Watch the beginner's guide
Follow along with our complete beginner's video for the Pi Zero Basic Starter Kit:
The video covers unboxing, connecting adapters, peripheral setup, and first-time configuration. Perfect for newcomers to coding and electronics.
Kit contents
Your Vilros Pi Zero Basic Starter Kit typically includes:
- Raspberry Pi Zero, Zero W, or Zero 2 W board
- MicroSD card (pre-loaded with Raspberry Pi OS or blank)
- 5V micro-USB power supply
- Mini-HDMI to HDMI adapter or cable
- Micro-USB OTG adapter (for connecting USB devices)
- Case (optional, depending on kit variant)
- Quick start guide
Verify all components are present. You'll also need a USB keyboard, mouse, and monitor (not typically included).
Assembly & setup
- Install in case (optional): If your kit includes a case, place the Pi Zero inside, ensuring all ports are accessible. Close and secure the case.
- Insert microSD card: Insert the microSD card into the slot on the underside of the Pi Zero.
- Connect display: Use the mini-HDMI to HDMI adapter to connect the Pi Zero to your monitor or TV.
- Connect peripherals: Attach the micro-USB OTG adapter to the Pi Zero's USB port (marked "USB"). Plug your USB keyboard and mouse into the OTG adapter. If you have multiple USB devices, use a USB hub.
- Connect power: Plug the power supply into the port marked "PWR" (near the HDMI connector). The Pi Zero will boot automatically.
Note: The Pi Zero has two micro-USB ports - use "PWR" for power and "USB" for data/peripherals. Do not confuse them.
First boot
On first boot, Raspberry Pi OS will guide you through setup:
- Welcome screen: Follow the setup wizard. Select your country, language, timezone, and keyboard layout.
- Create user: Set a username and password for your Pi Zero.
- WiFi setup (Pi Zero W / Zero 2 W): If your Pi Zero has WiFi, select your wireless network and enter the password.
- Software updates: Allow the system to check for and install updates (recommended). This may take several minutes.
- Reboot: The system will reboot after updates complete.
After setup, explore the Raspberry Pi desktop, pre-installed applications like Thonny (Python), Scratch, and web browsing. Check the Recommended Software menu for additional programs.
Next steps: Try simple Python scripts in Thonny, explore Scratch for visual programming, or browse the Projects section for beginner-friendly ideas.