I regularly create gallery installations where audiovisual material is run on a computer that a) might difficult to physically access, and b) must be run with the minimum of technical knowledge. In these cases it is much easier to administer the functionality using a second remote computer.
First, read Configuring a Computer for Gallery Use, which explains how to set up the host computer. Then return here.
Justification
Why is this information useful? There are two reasons why you might wish to access a computer remotely.
First, because the “host” computer, the machine running the installation, might be hidden away in a plinth or behind an access panel. My most recent pieces have been driven by a small form factor computer (SFF), only slightly larger than 12 by 11 by 4 cm. This is compact enough to fit on the VESA mount of a monitor, or be hidden almost anywhere.
In many cases I prefer to run this computer “headless”, that is, without a keyboard or mouse. because these are far bulkier than the computer itself. The cabling and need for a work surface complicates the physical installation. Indeed, for an installation producing only sound, even the video monitor might be surplus to requirements.
The “client” computer is the one you use to access the host, likely a laptop. Subsequently, during the course of the exhibition, invigilators can use their own computers to maintain the installation. Again, without requiring physical access to the host. This makes the whole process so much easier. And anything you can do to help gallery staff, you really should be doing!
I take ease-of-use into account when coding my applications. If volume controls and a mute function are provided within the app itself, users won't require to make system changes. In this day and age not everyone knows the basics of computer use. Keep it as simple as possible!
Microsoft and corporate solutions
Most internet resources (such as this one) explain how to configure Windows Desktop Services (WDS), a corporate solution for virtualisation and remote access. Additionally, there are third party solutions used in the corporate world (for example AnyDesk and TeamViewer). But these enterprise products tend to be sophisticated, complicated, and expensive.
Microsoft also documents Windows Remote Desktop (WRD), a "lightweight" solution that allows you to access a computer running Windows 11 Pro from a different Windows or Mac computer (also supporting mobile devices). But this has additional complexities undocumented on the simplistic how-to page. For example you will need to change user group permissions using esoteric tools that can have detrimental effects is mistakes are made.
After much bother I was successful in getting Remote Desktop to function, only to encounter a show-stopper problem. This software allows you to choose between local or remote sound devices and also peripherals such as printers. But configuration for attached video devices (screens and projectors) is sadly lacking. This means that while running Remote Desktop all visual output goes to the client computer only. This is obviously unsuitable for any installation where you need to tune video output from the host in that physical environment.
Chrome Remote Desktop
Thankfully Google has provided software that fits our needs perfectly. Chrome Remote Desktop (CRD) works directly in the Chrome browser as an extension. This also supports Mac and Linux systems, which is fantastic.
First, set up the host. Choose "Remote Access" in the left panel, then "Set up remote access". Download and install the software when prompted. Then provide the name of the computer, which should be the same as the Windows computer name for consistency. Finally a numerical password is requested.
You can then exit the software.
There is a second option worth mentioning. "Remote Support", generates an ID string that is valid for a limited period of time. This is useful if you need technical help on your computer and wish to give someone else temporary access, so they can guide you through a process.
But with the option we have chosen the host does not even need to be logged in. The computer merely needs to be powered on and it can be remotely controlled.
Now, on the client computer you should also download and install Chrome Remote Desktop. Under Remote Access you should see your host computer listed. Click this and enter the password. This computer will henceforth be available here immediately.
Final word
Perhaps it goes without saying, but both computers need to be on the same local network to communicate. Neither WRD nor CRD support Bluetooth. You will need to ensure a good WiFi connection, which can be difficult in a large space or a building with solid walls. A cabled connection (Ethernet) also works, but sacrifices convenience. However, if you can walk up to the host with a laptop, connecting with a cable might be an easy solution. The problem here is that Ethernet ports are increasingly not found on portable computers!
It is also possible to communicate over an internet connection between any two connected computers. This requires port forwarding or a VPN, advanced topics that I leave you to discover. Software such as AnyViewer claims to make this process trivial, but I have yet to experiment with such commercial applications.
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