My TV set has USB, can I connect Lightpack directly to it?
No! A desktop operating system of Windows, Linux or OS X is necessary to install the Prismatik software that allows to capture the picture (or any rooted Android 4+ device with Prism app, see update #5). So, one more time: any display connected to Windows, Linux, OS X or Android.
Has Prismatik got any limitations?
Yes, the Prismatik has several limitations that are described in the wiki of the project ( http://goo.gl/opqtO ) . Most of these limitations relate Windows OS (especially to Win 8). You should understand that the Prismatik’s settings influence CPU usage a lot. For example, the efficiency in Windows is three times higher with the disabled Aero interface. It should be also mentioned that Prismatik influences the efficiency decrease when working with discrete ATI videos. Unfortunately, the problem is in ATI Catalyst drivers and there is no way for us to solve it. The last limitation is the capture in modern games for Windows. The capture isn’t working in games using OpenGL as a main renderer and it may not work in some games for DX11 (it depends on the settings of a game). We’ve been doing great work on the capture from games and it hasn’t been completed yet. OpenGL support will be implemented soon.
It’s important to understand that the beta version of our program can be downloaded now. Moreover, you can test Prismatik even without Lightpack by choosing virtual device in the list of devices. If you plan to use Lightpack with some special videoplayer, or you need the capture from some particular game - the simplest and reliable way is to check everything by installing the soft beforehand.
What diagonals is your device for?
We guarantee the effective work of 1 Lightpack on the diagonals from 10 to 50 inches, but it’s important that the visual effect depends on the several characteristics special for your setup. One of the main characteristics is the distance from your TV set to the wall. The smaller it is, the worse the light diffuses and the chance to see “black holes” between LED modules and consistence of spot is lower. For 42-50 inches it’s enough to have the distance to the wall less than 8-10 inches (you can have more, but not less). In case if you want to light not all the perimeter but only sides so to speak then the minimal distance will be even less.
Can I use Prismatik with Xbox or PlayStation?
No, you can’t. Prismatik is a cross-platform screen-capturing software that can run on a full-fledged(!) Android/Windows/Linux/OS X based device.
It’s important to know that your OS is the video signal source: you can’t process incoming data from your Xbox, PS, Apple TV and so on, even having Lightpack attached to the desktop at the same time.
How about displays larger than 50’’?
How many Lightpacks do I need?
Please remember that cables length is 70cm (28'). This is why 1 Lightpack covers up to 50'. But you should definitely understand that you can't just use a simple adding up and get 100' with two Lightpacks.
In the most common cases you need 2 Lightpacks for displays from 50' to 62' and 3 Lightpacks for 62'-80' diagonals. It highly(!) depends on the space between the display and the wall and which sides you want to lighten: sometimes it’s recommended to mount two Lightpacks even on 50’ screen.
I heard Lightpack would be full Android-compatible device, including support of OUYA and GameStick. Is it true?
Does it work with my Raspberry Pi?
Prismatik is based on Qt framework, which last version perfectly compiles for Raspberry Pi, and Prismatik can be run in background even without GUI. It’s more likely that we’ll announce RPi support after some small-time R&D investigation (see update #7 http://goo.gl/ptLxc ).
Does it work with XBMC, Openelec, etc?
Why the device requires a computer to work? Why not creating a pass-through device which could be connected through HDMI?
We have been working on such device however this device has nothing in common with Lightpack, neither in the way it works, nor in the components which are required, nor in the complexity. The biggest problem here are the licenses. If for example the device is going to be connected through HDMI, we’ll have to join the HDCP consortium, which means buying expensive splitters, security keys etc which would allow us to decode the signal. the next step would include finding ways to evade existing patents (by Philips) which cover the methods and principles of analyzing the “raw” signal in the cable. If this doesn't work, we’ll have to go through the licensing process which of course means extra time/costs. Besides, production of multilayer PCB (minimum 4 layers) with FPGA also means extra costs, making the whole idea unprofitable. We will continue research of this topic but there is nothing to be expected at this moment. Anyway, the new device (if created) will be something else compared to Lightpack.
What’s that light-painted tag from the second pledge?
It’s easy as eggs is eggs: by means of one of our previous projects ( http://goo.gl/p7Uih ) we’ll make a photo specially for you, in the center of which there will be the sent image or the phrase made by the light (like this http://goo.gl/RVO9Y or this http://goo.gl/4PoAu ). The main requirements: It must be the text of not more than 20 symbols, or a bitmap picture not more than 8 px in height. We’re undertaking the background.) The result will be sent to you in digital form.
Will I need a new AC/DC adapter plug in Australia, GB, Poland, etc.?
Don’t worry, it’s already taken into account. We will provide suitable plugs for each country in accordance to delivery state or backer’s special request.
Why have you done the blue indicator LED so bright?
This is a clear example that shows us it’s better to overdo than underdo. The LED is really bright on the demonstration, but after it we’ve decreased its brightness by means of the firmware. So, this problem has been already solved.
How can I specify the delivery terms?
- to ask your questions and to express any additional preferences on documentation, customs or taxes.
Where and when can I buy Lightpack outside of Kickstarter?