This document outlines the steps to set up and manage the HootBoard Signage Player on Google Streaming Devices, such as the Google TV Streamer or Chromecast with Google TV, to ensure seamless operation of your digital signage.
Prerequisites
Before you begin, ensure you have the following:
Google Streaming Device: A Google TV Streamer, Chromecast with Google TV, or any device running the Google TV interface with Android 7 (API 24) or later.
HootBoard Account: An active HootBoard account with a premium plan that supports digital signage.
Screen ID: A unique 6-digit Screen ID to pair your device with your HootBoard account. Learn how to locate your Screen ID here.
Stable Internet Connection: A Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection with internet access, not behind a captive portal.
TV or Monitor: A display with Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution or better, connected via HDMI.
Input Device: A keyboard or mouse for initial setup (optional but recommended).
Installation Steps
Follow these steps to install and configure the HootBoard Signage Player on your Google Streaming Device:
Power On and Connect the Device:
Plug your Google Streaming Device into the HDMI port of your TV or monitor.
Connect the device to a power source.
Turn on the TV and select the appropriate HDMI input.
Set Up the Google Streaming Device:
Follow the on-screen prompts to set up your device, including selecting your language, region, and Wi-Fi network.
Sign in to your Google account when prompted. Ensure the network has internet access and is not restricted by a captive portal.
Update the device to the latest Google TV firmware via Settings > System > About > System Update.
Download the HootBoard Signage Player App:
Open the Google Play Store on your Google Streaming Device.
Search for “HootBoard Signage Player” (Note: If not available, use the provided APK link from HootBoard support, as outlined below).
Install the app. If the app is not listed, download the APK from the official HootBoard Google Drive link provided by support (contact support@hootboard.uservoice.com for access).
If installing via APK, use a file manager app to locate and install the APK. Grant necessary permissions as prompted.
Launch the HootBoard Signage Player App:
Open the HootBoard Signage Player app from the Google TV home screen or apps menu.
On first launch, you’ll see the “Welcome to HootBoard” screen with a “Setup My HootBoard” button. Click it using the remote or an attached input device.
Pair the Device with Your HootBoard Account:
Select “Unlocking Screen ID Magic” if you have an existing HootBoard with a Screen ID.
Enter the 6-digit Screen ID using the on-screen keyboard or a physical keyboard. Ensure accuracy, as each Screen ID is unique to one device.
After verification, the device will pair with your HootBoard account and begin loading content.
Enable Full-Screen Mode:
In the HootBoard app, navigate to Settings > Display and select Enter Full Screen Mode to optimize the display for signage.
Adjust overscan settings if the content does not fit the screen properly. Go to Settings > Device Preferences > Display & Sound > Display > Overscan and use the on-screen arrows to align the display to the edges.
Verify Content Display:
Once paired, the device will display content from your HootBoard, such as posts, videos, or announcements.
Ensure videos are hosted on supported platforms like YouTube or Vimeo (unlisted, not private) and are under 6 minutes for auto-play. Closed captions, if available, will display by default.
Optional: Configure Auto-Launch:
To ensure the HootBoard app launches automatically on boot:
Go to Settings > Apps > HootBoard Signage Player > Open by Default and enable auto-launch if supported.
Alternatively, use a third-party auto-boot app from the Google Play Store, following HootBoard’s autoboot guide for FireOS devices (adaptable for Google TV).
Managing Content
Content Updates: Manage posts, videos, and announcements from your HootBoard dashboard at www.hootboard.com. Changes reflect in real-time on the paired device.
Supported Content:
Images and videos (up to 6 minutes) hosted on YouTube, Vimeo, or other supported platforms.
QR codes for mobile interaction.
Collections and sequences for organized content display (see HootBoard’s guide on sequences).
Layouts: Customize layouts via the HootBoard dashboard to control how content appears on the screen.
Troubleshooting
No Signal: Ensure the HDMI connection is secure and the correct input is selected. Check power and restart the device.
App Not Loading: Verify internet connectivity and re-enter the Screen ID. Contact support if the issue persists.
Content Not Displaying: Confirm the Screen ID is correct and content is published on your HootBoard. Check video privacy settings (must be unlisted, not private).
Overscan Issues: Adjust display settings as described in Step 6.
Support: Contact HootBoard support at support@hootboard.uservoice.com for assistance.
Best Practices
Regular Updates: Keep the Google Streaming Device and HootBoard app updated for optimal performance.
Network Stability: Use a reliable Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection to avoid interruptions.
Content Management: Regularly update content on your HootBoard dashboard to keep signage fresh and engaging.
Screen ID Security: Do not share Screen IDs publicly, as they are unique to each device.
Notes
The HootBoard Signage Player app requires an internet connection for real-time updates.
Google Streaming Devices are recommended over Smart TV browsers due to better performance and regular updates.
By following these steps, your Google Streaming Device will be set up to run HootBoard’s digital signage software efficiently, delivering engaging content to your audience.
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