> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.sky-pulse.org/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.sky-pulse.org/documentation/technical-specifications/skypulse-breakout-board.md).

# SkyPulse breakout board

The SkyPulse breakout board provides a quick and easy way to connect to the Helios via Ethernet and USB, and also provides the option to flash a new image to the onboard companion computer.

It connects to the Helios through the **Interface** port using a single 20 pin Molex Pico-Clasp connector, and breaks it out to a Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 port, and a dual-mode USB2.0 Type-C port, which can be used as a device or host port (selectable via the slide switch onboard).

<figure><img src="https://2346690621-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FnOXDCeV4qoAzHESoDw0I%2Fuploads%2FIoPL22qOUKduTqVqEuhA%2FBreakoutBoard.png?alt=media&amp;token=062f53e9-797e-41e8-b8df-8e1c9492183e" alt="" width="382"><figcaption><p>SkyPulse Breakout board</p></figcaption></figure>

### Operation modes - Host / Device:

The board has two modes, selected by slide switch SW1:

**Host** mode - the companion computer acts as the USB host. Use this to communicate with the FMU and to attach USB devices to it (mouse, keyboard, etc).

**Device / boot** mode (flashing) - use this to connect to the companion computer in order to flash a new image / copy files, etc.

To switch to BOOT:

1. Slide SW1 to BOOT.
2. Wait for the status LED to turn off.
3. Connect the USB-C port to a USB host (e.g. a PC) and flash

{% hint style="warning" %}
A protection diode guards the board if a USB host is connected before the switch is moved - but connecting a USB host before switching to BOOT is not recommended.
{% endhint %}

### Indicators:

* Power LED (D1, red) - lit when the board is powered in HOST mode; turns off in Device /  BOOT mode (safe to connect a USB host).
* RJ45 LEDs - green = Ethernet status; yellow = Ethernet link / activity.

## Manufacturing & NDAA Compliance

{% hint style="success" %}
All of our hardware is 100% NDAA compliant, based on high quality non-Chinese components. Every module goes through rigorous testing to ensure the best quality for our users.
{% endhint %}

<figure><img src="https://2346690621-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FnOXDCeV4qoAzHESoDw0I%2Fuploads%2Fe3GsC8DH98J6aIGomAWG%2FNDAA.png?alt=media&amp;token=67d659c5-a10d-463c-843b-45943c2c9a60" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

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