So things I've done as a NEWB,

Joined Antpool and Slushpool as they were easy to find and set up.  some others not so much.

Downloaded a few remote software miners and well connection issues will drive me nuts and make me not want to use something.

Failed - Multiminer (had high hopes)
           GuiMiner

untested- AwesomeMiner (I really do not want to pay for it but I will if it works)

As for the Pi's I have decided to start selling the stuff off on Bitify or other platform once I find it.  God I miss BITMIT.