Related
One of the biggest features I'm looking for in either the EVO or Streak (still not sure which I'm going with, gotta wait another month for the Streak to come out) is to have the Android desktop/UI/home screen sent out via HDMI. What I would hope to do is:
- be using the phone
- dock it (with HDMI to display)
- have the display show up on the TV (preferably fitting the aspect ratio and resolution of the display, though not necessarily a requirement)
The thought then would be to use a mouse and keyboard via either Bluetooth or USB (in host mode, obviously), and use the phone on the larger display to function basically as a netbook replacement (web browsing, music/videos, light gaming, light office prod. stuff).
I've seen other people on here asking around if it was possible, which it looks like it ISN'T out of the box...but maybe a developer looking for something to do might pick up on this post. You'd make a lot of people very happy!
I am also very interested in this.
So basically something like this?
http://sven.killig.de/android/N1/2.2/usb_host/
I think a good example would be the functionality that matches the current Touch Pro/Fuze TV-Out functionality... Unlike the HDMI output restrictions that are currently on the Evo device, I am able to use the entire OS (Winmo) to select start, programs, play programs, games (Tony Hawk), etc. The TV acts a full clone to what is on the phone screen itself..
I am looking for similar functionality so I can play a movie, nav, on a HDMI connected slate while the Evo is out of site (examples - vehicle screens, portable screens ). Obviously there would no input commands from the screen attached device, but a bluetooth air mouse could help out with that.
Yeah... would be nice, imagine HID bluetooth devices(wii mote controller) hook the phone to a tv, and play some classic games...
RIGHT ON
techwerkz said:
So basically something like this?
http://sven.killig.de/android/N1/2.2/usb_host/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, as far as input goes, but it would also need software (or a core OS update?) to push the display out via HDMI, at the same time.
I was really interested in this as a possibility, and certainly took notice of the nexus one with host USB capability. Bear in mind the Nexus One was not pushing the device's display out, it was running an X server, but still a neat idea.
I know that currently only the HTC software can push anything out of the HDMI port, but I expect it is simply a matter of applications knowing to take advantage of it, probably not even drivers.
A quick google of htc evo hdmi API gets you sprints android development site, which says the guide includes info on how your applications can take advantage of the HDMI port. I haven't messed with the android API much yet, but the only issue would be for someone to write an application that can grab the entire display, and then push it out to the port via the API.
http:// developer.sprint.com/site/global/develop/mobile_platforms/android/android.jsp
laydros said:
I was really interested in this as a possibility, and certainly took notice of the nexus one with host USB capability. Bear in mind the Nexus One was not pushing the device's display out, it was running an X server, but still a neat idea.
I know that currently only the HTC software can push anything out of the HDMI port, but I expect it is simply a matter of applications knowing to take advantage of it, probably not even drivers.
A quick google of htc evo hdmi API gets you sprints android development site, which says the guide includes info on how your applications can take advantage of the HDMI port. I haven't messed with the android API much yet, but the only issue would be for someone to write an application that can grab the entire display, and then push it out to the port via the API.
http:// developer.sprint.com/site/global/develop/mobile_platforms/android/android.jsp
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Only thing I'd worry about there is that it isn't actually "grabbing" the screen (as in screen captures, polling it for changes, etc) because that could absolutely kill performance. That's why I wonder if it wouldn't require driver access or update, in order to actually "push" the display out the HDMI port (note: I'm not a developer, so I can only do my best to keep up with what potential issues might be. )
Any update on this?
I noticed if you read further down on the USB Host Mode page, there's info on a USB TV driver (TV IN sadly), an X11 driver (not sure which way they mean), and also DisplayLink although I think that is some kind of device you need to buy. If I could X11 remote host my Android that would be PIMP but I doubt I'll get that lucky!
I desperately want to do this myself (TV OUT from Android), whether it be HDMI or USB or whatever. I need to output the OS and apps (for demo purposes).
i was thinking the same, somewhere along the lines of PdaReach for palm devices. but the monitor being an actual TV for entertainment purposes. ...trying to get my extra ten dollar fee to use. so if and when netflix decides to make a platform for android devices we could hence watch movies on our televisions via our phones streaming to the TV
hexydes said:
Only thing I'd worry about there is that it isn't actually "grabbing" the screen (as in screen captures, polling it for changes, etc) because that could absolutely kill performance. That's why I wonder if it wouldn't require driver access or update, in order to actually "push" the display out the HDMI port (note: I'm not a developer, so I can only do my best to keep up with what potential issues might be. )
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The framebuffer is unprotected on stock Evo's & rooted Evo's alike, so if you just grabbed every frame as it went through the framebuffer and outputted it to the display, it could be done easily on any Evo. That is unless HTC plugged the unprotected framebuffer bug on a new update.
In any case, it wouldn't be that hard, it'd hurt performance a little, but I don't know for sure. An app wouldn't be that hard to make, think a high speed screenshot app, talk to the devs of ShootMe about how they grab from the framebuffer.
Geniusdog254 said:
The framebuffer is unprotected on stock Evo's & rooted Evo's alike, so if you just grabbed every frame as it went through the framebuffer and outputted it to the display, it could be done easily on any Evo. That is unless HTC plugged the unprotected framebuffer bug on a new update.
In any case, it wouldn't be that hard, it'd hurt performance a little, but I don't know for sure. An app wouldn't be that hard to make, think a high speed screenshot app, talk to the devs of ShootMe about how they grab from the framebuffer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That IS Genius!! Is anyone going to do this, or do I need to? (I have no Android programming skills sadly!)
I finally got a working HDMI cable from Sprint. My Amzer cable is bad apparently!
I'm happy now!
But still, ANYONE want to embark on this project??
jigglywiggly said:
Yeah... would be nice, imagine HID bluetooth devices(wii mote controller) hook the phone to a tv, and play some classic games...
RIGHT ON
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now THAT would be awesome!
i hope someone figures this out because i really need HDMI out on slingplayer to work
I wonder if we can just find the piece of code that the stock Youtube & HTC Gallery uses to take advantage of the HDMI and then implement it as a system service? Or at least have HTC tell or post on their website how to implement the code in their app, especially for the slingplayer!
Ill buy someone an HDMI cable if they're willing to work on this lol
skewbasteve said:
I wonder if we can just find the piece of code that the stock Youtube & HTC Gallery uses to take advantage of the HDMI and then implement it as a system service? Or at least have HTC tell or post on their website how to implement the code in their app, especially for the slingplayer!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Easy, it's all right here!
docs.google.com/ View?id=dhtsnvs6_57d2hpqtgr#4_HDMI_output_support_82321908
(I can't seem to post a link so you'll have to copy/paste this one)
skewbasteve said:
I wonder if we can just find the piece of code that the stock Youtube & HTC Gallery uses to take advantage of the HDMI and then implement it as a system service? Or at least have HTC tell or post on their website how to implement the code in their app, especially for the slingplayer!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That won't work. It's already in the Evo developer docs as posted by the person above me. All it does is take any VideoView object in any app and broadcast it over HDMI unless you specifically tell it not to in the application manifest.
There is no way to run that as a service. As of yet I've tried the following:
Copy frames via CLI from /dev/graphics/fb0 (the main screen framebuffer) to /dev/graphics/fb1 (the HDMI framebuffer) to see if it is possible to work it like that. It isn't.
Symlink the two framebuffers so in theory whatever happens to one, should happen to the other. It doesn't work either. It does do something since it breaks HDMI output, but it doesn't display the screen. This could be because the resolution doesn't match one of the TVs supported resolutions.
I'm still going to try a custom kernel once I get my build environment set up (hopefully tomorrow) with a few changes, but I can't promise anything. Anything more complicated than Java is a little over my head, but I can do a little.
I'll keep you posted.
Regards,
Jesse C.
I'm willing to put $10 towards the bounty.
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
Hi xda users,
since the display of the Nexus 10 will be awesome I'm contemplating getting it because I'd really like to use it as a (second) screen for my computer. Does anyone know if this will be possible? Probably not without, but maybe *with* a mod? Can we use this Miracast Screen Share the other way round possibly?
It'd be really cool to play games on it as well, with the power of my desktop. I wouldn't be able to tell the pixels apart/ wouldn't see any pixelisation. Also this will get rid of the need for antialiasing which will boost performance
Woohoooo
There's an app for that
iDisplay or Splashtop 2
I personally haven't tried them out but they might be what your looking for.
Thanks! Well Splashtop2 is only over Wireless, so it's probably going to be to slow at least for gaming. iDevices with USB support looks better. Does anyone know how bad the latency is (with both)?
Anyway to make the tablet as a video monitor? i/e hdmi IN?
Splashtop2 is pretty good and there is hardly any delay so depending on what you are using it for it might be okay, but it doesn't give you an extra screen just mirrors an existing one. If you want an additional screen you could try airdisplay, haven't tried it for gaming but it might be okay.
Also I have played D3 using Splashtop and besides not being a very good game it worked fine.
OMG that's awesome sauce
OMG that's an awesome idea, the Nexus 10 has resolution comparable to my 30 inch monitor... crazy.
please post to tell us if it worked.
Yeah I'm very interested in this. I tried out Air Display and it worked well, but it had low framerates and some lag.
How can I use the Nexus 10 to replace the cracked screen on my Lenovo E420 laptop?
I will not always have access to a wireless network, so I need to find a solution that is either wired or bluetooth.
I assume a wired connection would be best, followed by bluetooth.
Thanks.
tt c6 said:
How can I use the Nexus 10 to replace the cracked screen on my Lenovo E420 laptop?
I will not always have access to a wireless network, so I need to find a solution that is either wired or bluetooth.
I assume a wired connection would be best, followed by bluetooth.
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think it's possible to do it wired, because the Nexus 10 has no input port for its display.
Bluetooth as far as I know does not have a protocoll for video transfer, so that's not possible either afaik.
However you might be able to connect them per WiFi Direct oder WiFi Ad-Hoc, meaning you don't need WiFi network on it's own because they connect directly or the Nexus 10 to the Ad-Hoc network, respectively. If your laptop supports WiFi Direct (you can look it up on the WiFi Alliance Website, every product is listed there) you might be able to use Miracast. But you need software for it on your laptop for windows or whatever you use. If you got Android 4.2 on it, then you don't need new software ;P (that's probably not easily achieved, but may be soon when there's an official x86 AndroidOSP Version).
If not, try DLNA. I don't know if Windows or Linux supports it, but I think support is achievable through software.
Good luck and report back if it works!
Hello. I was looking to replace my laptop these days and since i own a desktop pc,i was thinking maybe a tablet would be a solid solution for something more mobile. I own an android smartphone,but i don't know tablets and their limitations. So,to be more specific:
1) Is it possible to read/write data to external devices,like hdd or usb? And if so, does it need root or is it stock enabled?
2)Is it possible to mirror screen to a monitor? I'm reading strange answers about miracast and i am not completely sure if its micro hdmi out enables mirror screening or just movie streaming.
3)You think it is possible to do some programming on it? Obviously i am not talking about serious and heavy stuff, but since it comes with the best processor out on tablets-yet- and 2gb ram and there are many IDE's on play store i'm guessing it should be ok? Also,would it be a near laptop experience if i installed the linux app?
Hope i did't tire you,thanks for reading.
1)https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.homeysoft.nexususb.importer&hl=en <- non root.
2)HDMI out does complete mirroring iir
3)well, you could boot ubuntu if you HAD to. but i don't see why not.
I don't think Android in general is well suited for a laptop replacement. I need things like the ability to view more than one window at a time, particularly when programming.
That said, one of the first things I want to do is work on being able to dual boot Linux and Android. For most entertainment type things Android is best but for productivity I'd prefer to boot Linux.
Same here. I mainly got the Nexus 10 as a laptop/desktop alternative to connect to external LCD monitor, keyboard, mouse and possibly USB storage. It obviously seems powerful enough.
Questions:
Since the built-in display resolution is 2560x1600 and the HDMI output is 1920x1080 does it scale down the built-in display when mirroring?
In mirroring mode can you use the tablet as a touch input (laying it flat next to the keyboard) in place of mouse?
Thanks.
Thank you all for the fast answers.
1)From what i saw,usb importer is for reading only,not writing. So i'm guessing root is needed?
2)Thanks,i didn't know it mirrored to screen.
3)You are right about that part,programming needs many windows. Im guessing apps that offer ide's with multi tabs and possibly extending the display through the hdmi out to two monitors instead of mirror could be possible,right? How does the tablet do with compiling/running speed?
Obviously you are right though, dual boot would be the best option.
Thanks again.
If you are looking for the desktop experience, laptop is still your best choice, there's plenty of processing power, program compatibility, storage and screen space at ~$500. Tablets are mobile devices with limited HW and OS, but in return significantly faster internet, social media and multimedia access, better screen, longer battery life and much comfortable weight allowing the kind of easy use (e-reading in bed etc.) a laptop cannot. The closest tablets to a real laptop are the full Windows8 ones starting around $1000. If I wanted the programs and stuff I'd go with a $500 laptop, if I wanted the larger mobile, multimedia and reading experience, which I do, I'd get the Nexus 10.
https://wiki.ubuntu.com/Nexus7
That'll most likely happen on the Nexus 10 as well at some point
I need to replace my parents 7 year old Windows PC with a new one. I was thinking of getting a Android stick instead since their uses are limited to Skype, Hangouts, Facebook, occassional browsing and YouTube. Besides, at least my mom has become pretty familiar with her Android phone.
What I have in mind is this:
Buy a monitor with HDMI port or DVI. The monitor will have built in speakers as well. Connect the stick to it.
Attach a USB hub to the stick.
Attach webcam, keyboard and mouse to the hub. Alternatively, attach keyboard and mouse to the USB ports in the monitor (if available). I don't want to use bluetooth because they will find recharging the keyboard/mouse difficult.
My questions are:
How effective this setup will be for the above mentioned purposes? The reason I ask this is because most people seem to be using Android stick primarily as a media player.
I tried hooking up two tablets to my TV, neither of them gave full screen. Will I face such problems with the stick? Do I need to look for any specific monitor resolutions or aspect ratios?
If I attach keyboard and mouse to the monitor's USB port, will it work?
Are there any sticks which will support touch screen monitors out of the box?
Will it play the sound through monitor out of the box?
In case I have to use bluetooth, can I pair both keyboard and mouse at the same time?
Do I need to shutdown the stick just like a PC or will a simple mains switch off be enough? Or can I leave it running all the time without worrying about the power consumption?
Please recommend a good stick for this purpose.
Am I overlooking something? Will I need any extra components?
I will most likely be telling them over the phone on how to set up the whole thing. So any kind of tinkering with software (like rooting or some form of modding) will not be possible.
unni_kmr said:
I need to replace my parents 7 year old Windows PC with a new one. I was thinking of getting a Android stick instead since their uses are limited to Skype, Hangouts, Facebook, occassional browsing and YouTube. Besides, at least my mom has become pretty familiar with her Android phone.
What I have in mind is this:
Buy a monitor with HDMI port or DVI. The monitor will have built in speakers as well. Connect the stick to it.
Attach a USB hub to the stick.
Attach webcam, keyboard and mouse to the hub. Alternatively, attach keyboard and mouse to the USB ports in the monitor (if available). I don't want to use bluetooth because they will find recharging the keyboard/mouse difficult.
My questions are:
How effective this setup will be for the above mentioned purposes? The reason I ask this is because most people seem to be using Android stick primarily as a media player.
I tried hooking up two tablets to my TV, neither of them gave full screen. Will I face such problems with the stick? Do I need to look for any specific monitor resolutions or aspect ratios?
If I attach keyboard and mouse to the monitor's USB port, will it work?
Are there any sticks which will support touch screen monitors out of the box?
Will it play the sound through monitor out of the box?
In case I have to use bluetooth, can I pair both keyboard and mouse at the same time?
Do I need to shutdown the stick just like a PC or will a simple mains switch off be enough? Or can I leave it running all the time without worrying about the power consumption?
Please recommend a good stick for this purpose.
Am I overlooking something? Will I need any extra components?
I will most likely be telling them over the phone on how to set up the whole thing. So any kind of tinkering with software (like rooting or some form of modding) will not be possible.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a Minix X7, which is my first android mini pc.. here's my thoughts regarding your list:
1. If you connect the mini pc (stick or otherwise) using HDMI cable to the monitor, you will have audio through the monitor.
2. If you buy a mini pc instead of a stick, you wouldn't need an additional usb hub (see X5 or X7)
3. You will need to use a logitech webcam (at least to use stock roms on Minix)
4. For browsing, Facebook, and Skype, the X7 will handle that easily, on a wired/wireless connection
5. Full screen works fine (either 1080p or 720p)
6. I have never used a touch screen monitor, but this thread has some guidance (http://www.freaktab.com/showthread.php?1802-Touchscreen).. a little more involved than plug-and-play
7. The X7will pair both a keyboard and mouse via bt at once, though I would recommend using the usb ports if you are setting it up at a desk
8. My X7 almost never gets shut off. Usually just shut off the monitor and let it stay on. The power consumption is minimal, especially when not being used.
Also, as far as a recommendation, I find the X7 to be pretty good. You'd probably be ok with an X5 if they aren't planning on using it as a media center and want to save some $$$. A lot of the cheap sticks are made by manufacturers who do not provide updates or product support, but since the end of July, Minix has come out with 3 firmware updates, and another one is almost ready. (They would have released update 005 except Rockchip released an update to their code and Minix want to integrate it prior to their next release, as it improves video playback).
On the negative side, the firmware does still have occasional glitches. Although my X7 has been up for days on end, every once in a while it just freezes up, and i have to pull the power cable, plug it back in, and turn it on. Also, the X7 had some early issues with SD cards, but if you don't plan on using an SD card, that shouldn't be an issue.
If you believe an android device will do everything your parents need in a PC, I think it's a great idea. Low power consumption (4W vs the 160-220W of my HTPC), low heat, no noise, low price, and decent reliability.
One more thought, if you wish to root/update firmware, etc, get the device shipped to you, then ship it to your parents. It'll take a few more days, but you can set it up and make sure everything suits their needs prior to delivery..
Mike_77 said:
I have a Minix X7, which is my first android mini pc.. here's my thoughts regarding your list:
1. If you connect the mini pc (stick or otherwise) using HDMI cable to the monitor, you will have audio through the monitor.
2. If you buy a mini pc instead of a stick, you wouldn't need an additional usb hub (see X5 or X7)
3. You will need to use a logitech webcam (at least to use stock roms on Minix)
4. For browsing, Facebook, and Skype, the X7 will handle that easily, on a wired/wireless connection
5. Full screen works fine (either 1080p or 720p)
6. I have never used a touch screen monitor, but this thread has some guidance (http://www.freaktab.com/showthread.php?1802-Touchscreen).. a little more involved than plug-and-play
7. The X7will pair both a keyboard and mouse via bt at once, though I would recommend using the usb ports if you are setting it up at a desk
8. My X7 almost never gets shut off. Usually just shut off the monitor and let it stay on. The power consumption is minimal, especially when not being used.
Also, as far as a recommendation, I find the X7 to be pretty good. You'd probably be ok with an X5 if they aren't planning on using it as a media center and want to save some $$$. A lot of the cheap sticks are made by manufacturers who do not provide updates or product support, but since the end of July, Minix has come out with 3 firmware updates, and another one is almost ready. (They would have released update 005 except Rockchip released an update to their code and Minix want to integrate it prior to their next release, as it improves video playback).
On the negative side, the firmware does still have occasional glitches. Although my X7 has been up for days on end, every once in a while it just freezes up, and i have to pull the power cable, plug it back in, and turn it on. Also, the X7 had some early issues with SD cards, but if you don't plan on using an SD card, that shouldn't be an issue.
If you believe an android device will do everything your parents need in a PC, I think it's a great idea. Low power consumption (4W vs the 160-220W of my HTPC), low heat, no noise, low price, and decent reliability.
One more thought, if you wish to root/update firmware, etc, get the device shipped to you, then ship it to your parents. It'll take a few more days, but you can set it up and make sure everything suits their needs prior to delivery..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is a great wright up of x7 I love mine and agree 100 % with what you have said here. I've tried the uab sticks they don't work as well plus no heat on the x7 that thing is built well to last. I have set p.o.s. (point of sales) systems up in the past using the x5 cheap and fast browsing experience.
Good luck hope your parents are happy with what ever you end up doing.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk 4
I have MK808b (dual core with 1GB RAM), and using it as a media center, but also as a PC for browsing INTERNET. It is connected to pc monitor with HDMI, and works perfectly in full HD resolution.
I can't find any reason not to use it as a replacement for PC, especially if you use cloud storage services.
Mike_77 said:
I have a Minix X7, which is my first android mini pc.. here's my thoughts regarding your list...
6. I have never used a touch screen monitor, but this thread has some guidance (http://www.freaktab.com/showthread.php?1802-Touchscreen).. a little more involved than plug-and-play
One more thought, if you wish to root/update firmware, etc, get the device shipped to you, then ship it to your parents. It'll take a few more days, but you can set it up and make sure everything suits their needs prior to delivery..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks very much for this detailed reply. Really appreciate you taking time to write all these.
I have dropped the idea of using touch screen, since they seem to be 3 times the cost of a regular monitor (in India).
Regarding the shipping, I am in US now and parents are in India. I am not exactly sure if customs will cause any problems. That's why I am thinking of ordering from eBay India itself. Only problem is eBay India seller is charging around $204, probably because this is a new device.
dincdoes.me said:
Good luck hope your parents are happy with what ever you end up doing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If this works as expected for the above purposes, I am the one who will be more happy. In the last 2 years, I have spent a lot of hours through LogMeIn remote desktop updating and maintaining the PC. Where my parents stay, there are scheduled powercuts for 1 hour per day for atleast half of the year, and power comes and goes every now and then even otherwise. This inconsistency in power was another reason that made me lean towards the mini PCs. Besides, my mom, who is the primary user of the PC, has become more familiar with Android (through her phone), and she likes playing the games a lot as well.
draskome said:
I have MK808b (dual core with 1GB RAM), and using it as a media center, but also as a PC for browsing INTERNET. It is connected to pc monitor with HDMI, and works perfectly in full HD resolution.
I can't find any reason not to use it as a replacement for PC, especially if you use cloud storage services.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What resolution is your monitor?
Cloud storage will be a problem, since the internet at my parents house is only 512 kbps.
I am thinking of getting the X7 or X5 mainly because of the software updates, since I won't need to purchase any hub and since I can use my existing Logitech C310 webcam.
I have few more questions regarding the X7:
1. How responsive is the keyboard and mouse? Can I expect a response similar to a normal Windows PC?
2. If I use a monitor that has a resolution between 720p and 1080p (something like 1360x768 for example), will the device handle it properly or will it look odd (like stretched)?
3. Will it get updated automatically? I saw one video in YouTube in which he was manually flashing it using some Windows utility. Is that the only way to update?
I have two devices.
First device is a 70 dollar single core tablet with a broken touch screen. It was to expensive to fix it so I turned it into a server.
1. it runs Servers ultimate pro running a WebDav server, PHP/MySQL server for RSS feeds and a home site for the family, ddns updater and an FTP server.
2. it is running a surveillance app that sends an email to me the moment anything moves in the camera shot.
3. runs a PocketMine-MP server
4. runs an app to auto stop and start apps dring certain times of the day.
All this is remotely accessible VIA webkey.
Second device is an iMito MX1
1. it has a 7 port hub attached.
2. a HD webcam for Skype.
3. two harddrives (a 1 TB driver for media storage and a 720GB for internal memory replacement)(more on that in a min)
4. plays netflix, red box, youtube, Vevo, crackle and XBMC... to name a few
5. has 32 games loaded up with a Logitech F710 wireless controller VIA an app for onscreen touch.
6. Logitech full sized KB and Mouse.
I use this thing for web browsing, shooting vids and pics over to it from my phone for family sharing(DLNA)
The 750gig harddrive is currently the SDCARD but the internal one(NAND). The internal NAND is no longer used and the harddrive is where the OS stores the app's file to SD and the apps extra downloads. This has allowed me to download 15 games that contain 1+gig of extra data each.
All this has replaced two PC's in my house running 24/7. My electric bill has dropped 100+ dollars a month and the house has become quieter.
Let me tell you that two PC's(one was a server and the other a media center) running at full speed just to watch a movie took 280 watts of power. My new setup only consumes 24 at peak! Plus less heat and fan noise! I changed over around a year ago and never looked back or miss my old setup.
If you plan on running one fore a PC replacement I recommend a quad core. Sometimes the browsers can get a bit poky and that is due to the slower CPU. Also Webkey a must for remote management. This one FREE app has saved me more times then I can could. It has tons of functions and features but it's best feature is the remote control. It is just like setting in front of the device but just a tad slower. It is not a perfect app but it is the only remote app that I have found to work time and time again.
unni_kmr said:
What resolution is your monitor?
Cloud storage will be a problem, since the internet at my parents house is only 512 kbps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My monitor is 24" 1080p, and it's perfectly suitable for the purpose
For the office documents, 512kbps is quite enough, but not for pics, videos....
unni_kmr said:
Thanks very much for this detailed reply. Really appreciate you taking time to write all these.
I have dropped the idea of using touch screen, since they seem to be 3 times the cost of a regular monitor (in India).
Regarding the shipping, I am in US now and parents are in India. I am not exactly sure if customs will cause any problems. That's why I am thinking of ordering from eBay India itself. Only problem is eBay India seller is charging around $204, probably because this is a new device.
What resolution is your monitor?
Cloud storage will be a problem, since the internet at my parents house is only 512 kbps.
I am thinking of getting the X7 or X5 mainly because of the software updates, since I won't need to purchase any hub and since I can use my existing Logitech C310 webcam.
I have few more questions regarding the X7:
1. How responsive is the keyboard and mouse? Can I expect a response similar to a normal Windows PC?
2. If I use a monitor that has a resolution between 720p and 1080p (something like 1360x768 for example), will the device handle it properly or will it look odd (like stretched)?
3. Will it get updated automatically? I saw one video in YouTube in which he was manually flashing it using some Windows utility. Is that the only way to update?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm glad to share my experience. I was a bit hesitant to buy one originally, but have been more than happy with my purchase.
I bought mine from http://www.aliexpress.com/item/MINIX-NEO-X7-Android-TV-Box-RK3188-Quad-Core-Mini-PC-1-6GHz-2G-16G-WiFi/1086507000.html# shipped DHL for only $3 more, and had it delivered in 3 days to Hawaii from China.
Updates are kind of a pain until they implement OTA updates, which they say they're going to do. That's why I recommend shipping to you first, and then you can send to your parents. I understand the customs issue though.. tough decision on that one.
I use mine on a 55" 1080p tv, and the picture quality is outstanding. The picture does not looked stretched or odd any any way. I believe it will detect the correct display settings and you can set the resolution you desire in /settings/display/resolution (trying to remember exact menu it's under)
The keyboard and mouse is just as responsive as a windows pc. There are a couple of times there is a bit of lag, but that is just a function of how much stuff is running. Even when you experience lag, it isn't anything significant.
There is a working version of CWM that will allow you to flash updates like an Android phone, but you will have to use the pc utility to install CWM (available on freaktab.com) Once CWM is installed, you can package the update files into a zip that is premade other than your update files, and it'll update for you.
There is a lot more information on freaktab.com. I alternated between that and minixforums.com for a while when trying to decide which android mini pc to buy. After weeks of research, I decided the wait for the X7 was worth it, and haven't regretted my decision since.
Thanks very much for all the replies. Sorry that I didn't reply for a long time. I tried ordering Minix Neo X7 from the AliExpress link. But they rejected my payment due to security concerns (I used an US credit card and gave India adress which probably raised some red flags). Then I ordered from eBay India. Waiting for it to be shipped.
I also came across another interesting product that could have satisfied all my requirements. Its the ViewSonic VSD220. Its a touch screen monitor with speakers, web cam, USB ports and is a Android mini PC. The only down side was that a YouTube review said its processor is not upto the mark.
unni_kmr said:
Thanks very much for all the replies. Sorry that I didn't reply for a long time. I tried ordering Minix Neo X7 from the AliExpress link. But they rejected my payment due to security concerns (I used an US credit card and gave India adress which probably raised some red flags). Then I ordered from eBay India. Waiting for it to be shipped.
I also came across another interesting product that could have satisfied all my requirements. Its the ViewSonic VSD220. Its a touch screen monitor with speakers, web cam, USB ports and is a Android mini PC. The only down side was that a YouTube review said its processor is not upto the mark.
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I think you'll get better performance out of the X7. Have you read all the info, etc on minixforums.com? Also, starting with FW006, they are supporting SDCard firmware updates (theoretically, though I haven't tried it)
reddragon72 said:
I have two devices.
First device is a 70 dollar single core tablet with a broken touch screen. It was to expensive to fix it so I turned it into a server.
1. it runs Servers ultimate pro running a WebDav server, PHP/MySQL server for RSS feeds and a home site for the family, ddns updater and an FTP server.
2. it is running a surveillance app that sends an email to me the moment anything moves in the camera shot.
3. runs a PocketMine-MP server
4. runs an app to auto stop and start apps dring certain times of the day.
All this is remotely accessible VIA webkey.
Second device is an iMito MX1
1. it has a 7 port hub attached.
2. a HD webcam for Skype.
3. two harddrives (a 1 TB driver for media storage and a 720GB for internal memory replacement)(more on that in a min)
4. plays netflix, red box, youtube, Vevo, crackle and XBMC... to name a few
5. has 32 games loaded up with a Logitech F710 wireless controller VIA an app for onscreen touch.
6. Logitech full sized KB and Mouse.
I use this thing for web browsing, shooting vids and pics over to it from my phone for family sharing(DLNA)
The 750gig harddrive is currently the SDCARD but the internal one(NAND). The internal NAND is no longer used and the harddrive is where the OS stores the app's file to SD and the apps extra downloads. This has allowed me to download 15 games that contain 1+gig of extra data each.
All this has replaced two PC's in my house running 24/7. My electric bill has dropped 100+ dollars a month and the house has become quieter.
Let me tell you that two PC's(one was a server and the other a media center) running at full speed just to watch a movie took 280 watts of power. My new setup only consumes 24 at peak! Plus less heat and fan noise! I changed over around a year ago and never looked back or miss my old setup.
If you plan on running one fore a PC replacement I recommend a quad core. Sometimes the browsers can get a bit poky and that is due to the slower CPU. Also Webkey a must for remote management. This one FREE app has saved me more times then I can could. It has tons of functions and features but it's best feature is the remote control. It is just like setting in front of the device but just a tad slower. It is not a perfect app but it is the only remote app that I have found to work time and time again.
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Your guidance would be greatly appreciated. What would you reccomend for luanchers or either installing a new system on the Tronsmart T428. I just can't stand using the android with my wifi keyboard w built-in mouse. The android pop-up keyboard takes up half of my projector screen when it pops up even with null keyboard installed. When selecting a link if a similar page ops up there is no scroll bars on the right letting you know to scroll down or if ytou are still on the smae page waiting for stuff to upload. i guess I'm looking for more of an Ubuntu 10x or windows experience. Traditional keyboard and mouse vs touch screen. NOw that I think about it I bet I have to get hulu plus to watch anything on this bc it acts like a tablet.
Hello all,
The main reason I bought an Nvidia Shield Android TV was to replace my PS3 as a media server and most importantly to free up my desktop so my wife could use it for her work.
However, I've since discovered that the shield game streaming facility uses up the monitors, keyboard and mouse, rendering the desktop PC a complete slave to the shield console, it doesn't stream the game silently in the background like say a media server would like plex or whatever.
I've tried installing the drivers for the onboard graphics card, sticking a HDMI cable in the back of one of the monitors and using the onboard HDMI, using that monitor's interface as the primary one so my wife could use it, but when I try and stream a game on the shield it just tells me that the GeForce GPU needs to be the primary source.
A bit annoying, I might need to fork out some money on a new machine just so she can use the desk, we don't have much room in the house.
I can't really think of any other way to get around this. Anyone else had any luck??
any help would be greatly appreciated!!
many thanks
Antóin
As far as I have seen there is no software to do what your wanting.
darhoade said:
As far as I have seen there is no software to do what your wanting.
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That is truly a bummer...
antoin_currie said:
Hello all,
The main reason I bought an Nvidia Shield Android TV was to replace my PS3 as a media server and most importantly to free up my desktop so my wife could use it for her work.
However, I've since discovered that the shield game streaming facility uses up the monitors, keyboard and mouse, rendering the desktop PC a complete slave to the shield console, it doesn't stream the game silently in the background like say a media server would like plex or whatever.
I've tried installing the drivers for the onboard graphics card, sticking a HDMI cable in the back of one of the monitors and using the onboard HDMI, using that monitor's interface as the primary one so my wife could use it, but when I try and stream a game on the shield it just tells me that the GeForce GPU needs to be the primary source.
A bit annoying, I might need to fork out some money on a new machine just so she can use the desk, we don't have much room in the house.
I can't really think of any other way to get around this. Anyone else had any luck??
any help would be greatly appreciated!!
many thanks
Antóin
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Click to collapse
I guess you misunderstood what they meant by streaming the game form your pc. All your Shield TV is doing is being a controller basically. Your PC is actually sending a h.264 video of what is on your PC to your Shield TV.
lol
I agree, I wish it did it in the background as well. Hopefully that is the option in the future as streaming matures. I'd take a slightly lower quality (720p 60fps) if it meant my wife could use the PC while I stream a game.
try this with most of your games on your current machine as is. while yes there might be a few you can multitask with, alot of apps and programs require "focus". focus is what happens when your background windows jump to the foreground. you cant click on and interact with background windows without putting them into focus. yes you can leave them running but games require this same interaction. its just the way most operating systems and programs work.
again, yes i realize that some games do allow this, but not all, as it comes down to how the game is programmed, therefore its not nvidia's fault. Some games dont even allow you to play with the gamepad if the game is not in focus. Hope this helps better understand the situation.
Hello, do you can turn monitor off?