Starting with a maker it is a great way to get started with Android Things.
If you’re not very familiar with hardware this is especially useful because it removes any guess work or uncertainy around your hardware choices.
This is why I chose to use the Pico Pi IMX7 Startkit when I started exploring Android Things.
This post will focus on what comes in the Pico Pi IMX7 Starkit, and how to assemble the hardware.
The Kit
The Pico Pi Startkit can be purchased here.
This kit is great because it includes everything you need to get started building for Android Things.
Small disclosure: I wasn’t able to purchase the full kit because I was impatient and didn’t want to wait for backorder, so I purchased a kit w/out an included screen or camera and then purchased a compatible screen and camera separately.
The resulting set of components should be equivalent, and assembled the same way.
What Comes In the Kit?
USB-C power cable
Wi-fi antenna
Rainbow HAT
PICO-PI-IMX7
Camera peripheral
Peripheral screen w/ power cable
Also came with a bonus sticker sheet 🙂
The Full Kit
Assembly
Assembly Tools
To help with assembly I ordered 2 additional items
A cheap set of precision screwdrivers to install the standoffs required for the Rainbow HAT
And a set of standoffs & screws. My kit didn’t come with any standoffs for the Rainbow HAT, so I had to order them separately.
Assembly Process
I largely followed the process detailed here.
- Connect the wifi antenna
- Connect the screen
- Connect the camera
- Install standoffs
- Connect the Rainbow HAT
- Connect the power cable
I created a video describing the assembly process
What Next?
Now that your hardware is ready, it’s time to install the OS. Check out the post below
Want More Android Things
Thoughts, questions, tips on assembling Android Things hardware? Comment below or share on social media. I’d love to continue the conversation.
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