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Install on your SBC

Debian 13 on a Raspberry Pi 3B+

Install the OS and required dependencies on a Raspberry Pi 3B+ running Debian Trixie. The 3B+ works, but it lacks USB 3.0, which noticeably impacts camera performance. If you're buying a board, get a Pi 4 or 5.

Raspberry Pi 3B+
Debian 13 (Trixie)Raspberry Pi 3B+SD 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 Linux, macOS, and Windows.

Steps​

  1. Insert your SD card into your computer
  2. Open Raspberry Pi Imager
  3. Click Choose Device and select Raspberry Pi 3
  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 (Linux/macOS) 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

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.