Raspberry Pi Zero 2W

Raspberry Pi Zero 2W Overview

The Raspberry Pi Zero 2W is a compact, high-value single-board computer designed for makers, hobbyists and embedded developers. Building on the original Zero series, the Zero 2W pairs a small 65mm × 30mm form factor with a powerful quad-core RP3A0-AU system-in-package to deliver a significant performance boost while retaining low power use and flexible connectivity.

Key Features of the Raspberry Pi Zero 2W

• Quad-core performance: RP3A0-AU with Broadcom BCM2710A1 ARM Cortex-A53 CPU at 1GHz for up to five times the performance of the original Pi Zero.
• 512MB LPDDR2 RAM: Efficient memory for light multitasking, media playback and many IoT workloads.
• Wireless connectivity: Integrated Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 4.2 (BLE) for wireless networking and peripheral support.
• Compact and power efficient: 65mm × 30mm size ideal for space-constrained projects, battery-powered devices and wearables.
• Multiple I/O options: mini HDMI (1080p output), Micro USB OTG, Micro USB power, CSI camera connector and an unpopulated 40-pin GPIO header for expansion.
• Storage: microSD card slot for OS and data storage (Raspberry Pi OS recommended).

Specifications

• Processor: Broadcom BCM2710A1 (RP3A0-AU), ARM Cortex-A53, quad-core @ 1GHz
• Memory: 512MB LPDDR2
• Networking: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.2, BLE
• Video & Audio: mini HDMI port (supports up to 1080p)
• USB: 1x Micro USB OTG, 1x Micro USB power
• Camera: CSI camera connector for Raspberry Pi Camera Modules
• GPIO: 40-pin unpopulated header (compatible with many HATs and add-ons)
• Storage: microSD card slot for operating system and files
• Dimensions: 65mm x 30mm

Connectivity and Expansion

The Raspberry Pi Zero 2W offers versatile connectivity for a broad range of projects. Use the 40-pin GPIO to connect sensors, motor controllers, displays and HATs. The CSI port supports official Raspberry Pi camera modules for imaging and vision projects. Micro USB OTG enables USB peripherals, while the mini HDMI port delivers video output to monitors and TVs.

Common Applications

• IoT and Home Automation: Lightweight, networked controllers and sensors for smart home setups.
• Retro Gaming: Compact emulation consoles for classic game systems.
• Media Streaming: Small form factor media players running Kodi and similar apps.
• Robotics and Prototyping: Control boards for robots and prototypes when combined with motors and sensors.
• Wearables and Portable Projects: Battery-powered devices and field-deployed controllers.

Getting Started

• Recommended OS: Raspberry Pi OS (Lite or Desktop depending on project needs).
• Required accessories: microSD card (class 10 recommended), power supply (5V via Micro USB), mini HDMI adapter/cable, optional USB OTG adapter and GPIO header soldering if expansion is needed.
• Camera support: use the CSI connector with official Raspberry Pi camera modules for photo and video projects.

Compatibility and Tips

• The unpopulated 40-pin header allows customized hardware expansion; many HATs and breakout boards are compatible but watch for size constraints due to the compact board.
• For retro gaming or media playback, overclocking and cooling may improve performance depending on your case and power supply.
• Ensure you use a quality power supply to avoid undervoltage issues when connecting multiple peripherals.

Note: Images are for illustration purposes only.