Tech Collections

Many times it is necessary to transfer files between Raspberry Pi and Windows Desktop. I use my desktop to write code for Pi because of the availability of editors which I am familiar with; also I am running Pi in headless mode(ie. without monitor). So it is necessary to pull files from Pi for editing and later push it back to Pi.
This possible by using either ftp, sftp or scp. This tool(WinSCP) is one of the easiest method which I found available to transfer files between Windows and Raspberry Pi. It also has options to sync files between both sides while we are busy coding and debugging using various editors on both sides.

Follow these steps

1. Download and install the WinSCP software from download page. You may either use the windows installer or the portable version. I prefers portable versions. So if you downloaded the portable version, extract it to a folder.
2. When it is opened, enter the details
1. File protocol: Most cases the sftp or scp or both will work. If not try ftp. If none are working, it is easy to install sshd(command: sudo apt-get install sshd) and use sftp. If you are able to connect using putty, then sshd is already installed and sftp option should work.
2. Host name: You must be knowing this already if you connect using putty/ssh. But if you do not know, please search in google for articles on same.
3. Enter username and password of pi login.
4. Save, if necessary to connect later.
3. Done! now the explorer window should be available. Explore the options. My favorite is Commands->Keep Remote Directory up to Date.

Today I was trying to use the django app django-push-notifications to work with Google cloud messaging. However, the app required .pem file as input. After some research, I found out how to get the file. Following are the steps.

1. Create new client ID from respective project in Google cloud console.
2. Choose Service account and save the .p12 file.
3. While saving it will show the password, note it down. I guess default password key is 'notasecret'.
4.  Now download openssl binary from the openssl download page.
5. Depending on your operating system the files might vary. I am using openssl on windows x64 box.
6. Extract files to a folder.
7. Now from command line navigate to the folder and run
   

   openssl pkcs12 -in path/to/key.p12 -nodes -nocerts > path/to/key.pem

8. You can find more information about authentication in this page.

Today, I was searching for some electronic stuff on the Internet and stumbled upon this webpage of Raspberry Pi2 and later understood I happen to reach the site just when it was published.
I am very much impressed with the new design and surprised to know that even Microsoft supports it with the windows 10(Windows On Devices) for free(for those who Joins the Windows for their IoT Development program).
Though Microsoft supports it. I think this is their step to capture a share in the new market of Internet of Things like all giants are trying now. I am not sure yet how much it will be beneficial for the Open community.
Anyways, raspberry will still continue to grow as one of the first choice for enthusiasts and small business category of people due to it price $35. Old models are still available for the same price.
I have a Model B board which I use for some automation of fish tank and door bell now. 
For me and this is the easiest option to do an embedded project because I am more comfortable with the programming part. Using a microcontroller will consume a lot of time for the initialization kind of stuff. Same project which can be made with Pi in an hour will take a week to do using a conventional microcontroller. Moreover, if we want to use WiFi/Ethernet connectivity it will cost further more time and money.
Below attached a video from the release page.

BCM2836 silicon bringup from Raspberry Pi Foundation on Vimeo.