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Prerequisites

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Patrick Haney edited this page Feb 5, 2023 · 2 revisions

This guide was written with a Mac user in mind, though there are Raspberry Pi software options for Windows and Linux users as well. Before you get started, here's what you'll need:

  • Raspberry Pi 3, 4, or 400 (if you're planning on doing any HomeKit video camera connections, you'll need the 4 or 400)
  • Raspberry Pi OS Lite (port of Raspbian Bullseye with no desktop environment)
  • 16GB (or larger) MicroSD card (4GB might be enough, but at least 8GB is recommended)
  • Admin access to a Mac running macOS (for prepping, backing up, and restoring the SD card)
  • USB SD card reader (Here's a simple Anker 2-in-1 card reader)
  • Keyboard (and optional mouse) for initial Raspberry Pi setup (it's possible to use the Apple Magic Keyboard connected via a USB Lightning cable)
  • HDMI cable and monitor for initial Raspberry Pi setup (to connect to a TV or computer monitor)
  • Raspberry Pi Imager app for macOS
  • ApplePi-Baker app for macOS
  • Access to your wired/wireless network router (we use the Eero Pro 6 system)

Note: Originally I tried using a cheap wireless mouse that has its own USB Bluetooth dongle, but had errors when booting my Raspberry Pi with it attached. After some research, it seems this may conflict with the Pi's onboard Bluetooth chip, and it was causing issues (dhcpcd was throwing errors as well). During my most recent install from scratch, I removed it completely and everything went smoothly. You don't really need a mouse at all if you're running the Lite version of the OS anyway.

Buy Me a Coffee?

When I first started tinkering with my Raspberry Pi, I had no idea how much time I would invest in getting it up and running. I'm happy to share my findings with the community here for free, but if you'd like to say thanks, a free coffee (or beer) is always welcome.

ko-fi

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