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Coaching Screen Configuration

Complete guide to setting up, configuring, and managing digital workout displays in your facility.

Screen Overview

Coaching Screens are digital displays that show workout routines, timing, and guidance to members during training sessions. Screens automatically display content based on your facility's workout programs and can be synchronized across multiple displays for consistent timing.

Key Capabilities:

  • Automatic workout content display
  • Multi-screen synchronization
  • Real-time timing and countdowns
  • Audio output (including Sonos integration)
  • Remote content management
  • Automatic content updates
  • Equipment number identification

Adding a New Screen

Before You Begin

Network Requirements:

  • Strongly recommended: Ethernet connection for each screen
  • If using WiFi: 5GHz band with strong signal (above 70%)
  • Stable internet connection for content delivery
  • Available power outlet near screen location

Hardware Requirements:

  • TV or display with HDMI input
  • Screen mounting (wall mount, ceiling mount, or stand)
  • Performance Hub coaching screen device
  • HDMI cable
  • Power cable

Physical Requirements:

  • Clear view from workout area
  • Appropriate viewing distance (depends on screen size)
  • Mounting location secure and level
  • Cable management for professional appearance

Installation Steps

  1. Physical Installation:

    • Mount TV/display in desired location
    • Connect coaching screen device to TV via HDMI
    • Connect Ethernet cable to coaching screen device (strongly recommended)
    • Connect power to coaching screen device
    • Power on TV and select correct HDMI input

  2. Wait for QR Code to Appear on Screen:

    • Takes 1-2 minutes for device to boot and display QR code
    • QR Code Location: Automatically displayed on the screen itself
    • QR code contains pairing ID for device registration
    • Screen will continue displaying QR code until added to Performance Hub

  3. Scan QR Code to Add Screen:

    add-coaching-screen.png

    Three Ways to Add:

    Option A: Scan QR Code First (Fastest)

    • Use phone camera to scan QR code displayed on screen
    • Performance Hub "Add Coaching Screen Hardware" dialog opens automatically
    • Pairing ID is pre-filled

    Option B: Scan from Add Device Dialog

    • Click "Add New Device +" in Device Management
    • Select "Coaching Screen"
    • Click "Scan QR Code With Camera"
    • Point camera at QR code on screen
    • Pairing ID automatically filled in

    Option C: Manual Entry

    • Click "Add New Device +" in Device Management
    • Select "Coaching Screen"
    • Manually type pairing ID from screen display
    • Use if QR code scanner not working

  4. Enter Screen Details:

    • Screen name (location-based: "Main Room Screen", "Boxing Ring Display")
    • Room or area assignment
    • Equipment number (automatically assigned)
    • Equipment Associated: Select equipment configured by your organizational administrator
      • Equipment options vary depending on how your brand has equipment setup
      • This determines what content the screen displays
      • Configured by organizational administrator in brand settings
    • Enter display name
    • Click "Add"

  5. Screen Added to Device Management:

    • Screen appears online immediately
    • QR code disappears from screen
    • Screen displays welcome content or setup screen
    • Status shows "Online" in Device Management

  6. Configure Screen Settings (detailed below)

Screen Configuration Settings

screen-device-config.png

Basic Settings

Screen Name

  • Use descriptive names based on location
  • Examples: "Main Training Floor", "Boxing Ring Screen", "Circuit Training Area"
  • Include screen position if multiple in same room: "Front Screen", "Back Screen"
  • Keep names consistent across facility

Room Assignment

  • Assign screen to specific workout area
  • Helps organize content delivery by location
  • Allows zone-specific programming
  • Important for multi-screen synchronization

Equipment Number

  • Automatically assigned unique identifier
  • Displayed when using "Identify Devices" feature
  • Shows on screen for 30 seconds when identified
  • Used to physically match screens to system

Display Settings

Screen Orientation:

  • Landscape (standard for most installations)
  • Portrait (vertical orientation for specific content)
  • Match physical TV mounting orientation

Display Resolution:

  • Automatically detected from connected TV
  • 1080p (Full HD) - most common
  • 4K - for high-resolution displays
  • Should match TV's native resolution

Base Display Brightness:

  • Slider adjustment from 0-100%
  • Sets baseline brightness for all content
  • Adjust based on ambient lighting
  • Higher brightness for well-lit areas
  • Lower brightness for darker environments

Underscan:

  • Slider adjustment from 0-100%
  • Adjusts image size relative to TV display area
  • Use if screen content appears cut off at edges
  • Lower values create border around content
  • Higher values fill entire screen
  • Start at 0 and adjust if needed

Scheduled Reboot:

  • Automatically restart screen at scheduled time
  • Disabled by default
  • Can be enabled to improve performance
  • Useful for screens running 24/7
  • Typically scheduled during facility closed hours

Sonos & Master Clock Settings

These settings control performance-intensive services that run on the coaching screen device. Both services require at least 3 devices on the same network to function.

Prevent from becoming Master Clock

  • Stops this screen from becoming the master clock for timer synchronization
  • Use when: Device experiencing performance issues (overheating, old hardware, high CPU usage)
  • Master clock service uses more CPU
  • System automatically selects a different screen as master clock
  • Only disable if screen is placed in hot location (near windows, poor ventilation) or showing performance issues
  • At least 3 screens must remain enabled as potential master clocks

Disable audio output on this device

  • Turns off all audio output from this specific screen
  • HDMI audio to TV speakers disabled
  • Screen still displays visual content normally
  • Useful for screens in quiet areas or when audio not needed

Prevent from becoming Sonos Controller

  • Stops this screen from relaying commands to Sonos speakers
  • Use when: Device experiencing performance issues
  • Sonos controller service uses more CPU
  • Controller relays commands from Performance Hub to physical Sonos speakers
  • Required for automations and Sonos control from Performance Hub
  • System automatically selects a different screen as Sonos controller
  • Only disable if screen showing performance issues or overheating
  • At least 3 screens must remain enabled as potential Sonos controllers

When to Use These Options:

  • Screen overheating (placed near windows, direct sunlight, poor ventilation)
  • Older device with limited CPU performance
  • Screen experiencing lag or slow response
  • CPU temperature consistently high (check in Details tab)
  • Free up resources for content display performance

Important: Disabling these services on too many screens can prevent master clock and Sonos controller functions from working. Always ensure at least 3-4 screens remain enabled for these services.

Content Settings

Content Source:

Content displayed on screens is automatically set based on the Equipment Associated selection during device setup.

  • Content source configured by organizational administrator
  • Determined by the equipment type selected when adding screen
  • Screens automatically display appropriate workout content for their assigned equipment
  • No manual content source configuration needed in Device Management

For detailed information about content management, scheduling, and workout programming, see the Coaching Screens user interface documentation (covered separately).

Content Features:

  • Automatic display based on facility schedule
  • Synchronized workout timing across screens
  • Automatic transitions between rounds/exercises
  • Rest period displays with countdown timers
  • Bell timer and sound effects synchronized across all screens

Audio Configuration

Audio Output Options:

HDMI Audio (TV Speakers)

  • Sound plays through connected TV speakers
  • Simple setup, no additional equipment needed
  • Volume controlled by TV remote
  • Suitable for smaller facilities or individual zones

Sonos Speakers (Automatic Discovery)

  • Sonos devices automatically discovered when at least 3 coaching screens are on the network
  • Sonos speakers must be on the same network as coaching screens
  • No manual device addition required - fully automatic
  • Better sound quality and coverage for larger facilities
  • Synchronized with workout timing and screen content

Note: For detailed Sonos configuration, volume control, speaker grouping, and audio management, see the Audio Control documentation section (covered separately).

Audio Sync:

  • Bell timer and sound effects automatically synchronized across all screens
  • Ensures consistent workout experience throughout facility
  • Prevents echo or timing discrepancies

Multi-Screen Synchronization

How Synchronization Works:

Coaching screens automatically synchronize bell timers and sound effects using a low-latency network broadcast system.

Master Clock System:

  • One device automatically becomes the "master clock"
  • Master clock sets the workout timer
  • All other screens read the broadcast message
  • Bell timers and sound effects play in perfect sync across all screens
  • No manual configuration required

Critical Network Requirement:

⚠️ All coaching screens MUST be on the same network for timer synchronization to work.

  • If screens are on different networks or VLANs, timer synchronization will not work
  • Screens on different networks will be out of sync
  • May cause confusing bell timers at different times
  • Ethernet strongly recommended for best synchronization reliability

Benefits:

  • All screens display identical workout timing simultaneously
  • Synchronized countdown timers and bell sounds
  • Consistent member experience across entire facility
  • No confusion from delayed or mismatched timing

Synchronization Accuracy:

  • Within milliseconds across all screens on same network
  • Best maintained over Ethernet connections
  • May experience slight drift over WiFi (use Ethernet)
  • Automatic master clock failover if current master goes offline

Network Settings

Connection Type:

Ethernet (Strongly Recommended):

  • Most reliable for content delivery
  • No buffering or loading delays
  • Consistent synchronization across screens
  • Lower latency for real-time updates
  • Supports Power over Ethernet (if available)

WiFi (Use Only If Necessary):

  • Requires strong signal (70%+ minimum)
  • May experience occasional buffering
  • Can affect multi-screen synchronization
  • Use 5GHz band for better performance
  • Monitor signal strength regularly

Network Configuration:

  • IP Address: Automatically assigned (DHCP)
  • Automatic configuration for Performance Hub connection
  • No port forwarding required
  • Firewall settings handled automatically

Content Management

Automatic Content Delivery

Coaching screens display workout content based on your facility's programming:

How It Works:

  • Content is managed in the Coaching Screens module
  • Screens automatically display scheduled content
  • Updates happen in real-time
  • No manual screen intervention needed

Content Types:

  • Workout routines with timing
  • Round-based training programs
  • Circuit training displays
  • Interval timing screens
  • Welcome screens during downtime

Content Updates:

  • Pushed to screens automatically
  • Updates occur in seconds
  • No screen restart required
  • Screens always show current content

Screen Identification

Use the "Identify Devices" feature to physically locate screens:

How It Works:

  1. Click "Identify Devices" in Device Management
  2. Each screen displays its equipment number prominently
  3. Display lasts approximately 30 seconds
  4. Helps match physical screens to system

When to Use:

  • Initial setup with multiple screens
  • After repositioning screens
  • When troubleshooting specific screen
  • To verify which screen is which in system

What You'll See:

  • Large equipment number displayed center screen
  • Equipment number also shown in Device Management
  • Screen returns to normal content after 30 seconds

Screen Maintenance

Regular Checks

Daily:

  • Verify screens are displaying content
  • Check that timing is synchronized across screens
  • Note any display issues or errors
  • Ensure screens are powered on

Weekly:

  • Clean screen surfaces with microfiber cloth
  • Check all cable connections are secure
  • Verify audio output is functioning
  • Test content transitions and timing

Monthly:

  • Deep clean screens and surrounding area
  • Inspect mounting hardware for security
  • Check for screen burn-in or dead pixels
  • Verify remote access functionality
  • Test equipment identification feature

Quarterly:

  • Update firmware (automatic at 2 AM)
  • Check HDMI cable condition
  • Inspect power cables and connections
  • Verify network connection stability
  • Review screen placement effectiveness

Temperature Management

Normal Operating Temperature:

  • 30-60°C depending on usage and environment
  • Higher with continuous use
  • Display brightness affects temperature

Cooling Considerations:

  • Ensure adequate ventilation around screen device
  • Don't enclose device in tight spaces
  • Keep air vents clear
  • TV's own cooling system handles display heat

High Temperature Troubleshooting:

  • Check CPU temperature in Details tab
  • Enable "Prevent from becoming Master Clock" (Configuration tab) - reduces CPU load
  • Enable "Prevent from becoming Sonos Controller" (Configuration tab) - reduces CPU load
  • Check that device is not in enclosed cabinet
  • Ensure vents are not blocked
  • Move screen away from windows or direct sunlight if possible
  • Reduce base display brightness if consistently hot
  • Verify TV's cooling fan is working
  • Ensure at least 3-4 other screens remain enabled for master clock/Sonos controller roles
  • Contact support if temperature remains above 65°C after adjustments

Cleaning and Care

Screen Cleaning:

  • Power off screen before cleaning
  • Use microfiber cloth (dry or slightly damp)
  • Never spray cleaner directly on screen
  • Avoid paper towels or abrasive materials
  • Clean weekly or as needed

Device Maintenance:

  • Keep device and surrounding area dust-free
  • Check cable connections quarterly
  • Ensure proper ventilation
  • Don't stack items on device
  • Protect from moisture and spills

Screen Troubleshooting

Screen Shows "No Signal"

Check:

  • HDMI cable is securely connected to both device and TV
  • TV is on correct HDMI input channel
  • Coaching screen device has power (LED indicator)
  • HDMI cable is not damaged

Try:

  • Disconnect and reconnect HDMI cable
  • Try different HDMI port on TV
  • Power cycle coaching screen device
  • Test with different HDMI cable if available

Screen Offline in Device Management

Network Connection:

  • Check Ethernet cable is connected and secure
  • Verify network switch/router is operational
  • Test network connection with another device
  • Check for facility-wide network outage

Device Status:

  • Verify power cable is connected
  • Check device LED indicators
  • Look for visible damage to device
  • Restart device using Device Management

WiFi Issues (if applicable):

  • Verify WiFi signal strength at screen location
  • Confirm WiFi password hasn't changed
  • Check if other WiFi devices are connected
  • Consider switching to Ethernet

Content Not Updating

Immediate Checks:

  • Verify screen is online in Device Management
  • Check that content schedule is active in Coaching Screens module
  • Confirm internet connection is stable
  • Look for error messages on screen

Restart Screen:

  • Use Device Management to restart remotely
  • Or power cycle device manually
  • Wait 2-3 minutes for full restart
  • Verify content loads correctly

Screens Out of Sync

Possible Causes:

  • Screens on different networks or VLANs (most common cause)
  • Network latency or congestion
  • WiFi connection on one or more screens
  • Master clock screen offline or restarting
  • Network broadcast blocked by router/firewall settings

Solutions:

  • Critical: Verify ALL screens are on the same network
    • Check IP addresses - should be on same subnet
    • Verify no VLANs separating screens
    • Screens on different networks CANNOT synchronize
  • Primary solution: Ensure all screens use Ethernet (not WiFi)
  • Restart all screens simultaneously to force new master clock selection
  • Check for network issues affecting specific screen
  • Verify router allows local broadcast traffic
  • Master clock failover happens automatically when master goes offline
  • Resynchronization should occur automatically once network issues resolved

Screen Performance Issues or Lag

Symptoms:

  • Screen responds slowly to commands
  • Content loads slowly or stutters
  • UI feels sluggish
  • High CPU usage (check Details tab)
  • Device running hot

Reduce CPU Load:

  • Enable "Prevent from becoming Master Clock" in Configuration tab
    • Master clock service uses significant CPU
    • System automatically selects another screen as master
    • Requires at least 3 other screens on network
  • Enable "Prevent from becoming Sonos Controller" in Configuration tab
    • Sonos controller service uses significant CPU
    • System automatically selects another screen as controller
    • Requires at least 3 other screens on network

Other Solutions:

  • Reduce base display brightness if screen overheating
  • Improve ventilation around device
  • Move screen away from heat sources (windows, direct sunlight)
  • Switch from WiFi to Ethernet for better performance
  • Restart screen to clear temporary issues
  • Check CPU temperature in Details tab (should be below 60°C)
  • If consistently hot, consider relocating screen to cooler area

Important: Only disable master clock and Sonos controller services on screens with actual performance issues. Keep at least 3-4 screens enabled for these roles to ensure system functionality.

No Audio Output

Check Audio Settings:

  • Verify audio output configuration in screen settings
  • TV volume is not muted
  • For Sonos: Verify speakers are online and grouped
  • For external system: Check facility audio system

HDMI Audio Issues:

  • Confirm TV is set to use HDMI audio input
  • Check TV audio settings menu
  • Some TVs require specific audio output mode
  • Try different HDMI port if audio doesn't work

Sonos Not Detected:

  • Ensure Sonos devices are on same network
  • Sonos speakers must be powered on
  • May take few minutes for automatic detection
  • Check Sonos app that speakers are functioning

Display Quality Issues

Screen Appears Blurry:

  • Verify display resolution matches TV's native resolution
  • Check HDMI cable quality (use High Speed HDMI cable)
  • Adjust TV's picture settings (sharpness, clarity)
  • Ensure content is being delivered at correct resolution

Color Issues:

  • Adjust TV's picture settings (brightness, contrast, color)
  • Check HDMI cable connection
  • Verify TV is in correct picture mode (Standard, not Vivid)
  • Some TVs have "PC mode" that may need adjustment

Advanced Configuration

Custom Content Scheduling

Zone-Specific Programming:

  • Different content per screen based on location
  • Cardio area shows cardio-focused content
  • Strength area shows strength training
  • Allows targeted programming per zone

Audio Zones

Volume Management:

  • Adjust volume per zone
  • Scheduled volume changes (louder during peak, quieter during off-peak)
  • Quick mute functionality for announcements

Screen Deployment Strategies

Single Large Facility (All Same Network):

  • All screens on same network automatically synchronize
  • Master clock automatically selected from available screens
  • Bell timers and sound effects play in perfect sync across all screens
  • Unified timing throughout entire facility

Multiple Workout Areas (Same Network):

  • Screens on same network synchronize automatically
  • Content may differ per area (based on Equipment Associated)
  • Timing synchronized even if showing different content
  • All bell timers ring at same time across facility

Multiple Facilities or Separate Networks:

  • Screens on different networks will NOT synchronize
  • Each network has its own master clock
  • Timing will be out of sync between networks
  • Only use separate networks if you want independent timing

Master Clock System:

  • One screen automatically becomes the master clock
  • Master selection is automatic - no configuration needed
  • If master screen goes offline, another screen becomes master automatically
  • All screens must be on same network to receive master clock broadcasts
  • Ethernet connections provide most reliable synchronization

Integration with Other Systems

Sonos Audio System

Automatic Discovery:

Once you have at least 3 coaching screens added to your network, Sonos speakers are automatically discovered:

  • No manual device addition in Device Management
  • Sonos speakers must be on the same network as coaching screens
  • Automatically detected and available for use
  • Works with all Sonos models

Configuration and Management:

For complete Sonos documentation including:

  • Speaker grouping and zone management
  • Volume control
  • Synchronization with workout timing
  • Speaker placement and optimization
  • Troubleshooting

See the Audio Control documentation section (covered separately).

Sonos is managed through the Audio Control interface, not Device Management.

Best Practices

Installation Best Practices

  1. Always use Ethernet connection unless absolutely impossible
  2. Mount screens at appropriate height for viewing angle (6-8 feet)
  3. Test viewing distance before permanent mounting
  4. Route cables professionally for clean appearance
  5. Label all cables for easy maintenance
  6. Document screen locations with facility diagram
  7. Consider glare from windows and lights when positioning

Content Delivery Best Practices

  1. Keep content schedule updated in Coaching Screens module
  2. Test new content before deploying to all screens
  3. Schedule updates during off-peak hours when possible
  4. Use welcome screens during downtime
  5. Verify content synchronization across all screens regularly
  6. Monitor for playback issues during workouts

Network Best Practices

  1. Use Ethernet for all screens to ensure reliability
  2. Dedicate network switch ports for coaching screens
  3. Implement Quality of Service for screen traffic
  4. Monitor network bandwidth especially with many screens
  5. Keep network equipment updated and maintained
  6. Test failover if using redundant network connections

Audio Best Practices

  1. Use Sonos for quality audio in larger spaces
  2. Test audio levels from different positions in workout area
  3. Prevent audio echo by ensuring only one audio source per zone
  4. Schedule volume adjustments for different times of day
  5. Train staff on volume control procedures

Maintenance Best Practices

  1. Clean screens weekly or as needed
  2. Check connections monthly
  3. Test screen identification during regular checks
  4. Document issues and resolutions
  5. Keep spare HDMI cables available
  6. Train staff on basic troubleshooting
  7. Schedule professional maintenance annually

Performance Optimization

Content Loading Optimization

Network Optimization:

  • Ethernet provides fastest content delivery
  • Quality of Service ensures priority traffic
  • Avoid network congestion during workout hours

Content Caching:

  • Frequently-used content cached locally
  • Reduces load times
  • Provides backup if internet temporarily unavailable

Synchronization Optimization

For Perfect Sync:

  • Critical: All screens MUST be on the same network (same subnet/VLAN)
  • Use Ethernet on all screens (strongly recommended)
  • Connect all screens to same network switch if possible
  • Avoid mixing Ethernet and WiFi
  • Avoid network segmentation (VLANs, separate subnets) between screens
  • Verify router allows local broadcast traffic for master clock system
  • Restart all screens together if sync issues occur
  • Master clock automatically selected - no configuration needed

Power Management

Energy Saving:

  • Screens can sleep during closed hours
  • Automatic wake when facility opens
  • Reduces power consumption
  • Extends screen lifespan

Always-On Mode:

  • Screens remain on 24/7
  • Faster startup when needed
  • May be required for some workout schedules
  • More convenient but uses more power

Getting Help

Common Support Requests

For no signal issues: Verify HDMI cable connection and TV input

For sync issues: Ensure all screens use Ethernet connection

For audio problems: Check Sonos detection and network connection

For content issues: Verify content schedule in Coaching Screens module

Resources

Back to Device Management Overview - Main device management documentation

Camera Configuration - Security camera setup

Duress Button Configuration - Safety device setup

Properly configured coaching screens provide members with clear, synchronized workout guidance. Using Ethernet connections and regular maintenance ensures reliable performance and consistent member experience.