VidiMax Display Management System

Quick Setup Guide
⏱ Estimated Setup Time: 20–40 Minutes

1 Materials 2 Wiring 3 Initial Access 4 Configuration 5 Slates and Tasks

Step 1 – Unbox and Identify Materials

Unbox all components and compare with the included packing list.

  • 5VDC Power Supply

  • 1M RJ45 Ethernet Cables

  • HDMI Cables

  • Vidimax Installation and wiring Instructions

Step 2 – Hardware Installation

  • Deployment Types

    VidiMax supports three deployment scenarios. They can also be combined – for example, using Interface 1 for remote administration while running displays on a dedicated network through Interface 2.

    Scenario A – Network Connected, Displays on Main LAN (LAN2 Not Used)

    In this scenario the VidiMax Server connects to your existing LAN via Interface 1 only. Interface 2 (LAN2) is left unused. Display terminals and Linortek devices are connected to the same LAN as the server and are discovered automatically. This is the simplest setup when your existing network already has PoE switching and all devices can be placed on the same network segment as the server.

    • Best for: environments where the existing network infrastructure already supports PoE and all devices can be placed on the same VLAN or network segment as the server.
    • Requirements: an available Ethernet port on your network switch or router for Interface 1. A PoE-capable switch on the same network for powering DTUs and Linortek devices. LAN2 is left disconnected.
    Scenario B – Network Connected

    In this scenario the VidiMax Server connects to your existing LAN via Interface 1 (LAN1) and also uses Interface 2 (LAN2) to provide a dedicated managed network for display terminals and Linortek devices. The server is administered through a web browser on any networked computer. This is the most common deployment for larger installations where a clean separation between the managed device network and the main LAN is preferred.

    • Best for: most installations. Allows remote administration from any networked computer without needing a dedicated monitor or keyboard at the server.
    • Requirements: an available Ethernet port on your network switch or router for Interface 1, and a PoE switch connected to Interface 2 for displays and devices.
    Scenario C – Standalone (No External Network)

    In this scenario the VidiMax Server operates entirely without connecting to an existing network. The server provides its own DHCP server from its secondary ethernet port (LAN2), and all display terminals and Linortek devices connect to a PoE switch on that port. The server is managed locally using a display and keyboard/mouse connected directly to the server hardware.

    • Best for: environments where connecting to an existing IT network is not desired or not possible.
    • Requirements: a display and keyboard/mouse connected directly to the server. A PoE switch connected to Interface 2 for powering DTUs and Linortek devices.

  • Vidimax Server

    Placement

    The VidiMax Server can be installed on a desktop, shelf, or inside an AV cabinet. Choose a location that meets the following requirements:

    • Ventilation – ensure there is adequate airflow around the unit. Do not place it in an enclosed space with no airflow, directly against a wall on all sides, or under heavy objects.
    • Cable reach – the unit must be within cable reach of a power outlet, your network switch, and the PoE switch that serves the display terminals.
    • Access – the unit should be accessible for maintenance, cable management, and visual inspection of indicator lights.
    • Environment – install in a dry, indoor location. Avoid areas with excessive dust, moisture, direct sunlight, or heat sources nearby
    Power
    • Connect the included power supply to the power input on the VidiMax Server.
    • Plug the power cable into a grounded power outlet or a UPS (recommended).
    • Do not power on yet – complete the display terminal connections first.
    Ethernet

    Interface 1 (Connecting the Vidimax Server to your LAN):

    • Connect one end of an Ethernet cable to Interface 1 (LAN1) on the VidiMax Server.
    • Connect the other end to an available port on your network switch or router.
    • The server will obtain an IP address from your network’s DHCP server automatically on first boot. A static IP can be configured later through the web interface – see the VidiMax User Manual, Section 10.3.

    Interface 2 (Connecting the Vidimax Server to your isolated display LAN)

    • Connect one end of an Ethernet cable to Interface 2 (LAN2) on the VidiMax Server.
    • Connect the other end to the uplink port of your PoE switch.
    • The PoE switch’s access ports will later be used to connect Display Terminal Units and Linortek devices.
    Keyboard, Mouse, and Monitor
    • Connect a monitor or display to the server’s display port using an appropriate cable (DisplayPort or HDMI depending on model).
    • Connect a USB keyboard to one of the USB ports.
    • Connect a USB mouse to the second USB port.

  • Display Terminal Units

    Placement

    The Display Terminal Unit is designed to be mounted directly behind or underneath the display screen, keeping the installation clean and cable runs short. Most DTU installations use one of the following mounting methods:

    • Adhesive or bracket mount – the DTU can be mounted using adhesive strips or a small shelf bracket to the back or underside of the display frame.
    • Surface mount – the DTU can be placed on a shelf or surface directly below or behind the display if concealment is not required.
    Ethernet/Power
    • Connect one end of an ethernet cable to the Display Terminal Unit’s NET Port
    •  Connect the other end of the ethernet cable to a PoE+ switch port
      • Alternatively, if a PoE switch is unavailable use a PoE+ power injector.
    HDMI
    • Connect one end of the included HDMI cable to the HDMI port on the DTU.
    • Connect the other end to an available HDMI input on the display screen.
      • Note the HDMI input number on the screen (e.g. HDMI 1, HDMI 2) – you will need to select this input on the screen’s menu after powering on.

  • Initial Startup

    Power on the system in this order to ensure the server is ready before the display terminals attempt to connect:

    1. Power on the VidiMax Server.
    2. Wait approximately 30 seconds for the server to fully boot.
    3. Power on the PoE switch.
    4. The Display Terminal Units will receive power from the PoE switch and begin connecting to the server automatically.
    NOTE:  The Display Terminal Units communicate with the server over the network. If the PoE switch is powered on before the server has finished booting, the terminals may display a connection error on first start. This resolves itself automatically once the server is ready – no action is needed.

Step 3 – Accessing the Web Server

Finding the Vidimax Serveron your network, accessing the web server, and applying network configurations

  • Preliminary Notes

    Before you begin, make sure your VidiMax server is powered on and connected to your local network. All configuration is done through a standard web browser, ensure the computer you are using is connected to the same network segment as your Vidimax server.

    Note: If accessing the web interface by connecting a monitor, mouse, and keyboard directly to the Vidimax server skip to Step 4 “Configuration”

  • Accessing Vidimax’s Web Interface

    Finding the Vidimax Server’s IP address

    To access the VidiMax interface you need the server’s IP address. If you do not already know it, use the instructions below.

    • Open Command Prompt (press Windows + R, type cmd, press Enter).
      • Mac OS: Terminal
    • Type the following command and press Enter:
    • ping vidimax -4
    • The reply will show the IP address of the VidiMax server. Make a note of it.
    Initial Access

    On first access, the system will prompt you to create a Super Admin account. This account has full access to all features including the Admin menu.

    • Open a web browser and navigate to the VidiMax server’s IP address (e.g. https://192.168.1.50).

    Note: If the browser prompts you to a security message, allow the access by clicking Advanced > Proceed to the address.

    • You will be presented with the account creation screen. Enter the following:
      • Username – choose a unique login name.
      • Email address – used for account identification.
      • Password – choose a strong password and keep it secure.
    • Click Create Account. You will be logged in automatically.
    Important: Only one Super Admin account can be created this way. Additional users are added later through the Admin menu. Keep the Super Admin credentials secure – losing access to this account may require a system reset.

Step 4- Configuring your Vidimax Server

Configuring Network Settings and Time / Date and ensuring all displays are connected

  • Network Configuration

    By default, DHCP is enabled on the Vidimax Server. It is recommended to assign the server a static IP address to ensure consistent access to the web interface and simplify troubleshooting.

    To configure a static IP:

    • Navigate to System Config → Network Configuration.
      • Stay on the LAN tab
    • Uncheck the Use DHCP checkbox.
    • Enter the desired network settings.
    • Click Save.

    The Vidimax Server will reboot and your current connection to the web interface will be lost.

    Wait approximately 10–15 seconds, then enter the newly assigned IP address in your web browser to reconnect to the Vidimax Server.

  • Setting Time and Date

    When first configuring your Vidimax Server, you will need to verify the time and date on your home page. Your device is configured by default to use Eastern Standard Time (GMT-5) and will automatically adjust for Daylight Saving Time. If your location is not in the Eastern Time zone, please make sure to set your Time Zone first.

    To set your Time Zone:

    • Go to System Config -> Time/Date
    • Click the Time Zone Drop down and select your Time Zone
    • Adjust daylight savings date range if needed
    • Ensure “NTP Update” is checked
    • Adjust NTP Server if needed
      • Default is time.google.com
    • Click Save

    Note: NTP updates keep’s the device from drifting over time. In order to use this feature your device must have external internet access from interface 1 (ETH 1)

  • Displays

    Initial Confirmation

    Ensure all Vidimax Displays are recognized by the Vidimax Server.

    To verify this, navigate to Displays.

    At the top of the page, you will see three cards displaying:

    • The total number of connected displays
    • The total number of displays currently online
    • The total number of displays currently disconnected

    Verify that all of your Vidimax Displays appear in the display list and are online.

    Display Configuration

    When idle, Vidimax Displays will show the current time by default. Displays can also be configured to show a Single Slate or a Slideshow of multiple slates.

    Note: Instructions for creating slates are covered in Step 5, “Further Configuration.”

    Time:

    By default, displays will show the current time maintained by the Vidimax Server. Each display can be configured to show a different time zone if desired.

    To configure a display’s time zone:

    • Select the target display from the display list.
    • Click the Time Zone drop-down menu.
    • Select the desired time zone.
    • Click Save.

    Single Slate / Slideshow:

    Once you have created your slates (see Step 5), each display can be configured to show either a single slate or a slideshow of multiple slates.

    Use the Single Slate / Slideshow toggle to select the desired mode.

    To add a slate:

    • Click Add Slate.
    • Search for the slate by name.
    • Select the desired slate.
    • Click OK.

    When using Slideshow mode, set the Duration in seconds to determine how long each slate will be displayed before advancing to the next one.

    Repeat this process to add any additional slates to the slideshow.

    The Allow Interruptions option allows automated tasks and manually pushed slates to temporarily override the currently displayed slate or slideshow. This option is enabled by default. To prevent interruptions, toggle Allow Interruptions off.

    When finished, click Save to apply your changes.

Step 5- Configuring Slates and Tasks

Configuring Slates and Automated Tasks

  • Slates

    Navigate to Slates menu. This page lists all existing templates in a table with the following columns:

    • Preview – a thumbnail of the template’s visual appearance.
    • Name – the template’s display name.
    • Type – the notification type (Alert, Message, Image, etc.).
    • Actions – icons to edit/preview, add to a display’s slideshow/send once, and to delete it.
    Creating a Slate

    Click Add Template in the top right corner to create a new one.

    Template Name

    Give the template a clear, descriptive name. You will reference this name when configuring task actions, so names like “Storm Warning”, “Morning Announcements”, or “Cafeteria Menu – Monday” are better than generic names like “Template 1”.

    Notification Type

    Select the type of content this template will display. Each type has different configuration options:

    Type Description and configuration
    Alert A single-line message designed for high-visibility alerts. Ideal for weather warnings, safety notices, and urgent announcements. Configuration options: message text (with bold, italic, underline, font size, and color), background color, content vertical position (top / center / bottom). HTML Mode can be enabled to replace the text editor with a full HTML code editor – paste your complete HTML document (with all CSS and JavaScript embedded) and click Refresh Preview to verify before saving.
    Message A structured multi-field message with a Sender name, a Heading, and a Body. Suitable for internal announcements, memos, or notices. Configuration options: Heading, Body text. HTML Mode can also be enabled on Message templates for fully custom layouts – all CSS and JavaScript must be embedded directly in the HTML document, as external file references will not load.
    Image Displays a static image fullscreen on the display. Useful for schedules, maps, posters, or branded content. Configuration options: upload an image file (common formats supported).
    Device Info Shows live data from a connected Linortek device in real time. Useful for dashboards displaying sensor readings, relay states, or device status. Configuration options: select the device, then select which properties to display.
    Saving and Previewing

    Use the Preview button (top right of the editor) to see exactly how the template will look on screen before saving. Use the Save icon to save the template. Use the Download icon to export the template as a HTML file.

  • Manually Sending Slates to Displays

    Any template can be pushed to one or more displays immediately, or added to a display’s slideshow configuration, without creating a task. This is useful for one-off announcements, and testing without navigating to a particular display

    • On the Slates page, find the template you want to send or add.
    • Click the send icon (paper plane) in the Actions column.
    • The Send Notification modal opens, showing the template name at the top for confirmation.
    • Select Send Now
    • Under Select Displays, check the boxes next to each display that should receive the notification. You can select any combination of displays.
    • Set the Duration — the number of seconds the slate will play on each selected display before clearing.
    • Select the Priority (P1–P5). Manual pushes default to P2 High, which interrupts most routine content but waits behind any active P1 emergency alert.
      • For full details on priority see the full Vidimax Manual linked at the bottom of the page.
    • Click Send to dispatch the notification immediately.

  • Tasks

    The Tasks page is where you define automated rules that run without any manual intervention. Each task uses an IF / THEN structure: when a specified condition (event) occurs, the system automatically executes one or more responses (actions). Tasks can be as simple as pushing a daily announcement at 8:00 AM or as complex as responding to a National Weather Service warning by simultaneously alerting every display, ringing outdoor bells, and triggering an audio notification.

    Tasks run continuously in the background as long as they are enabled. You can have as many tasks as needed, and each one operates independently.

    Tasks are split in two parts Events (IF) and Actions (THEN)

    Event Types

    Events are the trigger conditions for a task. Each task can have one or more events. Click + Add Event to add additional event rows.

    A universal logic operator is inserted between events. By default, AND is selected meaning every task must be true to trigger the action.

    Selecting the OR operator means at least one of the events must be true to trigger the action.

    Event Type Description and configuration
    Time Triggers at a specific time each day. Enter time in HH:MM (24-hour) format. Use *:MM to trigger every hour at that minute – for example, *:00 fires at the top of every hour.
    Periodic Triggers repeatedly on a fixed interval. Enter an interval value and select the unit: Seconds, Minutes, Hours, or Days. For example, value 30, unit Minutes fires every 30 minutes from the moment the task is saved.
    Weekday Triggers on a specific day of the week, optionally at a specific time. Select the day of the week (Monday through Sunday) from the dropdown. Optionally enter a time in HH:MM format – if left blank, the task fires at midnight on that day.
    Weather Alert Triggers when the National Weather Service issues a qualifying alert for your selected area. Configuration: select State, one or more Counties, one or more Alert Types, and minimum Severity level. The VidiMax server polls weather.gov every 2 minutes. See NWS integration setup.
    Device Triggers when a property on a connected Linortek device meets a specified condition. Select the device from the dropdown, then select the property to monitor (for example, temperature or relay state). Configure the condition threshold.
    Action Types

    Actions are what VidiMax does when a task fires. A single task can have multiple actions that all execute simultaneously. Click + Add Action to add additional action rows. Each action row is expandable.

    Action Type Description and configuration
    Slate Pushes a slate to one or more displays. Configuration: select the notification template (slate), select the target displays, enter the duration in seconds, and choose the priority level (P1–P5). A hint line below the priority selector explains what each level means. Tip: weather alert notification actions should generally use P1 Critical to ensure they cannot be blocked by any other content.
    Cancel Slate Cancels the currently playing slate and plays the next queued slate, or the home slate if the queue is empty.
    Relay Activates or deactivates a relay on a connected Linortek device. Configuration: select the device (identified by hostname or IP address if multiple exist), select the relay number, and set the state to ON or OFF. Relay ON typically activates bells, tone generators, strobes, or other wired equipment.
    Log Writes a custom message to the system log. Configuration: select a log level (Info, Warning, Error) and enter the message text. Useful for audit trails and for confirming that a task fired as expected.
    Creating a Task
    • Navigate to the Tasks page.
    • Click Add Task in the top right corner.
    • The Task Builder opens. Fill in the Task Name – use something descriptive like “Morning Announcements – Weekdays” or “Tornado Warning – All Buildings”.
    • Optionally enter a Description to explain what the task does and when it was created.
    • Add one or more Events to define the trigger conditions.
    • If you have multiple events, set the AND / OR logic between them.
    • Add one or more Actions to define what happens when the task fires.
    • Click Save Task. The task is immediately active.

FAQ’s

  • Confirm the Ethernet cable is connected to a PoE-capable port on the network switch.
  • Confirm the PoE switch is powered on and operating normally.
  • Try connecting the device to a different PoE port on the switch.
  • Verify that the switch supports the required PoE standard (802.3af or 802.3at). Refer to the product datasheet for the device’s PoE requirements.
  • Try using a different Ethernet cable to rule out a faulty or damaged cable.

Weather alert polling requires the VidiMax Server to have an active internet connection. Confirm that Interface 1 is connected to the network and that a valid gateway is configured.

Navigate to Admin > Network Configuration > LAN and verify that the Gateway field contains the correct gateway address for your network.

In the same menu confirm the proper DNS are configured.

  • Confirm the display cable is connected to the correct port on the VidiMax Server (DisplayPort or HDMI, depending on the model).
  • Confirm the display is set to the correct input source.
  • Try using a different display cable to rule out a faulty or damaged cable.
  • After powering on the server, allow up to 90 seconds for the operating system to initialize the display output

If using static custom HTML:

  • Ensure all required CSS and JavaScript is embedded directly within the HTML file.
  • Test the HTML file on your computer by opening it in a web browser and confirming it displays and functions correctly.

If using an iframe to display a local device:

  • Confirm the device is online and connected to the same network segment as the VidiMax Server.
  • Ensure the device is configured with a static IP address. If the iframe references the device by IP address, using DHCP may cause the address to change and prevent the iframe from loading.

Additional Resources

Full Manual Full Manual

Full Manual

For more information follow the Vidimax User Manual.

Displaying Youtube Videos on your Vidimax Displays Displaying Youtube Videos on your Vidimax Displays

Displaying Youtube Videos on your Vidimax Displays

Configuration instructions for creating slates that play Youtube Videos on your Vidimax Displays.

Automated Weather Alerts Automated Weather Alerts

Automated Weather Alerts

How to set up automated Visual and Audible alerts using your Vidimax System