RPi Hardware Basic Setup
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Contents
Typical Hardware You'll Need
While the RPi can be used without any additional hardware (except perhaps power), it won't be much use as a general computer. It is likely then you will need some additional hardware, like a normal PC would.
Prepared SD Card
The Raspberry is useless without software , so we will first put a Operating System an a storage card.
Keyboard & Mouse
Most standard USB keyboards and mice will work with the RPi (support will depend on the distribution of linux you use and the device itself).
Wireless keyboard/mice should also function (such a ones which use RF USB dongles), obviously in order to use a Bluetooth Keyboard or Mouse you would need to add a Bluetooth Dongle (again support will depend on the distribution of linux you use and the device itself)
Also, remember the Model-A unit only has a single USB port and the Model-B only has two (typically a keyboard and mouse will use a USB port each) - see USB-Hub below.
More detailed information see RPi Verified Peripherals section.
Display
There are two main connection options for the RPi display, Composite or HDMI (or DVI via an HDMI-DVI adaptor).
Modern HD TVs or LCD Monitors can be connected using HDMI or DVI inputs and will provide the best quality.
Most older TVs can be connected using Composite input (or SCART via an adaptor).
Note: There is no VGA output available, so older CRT/LCD monitors may not work.
More detailed information see Rpi Screens section.
USB-Hub
In order to connect additional devices to the RPi, it is highly recommended to obtain a Powered USB Hub, which will allow multiple devices to be used. It is recommended that it is a powered hub is used, to provide any additional power to the devices without effecting the RPi itself (see [[Rpi_Hardware#Power | RPi Hardware - Power] section).
Power Supply
The unit uses a Micro USB connection to power itself (only the power pins are connected - so it will not transfer data over this connection). You can use a range of power sources (assuming they are able to provide enough current ~700mA):
- USB Mobile-Phone/Tablet Charger (mains or car)
- Computer USB Port (will depend on power output)
- Mobile Phone Backup Battery (will depend on power output) - needs confirmation...theory only
More detailed information about the RPi power requirements are in the [[Rpi_Hardware#Power | RPi Hardware - Power] section.
Cables
Micro USB Power Cable HDMI or Composite cable to connect your Raspberry to the Display/Monitor/TV of your choice. Network Cable if connecting to a LAN network.
Additional Peripherals
You may decide you want to use various other devices with your RPi, such as Flash Drives/Portable Hard Drives, WiFi adaptors (support will vary), Speakers etc. More detailed information see RPi Verified Peripherals section.