So I had this passion for tech, but nothing to practice on. Then I found my old laptop from 2009. Useless right? Nope. 

I first took it apart, because why not. Then I slapped an Ubuntu Linux operating system on that bad boy and never looked back. 

This lead me to research the projects that can be useful for home uses. I found some articles about a tiny computer called a raspberry pi. Aaaand I was hooked. I am not a 'maker' who will create a drone, or a new fancy robot, but I do love a guide on making a home server.

My go to "knock-off" of the Ras-pi is Libra Computer Project's Le Potato. I mean, come on, don't we all feel like a potato sometimes?

Anyway, the documentation is decent and it is cheaper than the Ras-pi, specifically $35 for something comparable to the pi 3b.

(Picture of my set-up to come soon)

Here are the Amazon links to the items I started with, and a few others that will be necessary if you don't already have them on hand.

 

As a quick disclaimer, I do get a commission if you follow the links and make a purchase. This is through the Amazon associate program, I am not sponsored by these companies in any form. 

SBC Options:

https://amzn.to/4fgOFXi (le potato)

 -For a 4gb ram option try  (https://amzn.to/3YcQXQX) for a $5 increase

Power Supply:

https://amzn.to/4dcM6DB (power supply - any micro USB 'should' work)

Case Options:

https://amzn.to/4c1Vh90 (stackable should you choose to add multiple SBC's)

https://amzn.to/4cW2MzM  for a n all in one option.

Storage:

https://amzn.to/3LWj6ol - 32gb is really the smallest I'd go.

Wifi/Ethernet options:

I chose to use a wifi extender/repeater to boost my signal and give me an extra port to give a 'wired' Internet feel (more on that later). A simpler method is this USB wifi adapter https://amzn.to/3ylT22t

If you go the wired route, you will need Ethernet cable(s), possibly an extender, and maybe even a USB dongle (I know) if you want to link other devices through the pi. 

Repeater- https://amzn.to/4fevSMa

Ethernet cables- 1ft https://amzn.to/3W9RJf2 3ft https://amzn.to/3WzVfAR

Dongle- https://amzn.to/4bUY9ED

Misc.:

1.5 ft HDMI cable https://amzn.to/4bXOE7y

If you don't already have a keyboard and mouse, this combo will have you covered - https://amzn.to/46gyBAC

LCD screen (will not work w/ case) https://amzn.to/3SkexaU

Can't go wrong with upgrading to a 256GB SD card - https://amzn.to/3yartZU