Controlling a desktop or server remotely can often lead to frustration, particularly when network access is lost or when BIOS management is required. Enter the PiKVM project, a solution that has transformed remote access for many users. By utilizing a Raspberry Pi 4B paired with an HDMI-CSI bridge adapter, one can achieve comprehensive keyboard, video, and mouse control over their primary system, even during reboots. This innovation eliminates the need to shuffle between rooms or connect a second monitor when issues arise.
The setup offers browser-based access to the PC’s screen in real-time, from any location on the network. Users can perform actions such as force shutdowns, restart into the BIOS, or even reinstall an operating system if necessary. Unlike traditional remote desktop software, the PiKVM operates independently of the host system’s operating system, allowing access even when the machine is completely offline.
Why PiKVM beats other remote tools
While there are numerous remote access tools available, many falter when the operating system crashes or the system reboots. PiKVM stands out by not relying on the target PC’s functionality. It captures the HDMI output directly and simulates USB keyboard and mouse input, making it operational in scenarios such as the BIOS, GRUB menu, or even a crash screen. This level of low-level access is typically reserved for costly IPMI setups found on server-grade boards. For DIY enthusiasts or small home labs, PiKVM offers similar capabilities without the hefty price tag.
Users have leveraged PiKVM for various tasks, including troubleshooting a failed bootloader, configuring BIOS settings, and recovering from corrupted disk images—all without needing to physically interact with the keyboard or monitor. This independence has proven invaluable, revealing the true utility of such a setup.
What you need to build one
To embark on your PiKVM journey, a Raspberry Pi 4B with 2GB of RAM is essential. Lower models are unsuitable due to hardware limitations, while the Raspberry Pi 5 lacks support and does not justify the additional cost. An HDMI-to-CSI bridge adapter, specifically one based on the TC358743 chip, is also required. A waveshare board is a reliable choice for this component, effectively handling video input and transmitting it to the Pi via the camera interface.
| Parts used in my PiKVM | |
|---|---|
| Raspberry Pi 4B |
Storage: MicroSD card slot CPU: Arm Cortex-a72 (quad-core, 1.8GHz) Memory: 1GB, 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB of LPDDR4 Operating System: Raspberry Pi (Official) Ports: 2x USB-A 3.0, 2x USB-A 2.0, 40-pin GPIO, 2x micro-HDMI, 2-lane MIPI DSI display port, 2-lane MIPI CSI camera port, 4-pole stereo audio and composite port, microSD card slot, USB-C (for 5V power), Gigabit Ethernet GPU: VideoCore VI |
| waveshare HDMI-to-CSI Bridge | at Amazon |
| USB-C power splitter | at The Pi Shop US |
| USB-A to USB-A cable | Make sure it’s a male-to-male cable |
| USB-C to USB-C cable | Make sure it’s a male-to-male cable |
| HDMI cable | |
| Official Raspberry Pi 4 power supply |
In addition to the above components, a reliable microSD card (a high-quality 128GB card is recommended), a USB-A to USB-A (male-male) cable for keyboard and mouse emulation, and a USB-C to USB-C (male-male) cable for connecting the Raspberry Pi are necessary. An official power supply for the Pi is also required, along with a cooling solution to manage heat during continuous load. Finally, the latest PiKVM OS image can be downloaded from the project’s official site.
Setting it up on the Raspberry Pi
Once all hardware components are gathered, the setup process is straightforward. The PiKVM project provides a ready-to-flash image based on Arch Linux. Using Raspberry Pi Imager, the image can be written to the SD card, which is then inserted into the Pi and connected to the mini PC. After powering on the PiKVM, the first boot takes a minute, after which the Pi can be located on the local network via its hostname or IP address.
Connecting the HDMI input is simple with a CSI bridge—just plug the cable into the source PC’s HDMI out and connect the ribbon cable to the Pi’s camera interface. A USB-A to USB-A cable from the splitter to the PC acts as the emulated keyboard and mouse, enabling remote control of the machine. After logging into the web interface, users gain full access to the display, along with virtual keyboard and mouse input. Additional features include mounting ISO files over the network and sending power/reset signals if the motherboard supports them. The entire process can be completed in under 30 minutes, from hardware setup to full control over the PC.
Key use cases and reliability
PiKVM has proven invaluable for various tasks, such as reconfiguring BIOS options, testing multiple OS images, and troubleshooting failed boot sequences. It is particularly beneficial when experimenting with Linux distributions or dual-boot setups, where issues may arise that necessitate quick rollbacks. Instead of swapping cables or setting up a monitor, users can simply log in from their laptops.
This tool has seamlessly integrated into my home lab workflow, allowing for monitoring of boot sequences during system updates and capturing error logs that occur before any OS-level logging begins. In headless systems, achieving such visibility would be nearly impossible without PiKVM. Beyond emergencies, it serves as a quick method to check system status, adjust BIOS fan curves, or switch boot drives. What began as a simple tool has evolved into an essential part of my daily routine.
Why I recommend building your own
While many ready-made remote tools exist, PiKVM offers low-level, always-on access that is difficult to replicate. With just a Raspberry Pi 4B and a few basic components, users can achieve features typically found on expensive server boards. Whether managing a home lab, providing remote support to friends and family, or indulging in hardware tinkering, this project is undoubtedly worth the effort to build.
