Box to Stream any Video Format from USB?
Jul 31, 2017, 3:50 am
#1
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Join Date: Dec 2009
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Box to Stream any Video Format from USB?
I have a Roku which is great except for the USB video streaming. It recognizes very few video formats. Does anyone know of a cheap streaming box that will connect via HDMI to my TV and allow me to play virtually any video file from my external hard drive? I don't like connecting the hard drive to the computer because then I lose out on the computer AND no remote to sit on the couch. Basically, a "VLC Box!"
Jul 31, 2017, 12:59 pm
#4
Join Date: Sep 2015
Location: BUF
Programs: SkyTean, Star Alliance, HHonors
Posts: 155
Have you looked into DLNA? I have a DLNA server on my computer. I connect to it via a DLNA client and stream the files. It all happens in the background so my computer is still usable.
I use Universal Media Server but there are a lot of other DLNA servers out there.
I use Universal Media Server but there are a lot of other DLNA servers out there.
Aug 1, 2017, 7:32 am
#5
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If we were talking about 1 or 2 movies, then fine. But I have quite an extensive selection and it would take a loooooooooooooong time to convert them.
Aug 1, 2017, 7:54 am
#6
Join Date: Jan 2003
Posts: 3,786
I am sure you could also get an android base box that would play all type of video format, but I just don't know any myself. I know Plex works with many formats.
Aug 1, 2017, 10:59 am
#7
Join Date: May 2004
Location: Exclusively OMNI/PR, for Reasons
Posts: 4,188
If your .mp4's are at a relatively low bitrate and can stream over USBv2.0, you might look into a Raspberry Pi 3B with Kodi. I picked one up for RetroPie, but also installed Kodi. With a sturdy case, SDHC card and power supply* it should run you around $50 and is as portable as a tin of Altoids.
The only challenge that comes to mind is the hardware to control Kodi. You need something like a game pad or keyboard for that, or perhaps an app like this one.
And with RetroPie, you potentially have access to thousands of old-school video games
* I actually use an iPad Air charger and 24ga micro-USB cable to power mine and have plenty of current to spare.
The only challenge that comes to mind is the hardware to control Kodi. You need something like a game pad or keyboard for that, or perhaps an app like this one.
And with RetroPie, you potentially have access to thousands of old-school video games
* I actually use an iPad Air charger and 24ga micro-USB cable to power mine and have plenty of current to spare.
Aug 1, 2017, 12:19 pm
#8
Join Date: Sep 2010
Location: City of Angels
Programs: DL Kettle| HH Pot
Posts: 525
Intel compute stick?
https://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ...9SIAE835Z17520
https://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ...9SIAE835Z17520