DisplayHUB Device Setup
Under the hood, DisplayHUB uses:
- Controller Pi: One Raspberry Pi running the DisplayHUB dashboard.
- Encoder Pis: One Raspberry Pi per input to encode HDMI, video files, or video URLs.
- Players: Your existing Smart TVs, Smart Devices, or inexpensive Android dongles. Simply search your device app store for DisplayHUB.
Important Security Notice:
There are no passwords inside the DisplayHUB control layer. All Pis and players must reside on a private staff-only LAN—never on guest WiFi or public networks.
There are no passwords inside the DisplayHUB control layer. All Pis and players must reside on a private staff-only LAN—never on guest WiFi or public networks.
Build in Place; No Need to Rewire, Rebuild, or Move Anything
Leave your current setup intact. Unlike traditional video matrix systems, you don’t need to rewire or relocate equipment. Place the controller anywhere, and set up each encoder right alongside your existing inputs, DirecTV boxes, or cable boxes.
Free consultation services are available to large venues (20+ displays), or you can hire a local tech specialist for a few hours.
Installation Options
- Self-install (requires basic technical knowledge)
- Hire a local computer shop for a few hours
- Use our guided installation services ($150/hr)
- Hire our team for on-site installation ($150/hr + travel)
Supported Players
Step 1: Get Your Raspberry Pi Hardware
Controller Pi
- Recommended: Raspberry Pi 5
- 32 GB or larger microSD card
- Good-quality power supply
- Flash our custom image, boot, and configure via web interface
The controller handles the web UI, discovery, routing, and upgrades. It does not require capture hardware.
Encoder Pis
- 1 Raspberry Pi 5 per input source
- 32 GB or larger microSD card
- HDMI-to-USB capture device for live inputs
- Flash our custom image & configure via web interface
IMPORTANT: Plug the HDMI USB capture device into the upper-left USB port of the Pi 5.
Encoders accept live HDMI, local video files, or remote video URLs.
Step 2: Prepare the OS and Networking
Flashing & Prerequisite Technical Knowledge
Self-installation requires basic computer knowledge, including downloading files, using SD card flashing tools, and identifying devices on a local network.
Please Note: We do not provide free support or instructions on general Raspberry Pi assembly, casing, or basic OS flashing.
If you are new to Raspberry Pi, please consult these general resources before beginning:
Need Hands-On Assistance?
Paid support, guided setup, and custom installation are available starting at $150 per hour. Contact our team to schedule.
Network Configuration
Once booted with our firmware, your Raspberry Pi will connect to your local network and can be managed directly through the web dashboard.
Need the image files? Contact us to request the downloadable custom firmware for your Pis.
Network Requirements:
- Connect all Pis and players to a private, staff-only LAN or VLAN.
- Do not place DisplayHUB devices on guest or public WiFi.
- Prefer wired Ethernet for all controllers and encoders.
- Assign DHCP reservations or static IPs for seamless device management.
Step 3: Connect Live HDMI, Files, or URLs
- HDMI: Connect DirecTV, cable boxes, Roku, Android TV, media players, or PCs directly via the capture dongle.
- Video Files: Load MP4 or compatible video files straight onto the encoder Pi.
- Video URLs: Configure the encoder to pull supported direct streaming URLs.
- Use fixed resolutions and frame rates for optimal streaming stability.
- Confirm each configured encoder displays a live preview in the control dashboard.
Once connected, all inputs instantly appear as routable sources across DisplayHUB!