Rock 5A won't boot Debian

#1

Just received a 16 GB Rock 5A from OKdo.

It won’t boot Debian - blue LED on continuously and this is on the display:

I’m using a 65 W USB-C PD supply.

The Wiki didn’t have any Getting Started details - “broken links” displayed!

BTW, it was supplied with an eMMC module in the socket with a small chip. I also bought a 32 GB eMMC module and programmer. Why did the Rock already have an eMMC module?

#2

Check text to select correct image:

#3
  1. the “eMMC” module that is preinstalled is an SPI NOR flash chip. It’s not written anywhere that the SPI is not soldered but a module that takes the place of eMMC. A bit problematic.
  2. what media are you using to boot? Look at the 5A section, there are not that many topics, but many about failing boots.
#4

Thanks. I’ve downloaded armbian for the 5A so I’ll try it tomorrow.

#5

I’m using an SD card.

#6

Not sure then. Armbian works for me; the official distros always seem to be a bit messy (it seems that there are not enough people working on them).

1 Like
#7

Thanks to all. Armbian works OK!

1 Like