Video output

Overview

SolarAssistant is typically used as a network device and accessed via a web browser, Android or iPhone app. There is however the option to connect a screen, keyboard and mouse or touch screen to interact with it directly.

Configuration

Navigate to the local access configuration page. Select whether you want to use an interactive kiosk or text based console.

When your device boots up the first time, this is the output mode that will be active:

Interactive kiosk

The HDMI port outputs the full interactive SolarAssistant application. Typical usage is with a computer monitor, keyboard and mouse or touch screen. See the videos below to get an idea of how it works.

Text based console

This is the linux terminal, which is similar to SSH. This is intended for technical users that are already familiar with linux. The default username and password is:

Username: solar-assistant
Password: solar123

No video output?

If you do not have video output, you are most likely running the older Raspberry PI 32 bit image. If you are unable to access your device, see our Bluetooth guide.

Keyboard and mouse

We recommend using a Rii mini keyboard for the best experience of SolarAssistant video output:

• Rii mini keyboards on Amazon ($12 - $30)
• Rii mini keyboards on Takealot (R150 - R250)