> 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/getting-started.md).

# Getting Started

The ARK Just A Pi is a compact carrier board for the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5. This guide covers preparing the board and connecting to it for the first time.

## Flashing the Compute Module

If you are installing your own Compute Module, follow the [Flashing Guide](/products/embedded-computers/ark-just-a-pi/flashing-guide.md) to image the CM5 (micro SD for the CM5 Lite, or eMMC over USB-C) and prepare it for first boot.

If you set up the OS using the Raspberry Pi Imager customization options described in the flashing guide, the board comes up with:

* **Username**: `pi`
* **Password**: `pi`
* **Hostname**: `just-a-pi`

## Connecting

### Serial Debug Console

The **UART0 Debug** connector (6-pin JST-GH) exposes the Compute Module's serial console at 3.3V. Connect a 3.3V USB-to-serial adapter to reach the console before the network is configured. See the [Pinout](/products/embedded-computers/ark-just-a-pi/pinout.md) for the connector pin assignments.

### SSH over the network

Once Wi-Fi or Ethernet is configured (see [Wi-Fi Setup](/products/embedded-computers/ark-just-a-pi/flashing-guide/wi-fi-setup.md) and [SSH](/products/embedded-computers/ark-just-a-pi/flashing-guide/ssh.md)), connect over SSH:

```bash
ssh pi@just-a-pi.local
```

If mDNS is not available on your network, use the Pi's IP address instead.

## Next Steps

* [Flashing Guide](/products/embedded-computers/ark-just-a-pi/flashing-guide.md) – Image the Compute Module and prepare it for first boot
* [Pinout](/products/embedded-computers/ark-just-a-pi/pinout.md) – Connector and pin assignments
* [Block Diagram](/products/embedded-computers/ark-just-a-pi/block-diagram.md) – Board architecture overview
* [3D Model](/products/embedded-computers/ark-just-a-pi/3d-model.md) – STEP files


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