Instructions for Roku apps - Local Photos Screensaver and Local Screensaver Controller

Instructions

Local Photos Screensaver and Local Screensaver Controller are companion channels that allow use of photos from local sources to be used as a screensaver. Both applications must be installed for either to function correctly. The Roku Ultra USB port or a Plex server on the local network can serve as a source of photos. Only jpeg, jpg or png file types will be recognized. Tif files or other image types will be ignored on both USB and Plex source folders.

Images are displayed without altering their aspect ratio. They are scaled proportionally to fill the screen and are not expanded to fill the TV screen. Thus portrait images will leave black bands on the sides.

First start the controller. The source defaults to the USB; use the right or left key to change to the Plex server or back to USB. Then select the folder for the USB or Plex folder, or subfolder for the Plex server. Wait until the app asks to “Use this folder for screensaver”.

USB

Folders with photos on the USB stick must be named without using spaces. Only jpeg, jpg or png file types will be recognized. Only folders at the root level are valid with USB as a source due to Roku restrictions. Subfolders below the first level will not be read. Subfolders can be used in the Plex server.

Plex Server

Your local Plex server IP address should be entered in the first screen of the controller app. Authentication for the Roku IP address in the Plex server should be eliminated in Plex Settings > Network > List of IP addresses and networks that are allowed without auth.

When using the Plex server as a source, subfolders can be used. Folders with a large number of images and subfolders take longer to load in the controller, but will load quickly in the screensaver after the controller has read the folder to be used.

Support

If you need assistance, have problems, have suggestions for improvements, or just enjoy having a personal screensaver, write to geconner@gmail.com with the subject “Screensaver”.