During its launch last week, the new Raspberry Pi computer, which is priced at $35, experienced such a high demand on its site in the first hours of going on sale that 700 orders a second were being placed by hopeful customers. As you can imagine, the website collapsed under the load of the traffic but then recovered later in the day.
Arch Linux ARM for Raspberry Pi
Now, in addition to its launch, Raspberry Pi developers have this week announced the arrival of Arch Linux ARM for the Raspberry Pi, which is now available over on the company download page for lucky owners of a $35 Raspberry Pi computer.
“Arch Linux ARM is based on Arch Linux, which aims for simplicity and full control to the end user. It provides a lightweight base structure that allows you to shape the system to your needs. For this reason, the Arch Linux ARM image for the Raspberry Pi does not come with a graphical user interface, though you can easily install one yourself. Please note that this distribution may not be suitable for beginners.”
The Arch Linux ARM is currently on a rolling-release cycle, enabling it to be updated daily via small packages instead of larger updates every few months. This means that users can always have the latest software without waiting for major releases. Jump over to the Raspberry Pi website to download and for more information.
Why Choose Arch Linux ARM?
Arch Linux ARM is particularly appealing to advanced users and developers who appreciate its minimalist approach. Unlike other distributions that come pre-loaded with a variety of software, Arch Linux ARM allows users to install only what they need. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to optimize their Raspberry Pi for specific tasks, such as running a server, developing software, or even creating a custom media center.
For example, if you are a developer, you can install only the development tools you need, keeping the system lightweight and efficient. On the other hand, if you are setting up a media center, you can install just the necessary media software without any additional bloat.
Another advantage of Arch Linux ARM is its extensive documentation and active community. The Arch Wiki is one of the most comprehensive resources available for any Linux distribution, providing detailed instructions and troubleshooting tips for a wide range of topics. This makes it easier for users to customize their systems and resolve any issues they may encounter.
Getting Started with Arch Linux ARM
To get started with Arch Linux ARM on your Raspberry Pi, you will need to download the image from the official website and write it to an SD card. Once you have done this, you can boot your Raspberry Pi from the SD card and begin the installation process. While the initial setup may be more complex than other distributions, the flexibility and control it offers are well worth the effort.
If you are new to Linux or the Raspberry Pi, you might want to start with a more user-friendly distribution like Raspbian, which comes with a graphical user interface and a variety of pre-installed software. However, if you are comfortable with the command line and want to take full control of your system, Arch Linux ARM is an excellent choice.
The launch of the Raspberry Pi has been a resounding success, with overwhelming demand from customers around the world. The availability of Arch Linux ARM further enhances the appeal of this versatile and affordable computer, offering advanced users the opportunity to create highly customized and efficient systems. Whether you are a developer, a hobbyist, or simply someone who enjoys tinkering with technology, the Raspberry Pi and Arch Linux ARM provide a powerful platform for your projects.
Source: Liliputing
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