> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.arkelectron.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.arkelectron.com/products/embedded-computers/ark-just-a-pi/flashing-guide/pi-cm5-lite-with-micro-sd.md).

# Pi CM5 Lite with Micro SD

When using a Pi CM5 Lite without EMMC, a micro SD must be used for the OS. Follow the normal steps for flashing a micro SD using the Raspberry Pi Imager.

{% embed url="<https://www.raspberrypi.com/software/>" %}

If using Ubuntu:

```
wget -O pi_imager.deb https://downloads.raspberrypi.org/imager/imager_latest_amd64.deb && sudo dpkg -i pi_imager.deb && rm pi_imager.deb
```

{% hint style="info" %}
Select a **64-bit** Raspberry Pi OS. ARK-OS ships packages for both current Raspberry Pi OS (Debian 13 Trixie) and Legacy (Debian 12 Bookworm) — the install script picks the matching one automatically.
{% endhint %}

Apply OS customization to configure WiFi and enable SSH:

* Set the default hostname:

```
just-a-pi
```

* Set the Wifi:\
  It is recommended to add a Dummy Wifi to turn on the Wifi radio, it does not have to be a reachable/ functioning network.\
  Otherwise it can be turned on using the following command once you have ssh-d to the Pi using the debug port.

```
sudo nmcli radio wifi on
```

* Set the default **username (pi)** and **password (raspberry)**
* Enable SSH

<figure><img src="https://1515919775-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FOwmEn1N45AR4WjMQhHlu%2Fuploads%2FScEkmiVAYSQ1HwIqHqPD%2FScreenshot%20from%202025-08-15%2010-45-02.png?alt=media&amp;token=22550eda-1a1f-4180-9983-0d37438e12ae" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://1515919775-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FOwmEn1N45AR4WjMQhHlu%2Fuploads%2FtnAzv6Qb6C5wrabnFC6j%2FScreenshot%20from%202025-08-15%2010-44-47.png?alt=media&amp;token=892eafb4-54f5-4423-95c1-8e33c0ae212d" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

After flashing the SD card is complete, you will need to modify the **/boot/firmware/config.txt** file on the SD card before installing it into the Pi. See [**After Flashing, Before Installing**](/products/embedded-computers/ark-just-a-pi/flashing-guide/after-flashing-before-installing.md)**.**


---

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