Getting Started

This guide will get your HALPI2 up and running in under 30 minutes and covers permanent installation. Follow these steps in order for the smoothest setup experience — start with a desktop setup to verify everything works, then proceed to permanent installation.

Safety and Handling Precautions

⚠️ Before You Begin

Ensure power is disconnected from your electrical system before making connections

Use appropriate fuses (3–5A) for power connections

Handle the unit carefully - although rugged, dropping or impact can damage internal components

Verify correct polarity when connecting power cables

Avoid static electricity discharges - ground yourself and avoid rubbing cats and amber objects before touching internal components

What You'll Need

From your HALPI2 package:

HALPI2 unit with pre-installed CM5 and NVMe SSD
Power cable with E7T connector (2m length)

Optional items (included in the sales package):

DC barrel connector pair (5.5 × 2.1 mm), when using a standard 12V "wall wart" type power supply
Raspberry Pi WiFi/Bluetooth antenna (required if WiFi is used for initial setup)

Additional items (not included):

12V or 24V power source
A separate computer for headless setup (if not using a connected display)
Network cable (optional, for wired connection)
Display with HDMI input (optional)
USB keyboard and mouse (optional, for direct access)

💡 Quick Tip

Any network device such as a router or WiFi Access Point tends to use a 12V power supply that can be used to power the HALPI2. Check your pile of old hardware for one!

Desktop Setup

We recommend trying the HALPI2 on a desk or workbench before installing it permanently. The initial setup can be done either without a display (headless) over a network connection or with a connected display, keyboard, and mouse. A headless setup can be done either using a wired ethernet connection or the HALPI2's WiFi Access Point.

Step 1: Connect Essential Peripherals

For Initial Setup:

Network connection (required for headless installation):
- Connect Ethernet cable
- Connect the WiFi/Bluetooth antenna
Display connection (optional):
- Connect HDMI display for direct access
- USB keyboard and mouse if using display

Front Panel Connectors

Step 2: NMEA 2000 Connection (Optional)

If you are installing the HALPI2 directly on a boat or have a desktop NMEA 2000 installation available, you can already connect it to the NMEA 2000 network.

An NMEA 2000 network consists of a backbone cable to which all devices connect using T-adapters and drop cables. Add a T-adapter to the NMEA 2000 network backbone. Connect the HALPI2's NMEA 2000 micro connector to the T-adapter using a NMEA 2000 drop cable.

Step 3: Power Connection

💡 Note on Powering with NMEA 2000

The HALPI2 can also be powered via the NMEA 2000 bus. See NMEA 2000 Bus Power Connection in the Permanent Installation section below.

For the desktop setup, we will use the provided E7T power cable. Connect the power cable wire ends to the female barrel plug as follows:

Red wire = Positive (+)
Black wire = Negative (-)

An example of the E7T to barrel connector wiring

Plug a standard 12V or 24V power supply into the barrel connector. Ensure the power supply is rated for at least 1A to handle the HALPI2's requirements.

⚠️ Warning

Due to the lack of a strain relief, the screw terminal barrel connector should only be used for temporary installations. Accidental pulling on the cable can disconnect and expose the wires.

First Boot

HALPI2 ships with a customized OpenPlotter image that includes necessary configurations and software for immediate use. If you prefer a different operating system, follow the instructions in the Software Guide.

Power on the HALPI2 by connecting the power supply if you haven't done so already. After a few seconds, the LED bar should start filling up with red lights, indicating that the super-capacitors are charging. The LEDs will turn yellow once the system is booting, and finally green when the operating system is running and the HALPI daemon is connected to the controller.

If you have a display connected, you should see the Raspberry Pi OS splash screen, and finally, a graphical desktop will appear.

💡 Tip

The status LED patterns are documented in the Operation Guide.

Accessing the HALPI2 without a Display

If you do not have a display connected, you can access the HALPI2 device via the WiFi Access Point or Ethernet connection. You need to download and install RealVNC's VNC Viewer to access the desktop remotely¹.

Alternatively, you can use SSH to access the command line interface. The default username is pi and the password is raspberry. The nmtui tool can be used to configure NetworkManager settings in the terminal.

First, wait until the LEDs turn green, indicating that the system is fully booted. Then, follow these steps:

Option 1 - Connecting to HALPI2 via WiFi Access Point: The HALPI2 OpenPlotter image creates a WiFi Access Point named OpenPlotter with the password 12345678. Connect your computer to this network.

Option 2 - Connecting to HALPI2 via wired Ethernet: If you have connected the HALPI2 to your network via Ethernet, it will automatically obtain an IP address via DHCP.

You can connect to the device with VNC Viewer using the address openplotter.local or the assigned IP address. The username is pi and the password is raspberry.

First Boot Configuration

⚠️ Warning

The HALPI2 OpenPlotter image comes with default WiFi Access Point and user passwords. These must be changed during the first boot or anyone will be able to access your device.

Changing the Access Point Password

The WiFi access point password is changed in the network settings menu at the top right corner of the OpenPlotter desktop. Click on the network icon, then select Advanced Options and Edit Connections. Select the OpenPlotter-Hotspot connection and click the cogwheel icon to edit it. Change the password in the Wireless Security tab and save the changes.

Network Connections List

Edit Connection Dialog

Alternatively, if you prefer to remove the access point altogether, you can remove it using the minus button in the Edit Connections dialog. However, if the final installation location uses a different WiFi network, the access point may be useful for initial configuration.

Changing the User Password

The default user password is raspberry. To change it, open the Raspberry Pi menu and navigate to Preferences > Raspberry Pi Configuration. In the System tab, click on Change Password and follow the prompts.

In the Raspberry Pi Configuration tool, you can also change the hostname (the name of the device on the network) and change localization settings such as time zone and keyboard layout.

Raspberry Pi Configuration

You can also change the password using the terminal by running the command:

passwd

📖 Reference

Detailed OpenPlotter configuration steps are available in the OpenPlotter documentation.

Verifying NMEA 2000 Connection (Optional)

NMEA 2000 connectivity can be easiest verified by checking the Signal K server status. Open the web interface at http://openplotter.local:3000, either from the HALPI2 device itself or from another device on the same network. Observe the can0 connection activity: you should be seeing some traffic being received.

Signal K Server Connections Activity

Shutting Down the Device

The HALPI2 is designed to shut down automatically when disconnected from the power supply. When you need to shut down the device, simply cut the power, either using an electrical panel switch or disconnecting the power connector. The system will automatically initiate a software shutdown sequence, ensuring that all applications close properly and the filesystem is safely unmounted.

If you choose to shut down the system using the desktop interface or command-line tools (such as the shutdown command), the device will automatically restart after approximately 5 seconds. This behavior is due to the power management system detecting that external power is still available.

During the shutdown process, you can monitor the system status through the LED indicators on the front panel. When power is initially cut, the green LEDs will dim to indicate a blackout condition. After 5 seconds, the LEDs will change to violet, providing a clear visual indication that the device is actively shutting down. Once the shutdown process is complete, all LEDs will turn off.

The shutdown process typically takes only a few seconds under normal conditions. However, in some cases, certain services may require additional time to stop properly. If this occurs, the device may deplete the super-capacitors almost completely before shutting down. This extended shutdown time is normal behavior and does not indicate a fault with the system.

Troubleshooting Quick Start Issues

Common and Uncommon Issues:

❌ No power/LEDs:

Verify power connections and polarity
Check fuse condition
Ensure voltage is within 11-32V range

❌ WiFi Access Point not visible:

Ensure antenna is properly connected
Try to connect using a different device
Check if the HALPI2 is fully booted (LEDs should be green)
Try connecting via Ethernet first

❌ Cannot access the device using openplotter.local:

There may be another device on the network with the same hostname
Try using the assigned IP address instead (check your router's DHCP client list)

❌ Display connected but not showing anything:

Ensure HDMI cable is securely connected
Ensure the display is powered on and set to the correct input
Try a different HDMI cable or port on the display
Make sure the HALPI2 is on (LEDs should be yellow or green)
If the LEDs are flashing in a rainbow pattern, the Compute Module 5 is not properly seated. This may be due to transportation damage. Follow the instructions in the User Guide to reseat the CM5 or contact support for assistance.

❌ Connected display is showing an error message about 'nvme':

This indicates the NVMe SSD is not detected or not properly initialized. This can be due to transportation damage. Follow the instructions in the User Guide to reseat the NVMe SSD or contact support for assistance.

Getting Help:

Documentation: Refer to specific sections for detailed troubleshooting
Community: Join the Hat Labs community forums
Support: Contact technical support for hardware issues

Permanent Installation

Once you've verified everything works on your desk, follow these steps for permanent mounting and wiring.

Planning Your Installation

💡 Quick Tip: Take photos of your existing wiring before making changes - it helps when troubleshooting later.

Take time to plan your installation. Consider:

Mounting location - accessibility, protection, ventilation
Cable routing - shortest runs, protection from damage
Power source - dedicated circuit vs. shared, fusing requirements
Network integration - NMEA 2000, Ethernet, WiFi coverage
Environmental factors - temperature, moisture, vibration

Required Tools and Materials

Tools:

Drill with bits
Screwdriver set (PH2 Phillips, large flathead)
Wire strippers and crimpers for power connections
Multimeter for testing
Heat gun or lighter (for heat-shrink tubing)

Materials (not included):

Mounting screws (4mm or M4, depending on the mounting surface)
Appropriate fuses (3-5A) or respectively rated electrical panel circuit breakers
Marine-grade wire (1.5mm² or 16 AWG for power if the provided cable is too short)
Heat-shrink tubing and terminals
Cable ties and mounting clips

Mounting

Location Selection

Choose a mounting location that provides:

💡 Optimal Mounting Conditions

Temperature range: -20°C to +60°C ambient

Ventilation: Sufficient clearance around enclosure

Protection: Away from direct water spray and mechanical damage

Access: Easy access to connectors and status LEDs

Support: Solid mounting surface capable of supporting 2kg + cables

Space: Allow at least 100mm clearance in front of the panel connectors for cable management.

Even though this guide focuses on fixed installations, in practice it is often sufficient to place the device on a shelf or tabletop, provided it is stable and protected from moisture and impact.

Environmental Guidelines

Marine Installations:

Mount above expected bilge water level
Avoid areas with direct spray or standing water
Consider boat movement and vibration, and secure all connections
Use corrosion-resistant mounting hardware

Automotive Installations:

Protect from engine heat and vibration
Ensure adequate ventilation in enclosed spaces
Consider accessibility for maintenance
Use vibration-resistant mounting

Industrial Installations:

Protect from process chemicals and extreme temperatures
Consider electromagnetic interference sources
Ensure compliance with local electrical codes
Plan for routine maintenance access

Mounting Orientation

🔧 Recommended Orientation

Preferred: Connectors facing downward

Reduces water ingress risk

Improves cable management

Easier access for maintenance

Acceptable: Connectors facing sideways

Ensure adequate drainage

Use cable entry seals

Avoid: Connectors facing upward

Increases water ingress risk

Makes cable management difficult

Mounting Steps

Step 0: Download and Print the Mounting Template

Download the HALPI2 Mounting Template and print it at 100% scale. This template will help you mark the mounting holes accurately. If you don't have access to a printer, you can also use the dimensions provided in the template to mark the holes manually, or use the enclosure itself to mark the holes directly on your mounting surface.

Step 1: Prepare the Mounting Surface

Clean the mounting surface
Mark mounting holes using the printed template
Test fit the enclosure before installation
Drill pilot holes for mounting screws

Step 2: Install the HALPI2

Position the enclosure with connectors in preferred orientation
Drive mounting screws - snug but do not over-torque

Permanent Power Installation

Power Source Selection

Option 1: Dedicated Power Connector

Most reliable and flexible
Supports full power capability
Easier maintenance and troubleshooting

Option 2: NMEA 2000 Bus Power

Simplifies wiring in marine installations
Limited to 0.9A current draw
Requires careful attention to voltage drop

Current Limiting Configuration

HALPI2 includes a built-in input current limiter that manages the initial super-capacitor charging and protects the installation from overcurrent conditions. The current limit can be set to either 0.9A or 2.5A, depending on your power source and application requirements. The default setting of 0.9A is suitable for most applications.

If you want to increase the initial start-up speed or need to power high-current peripherals, you can switch to the 2.5A setting. Follow the steps outlined in the User Guide to change the current limit setting.

Dedicated Power Connection

Cable Preparation

Route the power cable from HALPI2 to power source
Allow service loops at both ends
Protect cable from chafing and damage
Trim to length leaving adequate working room

Connection at Power Source

Ensure wire protection by allocating a 3-5A circuit breaker or installing an inline fuse
Strip wire ends to appropriate length
Install terminals using proper crimping technique
Connect to power source:
- Red wire: Positive (+) terminal
- Black wire: Negative (-) terminal
Verify polarity with multimeter before energizing

Connection at HALPI2

The E7T connector is pre-wired and requires no field termination. Simply plug into the HALPI2 power socket.

NMEA 2000 Bus Power Connection

🔧 Prerequisites

Current limit switch must be set to 0.9A

NMEA 2000 network must have adequate power capacity

Drop cable should be close to power feed to minimize voltage drop

Required Components

NMEA 2000 drop cable (not included)
T-connector for backbone integration (not included)

Installation Steps

Power down all NMEA 2000 devices
Open HALPI2 enclosure (see User Guide for instructions)
Locate the carrier board power connector
Unplug existing terminal block
Connect the internal NMEA 2000 power terminal block to the carrier board power connector
Verify current limit is set to 0.9A
Connect to backbone using appropriate drop cable and T-connector
Test installation before final closure
Reassemble enclosure

NMEA 2000 Power Wiring To power HALPI2 over NMEA 2000, unplug terminal block 1 and replace it with terminal block 2.

Network and Data Connections

NMEA 2000 Data Connection

Even when using a dedicated power connection, you may want NMEA 2000 data connectivity:

Install T-connector on NMEA 2000 backbone
Connect drop cable between T-connector and HALPI2
Verify proper termination of NMEA 2000 network
Test connectivity after installation

Ethernet Connection

For network connectivity:

Use marine-grade or appropriate environment-rated cable
Install cable glands or cable grommets if routing through bulkheads
Provide service loops at both ends
Test connectivity before final installation

WiFi/Bluetooth Antenna

Install antenna on RP-SMA connector
Position for optimal coverage - away from metal obstructions. In metal cabinets, a male to female RP-SMA extension cable may be required.
Test signal strength in final position