Configuring Netconsole on Pogoplug V2

Sometimes we need to troubleshoot the boot process of Pogoplug V2, especially if we have installed custom firmware (e.g. ArchLinux, Debian). The best option is to have a physical serial connection. But if this is not available, we can take advantage of what’s called Netconsole.

Pogoplug V4 Disassembly and Attaching Serial Cable

In this article we will see how to disassemble Pogoplug V4 and attach serial cable to the serial pads on the board.

Backing Up Arch Linux ARM (ALARM) on Pogoplug

I’ve installed Arch Linux Arm on 1GB flash drive. I want to maintain a backup of the root filesystem in case something goes wrong with the flash, so that I can restore the root filesystem to a new drive/flash and boot my system.

Booting Pogoplug From The Correct USB Disk

Booting Arch Linux ARM (ALARM) on Pogoplug V2 is straightforward, as long as we have only attached the USB drive/stick where ALARM is installed. But if we have any additional USB drives attached to Pogoplug, we face troubles booting ALARM.

Swapping between Pogoplug Original and Custom Firmware

I’ve successfully booted Arch Linux Arm (ALARM) on my Pogoplug V2, after following the installation instructions. I’ve used an old 1 GB USB Memory Stick for the installation.

If the Pogoplug is booted while the USB stick is attached, it boots the Arch Linux. But if it’s booted while the USB is detached, it simply boots the original firmware, and I can see my Pogoplug on my.pogoplug.com as normal.

I was wondering if I can swap between the original firmware and ALARM without having to detach/attach the ALARM USB stick.

Updating uBoot for Pogoplug V2

I’ve decided the unlock the capabilities of my pogoplug, and explore other firmware options like Arch Linux ARM. So I had to update the version of uBoot (universal boot loader) installed on pogoplug to be able to boot from external USB drive. My pogoplug is v2, based on Marvel Krikwood SoC, which is the same architecutre used in Seagate GoFlex Net/Home, and Seagate Dockstar.