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Multi-Device Communication

Bharat Signage supports seamless interaction between multiple screens running the app. Using a proprietary communication protocol, devices can exchange data for basic monitoring, control, and synchronized playback — making it ideal for multi-screen digital signage setups.

🧩 Group-Based Device Linking​

To allow devices to connect and collaborate, they must be assigned the same Group Code. Only devices with matching codes can see and interact with each other.

🌐 Modes of Connectivity​

📶 Local Network (LAN)​

When devices are on the same local network, they can discover each other automatically using UDP multicast.

  • ✅ Recommended: Wired Ethernet for best results.
  • ⚠️ Note: Some Wi-Fi networks and routers may block multicast traffic, preventing discovery.

🌍 Internet (WAN)​

Devices on different networks can connect over the internet in some cases. This depends on network configuration:

  • 🔄 Enable “Device discovery on the internet” in Bharat Signage settings.
  • 🔧 Requires router support for UPnP (Universal Plug and Play).
  • ⚠️ May fail with double NAT setups or ISPs using Carrier-grade NAT (CGNAT).

🔒 Security Considerations​

  • Your Group Code also acts as a security key. Keep it private.
  • If you’ve used the "Nearby Devices" feature previously, update the Group Code from the default DEFAULT_GROUP_CODE before enabling internet-based discovery.
  • Strongly recommended: Change the default admin credentials for the web interface if enabling discovery over the internet.

📺 Managing Connected Devices​

Access a list of all discovered devices from the Bharat Signage web interface:

  • Navigate to Settings → Other Devices
  • View connected players along with available remote actions

🌐 Tunnel to Remote Device​

For devices outside your network, Bharat Signage provides a Tunnel Web Interface:

  • Click the Tunnel button to open the web interface of another player in a new browser tab.
  • Useful for accessing remote players across different networks.
  • ⚠️ Only one tunnel session can be active at a time.
  • 🚨 Note: Tunnel speed is slower than standard LAN performance due to additional routing.

📘 Summary​

Multi-device communication in Bharat Signage enables:

  • Real-time sync between players
  • Remote access across networks
  • Flexible scaling for video walls or networked signage grids

Make sure to configure your network and security settings carefully for the best experience.