Using a Generic Android Device as an AV over IP Adapter with the MAWi System

Installing spacedesk on an Android device and Connecting to the MAWi system


Introduction


This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to install the spacedesk app on an Android device and connect it to the MAWi system. 

With the spacedesk application, you can transform your Android device into an AV over IP adapter, enabling you to play various types of content and create customized video wall layouts.


Please note:
1. While we don't impose restrictions on customers using their own Android devices, we highly recommend utilizing our MAWi Player. This purpose-built, Android-based device has undergone extensive testing and customization to meet the specific requirements of our system.

Here are the key benefits of using MAWi Players instead of Android TV:

a. Operate with confidence knowing that the MAWi Player is designed to run 24/7 without interruption.

b. Benefit from the MAWi Player's superior GPU, which outperforms commercial-grade Android TVs.

c. Our engineers have programmed and designed the Android build to include only the essential apps required for our operations.

d. Save time and effort by enjoying the benefits of the MAWi Player's pre-installed apps.

e. The MAWi Player is pre-configured to connect seamlessly with the MAWi Server without the need for any adjustments in the Android operating system.

f. Stay stress-free knowing that the MAWi Spacewall app is automatically launched when the MAWi Player restarts after a power outage.



You will need to install the MAWi software (Server and Agent) on a dedicated PC, as shown in this guide.




Step 1: Installing spacedesk on Your Android Device and PC



1. Open the Google Play Store on your Android device.
2. Search for "spacedesk" and select the official spacedesk app.

You can also download the spacedesk app directly from our website by using this link.

3. Tap the "Install" button to download and install the app.




4. Once the installation is complete, tap "Open" to launch the spacedesk app.




5. Tick the checkbox and click 'OK':




6. Follow the installation guide provided here to install the MAWi system.
During this process, the spacedesk driver will be automatically installed on your PC.

In the event that the driver does not install for any reason, you can manually download and install it from the following link: 





Step 2: Enable USB Debugging


USB debugging is a crucial feature for MAWi, to allow it to remotely control the Android devices from the MAWi management console.


Please note:
If you find that the USB debugging option is not available or blocked on your device, don't worry. You can still use your device by following "Step 3: Setting the spacedesk app manually." This alternative method will guide you through the process of configuring the spacedesk app without enabling USB debugging.
 

Follow these steps to enable USB debugging on your Android device:

Step A: Enable Developer Options
1. Open the Settings app on your Android device.
2. Scroll down and find the "About phone" or "About device" option.
3. Locate the "Build number" or "Build version" entry.
4. Tap on the build number or version seven times in quick succession. You will see a message indicating that you are now a developer.

Step B: Access Developer Options
1. Go back to the main Settings menu.
2. Scroll down to find the newly unlocked "Developer options" or "Developer settings" menu.
3. Tap on it to access the developer options.

Step C: Enable USB Debugging
1. Within the Developer Options menu, locate the "USB debugging" option.
2. Slide the toggle switch next to USB debugging to the "On" position.
3. A pop-up message may appear, asking for your confirmation to enable USB debugging. Accept the prompt by tapping "OK" or "Allow."

Step D: Connect the Android device to your PC.

Follow the steps shown in this guide.

Congratulations! You have successfully connected your Android device to the MAWi console. 


Note: The exact steps and menu names may vary slightly depending on your Android device model and operating system version.



Step 3: Set spacedesk manually to connect to the MAWi System



If the USB debugging option is not available on your Android device, you can still proceed by following the manual steps below. These steps will guide you through the process of configuring the spacedesk app without relying on the USB debugging feature.

Note: The following steps are only necessary if you have not completed Step 2.


1. Open the spacedesk app in the Android device and go to settings




2. In the Quality and Performance menu, select the Rendering Color Depth and set it to 24bit:



3. In the Connections menu, select the Automatic Connect to - IP Address:


4. In the Automatic Connect to IP, select your host PC address:



5. In the Audio menu, select the Audio redirection option:



6. In the On-Screen option, uncheck this option:




Step 4: Configure Auto-Launch of Spacedesk App Following Android System Reboot


To ensure that the spacedesk app automatically launches following a system restart on Android, which may occur due to power outages or other reasons, it's recommended to use an app like AutoStart. This app can be found on the Google Play Store:

Once installed, navigate to the settings of AutoStart and configure it to initiate the spacedesk app whenever the device reboots.


Step 5: Start using MAWi with your Android devices


After successfully establishing the connection, you will notice the additional screen appearing as an extended desktop in the Display settings of your Windows operating system. Furthermore, you will find it listed in the MAWi main dashboard.

To ensure a seamless experience and make the most of the MAWi system, please refer to the guides available in our online knowledgebase. These guides will assist you in customizing the system to meet your specific requirements and preferences.



Conclusion:
By following this guide, you have successfully installed spacedesk on your Android device and connected it to MAWi. Enjoy the flexibility and convenience of utilizing your Android device as an additional screen within the MAWi digital signage and video wall setup.


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