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Install on your SBC

Debian 13 on a Raspberry Pi

Install the OS and required dependencies and update the kernel on a Raspberry Pi running Debian Trixie. A Pi 4 or 5 is recommended. An RPi 3B+ works, but it lacks USB 3.0, which noticeably impacts camera performance.

Raspberry Pi 5
Debian 13 (Trixie)Raspberry Pi 3B+ / 4 / 5SD card install

Flashing the SD Card​

Download the Raspberry Pi Imager for your OS from the official site: https://www.raspberrypi.com/software/

Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Steps​

  1. Insert your SD card into your computer
  2. Open Raspberry Pi Imager
  3. Click Choose Device and select your Raspberry Pi model
  4. Click Choose OS and select Raspberry Pi OS (64-bit). Choose either the Desktop or Lite (headless) version
  5. Click Choose Storage and select your SD card
  6. Click Next. You will be prompted to apply OS customisation settings
  7. It is recommended to configure the following before flashing:
    • Hostname
    • Username and password
    • Wi-Fi credentials (if not using ethernet)
    • Enable SSH under the Services tab for remote access
  8. Click Save, then Yes to apply settings
  9. Click Write and wait for the process to complete
  10. Once verified, remove the SD card and insert it into your Raspberry Pi

Remote Access​

Two remote access options are available:

  • SSH: Enabled during the flashing process via the Imager settings. Recommended for headless setups and works on a local network without internet access. Connect using an SSH client such as Terminal (macOS/Linux) or PuTTY on Windows
  • Raspberry Pi Connect: A newer option from Raspberry Pi that allows remote access via a browser without needing to be on the same local network. Requires an active internet connection on both the Pi and the connecting device. See https://connect.raspberrypi.com for setup instructions

Make Sure the System Is Up to Date​

note

Note 1: If you are using RPi Connect it may disconnect in the middle of the update. Simply reconnect. Note 2: If asked about the master references, choose Y.

sudo apt update && sudo apt full-upgrade -y && sudo reboot

Troubleshooting​

If you run into problems, check dmesg for power-related errors. The Raspberry Pi 5 requires 5V/5A. It will run on the 5V/3A output from mounts like iOptron or ZWO, but it will be underpowered and can not sustain all the USB ports.

[ 6838.631023] usb usb1-port1: over-current change #29
[ 6838.631075] usb usb3-port1: over-current change #38
[ 6838.654641] usb usb2-port1: over-current change #43
[ 6838.654696] usb usb4-port1: over-current change #43
[ 6838.766589] usb usb3-port2: over-current change #36
[ 6838.766662] usb usb1-port2: over-current change #29

Install AlpacaBridge​

Your board is ready. Continue to Install & Configure AlpacaBridge to add the OpenAstro APT repository, install the service, and set up your devices.