Chapter 6 ■ Building low-Cost MysQl data nodes
If you have to purchase these items, stick to the commonly available brands and models without extra
features. For example, avoid the latest multifunction keyboard and mouse. Chances are, they require drivers
that are not available for the various operating system choices for the Raspberry Pi.
You also must have a micro SD card. I recommend a 8GB or higher version. Recall that the micro SD is
the only onboard storage medium available. You will need to put the operating system on the card, and any
files you create will be stored on the card. I will demonstrate this in a later section.
If you want to use sound in your applications, you also need a set of powered speakers that accept a
standard 3.5mm audio jack. Finally, if you want to connect your Raspberry Pi to the Internet, you need an
Ethernet cable or a Raspberry Pi–compatible USB Wi-Fi dongle.
hOW CaN I teLL IF MY DeVICe WILL WOrK?
if you want to make sure your device will work with the raspberry pi, the simplest thing to do is try
it! if you prefer not to take chances, you can check the raspberry pi hardware compatibility list at
http://elinux.org/RPi_VerifiedPeripherals. this list contains many devices and commentary
from various users in the community who have tested the devices. if you are just starting out with the
raspberry pi, look for devices that require little or no extra configuration or drivers.Recommended Accessories
I highly recommend at least adding small rubber or silicone self-adhesive bumpers to keep the board off
your desk. On the bottom of the board are many sharp prongs that can come into contact with conductive
materials, which can lead to shorts or, worse, a blown Raspberry Pi. These bumpers are available at most
home-improvement and hardware stores.
If you plan to move the board from room to room or you want to ensure that your Raspberry Pi is well
protected against accidental damage, you should consider purchasing a case to house the board. Many
cases are available, ranging from simple snap-together models to models made from laser-cut acrylic or
even milled aluminum. The following list includes several excellent choices, ranging from inexpensive to
top-of-the-line luxury cases:
- Raspberry Pi 2B+ Clear case: http://sparkfun.com/products/12996
- Pi Tin: http://sparkfun.com/products/13102
- Bel-Aire: http://makershed.com/products/the-bel-aire
- Adafruit Pi Box: http://adafruit.com/products/1985
- Ninja Pibow: http://adafruit.com/products/2081
- Unibody Aluminum Case: http://adafruit.com/products/2198
Another option is to print your own case with a 3D printer. If you do not have a 3D printer, you may find
one in your local library or community college or perhaps a friend of a friend. If you ask nicely, chances are
most 3D printer enthusiasts would be happy to print you a case. Indeed, there are many such case designs
available for downloading and printing. Figure 6-6 shows one I printed on my 3D printer.