Pi Installation

Raspberry Pi Installation

The Prometheus MSLA controller board ( APOLLO ) is a carrier board for the raspberry pi 4B. The communication and power transfer for the pi is made via spring pins ( pogo pins ). They connect to pads under the pi for a seamless interface. The pogo pins are very fragile and precise components so some of the pads on the pi need to be modified for a good connection, and to reduce the risk of breaking them.

Step1

With a good pair of flush cutters, cut the first 3 pins of the GPIO pins as flush as possible. These pins are #2 - 4 - 6 (5V - 5V - GND )

Step2 (optional)

With a small file or a soldering iron smooth the surface of these cut pins so the pogo pins can have better contact on the pads.

It should look something like this.

Step3

With a sharp point or a soldering iron, scrape or heat the contact test pads. This procedure will ensure to remove any potential oxide layer that can prevent the pogo pins from having a good connection to the pi. *The important pads are ( TP17, TP10, TP6 )

Step4

You can now carefully install the pi on the board using the 4 M2.5 screws. Don’t over tighten the screws to prevent crushing the pogo pins (look at them while screwing). * We strongly suggest installing a proper heatsink on your pi.

Step5

The Apllo mother board can now be installed on the 3D printed braket. Simply Melt the four pillars on each corner to make some kind of plastic rivets.