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== Installation and Setup ==
__NOTOC__
This topic is intended to give you an introduction to [http://www.jriver.com/index.html JRiver Media Center] and how to use it. If you haven't done so already, you can start a [http://www.jriver.com/download.html download] while you read.


=== Installation ===
If you're completely new to digital media, you may also find our [[Digital Media]] topic useful. It provides an introduction and suggest ways you can learn more.
Installation varies based on the operating system chosen.


== Import ==
==== Windows ====
[https://jriver.com/download.html Download] and Install JRiver Media Center. Please see [[Installation & Removal]] for details.


==== Mac ====
MC uses an internal database (called the [[Library]]) to keep track of your files and to speed up access to them. It doesn't matter where the files are stored but MC needs to locate them and analyze them once in order to build the library. The process of showing MC where to find your media files is called [[Importing]], and can be automatic or manual. You can set which folders to watch or exclude and which file types to import. Check the [[Import]] section for further information.
[https://jriver.com/download.html Download] and Install JRiver Media Center. Please see [[Mac Installation & Removal]] for details.


==== Linux ====
Your machine might be busy during import, so things may seem a little slow. This will change when the import finishes.
Linux MC uses the debian apt package management system for installation, updating and removal.


JRiver hosts the repository for this.
:''More Information'': [[Import]]


The easiest way to get a new installation going is to use a contributed script called InstallJRMC.
== Audio Setup ==


The current version for MC30 is here: [https://yabb.jriver.com/interact/index.php/topic,134152.0.html InstallJRMC]
One of the first things you'll want to do is run through [[Audio Setup]]. Under <span style="color:#8B4513">Tools > Options > Audio</span>, you can choose the sound device you wish to use, the [[Audio Output Mode]], and other options. MC will typically choose the best Audio Output Mode for you, but if you have trouble, start with DirectSound until you get it working well. If you use a USB DAC (Digital Analog Convertor), please visit the wiki topic on [[DAC Settings]].


More info can be found here: [[Linux Installation & Removal]]
:''More Information'': [[Audio Setup]]


==Video==
=== Setup ===
Next [https://wiki.jriver.com/index.php/Import Import] your files. MC makes a record of them in its database, but does not move or change them. By default, MC will import all your files, but you can set it to import only some folders and file types by using [[Auto-Import]].


Please review the sections below for more specific guidance on how to configure Media Center for your intended use.
The Windows version of MC uses [[Red October]], JRiver's DirectShow management system to automatically download, install and configure the DirectShow filters you need for fantastic video compatibility and quality. Check for options under <span style="color:#8B4513">Tools > Options > Video</span>. Start with ''Red October Standard''. Once you're sure that works well, you can try ''Red October HQ''. ROHQ requires a fairly powerful PC, however, so check the [[System Requirements]] for guidance.


== How do I configure Media Center to.... ==
:''More Information'':
* [[Video Playback Options]]
* [[Red October]]


== Television ==
=== Listen to Audio ===


Media Center supports a wide variety of audio file formats and can play content indexed by its internal [[Library]] as well as internet streams and, on Windows, audio played by other Windows applications.
MC can record television signals using a variety of sources and hardware types, including via a Set-Top Box, OTA (Over-the-Air) signals, and clear channels from cable and satellite. Check out the [[Television]] topic for more information. You will need to install a TV tuner or connect to a Set Top Box (cable) and select it in MC. Then scan for channels and set up an [[EPG|EPG (Electronic Program Guide)]].


==== My music is stored on disk and I want use Media Center to navigate through it ====
:''More Information'': [[Television]]


[[Import]] your music into your [[Library]] then complete [[Audio Setup]] so you can listen to it.
== Views and Skins ==
Review [[Standard View]] to understand how to use the Media Center UI.


==== I want to route audio from other software through Media Center ====
MC will normally start in [[Standard View]], which lets you use the [[Tree]] to select and play files. [[Theater View]] is a "10 foot" mode, suitable for viewing from across the room and often used with a [[Remotes|remote]]. A Mini View frees up desk space. Switch among these with ctrl-1 to ctrl-5 or by using the "View" menu, where you can also change the "skin" (appearance). More skins are available on the "Accessories" link below or on the Third Party board on [http://yabb.jriver.com/interact/index.php Interact (JRiver's forum)]. Under <span style="color:#8B4513">Tools > Options > Startup</span>, you can set MC to start in any view, and to start automatically when Windows boots.


Complete [[Audio Setup]] so that you can be sure Media Center can play audio itself and then setup the [[WDM Driver]] which allows Media Center to process audio for any other app on your PC.
== Purchasing and Licensing ==


Review [[Standard View]] to understand how to use the Media Center UI.
MC has a 30 day trial of the full version. Once you're ready to purchase, you can do so from the <span style="color:#8B4513">Help</span> menu in the program. The license is installed automatically, but you will also receive e-mail from buybutton at jriver with a copy of your Registration Code. This is a permanent code that can be used to [https://rover.jriver.com/cgi-bin/restore.cgi restore] your license at any time in the future.


This feature is only available to Windows users.
Here is how you can [[Restore a License]]. Links to [[Old Versions]].


==== I want to listen to Internet Radio ====
== Support and Other Resources ==

Complete [[Audio Setup]] and then follow the [[Connected Media]] guide.

=== Watch Video ===

Media Center can play a wide variety of [[Video Formats]], including [[Blu Ray]], [[DVD]] and mkv, using a choice of high quality playback engines such as [[Red October]]. In combination with its [[DSP]] engine, it can handle a variety of surround formats and can up or down mix them to play on a variety of hardware. It also supports [[Subtitles]] which can be accessed via its [[OSD]].

==== My videos are stored on disk and I want Media Center to catalogue it ====

[[Import]] your videos into your [[Library]] then complete [[Audio Setup]] and [[Video Setup]] so you can watch them.

Review [[DSP]] (and [[Output Format]] in particular) to make sure all formats can are played back correctly on your system.

Review [[Standard View]] to understand how to use the Media Center UI.

==== My videos are played by other software and I want Media Center to process the audio ====

NB: This feature is only available to Windows users.

Complete [[Audio Setup]] so that you can be sure Media Center can play audio itself and then setup the [[WDM Driver]] which allows Media Center to process audio for any other app on your PC.

Review [[DSP]] (and [[Output Format]] in particular) to make sure all formats can are played back correctly on your system.

Review [[Standard View]] to understand how to use the Media Center UI.

==== I need a ten foot Interface ====

[[Theatre View]] is Media Center's interface for viewing MC on a TV across the room. Launch it using the Ctrl+4 keyboard shortcut or via the View > Theater View menu option.

=== Watch and Record Live TV ===

MC can record television signals using a variety of sources and hardware types, including via a Set-Top Box, OTA (Over-the-Air) signals, and clear channels from cable and satellite.

Check out the [[Television]] topic for more information.

You will need to install a TV tuner or connect to a Set Top Box (cable) and select it in MC. Then scan for channels and set up an [[EPG]] (Electronic Program Guide).

To use [[Theatre View]] please review the [[Theater View Television Guide Setup]] guide.

=== Stream content ===

==== Setup a Media Server ====

[[Media Server]] allows other devices to access, and playback, content indexed by the Media Center [[Library]].

Follow the steps in [[Media_Server#Configuration_of_Media_Server]] to understand how to configure a Media Center install to act as a [[Media Server]]/

==== Add another Media Center Client ====

A Media Center instance can also be used as a client of a [[Media Server]], see [https://wiki.jriver.com/index.php/Media_Server#Access_from_another_PC_on_your_LAN] to understand how to configure a Media Center install to work in this mode.

==== Serve content to DLNA capable devices ====

Media Center can serve content to both Media Center clients and [[DLNA]] devices, follow the [[DLNA#Setup_Instructions]] to setup Media Center to do this.

If you hit problems then post on [https://yabb.jriver.com/interact/index.php/board,7.0.html the Media Network forum] and be prepared to post the results of [http://www.whitebear.ch/dmra the digital media renderer analyser]

==== Listen/Watch Content on my Phone or Tablet ====

There are several choices for media playback on a phone or tablet. Please see [[Remotes]] for more information.

[[Gizmo]] is a free Android app
[[JRemote]] is an app available on both Android and iOS which can be bought via the respective app stores.
[[Panel]] is a webapp served by Media Center and which can be accessed with any browser on any device.

==== Access content outside my home network ====

If your network is configured appropriately then it is possible to access your content from outside your home network, review [[Network Access]] for details on how to achieve this.

=== Use a Remote Control ===

==== Gizmo ====

[[Gizmo]] is available for Android and allows you to select content for playback on a selected [[Zone]] available via the connected [[Media Server]].

[[Gizmo]] also provides a simple remote control for [[Theatre View]]

==== Panel ====

[[Panel]] is a modern webapp that runs in your browser and allows you to select content for playback on the selected [[Zone]].

==== JRemote ====

[[JRemote]] is available for iOS and Android and allows you to select content for playback on a selected [[Zone]] available via the connected [[Media Server]].

=== Organise my Content ===

Media Center provides a variety of ways to organise both your content and how you view that content.

==== Managing Metadata ====

[[Tagging]] enables you to add metadata to [[Library]] items. There are also [[Library Tools]] which enable some bulk operations.

These tags enable the use of Media Center's powerful [[Expression Language]] (either directly or via the [[Search Wizard]]) which underpins much Media Center's flexible user interface.

==== Organising Views ====

[[Playlists]] are ordered lists of specific media files while [[Smartlists]] are essentially a saved search which you can use like a playlist.

The Media Center [[Standard View]] is a [[Tree]] based view which ships with a set of default [[View Schemes]] and [[Media Views]]. Review those links to understand how to customise Media Center to your preference.

== How do I extend Media Center to... ==

=== Write my own Apps that can control Media Center ===

See the [[DevZone]] for details about the [[Media Center Web Service]] Interface (aka [[MCWS]]) and [[Media Center Core Commands]] (aka [[MCC]])

Some community examples include

* https://github.com/3ll3d00d/ezmote : a react redux app with a material ui theme
* https://github.com/rlebrette/jrmc-jqm-gizmo : a jquery based webapp
* https://github.com/rlebrette/jrmc-ws-server : exposes MCWS via websockets

=== Change the skin ===

See the [[DevZone]] for details on how to create skins for both [[Theater View]] and [[Standard View]].

== What else can I do? ==

Take a look at [[Up and Running]] for some more advanced topics.

== How do I get help? ==


'''All user support is done via our [http://yabb.jriver.com/interact/ forum]'''.
'''All user support is done via our [http://yabb.jriver.com/interact/ forum]'''.


* [http://www.jriver.com/support.html Links to Forum, Wiki, FAQ, Purchase, License Retrieval, Old Versions].
* [https://rover.jriver.com/cgi-bin/restore.cgi Restore Page].
* [http://yabb.jriver.com/interact/index.php?topic=10029.0 JRiver's FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)], including links to [[Old Versions]].
* Support Forum: [http://yabb.jriver.com/interact/ http://yabb.jriver.com/interact/].
* [http://yabb.jriver.com/interact/index.php?topic=43159.0 Learn how to post a question on Interact].
* [http://yabb.jriver.com/interact/index.php?topic=43159.0 Learn how to post a question on Interact].
* [http://www.jriver.com/support.html Links to Forum, Wiki, FAQ, Purchase, License Retrieval, Old Versions].
* [http://yabb.jriver.com/interact/index.php?topic=10029.0 JRiver's FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)].
* Introduction to the basics of [[Digital Media]].
* Introduction to the basics of [[Digital Media]].
* [[:Category:Setup|Other Setup Articles]]
* For Intermediate Users, please see [[Up and Running]].

== Purchasing and Licensing ==

MC has a 30 day trial which provides access to the full version of the software with no limitations.

Once you're ready to purchase, you can do so from the <span style="color:#8B4513">Help</span> menu in the program. The license is installed automatically but you will also receive e-mail from buybutton at jriver with a copy of your Registration Code. This is a permanent code that can be used to [https://rover.jriver.com/cgi-bin/restore.cgi restore] your license at any time in the future.

Here is how you can [[Restore a License]].

A full list of [[Old Versions]] is also available.

Review the [[Release Notes]] for a full changelog.


[[Category: Frequently Asked Questions]]
[[Category:Frequently Asked Questions]]
[[Category:Setup]]
[[Category:Setup]]

Latest revision as of 16:51, 23 December 2022

Installation and Setup

Installation

Installation varies based on the operating system chosen.

Windows

Download and Install JRiver Media Center. Please see Installation & Removal for details.

Mac

Download and Install JRiver Media Center. Please see Mac Installation & Removal for details.

Linux

Linux MC uses the debian apt package management system for installation, updating and removal.

JRiver hosts the repository for this.

The easiest way to get a new installation going is to use a contributed script called InstallJRMC.

The current version for MC30 is here: InstallJRMC

More info can be found here: Linux Installation & Removal

Setup

Next Import your files. MC makes a record of them in its database, but does not move or change them. By default, MC will import all your files, but you can set it to import only some folders and file types by using Auto-Import.

Please review the sections below for more specific guidance on how to configure Media Center for your intended use.

How do I configure Media Center to....

Listen to Audio

Media Center supports a wide variety of audio file formats and can play content indexed by its internal Library as well as internet streams and, on Windows, audio played by other Windows applications.

My music is stored on disk and I want use Media Center to navigate through it

Import your music into your Library then complete Audio Setup so you can listen to it. Review Standard View to understand how to use the Media Center UI.

I want to route audio from other software through Media Center

Complete Audio Setup so that you can be sure Media Center can play audio itself and then setup the WDM Driver which allows Media Center to process audio for any other app on your PC.

Review Standard View to understand how to use the Media Center UI.

This feature is only available to Windows users.

I want to listen to Internet Radio

Complete Audio Setup and then follow the Connected Media guide.

Watch Video

Media Center can play a wide variety of Video Formats, including Blu Ray, DVD and mkv, using a choice of high quality playback engines such as Red October. In combination with its DSP engine, it can handle a variety of surround formats and can up or down mix them to play on a variety of hardware. It also supports Subtitles which can be accessed via its OSD.

My videos are stored on disk and I want Media Center to catalogue it

Import your videos into your Library then complete Audio Setup and Video Setup so you can watch them.

Review DSP (and Output Format in particular) to make sure all formats can are played back correctly on your system.

Review Standard View to understand how to use the Media Center UI.

My videos are played by other software and I want Media Center to process the audio

NB: This feature is only available to Windows users.

Complete Audio Setup so that you can be sure Media Center can play audio itself and then setup the WDM Driver which allows Media Center to process audio for any other app on your PC.

Review DSP (and Output Format in particular) to make sure all formats can are played back correctly on your system.

Review Standard View to understand how to use the Media Center UI.

I need a ten foot Interface

Theatre View is Media Center's interface for viewing MC on a TV across the room. Launch it using the Ctrl+4 keyboard shortcut or via the View > Theater View menu option.

Watch and Record Live TV

MC can record television signals using a variety of sources and hardware types, including via a Set-Top Box, OTA (Over-the-Air) signals, and clear channels from cable and satellite.

Check out the Television topic for more information.

You will need to install a TV tuner or connect to a Set Top Box (cable) and select it in MC. Then scan for channels and set up an EPG (Electronic Program Guide).

To use Theatre View please review the Theater View Television Guide Setup guide.

Stream content

Setup a Media Server

Media Server allows other devices to access, and playback, content indexed by the Media Center Library.

Follow the steps in Media_Server#Configuration_of_Media_Server to understand how to configure a Media Center install to act as a Media Server/

Add another Media Center Client

A Media Center instance can also be used as a client of a Media Server, see [1] to understand how to configure a Media Center install to work in this mode.

Serve content to DLNA capable devices

Media Center can serve content to both Media Center clients and DLNA devices, follow the DLNA#Setup_Instructions to setup Media Center to do this.

If you hit problems then post on the Media Network forum and be prepared to post the results of the digital media renderer analyser

Listen/Watch Content on my Phone or Tablet

There are several choices for media playback on a phone or tablet. Please see Remotes for more information.

Gizmo is a free Android app JRemote is an app available on both Android and iOS which can be bought via the respective app stores. Panel is a webapp served by Media Center and which can be accessed with any browser on any device.

Access content outside my home network

If your network is configured appropriately then it is possible to access your content from outside your home network, review Network Access for details on how to achieve this.

Use a Remote Control

Gizmo

Gizmo is available for Android and allows you to select content for playback on a selected Zone available via the connected Media Server.

Gizmo also provides a simple remote control for Theatre View

Panel

Panel is a modern webapp that runs in your browser and allows you to select content for playback on the selected Zone.

JRemote

JRemote is available for iOS and Android and allows you to select content for playback on a selected Zone available via the connected Media Server.

Organise my Content

Media Center provides a variety of ways to organise both your content and how you view that content.

Managing Metadata

Tagging enables you to add metadata to Library items. There are also Library Tools which enable some bulk operations.

These tags enable the use of Media Center's powerful Expression Language (either directly or via the Search Wizard) which underpins much Media Center's flexible user interface.

Organising Views

Playlists are ordered lists of specific media files while Smartlists are essentially a saved search which you can use like a playlist.

The Media Center Standard View is a Tree based view which ships with a set of default View Schemes and Media Views. Review those links to understand how to customise Media Center to your preference.

How do I extend Media Center to...

Write my own Apps that can control Media Center

See the DevZone for details about the Media Center Web Service Interface (aka MCWS) and Media Center Core Commands (aka MCC)

Some community examples include

Change the skin

See the DevZone for details on how to create skins for both Theater View and Standard View.

What else can I do?

Take a look at Up and Running for some more advanced topics.

How do I get help?

All user support is done via our forum.

Purchasing and Licensing

MC has a 30 day trial which provides access to the full version of the software with no limitations.

Once you're ready to purchase, you can do so from the Help menu in the program. The license is installed automatically but you will also receive e-mail from buybutton at jriver with a copy of your Registration Code. This is a permanent code that can be used to restore your license at any time in the future.

Here is how you can Restore a License.

A full list of Old Versions is also available.

Review the Release Notes for a full changelog.

Retrieved from "https://wiki.jriver.com/index.php?title=Getting_Started&oldid=17164"