Alpine Linux - User contributions [en]

Tutorials and Howtos

2026-01-13T14:26:01Z

Huub:

[[Image:package_edutainment.svg|right|link=]]
{{TOC left}}

'''Welcome to Tutorials and Howtos, a place of basic and advanced configuration tasks for your Alpine Linux.'''

'''Howtos are smaller articles''' explaining how to perform a particular task with Alpine Linux, that expects a minimal knowledge from reader to perform actions. Howto's have been organized in the below page based on the topics.

'''The [[#Tutorials|tutorials]] are hands-on''' and the reader is expected to try and achieve the goals described in each step, possibly with the help of a good example. The output in one step is the starting point for the following step.

{{Note|
* Contributors are requested to refer to [[Help:Editing]] first and make use of resources like [[How to write a HOWTO]].
* Contributions must be complete articles.
* Don't override already made contributions, unless there is a mistake.
* If you want to request a topic, please add your request in this page's [[Talk:Tutorials_and_Howtos|Discussion]].}}

== Desktop ==

* {{:Daily driver guide}}

=== Networking ===

* [[Bluetooth]] - Instructions for installing and configuring Bluetooth
* [[Bonding]] - Bond (or aggregate) multiple ethernet interfaces
* [[Bridge]] - Configuring a network bridge
** [[Bridge wlan0 to eth0]]
* [[Configure Networking]]
* [[How to configure static routes]]
* Modem
** [[Using HSDPA modem]]
** [[Using serial modem]]
* [[mDNS]] - Howto implement multicast DNS resolution in Alpine.
* [[Multi ISP]] ''(Dual-ISP setup with load-balancing and automatic failover)''
* [[PXE boot]]
* Wi-Fi
** [[Wi-Fi|Connecting to a wireless access point]]
** [[How to setup a wireless access point]] ''(Setting up Secure Wireless AP w/ WPA encryption with bridge to wired network)''
* Use [https://github.com/ifupdown-ng/ifupdown-ng/blob/main/doc/interfaces-vxlan.scd vxlan], if using [[Ifupdown-ng]] instead of [[VLAN]]
* [[Setting up a Home Router]]

=== Backup and data migration ===

* [[Migrating data]]
* [[Rsnapshot]] - setting up periodic backups

=== Other topics ===

* [[Gaming on Alpine]]
* [[Remote Desktop Server]]
* [[Default applications|How to change default application]]
* [[CPU frequency scaling]]
* [[Mimalloc]]
* [[Enable Serial Console on Boot]]
* [[How to build the Alpine Linux kernel]]
* [[Nextcloud]] ''(Self hostable cloud suite - Dropbox Alternative)''
* [[Setting up lm_sensors]]
* [[Fingerprint Authentication with swaylock]]
* [[Desktop environments and Window managers|List of supported Desktop environments and Window managers]]

== Diskless ==

* [[Alpine local backup|Alpine local backup (lbu)]] ''(Permanently store your modifications in case your box needs reboot)''
** [[Back Up a Flash Memory Installation]]
** [[Manually editing a existing apkovl]]

== Other Architectures ==

=== APU (PCEngines) ===

* [[Alpine Install: from a disc to PC Engines APU|Alpine on PC Engines APU]]
* [https://github.com/huubsch/Installation-of-Alpine-Linux-on-PC-Engines-APU3/tree/main?tab=readme-ov-file Installation of Alpine Linux on PCEngines APU, legacy BIOS]

=== ARM ===

* [[Alpine on ARM]]

==== Raspberry Pi ====

* [[Raspberry Pi|Raspberry Pi main page]]
* [[Raspberry Pi Bluetooth Speaker|Raspberry Pi - Bluetooth Speaker]]
* [[Linux Router with VPN on a Raspberry Pi|Raspberry Pi - Router with VPN]]
* [[Linux Router with VPN on a Raspberry Pi (IPv6)|Raspberry Pi - Router with VPN (IPv6)]]
* [[Classic install or sys mode on Raspberry Pi|Raspberry Pi - Sys mode install]]
* [[Raspberry Pi LVM on LUKS|Raspberry Pi - Sys mode install - LVM on LUKS]]
* [[RPI Video Receiver|Raspberry Pi - Video Receiver]] ''(network video decoder using Rasperry Pi and omxplayer)''
* [[Raspberry Pi 3 - Browser Client]] - kiosk or digital sign
* [[Raspberry Pi 3 - Configuring it as wireless access point -AP Mode]]
* [[Raspberry Pi 3 - Setting Up Bluetooth]]
* [[Raspberry Pi 4 - Persistent system acting as a NAS and Time Machine]]
* [[Raspberry_Pi_Zero_W_-_Installation|Raspberry Pi Zero W - Installation]]
* [[How to set up Alpine as a wireless router|Raspberry Pi Zero W - Wireless router]] ''(Setting up a firewalled, Wireless AP with wired network on a Pi Zero W)''
* [[RPI Video Receiver]]

=== IBM Z (IBM z Systems) ===

* [[s390x|s390x - Installation]]

=== PowerPC ===

* [[Ppc64le|Powerpc64le - Installation]]

== Security ==

* [[#Desktop security|Desktop security]] lists steps for securing Alpine Linux desktops
* [[Setting up a laptop]] page has detailed guidelines to configure a secured laptop
* [[Securing Alpine Linux|Secure Alpine Linux]] using Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs)
* [[Sshguard|SSHGuard]] - Protects hosts against brute-force attacks: monitoring logs, attack detection, blocking using firewall.

== Services ==

{{Note| Services are arranged in alphabetical order.}}

=== Content management systems ===

* [[DokuWiki]] ''(Simple and easy to use wiki, no database required)''
* [[Drupal]] ''(Content Management System (CMS) written in PHP)''
* [[Kopano]] ''(Microsoft Outlook compatible Groupware)''
* [[Mahara]] ''(E-portfolio and social networking system)''
* [[MediaWiki]] ''(Free web-based wiki software application)''
* [[Pastebin]] ''(Pastebin software application)''
* [[WordPress]] ''(Web software to create website or blog)''
* [[Moodle]] ''(Online Learning Management system)''

=== Database ===

* [[MariaDB]] or [[MySQL|MySQL]]

=== DNS ===

* [[DNSCrypt-Proxy]] ''Encrypt and authenticate DNS calls from your system''
* [[Setting up nsd DNS server]]
* [[Small-Time DNS with BIND9]] ''(A simple configuration with ad blocking for your home network)''
* Unbound
** [[Setting up unbound DNS server]]
** [[Using Unbound as an Ad-blocker]] ''(Setup ad blocking for your network)''
* [[TinyDNS Format]]

=== File server ===

* [[Setting up an NFS server|nfs-server]]
* [[Setting up a Samba server|samba-server]] ''(standard file sharing)''
* [[Setting up a samba-ad-dc|samba-ad-dc]] ''(Active Directory compatible domain controller)''

=== Firewall ===

* [https://git.alpinelinux.org/awall/about/ Alpine Wall User's Guide]
** [[Zero-To-Awall]] -''AWall for dummies''
** [[How-To Alpine Wall]] - ''AWall for Shorewall users''
** [[Alpine Wall]] - ''AWall - Firewall management framework - Design Document''
* [[Iptables]]
* [[nftables]]
* [[Uncomplicated Firewall|Uncomplicated Firewall or UFW]]

=== HTTP and web services ===

* [[Althttpd]]
* [[Apache]]
** [[Apache with php-fpm]]
** [[Setting Up Apache with PHP]]
** [[Apache authentication: NTLM Single Signon]]
* [[Darkhttpd]]
* [[Lighttpd]]
** [[Lighttpd Advanced security]]
** [[Setting Up Lighttpd With FastCGI]]
** [[Production Web server: Lighttpd|Production web server: Lighttpd‎‎]]
* [[Nginx]]
** [[Nginx as reverse proxy with acme (letsencrypt)]]
** [[Nginx with PHP]]
* Squid Proxy
** [[Obtaining user information via SNMP]] ''(Using squark-auth-snmp as a Squid authentication helper)'' 
** [[Setting up Explicit Squid Proxy]]
** [[Setting up Transparent Squid Proxy]] ''(Covers Squid proxy and URL Filtering system)''
** [[SqStat]] ''(Script to look at active squid users connections)''
* [[Tomcat]]
** [[Production LAMP system: Lighttpd + PHP + MySQL‎‎|Production LAMP system: Lighttpd + PHP + MariaDB/MySQL‎‎]]

=== IRC ===

* [[NgIRCd]] ''(Server for Internet Relay Chat/IRC)''

=== Mail ===

* [[Hosting services on Alpine]] ''(Hosting mail, webservices and other services)''
* [[Hosting Web/Email services on Alpine]]
* Exim/Dovecot
** [[Small-Time Email with Exim and Dovecot]] ''(A simple configuration for your home network.)
** [[Setting up dovecot with imap and tls]]
* [[relay email to gmail (msmtp, mailx, sendmail]]
* [[relay email (nullmailer)]]
* [[Roundcube]] ''(Webmail system)''
* [[Setting up postfix with virtual domains]]
* Server protection
** [[Setting up clamsmtp]]

=== Monitoring ===

* [[Awstats]] ''(Free log file analyzer)''
* [[Cacti: traffic analysis and monitoring network]] ''(Front-end for rrdtool networking monitor)''
* [[Cvechecker]] ''(Compare installed packages for Common Vulnerabilities Exposure)'' 
* [[Linfo]]
* [[Obtaining user information via SNMP]] ''(Using squark-auth-snmp as a Squid authentication helper)'' 
* [[PhpSysInfo]] ''(A simple application that displays information about the host it's running on)''
* [[Logcheck]] ''(log file monitoring tool)''
* [[Matomo]] ''(A real time web analytics software program)''
* [[Rasdaemon]] ''(Platform Reliability, Availability and Serviceability monitoring tool)''
* [[Setting up A Network Monitoring and Inventory System]] ''(Nagios + OpenAudit and related components)'' 
** [[Setting up NRPE daemon]] ''(Performs remote Nagios checks)'' 
* [[Setting Up Fprobe And Ntop|Ntop]] ''(NetFlow collection and analysis using a remote fprobe instance; for alpine 3.10-3.12 only)'' 
* [[SqStat]] ''(Script to look at active squid users connections)''
* [[Traffic monitoring]] 
** [[Setting up monitoring using rrdtool (and rrdcollect)]]
** [[Setting up traffic monitoring using rrdtool (and snmp)]] 
* [[Zabbix|Zabbix - the professional complete manager]] ''(Monitor and track the status of network services and hardware)''
* [[ZoneMinder video camera security and surveillance]]

=== Remote Administration ===

* ACF
** [[Changing passwords for ACF|ACF - changing passwords]]
** [[Generating SSL certs with ACF]] 
** [[setup-acf| ACF - setup]] ''(Configures ACF (webconfiguration/webmin) so you can manage your box through https)''
* [[Setting up a SSH server]] ''(Using ssh is a good way to administer your box remotely)''
** [[HOWTO OpenSSH 2FA with password and Google Authenticator |OpenSSH 2FA]] ''(A simple two factor setup for OpenSSH)''
* [[OpenVCP]] ''(VServer Control Panel)''
* [[PhpMyAdmin]] ''(Web-based administration tool for MYSQL)''
* [[PhpPgAdmin]] ''(Web-based administration tool for PostgreSQL)''
* [[Webmin]] ''(A web-based interface for Linux system)''

=== Telephony ===

* [[FreePBX|FreePBX on Alpine Linux]]
* [[Setting up Zaptel/Asterisk on Alpine]]
* [[Kamailio]] ''(SIP Server, formerly OpenSER)''

=== VPN ===
* [[Freeradius Active Directory Integration]]
* [[GNUnet]]
* [[IGMPproxy]]
* [[Setting up a OpenVPN server|OpenVPN server]] ''(Allowing single users or devices to remotely connect to your network)''
* [[OpenVSwitch]]
* [[Tor]]
* [[Using Alpine on Windows domain with IPSEC isolation]]
* [[Configure a Wireguard interface (wg)|Wireguard]]
* [[Vpnc]]

=== Other Servers ===

* [[apcupsd]] ''(UPS Monitoring with apcupsd)''
* [[Chrony and GPSD | Chrony, gpsd, and a garmin LVC 18 as a Stratum 1 NTP source ]]
* [[Glpi]] ''(Manage inventory of technical resources)''
* [[How to setup a Alpine Linux mirror]]
* [[nut-ups|NUT UPS]] ''(UPS Monitoring with Network UPS Tools)''
* [[Odoo]]
* [[Configure OpenLDAP | OpenLDAP]] ''(Installing and configuring the Alpine package for OpenLDAP)''
* [[Setting up a LLDAP server|lldap-server]] ''(Directory Server)''
* [[Setting up Transmission (bittorrent) with Clutch WebUI]]

== Software development ==

* [[Cgit]]
* [[OsTicket]] ''(Ticket system)''
* [[Patchwork]] ''(Patch review management system)''
* [[Redmine]] ''(Project management system) [Deprecated]''
* [[Request Tracker]] ''(Ticket system)''
* [[Setting up trac wiki|Trac]] ''(Enhanced wiki and issue tracking system for software development projects)''
* [[Ansible]] ''(Configuration management)''
* [[Installing Oracle Java|Oracle Java (installation)]]

== Storage ==

* [[Setting up disks manually|Manual partitioning]]
* [[Disk Replication with DRBD|DRBD: Disk Replication]]
* [[Filesystems]]
** [[Burning ISOs]]
* [[Setting up iSCSI|iSCSI Setup]]
** [[iSCSI Raid and Clustered File Systems]]
** [[Linux iSCSI Target (TCM)|iSCSI Target (TCM)/LinuxIO (LIO)]]
** [[Linux iSCSI Target (tgt)|User space iSCSI Target (tgt)]]
* [[Setting up Logical Volumes with LVM|LVM Setup]]
** [[Setting up LVM on GPT-labeled disks|LVM on GPT-labeled disks]]
** [[Installing on GPT LVM|LVM on GPT-labeled disks (updated)]]
** [[LVM on LUKS]]
* RAID
** [[Raid Administration]]
** [[Setting up a software RAID array]]
* [[ZFS]]
** [[Root on ZFS with native encryption]]
** [[Setting up ZFS on LUKS]]
* [[CEPH|CEPH]]

== Virtualization ==

* [[Docker]]
* [[Installing Alpine in a virtual machine]]
** [[Install Alpine on VMware ESXi]]
* [[KVM]] ''(Setting up Alpine as a KVM hypervisor)''
* [[LXC]] ''(Setting up a Linux container in Alpine Linux)''
* [[QEMU]]
* Xen
** [[Xen Dom0]] ''(Setting up Alpine as a dom0 for Xen hypervisor)''
** [[Xen Dom0 on USB or SD]]
** [[Create Alpine Linux PV DomU|Xen DomU (paravirtualized)]]
** [[Xen LiveCD]]
** [[Xen PCI Passthrough]]
** [[K8s]] Building a K8s Kubernetes Cluster on Alpine Linux
* [[Runc]]

== [[Simple_Walkthrough]] ==
* [[About-virtualization-simple]]
* [[LXC_Alpinelinux_Simple]]
* [[Qemu-simple]]

== Tutorials ==

* [[TTY_Autologin|TTY Autologin]]
* [[Kexec|Faster rebooting with kexec]]
* [[Dynamic Multipoint VPN (DMVPN)]] combined with [[Small Office Services]]
* [[DIY Fully working Alpine Linux for Allwinner and Other ARM SOCs]]
* [[Fault Tolerant Routing with Alpine Linux]]
* [[High Availability High Performance Web Cache]] ''(uCarp + HAProxy for High Availability Services such as Squid web proxy)''
* [[Linux iSCSI Target (TCM)]]
* [[ISP Mail Server 3.x HowTo]] ''(Postfix+PostfixAdmin+DoveCot+Roundcube+ClamAV+Spamd - A full-service ISP mail server)''
* [[Grommunio Mail Server]] ''(Mariadb+Postfix+Rspamd+Grommunio - Full-service mail server as MS exchange replacement)''
* [[Replacing non-Alpine Linux with Alpine remotely]]
* [[Setting up A Network Monitoring and Inventory System]] ''(Nagios + OpenAudit and related components)'' 
* [[Streaming Security Camera Video with VLC]]
* [[Install Alpine on a btrfs filesystem with refind as boot manager]]
* [[Compile software from source|How to Compile a software from source in Alpine Linux]]
* [https://ww2.coastal.edu/mmurphy2/oer/alpine/ Alpine Linux tutorials - Dr Murphy, Computing Science Associate Professor]
* [[Michael's base installation procedure|Michael's base installation procedure]]
* [[Michael's cwm desktop (minimal)|Michael's cwm desktop (minimal)]]
* [[Michael's sway desktop (minimal)|Michael's Sway desktop (minimal)]]
* [[Sway_customization_guide|Sway customization guide]] ''(Tutorial re Sway config file basics)''
* [[Using Distrobox For VR Gaming|Using Distrobox For VR Gaming]]

Alpine Install: from a disc to PC Engines APU

2026-01-13T14:16:45Z

Huub:

'''Overall description:''' Alpine Installation from an official image tar file to a second generation PC Engines APU system (apu2, apu3, apu4).

This document will guide you to '''install Alpine on second generation PC Engines APU systems''', it was tested with an apu2d4 and Alpine 3.11.6.

'''Please note that a more elaborate, updated description is available on GitHub: [https://github.com/huubsch/Installation-of-Alpine-Linux-on-PC-Engines-APU3/tree/main?tab=readme-ov-file Installation of Alpine Linux on PCEngines APU3]'''.

== Terminology ==

* '''[[Alpine_and_UEFI#UEFI_and_BIOS_definitions_and_introduction|BIOS]]''': it's a system embedded into the hardware, that manages the early boot process, see more on the [[Alpine and UEFI]] page. Note that PC Engines APU boards have the legacy BIOS (MBR), not UEFI. Nevertheless Alpine Linux can boot from these boards.
* '''New machine''': the APU machine fresh and ready for the installation of the Alpine operating system.
* '''Bootable USB''': the USB-flash disk with the downloaded Alpine iso image as install media; this drive is commonly named [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USB USB] stick.
* '''Bootable microSD": a microSD card with the downloaded Alpine iso image as install media;
* '''Serial port:''': the APU has a DB9 connector used as serial port (RS232 protocol) for use as a character console. It is common in "headless" devices.
* '''Source media''': will be the just burned / disk from the downloaded iso file of the Alpine Linux operating system. Will be installed on the usb-port of the APU, or the internal microSD slot, to boot the install.
* '''Target media''': the disk in the APU where the Alpine operating system will be installed. The use of a mSATA disk is recommended, another choice would be microSD (less reliable) or (not convenient) a USB-flash drive.

===== mSATA, microSD, USB-flash which disk to choose? =====

Users experienced unreliable or failing installs when booting Alpine from USB flash drive and installing to mSATA. If you want to install on the mSATA drive use microSD as the installation disk, not a USB flash drive.
Note that the default installation procedure uses the '''entire''' target disk.
Recommended set up:
For installation
- on mSATA: use microSD installation disk
- on microSD: use USB flash installation

== Booting the Alpine installation disk ==

# The installation of Alpine Linux on APU has beent tested with the factory BIOS (MBR, no UEFI).
# [[Create_a_Bootable_USB]] thumb drive or Bootable microSD with the current standard x86_64 image from the downloads page.
# Attach to the serial port (you probably will need a USB to DB9 cable). PC Engines APU systems do not provide video output. Installation must be performed via a serial console. On a linux system: switch from the graphical desktop to a console (Alt-Ctr-F1) to be able to use the function keys. Start the terminal emulator (minicom, cu) with serial settings: Baud rate: 115200 Data bits: 8 Parity: None Stop bits: 1.
# Power on the APU.
# When BIOS prompted, hit F10 and select to boot from microSD or USB.
# At the boot prompt, '''quickly''' type a slash to interrupt the default boot, which has a short timeout.
# Continue entering the remainder of this command at your leisure. It should have only one slash at the start, to be clear: <code>/boot/vmlinuz-lts modules=loop,squashfs,sd-mod,usb-storage nomodeset console=ttyS0,115200 initrd=/boot/initramfs-lts</code>
# Alpine should come up as normal.
Continue as per [[Installation]].

===== How would be used? =====

Then choose type of installation .. those are described at [[Alpine_setup_scripts#Setup_modes|Setup modes section at Alpine setup scripts]] wiki page. "sys" mode is the familiar install to disk well known for usage as main OS to computers.

After all a confirmation question will raised, type "y" if everything are ok and the setup will proceed to erase, format and copy the files to the destination disk choose!

== After reboot ==

# '''Before''' rebooting, edit /boot/extlinux.conf.
## Add <code>SERIAL 0 115200</code> as the first line in the file.
## In the <code>APPEND</code> line, replace <code>quiet</code> with <code>console=ttyS0,115200</code>
# Remove the thumb drive.
# Cross your fingers and reboot. The system should boot properly with console on serial.
# Edit <code>/etc/update-extlinux.conf</code> so that if extlinux.conf is regenerated it will retain these settings:
## Update the line with <code>serial_port</code> to read <code>serial_port=0</code>
## Update the <code>serial_baud</code> line to read <code>serial_baud=115200</code>
## Update the <code>default_kernel_opts</code> line to replace <code>quiet</code> with <code>console=ttyS0,115200</code>
# Run <code>update-extlinux</code>
# Examine <code>/boot/extlinux.conf</code>.
## Make sure it looks OK. Compare with /boot/extlinux.conf-old.
## If something looks wrong, <code>mv /boot/extlinux.conf-old /boot/extlinux.conf</code> to roll back the changes and try to figure out what went wrong
# Cross your fingers and reboot. The system should boot properly with console on serial.

= See Also =

# [[Alpine and UEFI]]

[[Category:Newbie]]
[[Category:Installation]]

Alpine Install: from a disc to PC Engines APU

2026-01-12T18:39:31Z

Huub: /* Booting the Alpine installation disk */

'''Overall description:''' Alpine Installation from an official image tar file to a second generation PC Engines APU system (apu2, apu3, apu4).

This document will guide you to '''install Alpine on second generation PC Engines APU systems''', it was tested with an apu2d4 and Alpine 3.11.6.

== Terminology ==

* '''[[Alpine_and_UEFI#UEFI_and_BIOS_definitions_and_introduction|BIOS]]''': it's a system embedded into the hardware, that manages the early boot process, see more on the [[Alpine and UEFI]] page. Note that PC Engines APU boards have the legacy BIOS (MBR), not UEFI. Nevertheless Alpine Linux can boot from these boards.
* '''New machine''': the APU machine fresh and ready for the installation of the Alpine operating system.
* '''Bootable USB''': the USB-flash disk with the downloaded Alpine iso image as install media; this drive is commonly named [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USB USB] stick.
* '''Bootable microSD": a microSD card with the downloaded Alpine iso image as install media;
* '''Serial port:''': the APU has a DB9 connector used as serial port (RS232 protocol) for use as a character console. It is common in "headless" devices.
* '''Source media''': will be the just burned / disk from the downloaded iso file of the Alpine Linux operating system. Will be installed on the usb-port of the APU, or the internal microSD slot, to boot the install.
* '''Target media''': the disk in the APU where the Alpine operating system will be installed. The use of a mSATA disk is recommended, another choice would be microSD (less reliable) or (not convenient) a USB-flash drive.

===== mSATA, microSD, USB-flash which disk to choose? =====

Users experienced unreliable or failing installs when booting Alpine from USB flash drive and installing to mSATA. If you want to install on the mSATA drive use microSD as the installation disk, not a USB flash drive.
Note that the default installation procedure uses the '''entire''' target disk.
Recommended set up:
For installation
- on mSATA: use microSD installation disk
- on microSD: use USB flash installation

== Booting the Alpine installation disk ==

# The installation of Alpine Linux on APU has beent tested with the factory BIOS (MBR, no UEFI).
# [[Create_a_Bootable_USB]] thumb drive or Bootable microSD with the current standard x86_64 image from the downloads page.
# Attach to the serial port (you probably will need a USB to DB9 cable). PC Engines APU systems do not provide video output. Installation must be performed via a serial console. On a linux system: switch from the graphical desktop to a console (Alt-Ctr-F1) to be able to use the function keys. Start the terminal emulator (minicom, cu) with serial settings: Baud rate: 115200 Data bits: 8 Parity: None Stop bits: 1.
# Power on the APU.
# When BIOS prompted, hit F10 and select to boot from microSD or USB.
# At the boot prompt, '''quickly''' type a slash to interrupt the default boot, which has a short timeout.
# Continue entering the remainder of this command at your leisure. It should have only one slash at the start, to be clear: <code>/boot/vmlinuz-lts modules=loop,squashfs,sd-mod,usb-storage nomodeset console=ttyS0,115200 initrd=/boot/initramfs-lts</code>
# Alpine should come up as normal.
Continue as per [[Installation]].

===== How would be used? =====

Then choose type of installation .. those are described at [[Alpine_setup_scripts#Setup_modes|Setup modes section at Alpine setup scripts]] wiki page. "sys" mode is the familiar install to disk well known for usage as main OS to computers.

After all a confirmation question will raised, type "y" if everything are ok and the setup will proceed to erase, format and copy the files to the destination disk choose!

== After reboot ==

# '''Before''' rebooting, edit /boot/extlinux.conf.
## Add <code>SERIAL 0 115200</code> as the first line in the file.
## In the <code>APPEND</code> line, replace <code>quiet</code> with <code>console=ttyS0,115200</code>
# Remove the thumb drive.
# Cross your fingers and reboot. The system should boot properly with console on serial.
# Edit <code>/etc/update-extlinux.conf</code> so that if extlinux.conf is regenerated it will retain these settings:
## Update the line with <code>serial_port</code> to read <code>serial_port=0</code>
## Update the <code>serial_baud</code> line to read <code>serial_baud=115200</code>
## Update the <code>default_kernel_opts</code> line to replace <code>quiet</code> with <code>console=ttyS0,115200</code>
# Run <code>update-extlinux</code>
# Examine <code>/boot/extlinux.conf</code>.
## Make sure it looks OK. Compare with /boot/extlinux.conf-old.
## If something looks wrong, <code>mv /boot/extlinux.conf-old /boot/extlinux.conf</code> to roll back the changes and try to figure out what went wrong
# Cross your fingers and reboot. The system should boot properly with console on serial.

= See Also =

# [[Alpine and UEFI]]

[[Category:Newbie]]
[[Category:Installation]]

Alpine Install: from a disc to PC Engines APU

2026-01-12T18:39:04Z

Huub: /* Booting the Alpine installation disk */

'''Overall description:''' Alpine Installation from an official image tar file to a second generation PC Engines APU system (apu2, apu3, apu4).

This document will guide you to '''install Alpine on second generation PC Engines APU systems''', it was tested with an apu2d4 and Alpine 3.11.6.

== Terminology ==

* '''[[Alpine_and_UEFI#UEFI_and_BIOS_definitions_and_introduction|BIOS]]''': it's a system embedded into the hardware, that manages the early boot process, see more on the [[Alpine and UEFI]] page. Note that PC Engines APU boards have the legacy BIOS (MBR), not UEFI. Nevertheless Alpine Linux can boot from these boards.
* '''New machine''': the APU machine fresh and ready for the installation of the Alpine operating system.
* '''Bootable USB''': the USB-flash disk with the downloaded Alpine iso image as install media; this drive is commonly named [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USB USB] stick.
* '''Bootable microSD": a microSD card with the downloaded Alpine iso image as install media;
* '''Serial port:''': the APU has a DB9 connector used as serial port (RS232 protocol) for use as a character console. It is common in "headless" devices.
* '''Source media''': will be the just burned / disk from the downloaded iso file of the Alpine Linux operating system. Will be installed on the usb-port of the APU, or the internal microSD slot, to boot the install.
* '''Target media''': the disk in the APU where the Alpine operating system will be installed. The use of a mSATA disk is recommended, another choice would be microSD (less reliable) or (not convenient) a USB-flash drive.

===== mSATA, microSD, USB-flash which disk to choose? =====

Users experienced unreliable or failing installs when booting Alpine from USB flash drive and installing to mSATA. If you want to install on the mSATA drive use microSD as the installation disk, not a USB flash drive.
Note that the default installation procedure uses the '''entire''' target disk.
Recommended set up:
For installation
- on mSATA: use microSD installation disk
- on microSD: use USB flash installation

== Booting the Alpine installation disk ==

# The installation of Alpine Linux on APU has beent tested with the factory BIOS (MBR, no UEFI).
# [[Create_a_Bootable_USB]] thumb drive or Bootable microSD with the current standard x86_64 image from the downloads page.
# Attach to the serial port (you probably will need a USB to DB9 cable). PC Engines APU systems do not provide video output. Installation must be
performed via a serial console. On a linux system: switch from the graphical desktop to a console (Alt-Ctr-F1) to be able to use the function keys. Start the terminal emulator (minicom, cu) with serial settings: Baud rate: 115200 Data bits: 8 Parity: None Stop bits: 1.
# Power on the APU.
# When BIOS prompted, hit F10 and select to boot from microSD or USB.
# At the boot prompt, '''quickly''' type a slash to interrupt the default boot, which has a short timeout.
# Continue entering the remainder of this command at your leisure. It should have only one slash at the start, to be clear: <code>/boot/vmlinuz-lts modules=loop,squashfs,sd-mod,usb-storage nomodeset console=ttyS0,115200 initrd=/boot/initramfs-lts</code>
# Alpine should come up as normal.
Continue as per [[Installation]].

===== How would be used? =====

Then choose type of installation .. those are described at [[Alpine_setup_scripts#Setup_modes|Setup modes section at Alpine setup scripts]] wiki page. "sys" mode is the familiar install to disk well known for usage as main OS to computers.

After all a confirmation question will raised, type "y" if everything are ok and the setup will proceed to erase, format and copy the files to the destination disk choose!

== After reboot ==

# '''Before''' rebooting, edit /boot/extlinux.conf.
## Add <code>SERIAL 0 115200</code> as the first line in the file.
## In the <code>APPEND</code> line, replace <code>quiet</code> with <code>console=ttyS0,115200</code>
# Remove the thumb drive.
# Cross your fingers and reboot. The system should boot properly with console on serial.
# Edit <code>/etc/update-extlinux.conf</code> so that if extlinux.conf is regenerated it will retain these settings:
## Update the line with <code>serial_port</code> to read <code>serial_port=0</code>
## Update the <code>serial_baud</code> line to read <code>serial_baud=115200</code>
## Update the <code>default_kernel_opts</code> line to replace <code>quiet</code> with <code>console=ttyS0,115200</code>
# Run <code>update-extlinux</code>
# Examine <code>/boot/extlinux.conf</code>.
## Make sure it looks OK. Compare with /boot/extlinux.conf-old.
## If something looks wrong, <code>mv /boot/extlinux.conf-old /boot/extlinux.conf</code> to roll back the changes and try to figure out what went wrong
# Cross your fingers and reboot. The system should boot properly with console on serial.

= See Also =

# [[Alpine and UEFI]]

[[Category:Newbie]]
[[Category:Installation]]

Alpine Install: from a disc to PC Engines APU

2026-01-12T18:38:23Z

Huub: /* Booting the Alpine installation disk */

'''Overall description:''' Alpine Installation from an official image tar file to a second generation PC Engines APU system (apu2, apu3, apu4).

This document will guide you to '''install Alpine on second generation PC Engines APU systems''', it was tested with an apu2d4 and Alpine 3.11.6.

== Terminology ==

* '''[[Alpine_and_UEFI#UEFI_and_BIOS_definitions_and_introduction|BIOS]]''': it's a system embedded into the hardware, that manages the early boot process, see more on the [[Alpine and UEFI]] page. Note that PC Engines APU boards have the legacy BIOS (MBR), not UEFI. Nevertheless Alpine Linux can boot from these boards.
* '''New machine''': the APU machine fresh and ready for the installation of the Alpine operating system.
* '''Bootable USB''': the USB-flash disk with the downloaded Alpine iso image as install media; this drive is commonly named [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USB USB] stick.
* '''Bootable microSD": a microSD card with the downloaded Alpine iso image as install media;
* '''Serial port:''': the APU has a DB9 connector used as serial port (RS232 protocol) for use as a character console. It is common in "headless" devices.
* '''Source media''': will be the just burned / disk from the downloaded iso file of the Alpine Linux operating system. Will be installed on the usb-port of the APU, or the internal microSD slot, to boot the install.
* '''Target media''': the disk in the APU where the Alpine operating system will be installed. The use of a mSATA disk is recommended, another choice would be microSD (less reliable) or (not convenient) a USB-flash drive.

===== mSATA, microSD, USB-flash which disk to choose? =====

Users experienced unreliable or failing installs when booting Alpine from USB flash drive and installing to mSATA. If you want to install on the mSATA drive use microSD as the installation disk, not a USB flash drive.
Note that the default installation procedure uses the '''entire''' target disk.
Recommended set up:
For installation
- on mSATA: use microSD installation disk
- on microSD: use USB flash installation

== Booting the Alpine installation disk ==

# The installation of Alpine Linux on APU has beent tested with the factory BIOS (MBR, no UEFI).
# [[Create_a_Bootable_USB]] thumb drive or Bootable microSD with the current standard x86_64 image from the downloads page.
# Attach to the serial port (you probably will need a USB to DB9 cable). PC Engines APU systems do not provide video output. Installation must be
performed via a serial console. On a linux system: switch from the graphical desktop to a console (Alt-Ctr-F1) to be able to use the function keys. Start the terminal emulator (minicom, cu) with serial settings:
* Baud rate: 115200
* Data bits: 8
* Parity: None
* Stop bits: 1for 115200 8n1.
# Power on the APU.
# When BIOS prompted, hit F10 and select to boot from microSD or USB.
# At the boot prompt, '''quickly''' type a slash to interrupt the default boot, which has a short timeout.
# Continue entering the remainder of this command at your leisure. It should have only one slash at the start, to be clear: <code>/boot/vmlinuz-lts modules=loop,squashfs,sd-mod,usb-storage nomodeset console=ttyS0,115200 initrd=/boot/initramfs-lts</code>
# Alpine should come up as normal.
Continue as per [[Installation]].

===== How would be used? =====

Then choose type of installation .. those are described at [[Alpine_setup_scripts#Setup_modes|Setup modes section at Alpine setup scripts]] wiki page. "sys" mode is the familiar install to disk well known for usage as main OS to computers.

After all a confirmation question will raised, type "y" if everything are ok and the setup will proceed to erase, format and copy the files to the destination disk choose!

== After reboot ==

# '''Before''' rebooting, edit /boot/extlinux.conf.
## Add <code>SERIAL 0 115200</code> as the first line in the file.
## In the <code>APPEND</code> line, replace <code>quiet</code> with <code>console=ttyS0,115200</code>
# Remove the thumb drive.
# Cross your fingers and reboot. The system should boot properly with console on serial.
# Edit <code>/etc/update-extlinux.conf</code> so that if extlinux.conf is regenerated it will retain these settings:
## Update the line with <code>serial_port</code> to read <code>serial_port=0</code>
## Update the <code>serial_baud</code> line to read <code>serial_baud=115200</code>
## Update the <code>default_kernel_opts</code> line to replace <code>quiet</code> with <code>console=ttyS0,115200</code>
# Run <code>update-extlinux</code>
# Examine <code>/boot/extlinux.conf</code>.
## Make sure it looks OK. Compare with /boot/extlinux.conf-old.
## If something looks wrong, <code>mv /boot/extlinux.conf-old /boot/extlinux.conf</code> to roll back the changes and try to figure out what went wrong
# Cross your fingers and reboot. The system should boot properly with console on serial.

= See Also =

# [[Alpine and UEFI]]

[[Category:Newbie]]
[[Category:Installation]]

Alpine Install: from a disc to PC Engines APU

2026-01-12T18:28:24Z

Huub:

'''Overall description:''' Alpine Installation from an official image tar file to a second generation PC Engines APU system (apu2, apu3, apu4).

This document will guide you to '''install Alpine on second generation PC Engines APU systems''', it was tested with an apu2d4 and Alpine 3.11.6.

== Terminology ==

* '''[[Alpine_and_UEFI#UEFI_and_BIOS_definitions_and_introduction|BIOS]]''': it's a system embedded into the hardware, that manages the early boot process, see more on the [[Alpine and UEFI]] page. Note that PC Engines APU boards have the legacy BIOS (MBR), not UEFI. Nevertheless Alpine Linux can boot from these boards.
* '''New machine''': the APU machine fresh and ready for the installation of the Alpine operating system.
* '''Bootable USB''': the USB-flash disk with the downloaded Alpine iso image as install media; this drive is commonly named [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USB USB] stick.
* '''Bootable microSD": a microSD card with the downloaded Alpine iso image as install media;
* '''Serial port:''': the APU has a DB9 connector used as serial port (RS232 protocol) for use as a character console. It is common in "headless" devices.
* '''Source media''': will be the just burned / disk from the downloaded iso file of the Alpine Linux operating system. Will be installed on the usb-port of the APU, or the internal microSD slot, to boot the install.
* '''Target media''': the disk in the APU where the Alpine operating system will be installed. The use of a mSATA disk is recommended, another choice would be microSD (less reliable) or (not convenient) a USB-flash drive.

===== mSATA, microSD, USB-flash which disk to choose? =====

Users experienced unreliable or failing installs when booting Alpine from USB flash drive and installing to mSATA. If you want to install on the mSATA drive use microSD as the installation disk, not a USB flash drive.
Note that the default installation procedure uses the '''entire''' target disk.
Recommended set up:
For installation
- on mSATA: use microSD installation disk
- on microSD: use USB flash installation

== Booting the Alpine installation disk ==

# The installation of Alpine Linux on APU has beent tested with the factory BIOS (MBR, no UEFI).
# [[Create_a_Bootable_USB]] thumb drive or Bootable microSD with the current standard x86_64 image from the downloads page.
# Attach to the serial port (you probably will need a USB to DB9 cable). On a linux system: switch to a console first (Alt-Ctr-F1) to be able to use the function keys. Start the terminal emulator for 115200 8n1.
# Power on the APU.
# When BIOS prompted, hit F10 and select to boot from microSD or USB.
# At the boot prompt, '''quickly''' type a slash to interrupt the default boot, which has a short timeout.
# Continue entering the remainder of this command at your leisure. It should have only one slash at the start, to be clear: <code>/boot/vmlinuz-lts modules=loop,squashfs,sd-mod,usb-storage nomodeset console=ttyS0,115200 initrd=/boot/initramfs-lts</code>
# Alpine should come up as normal.
Continue as per [[Installation]].

===== How would be used? =====

Then choose type of installation .. those are described at [[Alpine_setup_scripts#Setup_modes|Setup modes section at Alpine setup scripts]] wiki page. "sys" mode is the familiar install to disk well known for usage as main OS to computers.

After all a confirmation question will raised, type "y" if everything are ok and the setup will proceed to erase, format and copy the files to the destination disk choose!

== After reboot ==

# '''Before''' rebooting, edit /boot/extlinux.conf.
## Add <code>SERIAL 0 115200</code> as the first line in the file.
## In the <code>APPEND</code> line, replace <code>quiet</code> with <code>console=ttyS0,115200</code>
# Remove the thumb drive.
# Cross your fingers and reboot. The system should boot properly with console on serial.
# Edit <code>/etc/update-extlinux.conf</code> so that if extlinux.conf is regenerated it will retain these settings:
## Update the line with <code>serial_port</code> to read <code>serial_port=0</code>
## Update the <code>serial_baud</code> line to read <code>serial_baud=115200</code>
## Update the <code>default_kernel_opts</code> line to replace <code>quiet</code> with <code>console=ttyS0,115200</code>
# Run <code>update-extlinux</code>
# Examine <code>/boot/extlinux.conf</code>.
## Make sure it looks OK. Compare with /boot/extlinux.conf-old.
## If something looks wrong, <code>mv /boot/extlinux.conf-old /boot/extlinux.conf</code> to roll back the changes and try to figure out what went wrong
# Cross your fingers and reboot. The system should boot properly with console on serial.

= See Also =

# [[Alpine and UEFI]]

[[Category:Newbie]]
[[Category:Installation]]

Alpine Install: from a disc to PC Engines APU

2026-01-12T18:20:49Z

Huub: /* Booting the Alpine installation disc */

'''Overall description:''' Alpine Installation from an official image tar file downloaded to a real second generation PC Engines APU systems (apu2, apu3, apu4), where it will be single OS only.

This document will guide you to '''install Alpine into second generation PC Engines APU systems''', it was tested with an apu2d4 and Alpine 3.11.6..

== Terminology ==

* '''[[Alpine_and_UEFI#UEFI_and_BIOS_definitions_and_introduction|BIOS]]''': it's a system embedded into the hardware, that manages the early boot process, see more in the [[Alpine and UEFI]] page. Note that PC Engines APU boards have the legacy BIOS (MBR), not UEFI. Nevertheless Alpine Linux can boot from these boards.
* '''New machine''': the APU machine fresh and ready for the installation of the Alpine operating system.
* '''Bootable USB''': the USB-flash disk with the downloaded Alpine iso image as install media; this drive is commonly named [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USB USB] stick.
* '''Bootable microSD": a microSD card with the downloaded Alpine iso image as install media;
* '''Serial port:''': the APU has a DB9 connector used as serial port (RS232 protocol) for use as a character console. It is common in "headless" devices.
* '''Source media''': will be the just burned / disc from the downloaded iso file of Alpine operating system. Will be installed on the usb-port or the internal microSD slot to boot the install.
* '''Target media''': the disk in the APU where the Alpine operating system will be installed. The use of a mSATA disk is recommended, another choice would be microSD (less reliable) or (not convenient) a USB-flash drive.

===== mSATA, microSD, USB-flash which disk to choose? =====

Users experience unreliable or failing installs when booting Alpine from USB flash drive and installing to mSATA. If you want to install on the mSATA drive use microSD as the installation disk, not a USB flash drive.
Note that the normal installation procedure uses the '''entire''' target disk.
Recommended set up:
For installation
- on mSATA: use microSD installation disk
- on microSD: use USB flash installation

== Booting the Alpine installation disk ==

# The installation of Alpine Linux on APU has beent tested with the factory BIOS (MBR, no UEFI).
# [[Create_a_Bootable_USB]] thumb drive or Bootable microSD with the current standard x86_64 image from the downloads page.
# Attach to the serial port (you probably will need a USB to DB9 cable). On a linux system: switch to a console first (Alt-Ctr-F1) to be able to use the function keys. Start the terminal emulator for 115200 8n1.
# Power on the APU.
# When BIOS prompted, hit F10 and select to boot from microSD or USB.
# At the boot prompt, '''quickly''' type a slash to interrupt the default boot, which has a short timeout.
# Continue entering the remainder of this command at your leisure. It should have only one slash at the start, to be clear: <code>/boot/vmlinuz-lts modules=loop,squashfs,sd-mod,usb-storage nomodeset console=ttyS0,115200 initrd=/boot/initramfs-lts</code>
# Alpine should come up as normal.
Continue as per [[Installation]].

===== How would be used? =====

Then choose type of installation .. those are described at [[Alpine_setup_scripts#Setup_modes|Setup modes section at Alpine setup scripts]] wiki page. "sys" mode is the familiar install to disk well known for usage as main OS to computers.

After all a confirmation question will raised, type "y" if everything are ok and the setup will proceed to erase, format and copy the files to the destination disk choose!

== After reboot ==

# '''Before''' rebooting, edit /boot/extlinux.conf.
## Add <code>SERIAL 0 115200</code> as the first line in the file.
## In the <code>APPEND</code> line, replace <code>quiet</code> with <code>console=ttyS0,115200</code>
# Remove the thumb drive.
# Cross your fingers and reboot. The system should boot properly with console on serial.
# Edit <code>/etc/update-extlinux.conf</code> so that if extlinux.conf is regenerated it will retain these settings:
## Update the line with <code>serial_port</code> to read <code>serial_port=0</code>
## Update the <code>serial_baud</code> line to read <code>serial_baud=115200</code>
## Update the <code>default_kernel_opts</code> line to replace <code>quiet</code> with <code>console=ttyS0,115200</code>
# Run <code>update-extlinux</code>
# Examine <code>/boot/extlinux.conf</code>.
## Make sure it looks OK. Compare with /boot/extlinux.conf-old.
## If something looks wrong, <code>mv /boot/extlinux.conf-old /boot/extlinux.conf</code> to roll back the changes and try to figure out what went wrong
# Cross your fingers and reboot. The system should boot properly with console on serial.

= See Also =

# [[Alpine and UEFI]]

[[Category:Newbie]]
[[Category:Installation]]

Alpine Install: from a disc to PC Engines APU

2026-01-12T17:43:49Z

Huub: /* Booting the Alpine ISO disc */

'''Overall description:''' Alpine Installation from an official image tar file downloaded to a real second generation PC Engines APU systems (apu2, apu3, apu4), where it will be single OS only.

This document will guide you to '''install Alpine into second generation PC Engines APU systems''', it was tested with an apu2d4 and Alpine 3.11.6..

== Terminology ==

* '''[[Alpine_and_UEFI#UEFI_and_BIOS_definitions_and_introduction|BIOS]]''': it's a system embedded into the hardware, that manages the early boot process, see more in the [[Alpine and UEFI]] page. Note that PC Engines APU boards have the legacy BIOS (MBR), not UEFI. Nevertheless Alpine Linux can boot from these boards.
* '''New machine''': the APU machine fresh and ready for the installation of the Alpine operating system.
* '''Bootable USB''': the USB-flash disk with the downloaded Alpine iso image as install media; this drive is commonly named [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USB USB] stick.
* '''Bootable microSD": a microSD card with the downloaded Alpine iso image as install media;
* '''Serial port:''': the APU has a DB9 connector used as serial port (RS232 protocol) for use as a character console. It is common in "headless" devices.
* '''Source media''': will be the just burned / disc from the downloaded iso file of Alpine operating system. Will be installed on the usb-port or the internal microSD slot to boot the install.
* '''Target media''': the disk in the APU where the Alpine operating system will be installed. The use of a mSATA disk is recommended, another choice would be microSD (less reliable) or (not convenient) a USB-flash drive.

===== mSATA, microSD, USB-flash which disk to choose? =====

Users experience unreliable or failing installs when booting Alpine from USB flash drive and installing to mSATA. If you want to install on the mSATA drive use microSD as the installation disk, not a USB flash drive.
Note that the normal installation procedure uses the '''entire''' target disk.
Recommended set up:
For installation
- on mSATA: use microSD installation disk
- on microSD: use USB flash installation

== Booting the Alpine installation disc ==

# The installation of Alpine Linux on APU has beent tested with the factory BIOS (MBR, no UEFI).
# [[Create_a_Bootable_USB]] thumb drive or Bootable microSD with the current standard x86_64 image from the downloads page.
# Attach to the serial port (you probably will need a USB to DB9 cable). On a linux system: switch to a console first (Alt-Ctr-F1) to be able to use the function keys. Start the terminal emulator for 115200 8n1.
# Power on the APU.
# When BIOS prompted, hit F10 and select to boot from microSD or USB.
# At the boot prompt, '''quickly''' type a slash to interrupt the default boot, which has a short timeout.
# Continue entering the remainder of this command at your leisure. It should have only one slash at the start, to be clear: <code>/boot/vmlinuz-lts modules=loop,squashfs,sd-mod,usb-storage nomodeset console=ttyS0,115200 initrd=/boot/initramfs-lts</code>
# Alpine should come up as normal.
Continue as per [[Installation]].

===== How would be used? =====

Then choose type of installation .. those are described at [[Alpine_setup_scripts#Setup_modes|Setup modes section at Alpine setup scripts]] wiki page. "sys" mode is the familiar install to disk well known for usage as main OS to computers.

After all a confirmation question will raised, type "y" if everything are ok and the setup will proceed to erase, format and copy the files to the destination disk choose!

== After reboot ==

# '''Before''' rebooting, edit /boot/extlinux.conf.
## Add <code>SERIAL 0 115200</code> as the first line in the file.
## In the <code>APPEND</code> line, replace <code>quiet</code> with <code>console=ttyS0,115200</code>
# Remove the thumb drive.
# Cross your fingers and reboot. The system should boot properly with console on serial.
# Edit <code>/etc/update-extlinux.conf</code> so that if extlinux.conf is regenerated it will retain these settings:
## Update the line with <code>serial_port</code> to read <code>serial_port=0</code>
## Update the <code>serial_baud</code> line to read <code>serial_baud=115200</code>
## Update the <code>default_kernel_opts</code> line to replace <code>quiet</code> with <code>console=ttyS0,115200</code>
# Run <code>update-extlinux</code>
# Examine <code>/boot/extlinux.conf</code>.
## Make sure it looks OK. Compare with /boot/extlinux.conf-old.
## If something looks wrong, <code>mv /boot/extlinux.conf-old /boot/extlinux.conf</code> to roll back the changes and try to figure out what went wrong
# Cross your fingers and reboot. The system should boot properly with console on serial.

= See Also =

# [[Alpine and UEFI]]

[[Category:Newbie]]
[[Category:Installation]]

Alpine Install: from a disc to PC Engines APU

2026-01-12T17:25:04Z

Huub: /* Terminology */

'''Overall description:''' Alpine Installation from an official image tar file downloaded to a real second generation PC Engines APU systems (apu2, apu3, apu4), where it will be single OS only.

This document will guide you to '''install Alpine into second generation PC Engines APU systems''', it was tested with an apu2d4 and Alpine 3.11.6..

== Terminology ==

* '''[[Alpine_and_UEFI#UEFI_and_BIOS_definitions_and_introduction|BIOS]]''': it's a system embedded into the hardware, that manages the early boot process, see more in the [[Alpine and UEFI]] page. Note that PC Engines APU boards have the legacy BIOS (MBR), not UEFI. Nevertheless Alpine Linux can boot from these boards.
* '''New machine''': the APU machine fresh and ready for the installation of the Alpine operating system.
* '''Bootable USB''': the USB-flash disk with the downloaded Alpine iso image as install media; this drive is commonly named [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USB USB] stick.
* '''Bootable microSD": a microSD card with the downloaded Alpine iso image as install media;
* '''Serial port:''': the APU has a DB9 connector used as serial port (RS232 protocol) for use as a character console. It is common in "headless" devices.
* '''Source media''': will be the just burned / disc from the downloaded iso file of Alpine operating system. Will be installed on the usb-port or the internal microSD slot to boot the install.
* '''Target media''': the disk in the APU where the Alpine operating system will be installed. The use of a mSATA disk is recommended, another choice would be microSD (less reliable) or (not convenient) a USB-flash drive.

== Booting the Alpine ISO disc ==

# It's probably a good idea to ensure that the BIOS / Firmware is up to date.
# [[Create_a_Bootable_USB]] thumb drive with the current standard x86_64 image from the downloads page.
# Attach to the serial console. Configure your terminal emulator for 115200 8n1.
# Power on the APU.
# When BIOS prompted, hit F10 and select to boot from USB.
# At the boot prompt, '''quickly''' type a slash to interrupt the default boot, which has a short timeout.
# Continue entering the remainder of this command at your leisure. It should have only one slash at the start, to be clear: <code>/boot/vmlinuz-lts modules=loop,squashfs,sd-mod,usb-storage nomodeset console=ttyS0,115200 initrd=/boot/initramfs-lts</code>
# Alpine should come up as normal.
Continue as per [[Installation]].

===== Which disk choose to use? =====

To choose the disk destination ..

===== How would be used? =====

Then choose type of installation .. those are described at [[Alpine_setup_scripts#Setup_modes|Setup modes section at Alpine setup scripts]] wiki page. "sys" mode is the familiar install to disk well known for usage as main OS to computers.

After all a confirmation question will raised, type "y" if everything are ok and the setup will proceed to erase, format and copy the files to the destination disk choose!

== After reboot ==

# '''Before''' rebooting, edit /boot/extlinux.conf.
## Add <code>SERIAL 0 115200</code> as the first line in the file.
## In the <code>APPEND</code> line, replace <code>quiet</code> with <code>console=ttyS0,115200</code>
# Remove the thumb drive.
# Cross your fingers and reboot. The system should boot properly with console on serial.
# Edit <code>/etc/update-extlinux.conf</code> so that if extlinux.conf is regenerated it will retain these settings:
## Update the line with <code>serial_port</code> to read <code>serial_port=0</code>
## Update the <code>serial_baud</code> line to read <code>serial_baud=115200</code>
## Update the <code>default_kernel_opts</code> line to replace <code>quiet</code> with <code>console=ttyS0,115200</code>
# Run <code>update-extlinux</code>
# Examine <code>/boot/extlinux.conf</code>.
## Make sure it looks OK. Compare with /boot/extlinux.conf-old.
## If something looks wrong, <code>mv /boot/extlinux.conf-old /boot/extlinux.conf</code> to roll back the changes and try to figure out what went wrong
# Cross your fingers and reboot. The system should boot properly with console on serial.

= See Also =

# [[Alpine and UEFI]]

[[Category:Newbie]]
[[Category:Installation]]