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Build a computer

Build a computer
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Assemble a beginner-friendly Raspberry Pi computer with adult help, connect keyboard, mouse, and display, and learn coding basics and hardware setup.

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Step-by-step guide to build a Raspberry Pi computer

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I Made My Own Computer | Let's See How It Works

What you need
Adult supervision required, hdmi cable, microsd card 16gb or larger, monitor or tv with hdmi input, power supply for raspberry pi, raspberry pi board or raspberry pi kit, raspberry pi case, usb keyboard, usb mouse

Step 1

Ask an adult to help you gather the Materials Needed listed above.

Step 2

Clear a small table so you have a tidy workspace to build your computer.

Step 3

If your kit includes small heat sinks ask an adult to attach them to the chips on the board.

Step 4

With an adult place the Raspberry Pi board into its case.

Step 5

Ask an adult to use a computer to download Raspberry Pi Imager and write Raspberry Pi OS to the microSD card.

Step 6

Insert the microSD card into the Raspberry Pi card slot.

Step 7

Connect the HDMI cable from the Raspberry Pi to the monitor or TV.

Step 8

Plug the USB keyboard into a USB port on the Raspberry Pi.

Step 9

Plug the USB mouse into a USB port on the Raspberry Pi.

Step 10

Connect the power supply to the Raspberry Pi but do not plug it into the wall yet.

Step 11

With an adult plug the power supply into the wall to power on the Raspberry Pi.

Step 12

Follow the on-screen setup prompts to complete the initial setup.

Step 13

Open the Thonny Python editor from the Programming menu.

Step 14

Write a simple Python program that prints a message and run it to see it work.

Step 15

Share a photo and a short description of your finished Raspberry Pi computer on DIY.org.

Final steps

You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!

Complete & Share
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Help!?

Can I substitute the official Raspberry Pi power supply or HDMI cable if I can't find them?

Use a USB-C or micro-USB power adapter that matches your Pi's required voltage and amperage and a compatible HDMI or micro‑HDMI adapter to complete the step 'Connect the power supply to the Raspberry Pi' and 'Connect the HDMI cable to the monitor or TV'.

My Raspberry Pi doesn't boot when I plug it in—what should I check first?

Make sure the microSD card was correctly written with Raspberry Pi OS using Raspberry Pi Imager, that the card is fully inserted into the Pi's slot, and that the HDMI cable and power connection (plugged into the wall with an adult) are secure as described in the instructions.

How can I adapt this activity for a younger child versus an older child?

For younger kids, have an adult prepare the case, attach any heat sinks, flash the OS, and let the child insert the microSD and connect cables, while older children can run Raspberry Pi Imager themselves, follow the on‑screen setup, and write a Python program in Thonny.

What are quick ways to enhance or personalize our finished Raspberry Pi computer?

Decorate the case with stickers, add a simple GPIO project like an LED or button controlled from Thonny, or attach a camera module and then 'Share a photo and a short description of your finished Raspberry Pi computer on DIY.org' as the final step.

Watch videos on how to build a Raspberry Pi computer

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Facts about computer hardware and coding for kids

🐧 Most Raspberry Pis run Raspberry Pi OS (based on Debian Linux), so learners get real, widely-used computing experience.

🐍 Python is the Pi's most-recommended beginner language, and many Pi tutorials use friendly tools like the Thonny editor.

💾 Raspberry Pi boots from a microSD card—think of it as the Pi's removable 'hard drive' that holds the operating system and your projects.

🔌 The Pi's GPIO pins let you control LEDs, sensors, and small motors with just a few lines of code.

🍓 The Raspberry Pi was first released in 2012 and has sold tens of millions of units worldwide—perfect for affordable learning!

How do you build a beginner Raspberry Pi computer with a child?

Start by setting up a clean workspace and power off the Raspberry Pi. With adult help, insert a preloaded microSD card (or flash Raspberry Pi OS), fit the board into its case, and attach heatsinks if included. Connect HDMI to a monitor, plug in keyboard and mouse, then connect the official power supply to boot. Follow the on-screen setup, enable Wi‑Fi and SSH if needed, open a beginner editor like Thonny or Scratch, and try a simple 'Hello World' Python or block-based program.

What materials and parts do I need to build a Raspberry Pi computer?

You’ll need a Raspberry Pi kit (Pi board like Pi 4 or Pi 400), a compatible power supply, a microSD card with Raspberry Pi OS (or computer + adapter to flash it), a case, HDMI cable or micro-HDMI adapter, USB keyboard and mouse, monitor or TV, and optional items like heatsinks, cooling fan, ethernet cable, and microSD reader. Adult supervision, a screwdriver, and internet access help with setup and software downloads.

What ages is assembling a Raspberry Pi suitable for?

This project suits children roughly aged 6 and up with adult supervision; younger kids can watch and help with non-electrical parts. Ages 8–12 can follow step-by-step assembly and simple coding with guidance. Teens (13+) can work more independently on OS configuration, Python, or hardware add-ons. Always supervise handling of power, small components, and hot heatsinks, adapting tasks to a child’s fine motor skills and attention span.

What are the benefits and safety tips for kids building a Raspberry Pi?

Building a Raspberry Pi boosts problem-solving, sequencing, basic coding literacy, and hardware confidence. Kids learn troubleshooting, digital creativity, and STEM thinking. For safety, always power off before inserting microSD or connecting hardware, use the rated power supply, avoid loose small parts around young children, and ground yourself briefly to reduce static. Supervise soldering or advanced mods and encourage regular breaks during screen and hands-on sessions.
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