The research highlights the widespread use of the Raspberry Pi by professional engineers in prototyping and proof-of-concept applications, particularly for IoT, industrial automation and control applications as well as its popularity with makers. A high proportion of users also take advantage of the Raspberry Pi add-on HAT devices, which open up a range of new applications without the need to develop custom hardware.
Key insights from the Farnell Raspberry Pi survey include:
One third of respondents confirmed that they are using Raspberry Pi for personal projects and more than one third of the engineers are using the Raspberry Pi for proof of concept and prototyping. Other uses include Test rigs/testing systems and production.
34% of makers are using Raspberry Pi exclusively in their personal projects.
Makers said that the main reason they use Raspberry Pi is because of its price, closely followed by the performance and familiarity with the product. Professional engineers care about ease of use more than any other factor when deciding to use the Raspberry Pi.
Makers declared the Pi camera and touchscreen their favourite accessories.
Professional engineers are primarily using the Raspberry Pi for Internet of Things applications closely followed by Industrial Automation & Control. Other notable applications include robotics, display and consumer applications.
“This research illustrates the versatility of the Raspberry Pi” said Hari Kalyanaraman, Global Head of Single Board Computers for Farnell. “The success of Raspberry Pi began with the maker community. A powerful combination of feature set, low cost and a large and active user base has quickly made the Raspberry Pi an attractive platform for engineers looking to develop and deploy a broad range of applications. This survey strongly confirms the widespread adoption of Raspberry Pi by engineers in commercial and industrial environments.”
In celebration of Pi Day, on 14th March, Farnell is also offering a 10% discount on the Raspberry Pi 3B+ & Starter kit from 00:00 on 14th March until 23:59 on 31st March.
To access a 10% discount, customers should visit Farnell in EMEA, Newark in North America and element14 in APAC and use the code PIDAY10 at checkout.
