Unboxing & Setup Requirements
Setting up a Linux-based device varies depending on the hardware. Some devices have pre-configured first-party images that streamline setup, while others require manual installation and configuration. This page outlines the general steps for unboxing, hardware preparation, and choosing the correct operating system for your device.
Looking for Tachyon?
If you're setting up Tachyon, refer to the Tachyon Unboxing Guide instead.
Choosing Your Setup Path
Most Linux devices follow one of two setup paths:
1. First-Party Images (Recommended, Where Available)
- Pre-configured OS images distributed and maintained by Particle.
- Includes built-in OTA support, Particle cloud services, and Edge AI demos.
- Ensures compatibility with AI workloads, container runtimes, and system updates.
2. Manual Installation
- Requires downloading and installing an OS manually.
- Additional configuration may be needed for OTA updates, container support, and AI acceleration if the board is not formally supported.
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Hardware Requirements
Before setting up your device, ensure you have the necessary cables, power adapters, and storage media. Some devices require specific hardware to function correctly.
| Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|
| Power Adapter | Ensure correct voltage and amperage for your board. |
| USB-C / Debug Cables | Some devices require debug interfaces for flashing. |
| Storage (microSD, eMMC, NVMe) | Required for OS installation. Choose high-endurance storage for reliability. |
| Cooling Solution | Some AI workloads require additional cooling. |
Refer to your device’s page for exact hardware requirements.
Connectivity Considerations
- Internet access is required for initial cloud registration and OTA updates.
- Ensure your network firewall allows the device to connect to Particle’s cloud
Manufacturing & Scaling Considerations
Particle’s platform supports developer setups as well as scalable manufacturing workflows.
- Production-Ready OTA Support: First-party devices support automated provisioning and firmware updates at scale.
- Expanding First-Party Support: More devices are being added to the first-party image library to simplify fleet expansion.