Device Preparation for SteepleMate Kiosk, Billboard, or Scroller

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.

NotesConfiguration 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.

NotesSome 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 Manage Access Levels in SteepleMate

        In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to access, modify, and audit user access levels within your SteepleMate system. Step 1: Access the Access Levels Page From the left navigation menu, go to Manage > Access Levels. You’ll be taken to a screen ...

      • Why Aren’t My New Guests Getting Added to the CareTrack Automation?

        If you’re noticing that newly submitted guest forms are not triggering the New Guest CareTrack, the most common reason is that the guest hasn’t been marked as “present” for a service. Quick Explanation SteepleMate’s CareTrack automations rely on at ...

      • How to View and Export Custom Form Submissions in SteepleMate

        This guide walks you through how to access, view, and export submissions from any custom form or survey created in SteepleMate. Whether you’ve built a form for Vacation Bible School, a church conference, or any other event, you can easily pull ...

      • Add a Live Stream Link to Your Church Website

        Make it easy for visitors to watch your church services live or on-demand by adding a streaming site URL to your SteepleMate church website. This guide walks you through how to display a “Watch Now” button that links directly to your YouTube, ...

      • How to Update Your Profile in SteepleMate

        Keeping your profile up to date helps church leaders and other members stay connected with you. Here’s how you can update your personal and contact information in the SteepleMate System. How to Access Your Profile Click the person icon at the top ...