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
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