Resources / Keep building
The right information,
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Guides, how-tos, manuals, pin diagrams, code and practical answers for the hardware on your desk.
70 resources
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
7 must-have Raspberry Pi accessories
Upgrade your Raspberry Pi with these essential accessories for better performance, easier development, and more reliable projects.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
8GB Raspberry Pi 4 starter kits
Find Raspberry Pi 4 kit options with 8GB of RAM and check the exact configuration before ordering.
Explainer / General
About Vilros
Get to know Vilros and our support for makers, educators and businesses building with Raspberry Pi and Arduino.
Explainer / Arduino
Advanced features of Arduino Web Editor
Go beyond basics with the Arduino Web Editor. Learn how to manage libraries, share projects, use cloud variables for IoT, work offline, and unlock productivity features.
Explainer / Arduino
Arduino board basics: Uno Rev 3 and Mega 2560
Learn the essential features, specifications, and use cases for the Arduino Uno Rev 3 and Arduino Mega 2560.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Boost your Raspberry Pi's performance and reliability with SSD storage
Replace your SD card with an SSD for dramatically faster boot times, better reliability, and improved performance. Essential for NAS, Docker, and database projects.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
GPIO breakout board and breadboard guide
A GPIO breakout board makes hardware projects safer and easier by bringing labeled Pi pins to a breadboard. Learn how to connect and use one for your first circuits.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Configure a Raspberry Pi cooling fan
Keep your Pi cool with a properly connected and configured cooling fan. Wire it safely, test basic operation, and set up automatic temperature control.
Explainer / General
Contact Vilros
Reach Vilros for help with an order, product setup or a sales question.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Develop on Raspberry Pi remotely with SSH and VS Code
Set up SSH access and VS Code Remote for professional remote Pi development. Code from any computer while your Pi handles execution.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Do you sell revision 1.2 Raspberry Pi 4 boards?
Understand what to check when your project needs a particular Raspberry Pi 4 board revision.
Explainer / Arduino
Get Arduino Certified
Want to prove you know Arduino? Get an official certification by passing the Arduino Fundamentals exam. Demonstrate your knowledge of Arduino programming, electronics, and physical computing to future employers or educational programs.
Explainer / Arduino
Get started with the Arduino IoT Cloud
Connect your Arduino to the cloud, monitor sensors remotely, and control devices from anywhere using the Arduino IoT Cloud platform.
Explainer / Arduino
Get started with the Arduino Ethernet Shield 2
The Arduino Ethernet Shield 2 gives your Arduino board wired internet connectivity. Mount the shield, connect your network cable, and start building connected projects.
Explainer / General
Getting started with your BeagleBone
BeagleBone is a powerful single-board computer designed for embedded projects and real-time applications. Learn how to set up your BeagleBone, connect to it, and start building projects.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Home automation guide using Raspberry Pi
Transform your house into a smart home using Raspberry Pi. Set up Home Assistant, connect smart devices, and automate lights, climate, security, and more—all under your control.
Explainer / General
How do I connect the micro:bit to my computer?
Connect your BBC micro:bit to your computer and start programming. Learn how to use the USB connection, upload programs, and troubleshoot common issues.
Explainer / General
How do I create an account on Vilros.com?
Access your Vilros customer account with an email sign-in code. No password or separate registration form is needed.
Explainer / Arduino
Install WiFi drivers for Arduino Uno WiFi Rev 2
Set up WiFi drivers for your Arduino Uno WiFi Rev 2. Follow the instructions for your operating system to ensure your board is recognized and ready to program.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Power a Raspberry Pi 400
Power your Raspberry Pi 400 correctly and safely. Learn about the official power supply, connection steps, and when alternative power sources are appropriate.
Explainer / Pico
Program a Raspberry Pi Pico
Get started programming your Raspberry Pi Pico. Use a PC, laptop, or Raspberry Pi 4 to write code and upload it to your Pico with MicroPython, C/C++, or Arduino IDE.
Explainer / General
How do I start my child coding?
Get your child started with coding using beginner-friendly tools like Scratch, Python, and Arduino. This guide recommends age-appropriate platforms and projects to spark creativity and problem-solving skills.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
How to transfer ROMs to RetroPie
Add your game ROMs to RetroPie to start playing classic games. Learn the USB stick method, network transfer via Samba, and how to organize your game library.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Check your Raspberry Pi model from the command line
Find out which Raspberry Pi model you have using terminal commands. Check your board's model number, revision code, memory, and other hardware details without opening a GUI.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Configure multiple wireless controllers for RetroPie
Set up and configure multiple USB or Bluetooth controllers for multiplayer gaming on your RetroPie Raspberry Pi console.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Connect your Raspberry Pi to Wi-Fi
Get your Raspberry Pi online with Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Both methods are straightforward and work reliably for network access.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Find and assign a Raspberry Pi's IP address
Discover your Raspberry Pi's IP address and learn how to set a static IP so it never changes. Whether you use the desktop, command line, or your router, this guide covers all the methods.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Install a Raspberry Pi cooling fan
Keep your Raspberry Pi running cool with a properly installed cooling fan. This guide covers fan connection, testing, and optional temperature-controlled operation.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Overclock a Raspberry Pi 4
Get more performance from your Raspberry Pi 4 by overclocking the CPU and GPU. This guide covers safe overclocking procedures, configuration, testing, and temperature monitoring.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Remotely access a Raspberry Pi
Access your Raspberry Pi from another computer without a monitor, keyboard, or mouse. Use SSH for command-line access or VNC for a full desktop experience.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
How to update your Raspberry Pi
Keep your Raspberry Pi secure, stable, and performing at its best with regular updates. Learn how to update the OS, packages, and firmware in just a few commands.
Explainer / Arduino
Upload a sketch with Arduino IDE 2.0
Connect your Arduino board and upload your first sketch using Arduino IDE 2.0. Learn the difference between verify and upload, and how to select the right board.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Use the Raspberry Pi 400 power key
The Raspberry Pi 400 has a built-in power key for convenient startup and safe shutdown. Learn the keyboard shortcuts to control your Pi 400.
Explainer / General
I forgot my password. What do I do?
Vilros customer accounts use email sign-in codes, so you do not need to reset a store password.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Install the Vilros Pi 5 heatsink with aluminum case
Step-by-step instructions for installing the Vilros heatsink on Raspberry Pi 5 for use with the Vilros aluminum case.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Introduction to Raspberry Pi GPIO
The GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output) header is your gateway to physical computing with Raspberry Pi. Learn about pin types, how they're numbered, and how to start using them safely.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Introduction to different Raspberry Pi kits
Learn about different types of Raspberry Pi kits and choose the right one for your project or learning goals.
Explainer / Arduino
Use the Arduino Web Editor
Arduino Web Editor lets you create Arduino sketches from any device with a browser. Save your work to the cloud, keep your software updated automatically, and share projects with ease.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Linux operating system options for Raspberry Pi
Your Raspberry Pi can run many different Linux distributions, each optimized for different use cases. Learn about the most popular options to find the right OS for your project.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Maximize Raspberry Pi performance with active cooling
The Raspberry Pi 5 delivers impressive performance, but sustained workloads generate heat. Learn how active cooling prevents thermal throttling and keeps your Pi running at full speed.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Maximizing Raspberry Pi performance with active cooling
The Raspberry Pi 5 delivers a significant performance increase over previous generations, but that additional computing power also produces more heat. Learn how active cooling keeps your Pi running at maximum performance without thermal throttling.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Set up a Raspberry Pi on/off button
Give your Pi a physical button for an orderly shutdown. Connect two wires, add one configuration line, and choose the setup method that works for you.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Open source and Raspberry Pi
Raspberry Pi operates in an open-source ecosystem, making computing education accessible worldwide. Learn what open source means, why it matters, and how it powers the Raspberry Pi community.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Network-wide ad blocking with Pi-hole
Take control of your internet experience with Pi-hole, a solution for setting up network-wide ad blocking using your Raspberry Pi. Block intrusive ads, improve browsing speed, and protect your devices from unwanted trackers—all from one place.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Power up and shut down a Raspberry Pi safely
Your Raspberry Pi boots automatically when you connect power, but shutting it down safely requires a proper procedure. Learn three methods to shut down your Pi without risking data corruption.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Raspberry Pi 5: What's new and why it matters
Released in October 2023, the Raspberry Pi 5 offers a significant improvement in performance over previous models. With roughly 2–3× the CPU performance of the Pi 4, it's the most capable Raspberry Pi yet. Learn what's new and whether Pi 5 is right for your next project.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Raspberry Pi 5 vs. Raspberry Pi 4
The Raspberry Pi 5 brings significant performance improvements over the Pi 4. Learn about the key differences in CPU, GPU, connectivity, and new features to decide which model fits your needs.
Explainer / General
Raspberry Pi and Arduino for education
Raspberry Pi and Arduino make technology education accessible and engaging. Whether you're teaching programming, networking, electronics, or physical computing, these platforms give students hands-on experience building real projects.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Raspberry Pi: How to get started (first steps to becoming a maker)
Your complete beginner's guide to setting up your first Raspberry Pi, from unboxing to running your first program.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Use Raspberry Pi in the classroom
Raspberry Pi makes coding accessible, fun, and educational. Learn why microcomputing is transforming STEM education and how you can bring these powerful learning tools into your classroom.
Explainer / Pico
Raspberry Pi Pico basics
Raspberry Pi Pico is a low-cost microcontroller board, not a desktop computer like the Raspberry Pi 4 or 5. Learn what makes Pico unique, how to program it, and when to use it for your electronics projects.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Choosing a Raspberry Pi starter kit
Starting with Raspberry Pi means gathering the right hardware: a board, power supply, storage, cables, and accessories. Starter kits put everything you need in one box, so you can unbox and start building right away.
Explainer / General
Raspberry Pi vs. Arduino: A comparison
Raspberry Pi and Arduino are two of the most popular boards for makers, hobbyists, and students—but they're designed for different purposes. Understanding their strengths helps you choose the right tool for your project.
Explainer / General
Raspberry Pi vs. Arduino vs. BeagleBone
The Raspberry Pi, Arduino, and BeagleBone are all excellent choices for DIY electronics and programming projects. Each has unique strengths—learn which board fits your project best.
Explainer / General
Resources for STEM education
Vilros has supported STEM education since 2010 with curriculum resources, lesson plans, and affordable hardware for classrooms, makerspaces, and learning programs. Whether you're teaching computer science, robotics, or maker skills, we provide the tools and materials to bring hands-on learning to life.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
RetroPie alternatives for Raspberry Pi emulation
Explore alternatives to RetroPie for retro gaming on Raspberry Pi, including Recalbox, Lakka, and Batocera.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Set up Python on Raspberry Pi
Python is a powerful, flexible, and beginner-friendly programming language that comes pre-installed on Raspberry Pi OS. Learn how to verify your Python installation, choose an IDE, and run your first scripts.
Explainer / General
STEM curriculum strategy: Free download
The technological and economic changes our world is experiencing are profound and accelerating rapidly. For educators, the challenge is predicting what today's students should learn and how to prepare them for successful careers in an uncertain future.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Ultimate guide: Which Raspberry Pi to buy for DIY projects
Choosing the right Raspberry Pi for your DIY project can feel overwhelming. With multiple models, RAM options, and accessories, where do you start? This guide helps you match your project needs to the right board and understand what you'll actually spend.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Understanding real-time clocks (RTC) and Raspberry Pi 5
Raspberry Pi 5 is the first Raspberry Pi model with a built-in, battery-backed real-time clock (RTC). Learn what an RTC does, how to power it with a battery, and when it's useful for your projects.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Vilros CNC-crafted case for Raspberry Pi 5
The Vilros Duo Deluxe is a premium CNC-crafted aluminum case for Raspberry Pi 5 with passive and active cooling. Learn about its features, cooling performance, and when to choose it for your projects.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
Vilros Retro Pi Kit USB stick explained
The 'Vilros Retro Pi USB stick' included with Vilros kits is a microSD-to-USB adapter—not a flash drive. Learn how to use it to read, write, and reflash microSD cards on your computer.
Explainer / General
Vilros video reviews and tutorials
Vilros provides video tutorials and installation guides to help you set up your Raspberry Pi, install cases, and get started with starter kits. Watch step-by-step visual instructions for hands-on learning.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
What can you do with a Raspberry Pi?
Raspberry Pi is a small, affordable computer that can do almost anything. From learning to code to building home automation systems, Raspberry Pi opens a world of possibilities for makers, students, and hobbyists.
Explainer / General
What can you do with a Raspberry Pi?
Raspberry Pi is a small, affordable computer that can do almost anything. From learning to code to building home automation systems, Raspberry Pi opens a world of possibilities for makers, students, and hobbyists.
Explainer / Arduino
What is Arduino? An extensive guide
Arduino is an open-source electronics platform that combines hardware and software to make interactive devices. Learn what Arduino is, how it works, and what you can create with it—from beginner projects to advanced applications.
Explainer / Pico
What is MicroPython?
MicroPython is a lightweight implementation of Python 3 designed to run on microcontrollers and embedded systems. Learn how it works, what platforms it supports, and how to start programming hardware with Python.
Explainer / Raspberry Pi
What is the full capacity of my SD card?
If your Raspberry Pi SD card shows much less capacity than expected on Windows or Mac, it's likely due to Linux partitions. Learn why this happens and how to restore the card's full capacity.
Explainer / General
What is the Privacy Policy for Vilros?
Find the current Vilros privacy policy and learn where to ask questions about your information.
Explainer / General
What's the difference between Raspberry Pi 4 and Raspberry Pi Pico?
Raspberry Pi 4 and Raspberry Pi Pico are very different devices. Learn the key differences between a full computer (Pi 4) and a microcontroller (Pico), and which one is right for your project.
A little know-how goes a long way. Keep building.
Still need a hand?
For technical questions, replacement parts or help with your kit, talk to Vilros Support.