Microsoft Surface

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This aims to document things to be taken into account when using Archlinux in a Microsoft Surface device, specifically, I have done everything with the Surface Pro 3.

I recommend doing all the steps with a microSD and leaving the USB for a keyboard, although you may also use a USB hub for this.

Booting into the installer

To boot from USB, you will need to instruct the table to boot from USB or SD Card. To do this, with the device switched off, do the following steps:

  • Press volume down key and hold
  • Press power key once (on the top)
  • Wait for Surface logo appear and release volume down key

With these steps, you will be able to boot from USB/SD, but you will find an Error blue screen. This is due to UEFI Secure Boot. You can find the steps to fix this situation in the Secure Boot section of the UEFI page. Once it is setup, you should be able to boot the installer.

Back up

The warranty of the device only covers if using windows, so I really recommend doing a backup just in case you happen to need to send it to some official Tech support.

Installation

Obviously, the installation is done using a wireless connection