> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://3dpaws.comet.ucar.edu/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://3dpaws.comet.ucar.edu/building-3d-paws/setting-up-the-data-logger/raspberry-pi.md). # Raspberry Pi ### Overview The Raspberry Pi is a single-board computer that can be used as a 3D-PAWS data logger when a station requires additional processing capability, local storage, or custom software. The current 3D-PAWS configuration uses a **Raspberry Pi 3B+ paired with a Grove Base Hat** to connect supported sensors. In a 3D-PAWS station, the Raspberry Pi can: * collect measurements from connected environmental sensors * store observations locally on an SD card * transmit observations over WiFi or an optional cellular connection * perform local data processing * support custom software and sensor integrations Because the Raspberry Pi runs a full Linux operating system, it provides more processing flexibility than microcontroller-based data loggers, but it also requires substantially more power. *** #### Sensors Supported The current 3D-PAWS Raspberry Pi configuration supports: * rain gauge * anemometer * wind vane * radiation shield sensors for temperature, relative humidity, and pressure * light sensor Actual sensor support depends on the installed 3D-PAWS software, hardware interfaces, and available Raspberry Pi connections. *** #### Assemble the Raspberry Pi Data Logger Use the instruction slides below to assemble the Raspberry Pi data logger and Grove Base Hat. **Instruction Slides for Assembling the Data Logger** {% embed url="" %} *** #### 3D-PAWS Raspberry Pi Software The software used to operate a Raspberry Pi-based 3D-PAWS station is maintained in the **3D-PAWS Raspberry Pi GitHub repository**. [**https://github.com/3d-paws/3D-PAWS-Raspberry-Pi**](https://github.com/3d-paws/3D-PAWS-Raspberry-Pi) The repository contains the Python software used for sensor polling, data logging, and station operation. {% hint style="info" %} Use the current GitHub repository as the primary reference for software installation, configuration, and supported functionality. {% endhint %} *** #### Raspberry Pi Data Logger Architecture Unlike Particle-based stations, which use the Particle Cloud as an intermediate communications layer, the Raspberry Pi operates as a local computer and can transmit observations directly to data services. **Sensors → Raspberry Pi → Local Storage → WiFi / Cellular → CHORDS → Grafana** The Raspberry Pi can also perform local processing and run custom software before observations are transmitted. *** #### Connectivity The Raspberry Pi supports **WiFi connectivity** for locations with an available network. An optional cellular modem can be added where cellular connectivity is required. Local storage on the Raspberry Pi's SD card provides a record of observations when network connectivity is unavailable. {% hint style="info" %} Communications hardware and configuration depend on the deployment. Verify WiFi or cellular availability at the site before installation. {% endhint %} *** #### Power Considerations Raspberry Pi data loggers require substantially more power than microcontroller-based platforms such as Particle, Adafruit Feather, or Arduino MKR. Power consumption varies with: * Raspberry Pi model * connected sensors * WiFi or cellular communications * connected USB devices and peripherals * processor activity * software configuration Because of these higher power requirements, Raspberry Pi stations generally require a larger solar panel and battery system for off-grid deployment. See [**Solar Power**](/building-3d-paws/solar-power.md) for guidance on the Raspberry Pi power configuration. {% hint style="info" %} Previously calculated Raspberry Pi system power values should be treated as planning estimates unless they have been verified through direct measurements on the complete station configuration. {% endhint %} *** #### When to Use a Raspberry Pi A Raspberry Pi data logger may be appropriate when a station requires: * advanced local data processing * custom software * additional local storage * specialized sensor integrations * greater flexibility than a microcontroller-based platform provides For remote stations where low power consumption and remote device management are the primary requirements, a Particle-based data logger may be more appropriate. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. 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