PROTO

ProtoPlayer

Installation & User Guide

Version 2.0

1. About This Guide

This document provides complete installation and operating instructions for the ProtoPlayer device. It is intended for ProtoPlayer users, installation technicians, and system administrators responsible for deploying and managing Proto experiences.

Please read all instructions carefully before installation or use. Failure to follow these instructions may result in equipment damage, a voided warranty, or personal injury.

1.1 Conventions Used in This Guide

1.2 Safety Warning Levels

2. Product Description

2.1 Product Overview

ProtoPlayer is a compact ProtoOS-powered device designed to enable immersive holographic Proto experiences using customer-supplied displays and peripherals. It is purpose-built for indoor professional environments, including kiosks, studios, and custom commercial installations.

ProtoPlayer is intended for use in climate-controlled, indoor settings only. Do not expose the device to outdoor conditions, moisture, or temperatures outside the specified operating range.

2.2 Intended Use

ProtoPlayer connects to customer-provided components including:

• Displays (monitor or TV via HDMI or USB-C)
• Input devices (keyboard, mouse, or touchscreen)
• Cameras and microphones (USB or Bluetooth)
• Audio systems (USB speakers, Bluetooth, or 3.5 mm jack)

2.3 Technical Specifications

2.4 Package Contents

Verify all items are present upon receipt. Contact Proto support if anything is missing.

• ProtoPlayer unit
• 2× Wi-Fi / Bluetooth antennas
• Mounting plate
• 90 W power adapter (19 V / 4.74 A)

2.5 Product Elements

Front Panel

• Power button
• 2× USB-A ports (USB 3.2 Gen2)
• 1× USB-C port (Thunderbolt™ 4)

Rear Panel

• 2× Antenna connectors
• DC power input
• HDMI 2.1 output
• USB-C (Thunderbolt™ 4)
• 2× Ethernet ports (including 2.5 GbE)
• 2× USB-A ports
• 3.5 mm combo audio jack

Accessories

• Mounting Plate — For installation behind displays, in kiosks, or on flat surfaces.
• Antennas — Both antennas must be attached for optimal wireless performance.

3. Safety

3.1 Safe Operation Guidelines

General

• For indoor use only. Do not use outdoors or in uncontrolled environments.
• Maintain adequate airflow around the device at all times. Do not block ventilation openings.
• Keep the device away from liquids, moisture, and humidity beyond the specified range.
• Operate within the specified temperature range (0°C to 45°C).

Electrical Safety

• Use only low-voltage DC input within the 12–20 V range.
• Use only the supplied or an equivalent-rated 90 W or higher power adapter.
• Ensure all connected peripherals are safety compliant and rated for the intended use.
• Do not attempt to open, modify, or repair the device. Unauthorized modifications will void the warranty.

RF Safety

• Maintain a minimum distance of 20 cm (8 inches) between the antennas and any person during operation.
• Ensure antennas are securely attached before powering on the device.

3.2 Safe Disposal

ProtoPlayer contains electronic components subject to local e-waste regulations. Do not dispose of this device in standard household or commercial waste.

• Dispose in accordance with applicable local, regional, and national e-waste (WEEE) regulations.
• Remove and recycle the internal RTC battery (CR1220) separately at a certified battery recycling facility.
• ProtoPlayer complies with RoHS standards for restricted substances.

4. Transporting, Unpacking, and Storing

Handle ProtoPlayer as you would any precision electronic equipment.

• Avoid physical impact, drops, and excessive vibration during transport.
• Keep the device in its original packaging when transporting where possible.
• Do not expose to moisture, extreme temperatures, or direct sunlight during storage or transit.
• Store in a dry, climate-controlled environment when not in use.
• Do not stack heavy objects on top of the device.

5. Installing ProtoPlayer

5.1 Connection Overview

Before powering on ProtoPlayer, connect all required peripherals in the following order: included threaded antennas (2), display, input devices, network connection, and optional audio or camera accessories.

5.2 Connecting a Display

Option A: Touchscreen Display (Recommended for Interactive Installations)

1. Connect the display via USB-C (Thunderbolt™ 4) — this carries both video, audio, and touch data in a single cable.
2. If your touchscreen does not support USB-C video and audio, connect video and audio via HDMI, and keep the USB-C cable plugged in for touch input data.
3. Your display will automatically turn on if it's powered by the player; otherwise, please ensure your monitor is switched on before booting ProtoPlayer.
4. Adjust orientation as needed from the Settings > Orientation tab.

Option B: Standard Display

1. Connect your standard monitor or TV to the HDMI 2.1 port or to a USB-C port (with a cable that supports video and audio) on the rear panel of the ProtoPlayer.
2. Connect a USB keyboard and mouse for input.
3. Adjust orientation as needed from the Settings > Orientation tab.

5.3 Connecting Audio

ProtoPlayer supports multiple audio output methods:

To verify your audio is connected, navigate to Settings > Audio > Speakers

• Through the connected display — Audio passes via HDMI or USB-C to the display’s built-in speakers.
• USB Speaker — Connect directly to any available USB-A port. 
• 3.5 mm Audio Jack — Connect via the rear-panel combo audio jack.
• Bluetooth Speaker — Pair via system Bluetooth settings after powering on.

5.4 Connecting a Camera and Microphone

Camera and microphone are not included with the ProtoPlayer. Use compatible USB or Bluetooth accessories.

To verify your camera is connected, navigate to Settings > Diagnostic Test > Camera.

To verify your microphone is connected, navigate to Settings > Audio > Microphone.

• USB Webcam — Connect to any available USB-A/C port.
• USB Microphone — Connect to any available USB-A/C port. 
• Bluetooth Microphone — Pair via system Bluetooth settings.

*Some webcams and speakers include built-in microphones.

5.5 Connecting to the Internet

• Ethernet (Recommended) — Connect a network cable to one of the rear-panel Ethernet ports for a stable, reliable connection. Confirm your connection through Settings > Network Settings > Ethernet.
• Wi-Fi — Ensure both antennas are attached, then configure your Wi-Fi network through Settings > Network Settings > Wi-Fi.

5.6 Powering On

1. Ensure all peripherals and the display are connected.
2. Connect the power adapter to the DC power input on the rear panel.
3. Plug the power adapter into a grounded electrical outlet.
4. Press the Power button on the front panel to start the device.
5. The device will boot into ProtoOS. Wait for the startup sequence to complete before proceeding.

5.7 Display Configuration

After booting, configure your display orientation via Settings > Orientation if required. Supported orientations include landscape and portrait. All Proto Cloud content must be configured to match your selected display orientation.

6. Using ProtoPlayer

6.1 Creating a Proto Cloud Account

A Proto Cloud account is required to manage content, link devices, and access remote management features.

1. Open a web browser and navigate to the Proto Cloud sign-up page
2. Click Sign Up and enter your name, email address, and a secure password.
3. Review and accept the Terms of Service.
4. Check your email inbox and click the verification link to activate your account.
5. Log in to Proto Cloud to access your dashboard.

6.2 Linking ProtoPlayer to Proto Cloud

After creating your Proto Cloud account, link your physical device:

1. Ensure ProtoPlayer is powered on and connected to the internet.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions displayed on the connected monitor or TV.
3. When prompted, enter the 6-digit pairing code shown on screen, or scan the displayed QR code using your mobile device.
4. Once linked, your device will appear in the Proto Cloud dashboard under “My Devices.”

6.3 Playing Content and Apps

Once linked to Proto Cloud, you can publish and manage holographic content from your dashboard. Refer to the Proto Cloud Overview resources available within your account portal for step-by-step guidance on uploading content, scheduling playlists, and managing apps.

6.4 HDMI Input (Passthrough)

ProtoPlayer supports HDMI passthrough using a capture card, allowing an external HDMI source to be displayed through the device.

• Requires a compatible HDMI capture card (Unisheen capture card is recommended).
• HDMI input must be enabled through the Proto Cloud dashboard.
• The device must be online for HDMI passthrough to function.
• The setup flow would be: connect your external device via HDMI to the capture card, then connect the capture card to the ProtoPlayer using USB-C.

6.5 Volume Control

Volume can be adjusted via the Proto Cloud dashboard or directly on the device through system settings or clicking the screen. Volume settings are saved automatically and will persist across device restarts.

6.6 External Audio Devices

To configure external speakers or a microphone as the active audio device:

• Navigate to audio settings within the system or Proto Cloud dashboard.
• Select the desired external speaker or microphone from the list of available devices.
• Supported connection types include USB and Bluetooth.

7. Cleaning and Maintenance

7.1 Routine Cleaning

Regular cleaning helps maintain optimal performance and prolong the life of your ProtoPlayer.

• Power off and unplug the device before cleaning.
• Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to wipe the exterior casing.
• For stubborn smudges, lightly dampen the cloth with water only. Do not use solvents, alcohol, aerosol sprays, or abrasive cleaners.
• Do not allow any liquid to enter the device through ports or ventilation openings.
• Clean ventilation openings gently using compressed air. Hold the can upright and use short bursts.

7.2 Preventive Maintenance

• Inspect all cable connections periodically to ensure they are secure.
• Verify that ventilation openings remain unobstructed at all times.
• Keep the device environment free from excessive dust accumulation.
• Ensure the device is running the latest firmware version. Updates are distributed through the Proto Cloud dashboard.
• Periodically verify that antenna connections are tight and antennas are correctly positioned.

8. Troubleshooting

8.1 Common Issues and Solutions

Refer to the table below for guidance on resolving frequently encountered issues. If your issue is not listed or the solution does not resolve the problem, contact Proto Support.

8.2 Support Resources

If you are unable to resolve an issue using this guide, contact Proto support through any of the following channels:

• Support Portal: https://support.protohologram.com
• Email: support@protohologram.com
• Phone: 1-866-465-6476
• Address: Proto, Inc., 7111 Hayvenhurst Ave, Van Nuys, CA 91406

When contacting support, please have the following information ready: device serial number, firmware version, description of the issue, and any troubleshooting steps already attempted.

9. Disposal

ProtoPlayer is manufactured in compliance with RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) standards. Dispose of the device responsibly at end of life.

• Do not dispose of ProtoPlayer in standard household or commercial waste streams.
• Comply with applicable WEEE regulations in your region (EU, UK, and equivalents).
• Deliver to a certified e-waste recycling facility or contact Proto support for guidance.
• Remove and recycle the internal RTC battery (CR1220) separately at a certified battery recycling point.

Legal & Compliance

ProtoPlayer complies with applicable FCC regulations for electromagnetic emissions. RF exposure statements are provided in the regulatory documentation included with the device.

Use of ProtoPlayer is subject to the Proto, Inc. Software License Agreement and Limited Warranty. Copies are available at www.protohologram.com or upon request from Proto support.

Unauthorized modification of ProtoPlayer hardware or software will void all warranties and may violate applicable regulations.

© Copyright Proto, Inc. All rights reserved.