Wireless Display Setup with Info-Beamer on Raspberry Pi – Q&A

Wireless Display Setup with Info-Beamer on Raspberry Pi – Q&A

Q: Can I connect multiple wireless displays to a Raspberry Pi running Info-Beamer?

A: Yes, but with some limitations. Here's what you need to know:

✔ Possible Wireless Display Options:

  1. Miracast (Best for Android/Windows Displays)

    • Requires: miraclecast (Linux-compatible software)

    • Works with most modern smart TVs and wireless dongles

    • Latency: Medium (~100-300ms)

  2. AirPlay (For Apple Displays)

    • Requires: shairport-sync or RPiPlay

    • Works with Apple TVs and AirPlay-compatible displays

    • Latency: Medium-High (~200-500ms)

  3. Chromecast (Google Cast)

    • Requires: info-beamer to stream via browser tab casting

    • Works with Chromecast dongles or built-in TV support

    • Latency: High (~500ms-1s)


Q: What are the technical limitations?

A: Key challenges with wireless displays on Raspberry Pi:

⚠️ Performance Constraints:

  • Max 2-3 displays before lag becomes noticeable (Pi 4 recommended)

  • HD resolution (1080p) only – 4K is too demanding

  • Wi-Fi congestion may cause stuttering (use 5GHz band if possible)

🔌 Required Setup:

  • Raspberry Pi 4 (2GB+ RAM recommended)

  • Strong, dedicated Wi-Fi network (no shared/public networks)

  • Wireless displays must support Miracast/AirPlay/Chromecast


Q: How do I set this up with Info-Beamer?

Option 1: Miracast (Linux-Compatible)

  1. Install miraclecast:


    sudo apt install miraclecast
  2. Pair displays via Wi-Fi Direct

  3. Configure Info-Beamer to output to virtual display

Option 2: AirPlay (For Apple Devices)

  1. Install RPiPlay:

    git clone https://github.com/FD-/RPiPlay.git
    cd RPiPlay && ./build.sh
  2. Run as background service:

    ./rpiplay -n "Info-Beamer Display"
  3. Cast from iOS/macOS devices

Option 3: Chromecast (Simplest but Higher Latency)

  1. Use info-beamer's web interface

  2. Cast Chrome tab to Chromecast devices

  3. Limited to browser-based content


Q: What’s the most reliable wireless solution?

Method Latency Max Displays Setup Difficulty Best For
Miracast Medium 2-3 Moderate Android/Windows
AirPlay Medium-High 1-2 Easy Apple Ecosystem
Chromecast High 1-2 Very Easy Web Content

Recommendation:

  • For lowest latency → Miracast

  • For Apple devices → AirPlay

  • For simplicity → Chromecast


Q: Any alternatives if wireless isn’t stable enough?

A: If reliability is critical, consider:

  1. HDMI over IP (wired Ethernet-based solution)

  2. Long HDMI cables + splitters (zero latency)

  3. Dedicated media players (BrightSign, etc.)