Bitcoin FullNode Part 1: Preparation and Hardware Requirements

Required Hardware

• Raspberry Pi 5 (8 GB or 16 GB RAM): RaspiBlitz software runs on both Raspberry Pi 4 and Raspberry Pi 5. If you’re buying new, the RaspiBlitz project explicitly recommends a **Pi 5 mit 8GB** RAM (16 GB is possible, but 8 GB is sufficient). The Pi 5 offers much better performance than the Pi 4 and enables, for example, the use of NVMe SSDs via PCIe for faster blockchain access.
• M.2-SSD (NVMe) – z. B. 1 TB(2TB for long term): This SSD is used exclusively for blockchain and node data, not for the operating system. 1 TB capacity is recommended, as the Bitcoin blockchain is constantly growing (as of 2025, it’s already over 600 GB and rising). Note: The Raspberry Pi 5 has a PCIe port that allows the use of an NVMe SSD. However, as of RaspiBlitz version 1.11, the RaspiBlitz team still recommends using an external SSD via USB 3.0 for safety, as the final NVMe hardware recommendation is pending. Tip: If you want to use NVMe, you’ll also need an adapter/HAT (such as the Pimoroni NVMe M.2 Base or a special case like the Argon Neo for Raspberry Pi 5) and should be careful during installation. Alternatively, you can use a conventional 2.5" SSD in a USB 3 enclosure (e.g., the UGREEN USB 3.0 enclosure recommended in the RaspiBlitz manual).
• MicroSD card (at least 32 GB, preferably 64 GB): This is where the operating system and RaspiBlitz software will be installed. Use a high-quality, fast, and durable card (e.g., a Class 10 UHS or especially a high-endurance card). The official recommendation is, for example, a Samsung PRO Endurance 32 GB microSD. Remember that continuous node operation is very demanding on SD cards – high-quality cards increase reliability.
• Power supply: A powerful USB-C power supply is essential. Use the official Raspberry Pi 5 power supply (27 W) or an equivalent with 5V and at least 5A output current. Weak or unstable power can lead to crashes and data corruption.
• Cooling:The Raspberry Pi 5 produces heat and should be cooled to prevent overheating under continuous load (e.g., during blockchain sync). An active cooler/fan is recommended. There are special active cooler modules for the Pi 5. Many cases for the Pi 5 already come with fans and heat sinks – use them to ensure stable operation
• Case: A suitable case protects the hardware and makes mounting the SSD and cooling easier. For NVMe usage, for example, there’s the Argon Neo M.2 Case for Raspberry Pi 5, which includes a mount for the SSD, cooling, and a PCIe connection cable. Alternatively, you can use the Pi in a standard case and connect an external SSD via USB. Make sure the case has enough space for add-ons (cooling, PCIe adapter) and openings for air circulation.
• Optional – Display: An LCD touchscreen (3.5") for the GPIO port is not required, but helpful. With a small LCD on the Pi’s GPIO header, RaspiBlitz shows the IP address, status, and menus directly on the device. However, you can start without a display (access is then via SSH/web only). The RaspiBlitz project recommends a 3.5" GPIO display with XPT2046 touch controller (not HDMI!). If you don’t use a display, that’s fine – we’ll show you how to find and control your node via the network.
• Network cable:Connect the Pi to your router via Ethernet if possible. A wired connection is much more reliable and faster than Wi-Fi for initial setup and synchronization. (Wi-Fi is possible in principle, but is disabled by default and requires manual configuration—not recommended for beginners.)
• Tools: You may need a small screwdriver (for the case) and an anti-static mat during assembly. Read the instructions for the case/adapter, especially if you’re installing an NVMe HAT with a ribbon cable – work carefully to avoid damaging the Pi 5 board or the cable.
• Laptop/PC for preparation: You’ll need a computer to flash the microSD card and initially access the Pi via SSH. This computer should be on the same local network as the Pi (to establish the SSH connection).

Example: Assembled RaspiBlitz node on Raspberry Pi 5 with SSD (in external USB enclosure), active fan, and optional LCD touchscreen.