Raspberry Pi 5 Projects: Top 6 Creative Uses & Ideas

It’s been a year since the Raspberry Pi 5 was launched, and the creative community has been busy building amazing projects. This article showcases six of the most impressive Raspberry Pi 5 projects, offering inspiration and ideas for your own DIY endeavors. From creating a network-attached storage (NAS) device to building a portable cyberdeck and even a ball-balancing robot, discover the power and versatility of the Raspberry Pi 5.

4-Bay NAS with Raspberry Pi 5

One of the most popular uses for Raspberry Pi is creating a network-attached storage (NAS) device. A standout project is Michael Klements' 4-Bay NAS, which showcases the Pi 5's ability to handle data storage and network access effectively.

Klements used a SATA HAT (Hardware Attached on Top) to connect multiple external drives to the Raspberry Pi 5, maximizing storage capacity. Specifically, the Radxa Penta SATA HAT, designed for use with Raspberry Pi, facilitates the connection of up to five SATA drives, offering considerable storage potential for a small form factor device. He uses four of the five available slots.

To prevent overheating of the Raspberry Pi 5, especially with multiple drives connected, Michael added a cooling fan on top of the Raspberry Pi. A cooling fan is essential for maintaining stable performance under heavy load. To improve the aesthetics and protect the components, he designed a custom enclosure using Fusion 360, a popular CAD/CAM tool. The parts were then 3D printed using aluminum-colored PLA filament. He incorporated a 40mm 5V fan on the side of the enclosure, along with a clear window to view the internal drives.

This NAS device provides a centralized location for storing and sharing files across a local network. This approach offers significant flexibility compared to commercial NAS solutions. The Raspberry Pi 5 brings increased processing power and faster data transfer speeds to DIY NAS projects. The 4-Bay NAS project is ideal for home users or small businesses that require a cost-effective and customizable storage solution.

Key components of this project:

• Raspberry Pi 5
• Radxa Penta SATA HAT
• Crucial BX500 1TB SSDs (x4)
• 40mm 5V Cooling Fan
• 3D-printed enclosure (designed in Fusion 360)

The use of a SATA HAT is a cost-effective way to greatly expand the storage capability of the Raspberry Pi 5. Klements' addition of a cooling fan and custom-designed enclosure shows a focus on functionality and aesthetics.

Why is this project particularly impressive? The combination of ample storage, active cooling, and a visually appealing enclosure makes this 4-Bay NAS both practical and aesthetically pleasing. The detailed design considerations contribute to a reliable and user-friendly DIY storage solution.

Computer Vision Gatekeeper (Peeper Pam)

The Computer Vision Gatekeeper, also known as “Peeper Pam,” is a project by VEEB Projects designed to alert you when your boss is approaching your desk while you're, say, browsing cat videos or catching up on the latest gaming news at work.

This project uses computer vision to detect when a person enters a designated area. When it detects a human, it triggers an alert, providing a heads-up that someone might be watching you. Think of this as your digital early warning system for potential interruptions.

Core components of Peeper Pam:

• Raspberry Pi 5: Serves as the server for image processing.
• Raspberry Pi AI Kit: Accelerates computer vision tasks.
• Camera Module: Captures the video feed.
• Raspberry Pi Pico 2: Used in the detection kit.
• Voltmeter: Provides a visual indication of detection status.
• MOSFET: Controls the LED indicator.
• LED and Resistors: Provide a visual alert.

The device uses a Raspberry Pi 5 as a server, paired with a Raspberry Pi AI kit and a camera module. The detection kit uses a Raspberry Pi Pico 2, a voltmeter, a MOSFET, an LED, and resistors. The Raspberry Pi AI kit is a crucial component for enhancing computer vision performance on the Raspberry Pi 5. It offers optimized hardware and software for tasks like object detection and Image Recognition, improving both speed and accuracy. When the server detects a person in the camera's field of view, it sends an alert to the detection kit. The LED on the detector lights up, and a dial moves to indicate a higher likelihood that someone is nearby.

This project demonstrates how the Raspberry Pi 5 can be used for real-time image analysis and practical applications. While a fun and whimsical project, Peeper Pam highlights the ability of computer vision to monitor environments and provide Timely alerts. This project demonstrates the potential for creating custom surveillance systems or smart home applications with the Raspberry Pi 5.

Ball Balancing Robot by Koshiro

Koshiro has built a fascinating ball balancing robot that uses the Raspberry Pi 5 to keep a ball from falling off a Glass plate.

This project combines robotics, computer vision, and control algorithms to achieve precise movement and balance. The robot uses three arms to adjust the plate's position, constantly correcting for any movement of the ball.

The core concept of this project is based on real-time feedback and control. A camera positioned beneath the plate captures the ball's position. Image processing algorithms then track the ball's coordinates. A control algorithm calculates how far the ball has deviated from the center and instructs the motors to move the plate back to the correct position.

Project Components and Technologies Used:

• Raspberry Pi 5: Acts as the central controller.
• Camera: Captures the ball's position.
• Servo Motors: Adjust the plate's angle.
• Image Processing Algorithms: Track the ball's movement.
• Control Algorithm: Calculates motor adjustments.

The robot is an excellent demonstration of how the Raspberry Pi 5 can be used in robotics projects. Its processing power enables real-time image analysis and precise motor control. This is a complex project that requires a deep understanding of robotics, computer vision, and programming. The project highlights how relatively simple hardware, combined with intelligent algorithms, can achieve sophisticated results. This project exemplifies how the Raspberry Pi 5 empowers makers and hobbyists to explore advanced robotics and automation.

Doomsday Portable Computer

This project from RaspdUino Uno focuses on creating a robust and self-contained computing solution.

The Doomsday Portable Computer is housed in a rugged, waterproof case, designed for portability and durability. The design ensures functionality in various environments. With potential power outages, portability is of utmost importance.

Key hardware components include:

• Raspberry Pi 5: The core computing unit
• 7-inch LCD screen
• Backlit keyboard
• USB hub
• RJ45 splitter
• Headphone jack
• OLED stats display
• Power bank

The computer also features a backlit keyboard, essential connecting ports, a headphone jack, and two displays: a 7-inch LCD screen as the primary monitor and a small OLED display that shows Pi stats such as IP Address and Memory Usage. The Raspberry Pi 5 handles all the computational tasks. It ensures smooth performance. The system is powered by a power bank. It is placed beneath the keyboard. Portable solar panels provide a charge on the go.

This project is ideal for those who need a reliable computing solution in challenging conditions. From emergency responders to field researchers, the Doomsday Portable Computer is a testament to the versatility of the Raspberry Pi 5. The Durable enclosure, integrated display, and power options make this project a highly practical and functional build.

The Doomsday Portable Computer Offers:

• Rugged protection for components.
• Integrated keyboard and display for ease of use.
• Portable power solution for extended operation.
• A self-contained computing environment.

3D Printer Time-Lapse Camera

Katie from the Element 14 community created a DIY Time-Lapse Camera for monitoring 3D printing progress. After her old camera broke, she designed and built a custom solution using a Raspberry Pi camera and a Raspberry Pi. She combined a Raspberry Pi 5 with a HyperPixel display. Katie uses two GPIO extenders between them. This allowed space for the cooling fan.

The key components of the time-lapse camera include:

• Raspberry Pi 5
• Raspberry Pi Camera Module
• HyperPixel Display
• 3D-printed enclosure
• Wide-angle lens

Katie added a wide angle lens and attached it to the Pi using a camera cable. To make it a tidy system, she housed the components in a 3D printed enclosure. This camera automates the process of capturing images over a long printing period, which combines functionality and customized aesthetics.

Time-lapse videos are useful for:

• Monitoring print progress remotely
• Diagnosing printing problems
• Creating engaging content

With this project, Katie transforms a frustrating situation into a creative opportunity. Her time-lapse camera is a testament to the problem-solving capabilities of the Raspberry Pi 5. It can help transform complex processes into time-compressed, visually appealing narratives, making them easier to understand and share.

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Required Components

Before you begin, Gather the following components:

• Raspberry Pi 5
• SATA HAT (e.g., Radxa Penta SATA HAT)
• 2.5" or 3.5" Hard Drives or SSDs
• Enclosure (3D printed or purchased)
• Cooling Fan
• Power Supply

Step 1: Assemble the Hardware

Attach the SATA HAT to the Raspberry Pi 5. Connect the hard drives or SSDs to the SATA HAT. Mount the cooling fan on top of the Raspberry Pi, and secure everything within the enclosure.

Step 2: Install the Operating System

Download and install Raspberry Pi OS on an SD card. Insert the SD card into the Raspberry Pi, and boot the system. You will need to configure the OS, and the operating system is the beginning of your NAS.

Step 3: Configure the SATA HAT

Install the necessary drivers for the SATA HAT. Configure the hard drives or SSDs using tools like fdisk or parted. Create file systems on the drives and mount them to specific directories.

Step 4: Install and Configure NAS Software

Install NAS software like Samba or Nextcloud. Configure the software to share the mounted drives over the network. Set up user accounts and permissions for access control.

Step 5: Test and Optimize

Test the NAS by transferring files to and from the device. Optimize performance by adjusting settings like caching and network protocols.

Detailed Pricing

The affordability of Raspberry Pi based projects is a major draw for DIY enthusiasts. However, costs need to be considered when pricing out components. Here's an estimate to get started.

Raspberry Pi 5 core features

Raspberry Pi 5 projects are a popular choice in the DIY community, because of their low cost, versatility, processing power, and community support. The following core features make the Raspberry Pi 5 ideal for projects:

• The Raspberry Pi 5 can handle a diverse range of projects.
• The Raspberry Pi 5 is more powerful than its predecessors.
• The Raspberry Pi's architecture and open-source nature make it simple to customize and modify various aspects of the NAS according to specific requirements.
• The Raspberry Pi community provides assistance, tutorials, and ready-to-use software and components.
• The Raspberry Pi has a wealth of software options, allowing it to be used for all types of DIY projects.

Creative and Practical Use Cases for Raspberry Pi 5

The following list of uses showcases the diverse potential of the Raspberry Pi 5, helping guide inspiration for personal and professional uses:

• Home Automation: The Raspberry Pi 5 can serve as the central controller for various smart home devices, like smart lights or smart door locks.
• Media Center: With the use of software such as Kodi, Raspberry Pi 5 can be transformed into a media center, for Music, video, and image management.
• Retro Gaming Console: By installing emulators like RetroPie or Recalbox, you can set up classic games from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.
• Web Server: The Raspberry Pi 5's processing power makes it perfectly suitable to host personal and small-Scale websites.
• Security Camera System: With the proper camera module, you can have a surveillance system running on a Raspberry Pi that you have physical possession of, not just a Recording from a service.
• Robotics Controller: Using Raspberry Pi, you have all the functionality you need to run a wide range of robotics projects. Using a Raspberry Pi, you can experiment with machine learning algorithms.