Hi! I’ve been a long time Plex user in my home, but I have a unique use case I’d like to run past the braintrust here.
I have 2 TVs in our motorhome. What I would like to do is connect a robust media player (that has native support for almost every single media type out there so it can Direct stream just about anything) with a Plex client to each TV that has wireless. Then, I would add a wireless router to the motorhome so the clients can be on the same network with some sort of Plex server. Then, I want a plex “server” that I can connect a large (4-8TB) external USB 3.0 drive to with media. That way I can bring the drive in to the house and update the content between trips, and reconnect it and let Plex scan whats new.
What I need advice on is … is there a simple plex server/hardware solution? What I don’t want is something bulky like a laptop/desktop.
Bonus points if the server can double as one of the clients/players as well.
And finally, what would you suggest as a player? It would be advantageous if the player at least had a browser or “app” support for things like Netflix and Youtube in the event we’re at a campground with wifi or use the hotspot on our phones for the network.
Thanks for any advice you have!
No advice eh?
Are there no all-in-one smaller boxes that can be loaded with Plex and a player and connected to a TV? I remember a few years ago there were people playing with a variety of Linux and Windows based boxes. Hmmmmmm
There are people out there who happily use the NVidia Shield Pro (out of production, I believe) as a Plex server and player. I believe you’ll need to run a separate hard drive for the files. The Shield as a player is one of the more well rounded options, as it will direct play most file types without question.
Everything you’re looking to do is possible, but running Plex without an active internet connection can become a source of headaches. For example, If you’re scanning new media, not only will you need to bring the drive inside the house, but you’ll need to bring in the Plex Server too, as it will need to match the new materials for information and cover art.
Also, I’m not sure which, but some of the Plex clients require online authentication during the powerup process… so you’ll need to do some homework there.
I’m in your boat, so to speak. I have a camper in the middle of the woods that I’d love to find a good media option for… Running a new network, and trying to trouble shoot and keep media updated seems a little bit too tedious for my weekend escapes. Alas, DVDs are just too simple of a solution.
The Shield Pro looks like an awesome solution, and when we have the motorhome at home it can reach our router so internet access while adding new content won’t be an issue.
Now it seems I need to find a player for the 2nd television that doesn’t require internet access to work …
The non pro version of the Shield might be a great option. Again, it will avoid most transcode situations. You’ll have to research whether or not both of these require any authentication during startup/login. A wireless (or wired if you prefer) router may also be required for the two to talk to each other while working remotely.
I am not a Shield expert, but there are lots of people here who swear by them.
I recommend rigorous testing.
I suggest twin small block Chevy crate motors, supercharged and fuel injected… oh wait… you want Plex Hardware… OK… same deal - the sooner you get to where you’re going the sooner you can plug it into the mains…
Everybody is all weak in the knees over that Shield - I wouldn’t be caught dead with one, but I hear it Direct Plays a lot of stuff, so there you go.
B)
How about a NAS? The QNAP HS-251 can run Plex and has a HDMI port and a remote.
I would use a 4G router, so you can get internet via SIM card thrown in. Plex can transcode so the second TV can have any simple HDMI streamer.
One challenge would be to ensure the NAS shuts down properly when powered from 12v, but there are many approaches to that. One might be to connect it directly to your leisure battery (no need for inverters, it’s a 12v device) and set a timeout.
