You can find all the packages for your chosen platform on the QEMU website and is installable across Linux, macOS and even Windows. Getting startedįirst, you'll need a few prerequisites: QEMU (more specifically qemu-system-arm) Given I'm next-to-useless at Python, that last one is pretty important as it allows me to install every Python debugging and testing tool known to man on my virtual Pi while my end-product hardware stays comparatively pristine.
I can prep my 'virtual Pi' with all the tools I need regardless of my physical Pi's use case.I can use Pi software (like Raspbian) in a virtual context.Faster feedback cycle compared to hardware.No hardware setup needed ( no more scratching around for a power supply).One option (and the one I most like) is to emulate a Raspberry Pi locally before ever hitting the device. If you're building software for the Raspberry Pi (like I sometimes do), it can be a pain to have to constantly keep Pi hardware around and spotting Pi-specific problems can be difficult until too late.
