If you have 10 portable Anthias units at a conference, you can sync them without cloud internet.
Screenly Anthias, originally designed for fixed digital signage, can be effectively repurposed for portable deployments with modest hardware and software adjustments. Our prototypes demonstrate runtime from 7–10 hours, offline operation, and rapid setup. The open-source nature allows customization not possible with commercial alternatives. For events, fieldwork, and mobile retail, Anthias on Raspberry Pi offers a practical, low-cost portable signage solution.
You have 10 minutes to set up a tent and a table. You cannot spend 30 minutes debugging why your menu board won't connect to the coffee shop next door's Wi-Fi. A portable player ensures your menu or pricing displays immediately.
To avoid corruption when the battery dies, create a low-voltage shutdown script. screenly anthias portable
What does "Portable" actually mean for Screenly Anthias?
It is not an official product variant (there is no "Anthias Portable Edition" download). Instead, "Screenly Anthias Portable" refers to a custom hardware configuration that allows you to run your digital signage without relying on external power outlets, hotel Wi-Fi, or permanent mounts.
A true portable setup must achieve three things: If you have 10 portable Anthias units at
This is the DIY section. Here is your shopping list and configuration guide to build a "Professional Grade" portable unit.
| Metric | Unit A | Unit B | Unit C | |--------|--------|--------|--------| | Max runtime | 7h 20m | 10h 10m | 9h (without solar) | | Boot-to-signage time | 48s | 35s | 52s | | Offline asset update success | 100% (preloaded) | 100% | 100% | | Frameskip (video, 1080p) | <1% | 12% (limited decode) | <1% | | Operating temp range | 5–35°C | 0–40°C | -5–45°C |
Network findings: When using phone hotspot, Anthias performed synchronously. Offline mode required manual asset refresh via USB or SD card swap—acceptable for pre-planned events. You have 10 minutes to set up a tent and a table
Power: The RPi 4 + 10" LCD draws 5.2W average. A 30,000 mAh (3.7V nominal → 111 Wh) delivered ~7.2 hours, matching theoretical.
Reliability: No crashes over 30 cumulative hours of looping playback. Unit B showed thermal throttling after 90 min in direct sun, mitigated by passive heatsink.