Use Raspberry Pi with portable monitorsUpdated 8 hours ago
Wondering if your Raspberry Pi works with a UPERFECT portable monitor? Whether you're using a Pi 3, 4, or 5, UPERFECT offers monitors designed to work seamlessly with these models. Let's explore how to ensure compatibility and get the most out of your setup.
Compatibility Between Regular Monitors and Raspberry Pi
UPERFECT monitors (excluding the UPi series) are generally compatible with Raspberry Pi through the following connection types:
HDMI Video Connection:
All UPERFECT monitors with standard HDMI (Type-A) input can display video from Raspberry Pi.
- Raspberry Pi 4: use micro-HDMI to HDMI cable
- Raspberry Pi 3 and earlier: use full-size HDMI directly
Video output works plug-and-play under Raspberry Pi OS.
USB Touch Connection:
Check if Your Monitor Supports Touch
Before connecting, confirm whether your UPERFECT monitor is a touch model. You can identify this in several ways:
- Product Name or Label: Touch models usually include the word “Touch” in the name (e.g., UColor O2 Touch).
- Product Page or Manual: Look for terms like “10-point touch” “touch” in the specifications.
Connection Based on Model Type
- If you have a Touch model:
- Use a USB-A to USB-C cable to connect the monitor’s USB-C (or USB-A) touch port to the Raspberry Pi’s USB-A port.
- Also connect the video signal cable (HDMI).
- Important: Connect the video cable first, then the touch cable. This helps ensure proper detection.
- The touch function will be automatically recognized in Raspberry Pi OS — no drivers needed.
- If you have a Non-Touch model:
- You only need to connect the video signal cable (HDMI).
- There’s no need to use a USB-A to USB-C cable for touch.
Power Connection:
Most UPERFECT monitors can be powered by:
- USB-C (from a power adapter or power bank)
- Shared power source with Raspberry Pi (ensure sufficient wattage)
Mounting Compatibility:
- While these monitors don't support built-in Pi mounting, they can be placed side-by-side or mounted via VESA-compatible stands if supported.
- Overall, UPERFECT monitors offer reliable compatibility with Raspberry Pi for both display and touch features, as long as the correct cables are used.
Compatibility Between the UPi Series and Raspberry Pi
Port Compatibility (Video & Touch Input)
Raspberry Pi Video Output:
- Pi 4 and Pi 5: Dual micro-HDMI ports
- Pi 3 and earlier: Single full-size HDMI port
UPERFECT Monitor Input:
- Most models feature standard HDMI or mini-HDMI
Touch Input:
- UPERFECT monitors support touch via USB-A to USB-C cable
- For models like UPi B7, touch can also be connected via a 3-pin touch cable
Model | Video Ports (use with Pi) | Touch Port | Key Notes |
---|---|---|---|
UPi B7 | 1 × HDMI – use micro-HDMI→HDMI cable | USB-C (USB-A→USB-C cable) or 3-pin touch cable | Designed for in-body Pi mounting |
UPi B9 | HDMI • DVI • VGA – use HDMI for Pi | USB-B→USB-A cable | Legacy video options for older PCs |
UPi B214 | HDMI • VGA – use HDMI for Pi | USB-B→USB-A cable | Industrial-grade metal shell |
UPi B2 | HDMI – use micro-HDMI→HDMI cable ➊ HDMI + Micro-USB power ➋ HDMI ribbon + Micro-USB power ➌ HDMI ribbon + GPIO (5 V) | Micro-USB (touch & power in modes ➊➋) | Three wiring styles for DIY flexibility |
Resolution Compatibility
Monitor Support:
- UPERFECT UPi Series monitors support resolutions from 1024×600 up to 4K
Raspberry Pi Output:
- Pi 4 / 5: Supports up to 4K
- Pi 3: Supports up to 1080p
Adjustment Tips:
If the user is running the official Raspberry Pi OS, our monitor is fully compatible. However, if they have modified the system or created DIY programs that result in display issues, we recommend manually adjusting the resolution and refresh rate using official tools like raspi-config or by editing the /boot/config.txt file.
⚠️ Note: Editing system files like /boot/config.txt is safe when following official Raspberry Pi documentation, but mistakes may cause display issues or boot failure.
Please back up the file before making changes, and only modify if you're confident or experienced.
Model | Native Panel Resolution | Pi 3 Support | Pi 4/5 Support |
---|---|---|---|
UPi B7 | 1280 × 800 | 1080p plug-and-play | 1080p / down-scaled 4K |
UPi B9 | 1920 × 1080 | ||
UPi B214 | 1920 × 1080 | ||
UPi B2 | 1024 × 600 |
Touchscreen Compatibility
USB Touch Setup:
- Plug the monitor's USB-A to USB-C cable into the Pi’s USB port — no drivers needed with Raspberry Pi OS
3-Pin Touch Option (for models like UPi B7):
- Method 1: Solder the 3-pin cable to GPIO pins
- Method 2: Use the USB end of the cable for plug-and-play connection
This flexibility makes UPERFECT monitors ideal for both casual and advanced projects.
Model | Video Ports (use with Pi) | Touch Port | Key Notes |
---|---|---|---|
UPi B7 | 1 × HDMI – use micro-HDMI→HDMI cable | USB-C (USB-A→USB-C cable) or 3-pin touch cable | Designed for in-body Pi mounting |
UPi B9 | HDMI • DVI • VGA – use HDMI for Pi | USB-B→USB-A cable | Legacy video options for older PCs |
UPi B214 | HDMI • VGA – use HDMI for Pi | USB-B→USB-A cable | Industrial-grade metal shell |
UPi B2 | HDMI – use micro-HDMI→HDMI cable ➊ HDMI + Micro-USB power ➋ HDMI ribbon + Micro-USB power ➌ HDMI ribbon + GPIO (5 V) | Micro-USB (touch & power in modes ➊➋) | Three wiring styles for DIY flexibility |
Power Compatibility
Power Input:
- UPERFECT monitors require 12V input via the included power adapter.
Do not attempt to power the monitor via the Raspberry Pi’s USB ports.
It may cause instability or damage due to insufficient current.
Advanced Power Method:
- Some setups use the 5V and GND GPIO pins on the Pi to power the monitor directly. This is possible, but only recommended if you understand current limits and wiring safety.
Model | Primary Power In | Alternate / DIY Power |
---|---|---|
UPi B7 | 12 V DC Adapter for Power Input | 5 V via Pi GPIO (advanced) |
UPi B9 | — | |
UPi B214 | — | |
UPi B2 | 5 V Micro-USB (modes ➊➋) | 5 V via GPIO (mode ➌) |
Mounting & Structural Compatibility
All-in-One Design:
- Monitors like the UPi B7 are built to physically integrate Raspberry Pi boards inside the chassis
Included Accessories:
- Comes with custom HDMI & USB adapter boards
- Side panels and mounting points for Pi 3 and Pi 4
- Screws and back covers for secure installation
This provides a clean, embedded solution perfect for tablets, kiosks, or portable development environments.
Model | Mounting Style | Extras Included |
---|---|---|
UPi B7 | Internal Pi bay + back cover | HDMI & USB adapter boards, screws, side panels |
UPi B9 | 75 × 75 mm VESA | Detachable stand |
UPi B214 | 75 × 75 mm VESA (industrial) | Metal bracket options |
UPi B2 | Rear standoffs for Pi board | Ribbon cables, GPIO power leads |
User Manual:
User Manual (For UPi B7)