For best results, you should read through the official NVIDIA documentation found on:
https://developer.nvidia.com/linux-tegra-rel-21
In particular, the Quick Start Guide.
For this process you will need:
- A host desktop or laptop computer running Ubuntu Linux 12.04 is officially recommended. In practice, this may be a virtual machine, I have used VirtualBox in the past. Also, I've successfully flashed from Ubuntu Linux 14.04. Your mileage may vary.
- Micro USB cable provided with the Jetson TK1 kit
- Jetson TK1 and power supply