Device Preparation for SteepleMate Kiosk, Billboard, or Scroller
Machines running SteepleMate products should be optimized by removing unnecessary applications and adjusting default Windows settings. These modifications improve stability, reduce interference, and enhance performance. While optional, they significantly reduce potential issues.
Configuration steps vary depending on Windows versions and editions. Preparation Steps:
1. Create an Admin User Account (Non-Microsoft):
During Windows setup, create an admin user account.
Username: ADMIN
Password: Your choice (add a hint).
Turn off all options (e.g., Cortana).
2. Disable Windows Updates:
Press Windows + S and type services.msc, then press Enter.
Locate Windows Update in the list, double-click it.
Click Stop, set Startup type to Disabled, then click OK.
3. Create a Standard User Account:
Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users > Add Account.
Choose Add a user without a Microsoft account.
Set as Standard User, leave the password field blank.
4. Identify System Type (32-bit or 64-bit):
Open File Explorer, right-click This PC, and select Properties.
Note the system type (32-bit or 64-bit).
5. Turn Off Computer Maintenance:
Go to Control Panel > System & Security > Security & Maintenance.
Select Change Settings and set Computer Maintenance to Off.
6. Install Security Certificates:
Download and install the Comodo Root Certificate: Download.
Install for Local Machine (automatic store selection).
Reinstall, selecting Trusted Root Authorities.
Download and install the Pentesoft Publisher Certificate: Download.
Install for Local Machine, selecting Trusted Publishers.
7. (Optional) Rename the Computer:
Go to Control Panel > System > Advanced System Settings.
Under Computer Name, click Change and enter a descriptive name.
Restart to apply changes.
8. Clean Up Start Menu and Taskbar:
Unpin/uninstall unnecessary apps from the Start Menu (right-click each tile).
Resize the Start Menu to the smallest size.
Right-click the Taskbar > Taskbar Settings:
Auto-hide taskbar.
Hide Cortana and Task View.
9. Customize Desktop and Display:
Right-click the desktop, select Personalization:
Set background to a solid color.
Turn off transparency.
Disable screensaver.
In Display Settings, disable all notifications and system icons.
Adjust power settings to Never Sleep.
10. Install SteepleMate Software:
Log in to SteepleMate, navigate to Media > Download Now for Kiosk, Billboard, or Marquee.
Install and uncheck "Always ask when opening this file".
Register the machine with your SteepleMate credentials.
Configure the software based on your needs.
11. Configure Media (Billboard/Kiosk):
Log in to SteepleMate Media > Manage Announcements.
Assign images/videos to the kiosk or billboard.
12. Remote Support Setup (Optional):
Download SteepleMate Assist on the device: Download or (bit.ly/SteepleMateAssist)
13. Enable Auto-Power On (BIOS):
Restart the computer and enter BIOS (typically Delete or F1 during startup).
Locate and enable Auto Power On.
Save changes and reboot.
Test by unplugging and re-plugging the machine.
Some machines lack this feature. In that case, ensure the computer is easily accessible for manual power-up.Related Articles
Configuring Marquee and Kiosk Options in Steeplemate
The Marquee and Kiosk Options section provides a robust set of tools to customize the content and functionality of your marquee or web kiosk. From controlling the visibility of prayer requests and victory reports to setting up alerts for machine ...Installing A Billboard
1. Download Machine Preparation Suggestions and follow the steps prior to installing the software downloads. 2. Click Kiosk Activity on the main menu. 3. Click Billboard Installer on the dropdown menu. 4. Click Download Now below the Billboard ...Installing A Kiosk
1. Download Machine Preparation Suggestions and follow the steps prior to installing the software downloads. 2. Click Kiosk Activity on the main menu. 3. Click Kiosk Installer on the dropdown menu. 4. Click Download Now below the Kiosk description.On-Site Kiosk Artwork Templates
Learn how to customize on-site kiosk artwork in SteepleMate, adjust kiosk settings, and download templates to ensure proper resolution and alignment for optimal performance. Customizing Kiosk Artwork: Customize up to twelve images for your on-site ...How to Add and Manage Scheduled Announcements in SteepleMate
How to Add and Manage Scheduled Announcements in SteepleMate The Announcements feature in SteepleMate allows church administrators to create, schedule, and display content like announcements, upcoming events, or inspirational quotes. These ...
Recent Articles
How to Set Up Call Forwarding in SteepleMate
Call forwarding is a great way for churches to stay responsive without being tied to a specific location or device. Whether you’re a pastor, admin, or volunteer, forwarding calls lets you receive church-related calls on your personal phone — while ...How to Change Your Primary Email Address for Your SteepleMate Login
If you need to update the primary email address associated with your SteepleMate login, please follow these steps carefully. Note: For security reasons, this change must be completed by the account holder themselves. Log in to your SteepleMate ...How to Enter Donations from Organizations or Companies in SteepleMate
If your church receives contributions from organizations or businesses, you can track those donations in Offering Management just like you would for individual members or guests. This article will walk you through how to properly enable and record ...Troubleshooting a Black Screen on SteepleMate Billboard
If your SteepleMate Billboard screen goes black or stops cycling through slides, it's possible that more than one instance of the Billboard app is running. This can cause conflicts or prevent the display from working as expected. Step-by-Step Fix Use ...Managing Web Kiosk Submissions
Audience: Church administrators using SteepleMate Free Focus: Reviewing and managing prayer requests, testimonies, and messages submitted through the Web Kiosk What Can Church Members Do? From the Web Kiosk, members can: Sign In for Prayer or Fasting ...