PiFace Control and Display 1 vs 2

The Version 2 is an updated version of the PiFace Control and Display that will fit on the presently-shipping Model B+. The older original version, now known as Version 1, would not mechanically fit onto the new Model B+ due to obstruction by the new USB connectors. I believe the Version 2 has changed the underlying PCB so as to clear the USB port obstructions. However, from the images, it seems that nothing else has changed - it still uses a 26-pin connector so as to be "backwards" compatible with the older Model A and Model B's, and the hardware and functionality is pretty much the same.

Gough, thank you for your answer,

So basically if I have a RPI B is not worth it to buy the version 2, it cost a few bucks more than version 1.

I was just wondering if it has some other improvements/changes other than being compatible with the B+ board too.

Thx,

teo

As far as I know, and most likely, there is no functional difference between the two versions. You will still have the LCD, IR receiver, toggle switch and buttons regardless of which version you go with.

However, if you do choose to purchase the original Version 1, it will only fit on the Model A and B (original versions) and it might fit on Model A+ (because it doesn't have the additional USB ports to get in the way) but will overhang the board. It will not fit on the Model B+.

If you choose to buy the Version 2, it should fit all boards. This might be a worthwhile consideration even if you have a Model B at the moment, just in case it malfunctions or you might want to deploy a project which needs more USB ports and decide to upgrade to a Model B+ in the future.

- Gough

One other thought: I suppose if you're intending to integrate the board into a custom designed enclosure and you're going to use a ribbon cable to extend the GPIO headers to the board, it wouldn't matter which version you chose as the USB port obstruction is the main problem with the Model B+ and Version 1. Electrically, the interface remains identical (for the first 26 pins, of which only a few are actually used by the board).

- Gough

yes you are right is more future proof to buy ver2. the difference is about 8 dollars.

I want to use i with a case made for rpi+piface control and display board,  and this case is different for B and B+,  so in this context think I have to go with the version 1.

That might be the safer option to ensure it all fits neatly. It's a shame a more detailed picture or datasheet isn't given for the new version - I did a review of the old version as part of a RoadTest (http://www.element14.com/community/roadTestReviews/1647) and as a separate article (Project: Analyze Infrared Remote Signals with PiFace Control and Display | Gough's Tech Zone). There's some good pictures of the original Version 1 there. If you can find some proper Version 2 pictures, you might be able to tell if it will fit.

what a great review, I will use it for training a remote to use rpi as a internet radio.

I will check the pictures,

thank you,

teo

finally I take version 2 without the case for being future proof. Probably I will buy in the near future a b+ board.

Now I'll check some projects to do with it. Any suggestions are welcome.

Thank you for your support.

teo