> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://dragonwingdocs.qualcomm.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Overview

> Install or update Ubuntu on the IQ-8275 EVK, and decide whether you need to flash.

Before you develop on the IQ-8275 EVK, make sure it is running the latest Ubuntu software. This page helps you decide whether to flash, then points you to the right method.

<Danger>
  **Caution:** Flashing erases all data on the device. Back up anything important before you start.
</Danger>

## Which path should I take?

<Steps>
  <Step title="First time powering on this board?">
    We recommend flashing the latest Ubuntu before you do anything else, so you start from a known, current image. Continue to **Flash the software** below.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Already running Ubuntu and want to stay up to date?">
    If your board already runs Ubuntu, you can upgrade without reflashing. Go to [**Upgrade Ubuntu**](./upgrade-ubuntu) to update to the latest build.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Have you flashed this board before?">
    If you already flashed a recent Ubuntu build, you can skip flashing. Go straight to [**Set up the device**](../set-up-the-device) and verify the software version there.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Can't verify the version, or the image is too old?">
    If the device won't boot to a serial console, or the version doesn't match what you expect, the image is likely missing or outdated. Come back here and flash the latest software.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## What you need to flash

| Component                                       | Required                                                                                        |
| ----------------------------------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Power supply (12 V)                             | Yes                                                                                             |
| USB Type-C to USB Type-A or Type-C cable        | Yes (flashing)                                                                                  |
| Micro-USB cable                                 | Yes (serial console access after flashing)                                                      |
| Host computer (Ubuntu, Windows, or macOS)       | Yes                                                                                             |
| Mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort cable + monitor | Optional (display output)                                                                       |
| USB mouse and keyboard                          | Optional (SBC mode)                                                                             |
| Powered USB hub                                 | Recommended (SBC mode and multiple USB peripherals; also helps when the host is short on ports) |
| OV9282 / IMX477 camera                          | Optional (CSI camera testing)                                                                   |
| USB camera                                      | Optional (USB camera testing)                                                                   |

## Flash the software

Choose the method that fits how you work:

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Flash using Qualcomm Launcher" icon="bolt" href="./flash-using-qualcomm-launcher">
    GUI tool that downloads and flashes the image for you. Runs on Windows, Linux, and macOS. **Recommended for most users.**
  </Card>

  <Card title="Flash using QDL" icon="terminal" href="./flash-over-qli">
    Command-line tool for full control, headless hosts, or scripted/automated flashing. Host tabs for Ubuntu, Windows, and macOS.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Upgrade existing Ubuntu" icon="arrow-up" href="./upgrade-ubuntu">
    Already running Ubuntu? Upgrade to the latest build without reflashing.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## Next steps

After flashing completes, continue to [**Set up the device**](../set-up-the-device) to connect the serial console, network, and display.