Hardware player for mobile use

General Discussions
1

I have a full plex setup at home. I want to add a device to my boat that will run a plex client to stream from my server. But since most of the use will be on the water without fast internet (or no internet), I need to be able to play files I bring with me on a USB stick or portable hard drive.

I have many android devices, tablets, small laptops etc. But I want a dedicated device I won’t be moving around all the time.

A big factor is low power consumption. If it could run directly off a 12 volt supply, that would be a big plus.

The Roku seemed like a good choice until i read that that the direct file playback is poor. (http://www.techradar.com/us/reviews/audio-visual/av-accessories/roku-3-1203038/review)

I plan to purchase a computer monitor (VA type LCD) for a display, and I would rather not be limited to HDMI only.

Perhaps I am better off with plex client box AND a device that just plays files.

I despise everything Apple so no options there.

2

Have you looked at this:

https://wdpassport.plex.tv/

That can be your server, the 3TB drive is enough for a decent size library . As for a client, a Raspberry Pi (although I think it is just HDMI, not sure). Here is a forum for that.

https://forums.plex.tv/categories/rasplex

3

I just saw that a few minutes ago. Looks interesting. That’s a heck of a lot of content. Thinking I may not need to stream from my server.

4

At first I thought the WD Passport Pro would attach directly to my TV, but it seems I do still need a client to watch content.

Also the unit does not transcode. In real terms, what does this mean? What can’t I do with it?