Introduction

The Cross Border Summit in November is an exciting event, and as the IT team, you’ll want dynamic displays around the venue to show real-time API stats, countdown timers, websites, or custom dashboards. The RegardingWork Display System is a web-based platform (built with FastAPI on Replit) that lets you configure and manage these dashboards centrally. Devices pull content via unique URLs or JSON endpoints, making it easy to deploy on various screens.

This tutorial covers hardware options to connect and display the system on TVs and computer monitors. We’ll start with the most common and accessible solutions (like Raspberry Pi) and move to less common ones. For all options, the core setup involves loading a browser in kiosk mode to access your device’s unique dashboard URL (e.g., https://your-replit-app.com/device/{device_id}/dashboard) from the system. Register devices in the web app first, then configure them to auto-load the URL on boot.

Prerequisites: Access to the RegardingWork Display System web app, HDMI cables for connections, and basic networking (WiFi/Ethernet).

Raspberry Pi is the go-to for affordable, reliable digital signage. It’s compact, low-power, and widely available—perfect for events where you need multiple screens without breaking the bank.

Equipment Needed:

  • Raspberry Pi 4 or 5 (~$35-80; older models like Pi 3 work but are slower).
  • MicroSD card (16GB+ with Raspberry Pi OS installed).
  • HDMI cable to connect to TV/monitor.
  • Power adapter (USB-C for Pi 4/5).
  • Optional: Case, keyboard/mouse for setup, or Ethernet cable for stable connection.

Setup Steps:

  1. Install Raspberry Pi OS (Lite version for headless use) on the SD card using the Raspberry Pi Imager tool.

  2. Boot the Pi, connect to WiFi/Ethernet, and update:

    sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

  3. Install a browser like Chromium:

    sudo apt install chromium-browser

  4. Configure kiosk mode: Edit /etc/xdg/autostart/kiosk.desktop with:

    [Desktop Entry]
Type=Application
Exec=chromium-browser --kiosk --noerrdialogs --disable-infobars https://your-replit-app.com/device/{device_id}/dashboard

  5. Reboot and connect to the TV/monitor via HDMI. The dashboard will load full-screen automatically.

  6. For multiple screens: Clone the setup on additional Pis, assigning unique device IDs in the web app.

Pros: Cheap, customizable, supports 4K on newer models. Cons: Requires initial setup time.

Option 2: Existing Computer or Laptop

If you have spare PCs or laptops, repurpose them—common in events with on-hand equipment.

Equipment Needed:

  • Any Windows/Mac/Linux computer with HDMI output.
  • HDMI cable to TV/monitor.
  • Optional: External keyboard/mouse if not using built-in.

Setup Steps:

  1. Connect the computer to the TV/monitor via HDMI and set as extended/primary display.
  2. Open a browser (Chrome/Firefox) and navigate to the dashboard URL.
  3. Enable kiosk mode: For Chrome, use chrome.exe --kiosk --incognito https://url (add to startup via Task Scheduler on Windows or .plist on Mac).
  4. Disable sleep/power-saving in OS settings to keep it running 24/7.
  5. For auto-start: Use scripts or tools like AutoHotkey (Windows) to launch on boot.

Pros: No new hardware needed. Cons: Bulkier, higher power use.

Option 3: Smart TV with Built-in Browser

Many modern smart TVs have web browsers, making this plug-and-play if available.

Equipment Needed:

  • Smart TV (e.g., Samsung, LG, Android TV) with internet browser app.
  • WiFi/Ethernet connection.

Setup Steps:

  1. Connect TV to WiFi.
  2. Open the built-in browser (e.g., via app store if not pre-installed).
  3. Enter the dashboard URL and set to full-screen (use TV remote for kiosk-like mode).
  4. For persistence: Some TVs allow pinning apps or auto-launch; otherwise, use a remote control script or leave it running.

Pros: No extra hardware. Cons: Limited browser features; may not support auto-refresh well.

Option 4: HDMI Streaming Devices (e.g., Chromecast or Fire Stick)

Common for quick HDMI plug-ins, especially if you have streaming sticks lying around.

Equipment Needed:

  • Google Chromecast ($30) or Amazon Fire TV Stick ($40).
  • HDMI port on TV/monitor.
  • WiFi connection.

Setup Steps:

  1. Plug into HDMI and set up via app.
  2. Cast from a phone/laptop: Open the dashboard URL in Chrome and cast the tab (Chromecast) or mirror screen (Fire Stick).
  3. For standalone: Install a browser app (e.g., Silk on Fire Stick) and load the URL in kiosk mode.
  4. Auto-start: Use developer options or apps like “Kiosk Browser” from the store.

Pros: Portable, easy setup. Cons: Relies on casting stability.

Less common but powerful for high-res displays.

Equipment Needed:

  • Mini PC (~$100-200) with HDMI output.
  • OS (Windows/Linux).

Setup Steps:

  1. Install OS and connect to TV/monitor.
  2. Follow similar browser kiosk steps as for computers (Option 2).

Pros: High performance for complex dashboards. Cons: More expensive.

Option 6: Android Tablets or Boxes (Least Common)

If you have Android devices, connect via HDMI for makeshift displays.

Equipment Needed:

  • Android tablet/box (~$50-100) with HDMI out (or adapter).
  • HDMI cable.

Setup Steps:

  1. Connect to TV/monitor.
  2. Install a kiosk app (e.g., Fully Kiosk Browser) and set to load the URL.
  3. Enable auto-start and lock mode.

Pros: Touch-capable if needed. Cons: Less reliable for events.

Conclusion

Start with Raspberry Pi for reliability and cost-effectiveness at the Summit. In the RegardingWork web app, group devices by location (e.g., “Stage Monitors”) for easy management. Test setups in advance, ensure stable WiFi, and monitor via the app’s status features. For questions, reach out to the system admin. Happy event planning!