XangleCs documentation

Using Windows based computer is not as straightforward as using Raspberry Pis, but in some cases, it might be more efficient, especially if you already have this type of computers.

From our end, the setup is quite simple. Install Xangle Camera Server on your node computers, and run /src/xangle-cam.exe (as opposed to /xangeCs.exe which is the main software). You don’t need any additional license to run xangle-cam.exe. There is no IP address to set. The main computer is going to see the nodes, as long as they’re on the same local network

Things to consider when working with Windows nodes:

1- Firewall

If it doesn’t work right away, check out if some firewalls are preventing communications between computers (main computers and node computers)

2- Blocking automatic Windows updates

Method 1: Pause Updates Temporarily

1. Open Settings: Press Win + I and select Update & Security.
2. Pause Updates:
   • Click Pause updates for 7 days (repeat if needed for a longer duration).
   • For more options, go to Advanced options and set a specific date under Pause updates.

Method 2: Disable Windows Update Service

1. Open Services:
   • Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Locate Windows Update:
   • Scroll down and find Windows Update in the list.
3. Disable the Service:
   • Right-click Windows Update > Properties.
   • In the Startup type dropdown, select Disabled.
   • Click Stop to halt the service if it’s running, then click OK.

Method 3: Use Group Policy Editor (For Windows Pro/Education/Enterprise)

1. Open Group Policy Editor:
   • Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to Update Settings:
   • Go to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update.
3. Disable Automatic Updates:
   • Double-click Configure Automatic Updates.
   • Select Disabled and click OK.

3- Prevent Sleep and Reboots

• Adjust Power Settings:
  1. Open Settings (Win + I) > System > Power & Sleep.
  2. Set Sleep and Screen options to Never.
• Disable Automatic Reboots:
  1. Open Task Scheduler (Win + R, type taskschd.msc).
  2. Navigate to Task Scheduler Library > Microsoft > Windows > UpdateOrchestrator.
  3. Disable the task Reboot by right-clicking it and selecting Disable.

4- Optimize for Standalone Display

• Use Kiosk Mode:
  1. Open Settings > Accounts > Access work or school > Set up a kiosk.
  2. Follow the prompts to configure a single-app mode (choose the display application).
• Remove Unnecessary Startup Apps:
  1. Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), go to the Startup tab.
  2. Disable unnecessary apps to reduce background processes.

5- Block Updates and Notifications

• Set a Metered Connection:
  • Open Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi/Ethernet > Manage Known Networks.
  • Toggle Set as metered connection to ON.
• Disable Notifications:
  1. Open Settings > System > Notifications & Actions.
  2. Toggle off Get notifications from apps and other senders.

So again, just save yourself from trouble and go with a Raspberry Pi based system :)