How to Build an Affordable Mini Computer

1. 1
   Remove the Raspberry Pi from the box.

   • Raspberry Pi is recognizable by its green board.
   • It should be oriented upward, lying flat on the surface.
   • Handle the board with caution, ensuring not to damage any of its components.
2. 2
   Apply the heat sinks to the CPU and the RAM.

   • Heat sinks are pieces of metal that absorb heat from computer components that use electricity. They are rectangular in shape with tall ridges.
   • CPU is located in the center square of the motherboard and RAM is directly next to it.
   • Remove the sticky sheet from the back of the heat sinks, and then press the heat sinks onto the CPU and RAM sockets.
3. 3
   Install the Raspberry Pi into the case.

   • The case consists of 3 parts. Remove the top part of the case which is distinguishable by its ventilation holes.
   • Fit the computer board with the edges of the case. It will lock in place when aligned.
4. 4
   Install the fan.

   • Like heat sinks, fans control computer temperatures by directing the flow of hot air out of the computer and bringing in cold air.
   • The fan has 1 red and 1 black wire.
   • GPIO pins provide a connection between external and internal devices (with respect to the motherboard). They are located on a long strip on the edge of the computer board.
   • Plug each of these wires into a different GPIO pin.
   • Close the case.
   Advertisement

Method 1

1. 1
   In a web browser go to the Raspberry Pi software webpage by searching for https://www.raspberrypi.com/software/ .
2. 2
   Download the correct version of Raspberry Pi Imager depending on your device's operating system.

   • For Windows users, select “Download for Windows.”
   • For macOS users, select “Download for macOS.”
   • For Ubuntu users, select “Download for Ubuntu for x86.”
3. 3
   Install Ubuntu onto microSD card.

   • Connect the microSD card to a computer’s USB port.
   • Open the Raspberry Pi Imager application by going to file explorer and double-clicking on the download.
   • Under “Operating System,” select “UBUNTU DESKTOP 22.04 LTS (RPI 4/400).”
   • Under “Storage,” select “CHOOSE STORAGE” and the name of your microSD card.
   • Select WRITE, which will cause Raspberry Pi Imager to write Ubuntu installation data to the microSD card.
   • When this process is completed, remove the microSD card from the computer.
   Advertisement

Method 2

1. 1
   Purchase a microSD card preloaded with Ubuntu.

   • The product of both methods is the same, except this method requires less work.
   • Choose the method that is most convenient for you.

1. 1
   Connect the Raspberry Pi to a display monitor or TV.

   • Find the Micro-HDMI to HDMI cable.
   • Plug in the Micro-HDMI end to one of the Micro-HDMI ports on the back of the Raspberry Pi.
   • Connect the HDMI end to the HDMI port on the display.
2. 2
   Connect microSD card to Raspberry Pi.

   • Locate the microSD card loaded with Ubuntu.
   • Insert this card into the microSD slot on the back of the Raspberry Pi.
   • Now the Raspberry Pi recognizes Ubuntu as its operating system.
3. 3
   Connect peripherals to the Raspberry Pi.

   • Insert the keyboard, and mouse into the USB ports on the back of the Raspberry Pi.
4. 4
   Power the computer.

   • Connect the power supply plug to an outlet (of minimum 5 volts) and the USB-end of the cable into the USB-C PWR slot on the back of the Raspberry Pi.
   • If successful, the computer will now turn on.
5. 5
   Customize Ubuntu.

   • As prompted by the Ubuntu installation wizard, create a profile, select a language and keyboard layout, connect to Wi-Fi or Ethernet network, set the date and time, and proceed.
   Advertisement