Pi EDGE Build Guide (Revision 3)

Pi EDGE Build Guide (Revision 3) PDF on product page

The Pi EDGE is Carbon Computers’ compact, modular handheld — designed for makers, cybersecurity enthusiasts, and developers who want desktop power in a portable form factor. Whether you’re using a Raspberry Pi or a LattePanda board, this build guide will walk you through assembling your unit from start to finish, ensuring a smooth setup process and a functional, reliable device.

Getting Started

Before you begin, gather your components and workspace tools. The Pi EDGE can be configured in several ways depending on your board (Pi 1–5 or LattePanda V1) and power system (PiSugar or Geekworm). No soldering is required, but attention to detail is key.

Ensure your build surface is static-free, and have a small screwdriver set, tweezers, and tape or adhesive on hand. Double-check that your case matches your configuration (Pi 1–4, Pi 5, or LattePanda) and that your chosen battery fits properly.

If you encounter any issues during assembly, reach out to our team at support@carboncomputers.us for troubleshooting or replacement assistance.

Parts List

You can source most parts from Carbon Computers or authorized resellers. Each Pi EDGE build includes the following core components:

• 3D Printed Case: Available in four variants — Pi 1–4, Pi 5, or LattePanda. Compatible with PiSugar S, PiSugar 3 Plus, or Geekworm X1203 batteries.

• Waveshare 4.3” LCD: Choose between HDMI (for Pi 1–4 and LattePanda) or DSI (for Pi 4–5 only). The display provides an 800×480 resolution with crisp visuals and responsive touch.

• HDMI FPC and USB Cables: For HDMI-based displays, use 20 cm flat cables for power and touch.

• M2 / M2.5 Screws: 10–14 mm for main assembly and 5 mm for battery mounting.

• Power Module: PiSugar S Plus, PiSugar 3 Plus, or Geekworm X1203 (required for Pi 5 builds).

• Mini Bluetooth Keyboard: Compact, backlit keyboard with integrated trackpad.

• Core Board: Raspberry Pi (1–5) or LattePanda V1.

• Optional SD Card Extension: Recommended for easy image swapping and OS testing.

Each version has slightly different spacing and port alignment, so confirm your part compatibility when ordering.

Display Assembly

The display assembly depends on your board choice.

For Raspberry Pi:

1. Connect the DSI ribbon cable to the Pi’s display connector.

2. Mount the display using the included standoffs and screws.

3. Attach the assembled display and Pi unit to the back case.

For LattePanda:

1. Use the slim HDMI FPC cable for video output and USB for touch.

2. Mount the LattePanda to the rear case and position the display on the front housing.

3. Secure both modules with M2 screws and route cables cleanly to avoid pinching.

Pro tip: Label cables before assembly to make future disassembly easier.

Power and Battery Setup

Each build uses a different power configuration:

Raspberry Pi 1-4 (PiSugar battery):

• Connect the positive to GPIO Header Pin 2 and ground to Pin 6.

LattePanda (PiSugar battery):

• Positive connects to the bottom two headers, and negative to the top two.

Pi 5 with Geekworm X1203:

• Stack the X1203 battery board under the Pi using M2.5×10mm screws.

• Connect via the included header pins and USB-C input on the X1203 board.

• Important: Do not power the Pi 5 via its USB-C port. Always power through the X1203 module.

• Secure the battery with adhesive or double-sided tape to prevent shifting.

• Verified brand and reliable battery MakerHawk (https://a.co/d/7AlAsWY)

Before final assembly, double-check polarity and cable routing to prevent short circuits.

Assembly Steps

1. Mount the display to the case and align the screw holes.

2. Install the keyboard below the display opening.

3. Attach the Raspberry Pi or LattePanda board to the rear case panel.

4. Connect the power module (PiSugar or Geekworm) to the board

5. Check polarity before connecting the battery (sometimes the come inverted)

6. Insert your SD card or connect the LattePanda’s onboard storage
7. Join the case halves and fasten with six M2×10–14 mm screws.

Inspect cable paths to ensure no wires are crimped between layers. Once secured, your Pi EDGE handheld should feel solid and balanced.

Software Installation and Setup

Flash your preferred operating system image using Raspberry Pi Imager or Balena Etcher. For Pi builds, Kali Linux, Raspberry Pi OS, or Ubuntu Server are popular choices. Insert the SD card and boot the device.

If the display doesn’t initialize, you may need to modify the /boot/config.txt file. Reference the Waveshare 4.3" wiki for model-specific configuration.

When the desktop loads, pair your Bluetooth keyboard via the system menu. For PiSugar users, the battery monitor should appear as a small overlay after installing PiSugar software tools.

LattePanda boards typically ship with Windows 10 or 11 preinstalled. After boot, enable Bluetooth and pair your keyboard.

Testing and Verification

After setup, test all core functions:

• Display backlight and touch response.

• Battery charge and discharge through PiSugar or X1203.

• Keyboard pairing and key response.

• Power button behavior (hold for shutdown, tap to wake).

If you plan to use Kali Linux or another pentesting image, install any required drivers for your display and input device.

Tips and Upgrades

• Add a heat sink or small fan to the Pi 5 for better thermal control.

• Print an alternative case back with venting for airflow.

• Use an SD card extension for easier OS swaps.

• For development, enable SSH by placing an empty file named ssh in the boot partition before the first boot.

Join the CyberArch Community

Join the Carbon Computers and CyberArch Discord to connect with other builders, get firmware updates, and share your customizations: https://discord.gg/u99rWVmeyF.

For additional build documentation and 3D printing resources, visit carboncomputers.us.

Support and Contact

If you need help assembling or troubleshooting your Pi EDGE, reach out to our team:

• Email: support@carboncomputers.us

• Phone: 786-505-3830

We’re here to assist with parts, firmware, and replacement components.

Written by The Carbon Computers Team
carboncomputers.us