hardware

OpenWink alters a number of files which are at the core of the Wink Hub.  Each file is backed up to allow the user to restore the Wink Hub to out-of-the-box (pre- OpenWink) condition if they choose to.

Reconfiguring the Wink Hub is a two-part process. The first part uses a small script (OpenWinkpcfg) to secure the Wink Hub from firmware updates that will lock you out of the Wink Hub and prepares the Wink Hub to download and install the full OpenWink package.

This process is still being developed and tested.  OpenWinkRPi has been changed, which will change this process.

This process has been designed for a Raspberry Pi running version 2015-02-16 of Raspbian Wheezy. As time permits, we will evaluate the script for later Raspbian releases. Since this process is designed for a classroom setting, it starts with a raw OS image on the SD card and configures the Raspberry Pi from the first (installation) boot.

For our course, we are using a UART (wired) connection for the initial configuration of the Wink Hub.  The issues associated with a wired connection are quicker, easier and cheaper to overcome than those of a wireless connection in a classroom setting.  The fact that the Wink Hub will need to be opened and a connection needs to be soldered is trivial considering that the course is being taught in a makerspace.  If not attending a course, consider the implications and difficulties of each strategy before choosing one.