Falcon Player 2.x Setup EP3 - Content (2018)

Introduction

This tutorial guides you through the process of setting up content in Falcon Player 2.x, including loading sequences and audio, creating playlists, and scheduling playback. Following these steps will enhance your experience with computer-controlled lighting, making it easier to manage your holiday displays or other lighting projects.

Step 1: Load Sequences and Audio to the Raspberry Pi

Before you can schedule your lighting sequences, you need to ensure that your Raspberry Pi has the necessary files.

1. Access the Raspberry Pi:

   • Use SSH to connect to your Raspberry Pi. You can use tools like PuTTY if you're on Windows.
   • Alternatively, connect directly with a keyboard and monitor.

2. Upload Your Sequences:

   • Navigate to the directory where Falcon Player stores its sequences. This is usually found in the /media/fpp/media/ directory.
   • Use an FTP client (like FileZilla) or SCP to transfer your sequence files to the appropriate folder.

3. Upload Audio Files:

   • Similarly, upload any audio files you wish to use. Place these files in the /media/fpp/media/audio/ directory.

4. Verify Files:

   • Ensure all files are correctly uploaded by listing the contents of the directories. Use the command:

     ls /media/fpp/media/
     

Step 2: Create Playlists

Setting up playlists allows you to organize your sequences for easier playback.

1. Access the Falcon Player Interface:

   • Open your web browser and enter the IP address of your Raspberry Pi.

2. Navigate to the Playlist Section:

   • Click on the “Playlist” tab in the menu.

3. Create a New Playlist:

   • Click on the “Add Playlist” button.
   • Give your playlist a descriptive name.

4. Add Sequences to the Playlist:

   • Select sequences from the list to include in your playlist.
   • Adjust the order of sequences by dragging and dropping them.

5. Save Your Playlist:

   • Click the “Save” button to finalize your new playlist.

Step 3: Schedule Playlists

Scheduling allows you to automate your light displays.

1. Open the Scheduler:

   • Access the “Scheduler” section in the Falcon Player interface.

2. Create a New Schedule:

   • Click on “Add Schedule” to begin.

3. Configure Schedule Settings:

   • Set the start date and time for your playlist.
   • Choose the playlist you created in Step 2.

4. Set Recurrence:

   • Determine if you want the schedule to repeat daily, weekly, or on specific dates.

5. Save the Schedule:

   • Click the “Save” button to activate your schedule.

Conclusion

You have successfully loaded sequences and audio to your Raspberry Pi, created playlists, and scheduled them for playback using Falcon Player 2.x. This setup enables you to efficiently manage your lighting displays. For further enhancement, consider exploring additional features like remote control or integrating with other software. Happy lighting!