersecurity breaches. Its processing functions are not as fast as traditional computers, leading to slower software installation and data processing, which can be a significant drawback for industrial environments requiring robust computation . Additionally, Raspberry Pi is not designed for commercial products, with issues in scalability, guaranteed availability, and industrial-grade quality, prompting industries to seek more professional solutions . The ethical concerns around hacking, as Raspberry Pi devices have used for illicit data extraction, further challenge its safe deployment in industries where data security is paramount . Such limitations affect adoption by necessitating supplementary systems to address performance gaps and security risks.

Raspberry Pi's educational applications have a profound impact on fostering digital skills among youth by providing an affordable, practical platform for learning to code and experiment with technology. It supports learning in programming languages like Scratch and Python, making it accessible for beginners and engaging a younger audience in computing areas otherwise considered advanced . The Raspberry Pi Foundation's commitment to creating educational programs facilitates a hands-on experience, promoting technical literacy and problem-solving skills among youths . Long-term, this can significantly impact the technology industry by nurturing a generation equipped with fundamental digital skills, potentially leading to increased innovation, more tech-centric educational curriculums, and a larger workforce trained in computer sciences and engineering fields . This early exposure not only aids individual career development but could also help mitigate future skill shortages within the tech industry.

Before adopting Raspberry Pi and Arduino, organizations must weigh their project requirements against the strengths and limitations of these devices. Raspberry Pi is advantageous for cost-effective computing and network applications but may not be suitable for high-performance needs due to its limited processing power and potential security risks . Arduino excels in automation and prototyping tasks but lacks robustness for full-scale production environments . Organizations should assess project complexity, required reliability, security concerns, and potential for scalability. It is crucial to define the scope of implementing these technologies, ensuring they complement rather than replace existing systems, leveraging their educational and experimental strengths while avoiding overreliance on their limited capacity . Considering these factors helps ensure feasible integration into larger industrial frameworks.

The role of Raspberry Pi in Kikushima Vineyard showcases how technology can revolutionize agricultural practices by automating monitoring and decision-making processes. In this context, the Raspberry Pi system is used to evaluate weather and climate conditions, subsequently applying chemicals and pesticides as needed, enhancing both efficiency and quality of wine production . Similar applications could significantly influence other agricultural practices by enabling precision farming techniques, reducing manual labor, increasing resource efficiency, and improving crop yields. IoT integration using Raspberry Pi could allow real-time monitoring of soil moisture, weather conditions, and crop health, facilitating immediate adjustments to farming techniques for optimal results . Such technology-driven approaches are likely to enhance sustainability and profitability in agriculture and propel more data-driven decision-making in the sector.

The ethical concerns regarding Raspberry Pi and Arduino stem from their affordable price points and ease of accessibility, which have made them tools in hacking activities. Raspberry Pi, due to its compact size and computational abilities, has been involved in unauthorized data extraction, such as an incident involving data theft at NASA . Similarly, Arduino's use in hacking is noted for its capability to exploit systems due to its programmability and connectivity features . These incidents highlight ethical pitfalls not initially considered during their design for educational and developmental purposes, suggesting a need for responsible usage frameworks and awareness around their potential misuse.

The supply chain issues, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and global chip shortages, have significantly impacted the availability and pricing of Raspberry Pi and certain Arduino devices. This shortage has caused inflated prices due to high demand and lower availability, which poses challenges for individuals and businesses relying on these devices . Resellers often increase prices due to scarcity, complicating the purchase process and discouraging potential adopters due to budget constraints . The scarcity has also led to prioritizing availability for essential projects, leaving smaller or lower-budget projects at a disadvantage.

Raspberry Pi and Arduino can indeed be integrated for collaborative applications, leveraging their complementary strengths. Raspberry Pi's robust computing power and connectivity can handle complex data processing and interface management, while Arduino's straightforward input/output capabilities enable precise control over physical tasks and data gathering . Such integration is advantageous in projects like home automation systems, where Arduino could manage sensor data collection and activation of physical devices, while Raspberry Pi could process the collected data, execute command sequences, and manage network connectivity . This synergy opens up innovative opportunities in prototyping, smart environment implementation, and educational robotics, creating comprehensive solutions that benefit from the simplicity of Arduino and the computational abilities of Raspberry Pi.

The introduction of alternatives like Asus Tinker Board and Teensy influences the market appeal of Raspberry Pi and Arduino by offering differentiated features that cater to specific needs. For instance, Asus Tinker Board provides a faster CPU, which might appeal to users seeking higher processing power, though Raspberry Pi remains popular due to its superior connectivity options, affordability, and ecosystem support . Similarly, while Teensy offers greater accuracy and processing power compared to Arduino, Arduino's vast community support, simplicity, and established presence still make it a preferred choice for many entry-level projects . These alternatives introduce competitive pressure but also encourage continual improvement in the original devices, pushing the industry towards innovation and varied options for users.

Key business applications of the Raspberry Pi include equipment monitoring, acting as a gateway for IoT systems, enhancing security, and serving as a base for digital signage. These applications provide several advantages: monitoring systems can optimize equipment uptime and efficiency, as demonstrated in a Sony factory where Raspberry Pi's use resulted in a 30% efficiency increase . As a gateway, Raspberry Pi can streamline data collection and cloud integration, which is essential for efficient IoT operations. Additionally, using Raspberry Pi for security applications like VPNs or mail servers helps ensure secure communication within organizations . Its role in digital signage, such as Yodeck's implementation, highlights its ability to reduce operational risks and enhance display control . These advantages mainly arise from Raspberry Pi's affordability, flexibility, and compatibility with various systems.

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