New 7-inch touchscreen can turn the Raspberry Pi into a tablet

A new 7-inch touchscreen display for the Raspberry Pi has been introduced by Farnell element14 expanding the ecosystem of accessories to enable users to create all-in-one integrated projects such as turning their Pi into a tablet, infotainment system or embedded project. Compatible with Raspberry Pi 2, and Raspberry Pi 1 models B+ and A+, the screen can be used to make ‘Internet of Things’ (IoT) devices with a visual display. Connect the Raspberry Pi, develop a Python script, and create home automation devices with touchscreen capability. A range of educational software and programs available on the Raspberry Pi will be touch enabled, making learning and programming easier. Designed by the Raspberry Pi Foundation, the 800 × 480 display connects to the Raspberry Pi’s DSI display connector via an adapter board that handles power and signal conversion. Touchscreen drivers with support for 10-finger touch and an on-screen keyboard will be integrated into the latest Raspbian OS for full functionality without the need for a physical keyboard or mouse. The screen dimensions are 194mm x 110mm x 20mm (including standoffs), with a viewable screen size of 155mm x 86mm and screen resolution of 800 x 480 pixels, says the company. Claire Doyle, global head of Raspberry Pi, element14, said: “The Raspberry Pi has been a revolutionary board for engineers and electronics enthusiasts, and this latest addition to the ecosystem from Raspberry Pi Trading adds a truly interactive visual capability. The potential applications are huge and will lead to the emergence of many new innovative projects including tablets, personalised infotainment systems and home automation projects.”