In this chapter, we looked at the two common system software distributions for the BeagleBone. We also went through the basics of downloading and running a distribution. For the BBB, this process allows a BBB in an unknown state to be restored to a factory condition. Finally, we looked at an overview of installation applications in the BeagleBone.

The upcoming chapters will be much more hands on as we apply the foundation built here and go through the process of building your first project on the BeagleBone. We will build a variation of the classic first project for embedded users, an LED flasher. While you might not have chosen to install a new distribution at this time, this process can be applied to recover from most software mistakes.

The LED flasher project will be broken into two parts. In Chapter 3, Building an LED Flasher, we will ease into controlling the LED and end with a basic flasher. This basic flasher will be the foundation for the advanced exercises.