Raspberry PI Digital Display

Convert a TV or Monitor to a simple digital display using a Raspberry PI and Magic-Mirror framework.

Introduction

This project describes how to use a Raspberry PI to create a Digital Display that converts any TV or Monitor into a simple digital display using the Magic-Mirror platform. The solution is cost-effective and perfect for displaying photos, information, or creating ambient displays.

Features

• Plug & Play Setup: Easy connection via HDMI
• WiFi Configuration: Simple wireless setup process
• Shared Folders: Network access for easy content management
• Photo Slideshow: Automatic cycling through images
• Magic Mirror Integration: Extensible platform with modules
• Cost Effective: Uses Raspberry PI Zero 2 W for minimal cost

Hardware Requirements

• Raspberry PI Zero 2 W (most cost-effective option)
• Mini-HDMI to HDMI cable
• Micro-USB cable and mobile phone charger
• Micro-USB OTG adapter (for initial setup)
• TV or Monitor with HDMI input

Usage

Connecting

The Raspberry PI needs the following connections to work:

• Display: Connect to the TV/Monitor via a mini-HDMI to HDMI cable
• Power: Power via a micro-USB cable and a mobile-phone charger
• Input: Keyboard via a micro-USB OTG (on-the-go) adapter (only for initial setup)

After powering up and switching the TV/Monitor to the correct input, the digital display interface should appear.

Initial Configuration

WIFI Setup

The following actions are to be taken on the Raspberry PI:

1. Open the "Start Menu" by pressing the "Windows" button
2. Open the "Terminal" application under the "Accessories" application group
3. Run sudo raspi-config on the terminal to open the raspberry configuration application
4. Select "System Options" and then "Wireless LAN" (use arrow keys and the enter key)
5. Type the WIFI name and then the WIFI Password
6. Select "Finish" (use the tab key)

Shared Folders Setup

The following actions are to be taken on a Windows PC:

1. Open "File Explorer"
2. Type \\rpi-dd1\ on the path
3. Enter the provided credentials
4. Configuration: Folder \\rpi-dd1\dd-config contains the configuration file
5. Live Images: Folder \\rpi-dd1\dd-gallery\live contains the images that are displayed in the TV/Monitor
6. Storage: Folder \\rpi-dd1\dd-gallery can be used to store images

Technical Implementation

Magic Mirror Framework

Raspberry PI Digital Display uses MagicMirror as the core framework, which provides:

• Modular architecture
• Web-based configuration
• Extensible plugin system
• Responsive display layouts

Background Slideshow Module

The project integrates MMM-BackgroundSlideshow for image display functionality:

• Automatic image cycling
• Configurable timing intervals
• Support for various image formats
• Smooth transitions between images

Configuration

Both MagicMirror and MMM-BackgroundSlideshow can be configured from the configuration file in the dd-config folder, allowing for:

• Display timing adjustments
• Image directory configuration
• Module positioning
• Appearance customization

Project Repository

Detailed instructions on how to create your own RPI-DD can be found on the project's repository.

The repository includes:

• Complete setup scripts
• Configuration templates
• Installation guides
• Troubleshooting documentation

Use Cases

This digital display solution is perfect for:

• Home: Family photo displays, ambient information screens
• Office: Meeting room displays, information boards
• Retail: Product showcases, promotional displays
• Events: Photo galleries, information displays

Benefits

• Low Cost: Minimal hardware investment using Raspberry PI Zero 2 W
• Easy Setup: Simple plug-and-play installation
• Remote Management: Network-based content updates
• Extensible: Magic Mirror's modular system allows for additional features
• Energy Efficient: Low power consumption for 24/7 operation