I got a preliminary understanding of the structure of the board today after I went through the datasheet of the Raspberry Pi. It included many components with different functions, which made up a small computer system.

CPU (Central Processing Unit)

The Raspberry Pi uses BROADCOM for its CPU and the model number it used was BCM2837, a very strong CPU. Its role is to process the data and execute instructions that are inputted into the device.

Wireless Module (WiFi and Bluetooth)

The wireless module consists of two parts, WiFi and Bluetooth. WiFi module is used to connect to a wireless network, and Bluetooth module can be used to connect to peripheral devices such as keyboard and mouse.

USB Controller (USB Interface)

The Raspberry PI has four standard USB ports: two USB 2.0 ports and two USB 3.0 ports, it can be used to connect to a USB camera, USB flash disk, keyboard and mouse.

Network Controller (Ethernet Interface)

The Network controller controls the Raspberry PI’s Ethernet network ports. Ethernet is used to connect devices in a network, it is used for its high speed, good security and reliability.

GPIO

On top of the Raspberry PI are 40 metal pins, which are GPIO pins and these pins are used to connect LEDs, buttons, temperature sensors, humidity sensors and other hardware for communication.

Audio Interface

The audio interface can be used to connect the Raspberry PI to speakers for a more powerful sound.

Micro-HDMI

Micro-HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) carries both audio and video signals, and it has excellent video quality. The PI can be connected to one or two display devices through these ports, such as a computer monitor, TV or projector.

Micro-SD Card

The microSD card contains all the saved files of the Raspberry PI, all the installed software, and the operating system running the Raspberry PI.

RAM (Random Access Memory)

RAM is a temporary memory bank where your computer stores data it needs to retrieve quickly. Data won’t be saved when it loses power.