Remote controlled media player for computer illiterate family

jimdaworm · 07-16-2016, 06:00 PM

I have a family member half way around the world that is completely computer illiterate. I would like to be able to show them family videos and photos on their TV.

The concept is hardware independent but I have an old Raspberry Pi so I thought of setting up a KODI install and connecting over SSH to control the device though the KODI web interface.

I have two questions.
Has this already been done? and am I over complicating things?

frankbell · 07-16-2016, 08:20 PM

One option might be, if they have a DVD player, to make them a DVD.

http://www.linuxquestions.org/questi...e-type-632599/

It will take a little research, but, in the long run, it might be most effort-effective course of action.

You will need to know whether their DVD player is PAL or NTSC.

ondoho · 07-17-2016, 04:29 AM

are they using linux or windows?
how can you set up kodi on their machine if they're across the globe?

i never tried this, but on various occasions i thought it might be better to help computer-illiterate linux users with a remote desktop application.
i.e., install the app (e.g. remmina) on both machines, ask them to come up with a nice password, and only start the app on appointment.

there are also cross-platform remote desktop solutions, iirc.

beachboy2 · 07-17-2016, 04:49 AM

jimdaworm,

ondoho's suggestion is a good one and follows the KISS principle.

Linux Voice did a group test of several Remote Desktop Clients:

https://www.linuxvoice.com/issues/012/gt12.pdf

NoMachine NX and Remmina were both recommended.

NoMachine NX:
https://www.nomachine.com/

Downloads:
https://www.nomachine.com/download

Installation Guide:
https://www.nomachine.com/DT09K00056

Just to add that NoMachine NX will work on Windows, Mac and Linux etc.

Remmina is Linux only.

jimdaworm · 07-18-2016, 12:22 AM

Thanks for all your responses sorry for the slow response on my part! My mother in law doesnt have a DVD player and wouldnt probably be able to work it if she did. She doesnt know how to turn a computer on. I will be visiting her later this year so I will have physical access to install somthing and setup remove access to what ever system I try in the end.

NoMachine NX looks interesting. I may try a few things and see what works best