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Getting Started with Calculinux

Welcome to Calculinux! This guide will help you get started with your PicoCalc running Linux.

Overview

Calculinux is a Linux distribution built specifically for the PicoCalc handheld computer with Luckfox Lyra SBC. This getting started guide will walk you through everything you need to know to set up and use Calculinux.

What You'll Need

Before you begin, make sure you have:

  • ✅ PicoCalc device
  • ✅ Luckfox Lyra SBC (128MB RAM model)
  • ✅ MicroSD card (8GB minimum, 16GB+ recommended)
  • ✅ SD card reader for your computer
  • ✅ USB-C cable for power/connectivity
  • ✅ Computer (for flashing the SD card)

Optional but helpful: - Second USB-C cable (for serial console monitoring at 1500000 baud) - USB WiFi adapter (3.3V compatible, see Hardware Requirements)

Detailed Hardware Info

For complete hardware specifications and purchasing guidance, see Hardware Requirements and Hardware Specifications.

Quick Start Process

Here's the high-level process to get Calculinux running:

  1. Check Hardware Requirements - Verify you have everything needed
  2. Erase SPI NAND (if equipped) - Required for Lyra models with onboard NAND
  3. Install Lyra in PicoCalc (if needed) - Physical installation
  4. Flash SD Card - Write Calculinux image to SD card
  5. First Boot - Power on and complete initial setup
  6. Quick Start Guide - Learn basic operations

Time Requirements

  • Hardware Installation: 5-10 minutes
  • Image Flashing: 5-15 minutes (depends on SD card)
  • First Boot: 2-3 minutes
  • Initial Configuration: 10-30 minutes

Skill Level

This guide is written for users with basic to intermediate technical knowledge:

  • Basic: You can follow written instructions and use a computer
  • Intermediate: Comfortable with command-line interfaces
  • Advanced: Hardware modifications and development

Don't worry!

Even if you're new to Linux or embedded systems, the guide provides detailed step-by-step instructions. Take your time and ask for help in the community if needed.

Support Channels

If you need help:

What to Expect

After Installation

Once Calculinux is running, you'll have:

  • Full Linux operating system (console-based)
  • Command-line terminal access via built-in display and keyboard
  • Package manager (opkg) for installing software
  • Development tools (gcc, g++, make, git, gdb, etc.)
  • Network connectivity via WiFi or Ethernet (USB adapters required)
  • Access to thousands of open-source command-line applications

Limitations

Be aware of these limitations:

  • Console Only: No graphical desktop environment (text-based interface)
  • Small Display: 320×320 pixels (53×40 text), optimized for terminal use
  • RAM: 128MB means careful resource management
  • Storage: SD card speed affects performance
  • No Built-in Network: Requires 3.3V USB WiFi adapter or powered hub
  • Battery Life: Running Linux uses more power than stock firmware

More Details

See Hardware Specifications for complete technical details about display, performance, and capabilities.

Learning Path

Beginners

  1. Start with Installation
  2. Follow First Boot guide
  3. Learn Quick Start Guide
  4. Explore Basic Usage

Intermediate Users

  1. Review Hardware Requirements
  2. Perform Installation
  3. Configure Networking
  4. Install Applications

Advanced Users/Developers

  1. Check Installation for base system
  2. Review Developer Guide
  3. Set up Yocto Build System
  4. Start Contributing

Documentation Structure

This documentation is organized into sections:

Getting Started (You Are Here)

Everything needed to get Calculinux running

Hardware

Physical device information, modifications, technical specs

User Guide

Day-to-day usage, applications, configuration

Developer Guide

Building, customizing, contributing to Calculinux

Troubleshooting

Solutions to common problems and FAQ

Resources

External links, tools, community information

Before You Begin

Important Warnings

Warranty

Installing Luckfox Lyra requires opening your PicoCalc, possibly several times. You may want to secure your screen to the case with tape so it does not shift during assembly and break!

Data Loss

If you're replacing an existing PicoCalc Linux installation, back up any data first, or use a different SD card. The installation process will erase the SD card.

SPI NAND Flash

If your Luckfox Lyra has SPI NAND flash, you must erase it first or the SD card will be ignored during boot. See the SPI NAND Erase Guide for complete instructions.

Make a Backup Plan

If this is your first time:

  • Keep the original Raspberry Pi Pico board in case you want to revert
  • Use a spare SD card for testing
  • Join the community forum before starting
  • Read through all documentation first

Next Steps

Ready to proceed? Here's where to go next:

Feedback

This documentation is continuously improving! If you find:

  • Unclear instructions
  • Missing information
  • Errors or outdated content
  • Suggestions for improvement

Please open an issue or submit a pull request!

Let's get started! Head to Hardware Requirements to begin.