Ubuntu system software for creating Raspberry PI educational stands

Abstract

The article considers the current problem of modernization of hardware and software of educational computer laboratories of higher education institutions in the conditions of rapid development of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies and embedded systems. Special emphasis is placed on the urgent need to adapt the educational process to the conditions of blended learning and limited access to physical classrooms and equipment. This factor is critically important for ensuring the continuity and quality of practical training of engineering personnel in modern realities, in particular in conditions of martial law, when the safety of participants in the educational process comes to the fore.

The research is aimed at developing and practical implementation of a comprehensive methodology for deploying a unified software environment based on the Ubuntu operating system for educational stands built on Raspberry Pi 4 Model B microcomputers. The emphasis is on creating a scalable, effective solution that allows integrating compact computing modules into the existing corporate infrastructure, while providing full remote access for students and teachers without loss of functionality.

The work describes in detail the system configuration algorithm, which consists of sequential steps (stages). These stages include configuring network interfaces, setting up static IP addressing and DNS servers, as well as changing the host name for correct identification in the network; integration into the corporate network by installing the necessary packages (realmd, sssd, adcli), editing configuration files and directly entering the device into the Active Directory domain; configuring the PAM authentication subsystem for automatic creation of home directories of domain users (mkhomedir).

During the study, a number of technical problems were identified and resolved. In particular, the issues of compatibility of graphical shells with the RDP client, which allowed stabilizing the work of clients, characteristic of remote work mode. The issues of additional settings were resolved: access to external ports, automatic loading of the camera to view the results of the stand, automatic reboot of the stand upon completion of work with the stand, limitation of the number of simultaneous connections. The mechanisms for connecting stand devices to the corporate network were also worked out and ways of configuring a safe shutdown of the stand in the event of a power outage were considered.

The obtained research results have high practical value, as they offer a ready-made algorithm for creating a reference software image. This image can be quickly replicated on an unlimited number of devices, which significantly reduces the time of laboratory administration and reduces the load on technical personnel. The implemented scheme allows students to connect to real equipment from anywhere in the world, using their university domain accounts, and perform laboratory work that requires direct interaction with sensors, actuators and other peripherals, which cannot be fully reproduced in virtual simulation. The proposed solution is universal and recommended for implementation in technical institutions of higher education.