Getting started
This page explains how to get started with the PYNQ, in general. This includes flashing the correct image, and interacting with the device. On the side are course specific pages, e.g. 5EWC0. These contains additional details for their respective course. This includes specific input and output or libraries that depend on the platform where the PYNQ is applied. If you need specific info start by looking there.
To use the PYNQ, you need to have the right hardware and software.
⚠️ Warning
Please follow the steps carefully. If something goes wrong, it may take a lot of time to identify and fix the problem!
Prerequisites
- Your laptop with an active internet connection.
- A PYNQ-Z2 board.
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An SD card of at least 8 GB.
ℹ️ Information
If you buy your own SD card, then make sure that it is a high-reliability SD card because it is heavily used by the board. Cheap SD cards quickly become corrupt and fail.
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A USB-A to micro-USB cable to connect to the PYNQ.
If your laptop has no USB-A connector then either use an adaptor (USB-A to USB-C) or use a micro-USB to USB-C cable. Ensure that the cable is compatible with your operating system.
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An Ethernet cable to connect to the PYNQ.
If your laptop doesn't have an Ethernet port, then you also need an Ethernet to USB-A/C cable. Ensure that the cable is compatible with your operating system.
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Optional: A plugin module with a display as shown below:
Whether you need this plugin module or not depends on the course you're using the PYNQ board for.
Set up the PYNQ
These steps need to be done only once per course.
- f you were not provided with a pre-flashed SD card (note: PYNQ boards provided by TU/e for the 2025–2026 academic year already include the correct image) then, download the PYNQ image and flash the SD card.
- Before booting (i.e. starting) the PYNQ, configure the PYNQ board.
Use your PYNQ
Every time you wish to use your PYNQ board after setting it up, you'll need to: