Newark Launches All-in-One pi-top [4] Computer to Support STEM Learning

By Tiera Oliver

Associate Editor

Embedded Computing Design

July 23, 2020

News

Newark Launches All-in-One pi-top [4] Computer to Support STEM Learning

The pi-top [4] programmable computer is suitable for use in multiple learning environments from traditional classrooms and homes to libraries, after school clubs and makerspaces.

Newark, the Development Distributor, is now shipping the new pi-top [4], a programmable computing device to support digital making, coding, and practical projects for educators and students, as well as makers and inventors.

Suitable for multiple learning environments in school, at home or in the community; students can develop key skills including coding and circuit design, as well as soft skills such as communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

Every pi-top [4] computer comes with a Foundation Kit within a metal 'bento box' containing 14 components such as programmable sensors, buttons, and LEDs. Users can get started right away and learn the basics of coding and physical computing, then continue their learning by progressing into guided lesson plans in advanced coding, robotics, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Equipped with a modular design and internal battery, the pi-top [4] can even take learning outside to the sports field or playground.

The software learning environment is built for the classroom and designed by educators for educators to help teachers to get the most from their students. Support materials include step-by-step 'how to' guides that help students write code to control different electronic components such as lights and sensors. The software suite, which is bundled on the 8GB SD Card, also provides hundreds of hours of project-based learning.

Other key features include:

  • Processor - Powered by the 1.5GHz quad core Raspberry Pi 4 with 4GB of RAM
  • Communication - USB 3.0, Gigabit ethernet, Dual 4K HDMI output, 40 GPIO pins, and a 128x64 mini screen
  • Connectivity - The pi-top can be connected to any monitor or other device including Windows, Apple, and Chromebook computers and third-party products such as Arduino and micro:bit. Raspberry Pi GPIO connectivity is included as standard.
  • Hardware compatibility - pi-top [4] connects with products of similar construction, such as LEGO and Meccano. Users have access to free projects and resources that utilize the Raspberry Pi HAT architecture.
  • Software compatibility - The pi-top [4] supports a variety of educational software and apps including Scratch 3, Sonic Pi, and Mu-Python code editor for beginner programmers as well as Chromium web browser and Google Suite, Photo Editor, mtPaint/ ImageMagic, VLC Media Player, and Minecraft Raspberry Pi edition.

The pi-top [4] computer and Foundation Kit is available for delivery from Newark in North America.

For more information, visit: https://www.newark.com/

Tiera Oliver, Associate Editor for Embedded Computing Design, is responsible for web content edits, product news, and constructing stories. She also assists with newsletter updates as well as contributing and editing content for ECD podcasts and the ECD YouTube channel. Before working at ECD, Tiera graduated from Northern Arizona University where she received her B.S. in journalism and political science and worked as a news reporter for the university’s student led newspaper, The Lumberjack.

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