In desktop mode, the RevPi is connected directly to a monitor, mouse, and keyboard. A network connection is not strictly necessary, but without an internet connection, updates are not possible.

Note

Desktop mode is not possible for the RevPi Flat and RevPi Flat S base modules.

▷ Make sure that all devices are disconnected from their power supplies.

▷ Connect a monitor to the micro HDMI interface of the RevPi.

▷ Connect the mouse and keyboard to the USB interfaces of the RevPi.

▷ Connect the power supply to the RevPi.

❯ The RevPi starts. The terminal appears on the monitor.

▷ Log in with user name pi and the password.

Linux GUI #

In desktop mode, you can use a graphical user interface (Linux GUI) as an alternative to the terminal.

  • The GUI requires more RAM and processing power than a terminal.

  • The GUI is recommended for users who are not familiar with command-line commands.

  • The GUI cannot be opened via the built-in terminal in Cockpit.

Installing Linux GUI #

With a default image, the Linux GUI is already preinstalled, whereas with a Lite image, it must be installed separately if needed.

▷ Install the GUI with:

sudo apt-get install revpi-ui

See also: Which Image Should I Use?

Enabling Linux-GUI via Terminal #

▷ Enable the GUI with:

sudo revpi-config enable gui

▷ Reboot the RevPi with:

sudo reboot

Enabling Linux-GUI via Cockpit #

▷ Start Cockpit.

▷ In the System Configuration section, enable the option for Boot to GUI.

▷ Reboot the RevPi.

Further Resources #