Who needs to buy a Chromecast stick when you build your own, open-source alternative? Software engineer Maya Posch is turning Raspberry Pis into streaming platforms with her latest project known as NymphCast. This open-source Chromecast alternative lets you stream video and audio to your television using a Raspberry Pi.
The project was recently shared on Reddit with evidence of production over the last 6 months on Github. The software is compatible with a variety of Linux hardware with a ready-to-use image released just for the Raspberry Pi. The Raspberry Pi (or other Linux device) acts as a server for NymphCast which can be controlled with a client such as a smartphone or PC.
If you're wondering which Raspberry Pi to buy for this project, the good news is that Nymphcast is made to work with a Raspberry Pi 2, 3, 4 or even a Zero W.
The NymphCast server is connected directly to an output device (TV, stereo, projector, etc). This server is controllable over a local network using a remote client. This client can be operated from a PC, tablet, or even a smartphone device.
NymphCast is designed to support custom applications that can run on the NymphCast server. Since this is a new development, you won't find many available. However, you can always look at developing your own (if that's your cup of tea). NymphCast applications are written using AngelScript and use a library of functions that operate within the NymphCast runtime. Posch has provided detailed information on the NymphCast website for developers looking to implement their own applications.
This project is still in its Alpha phase. If you want to keep an eye on its development, be sure to follow Maya Posch. You can read more about NymphCast on both Github and the official NymphCast website.
Get Tom's Hardware's best news and in-depth reviews, straight to your inbox.
Ash Hill is a contributing writer for Tom's Hardware with a wealth of experience in the hobby electronics, 3D printing and PCs. She manages the Pi projects of the month and much of our daily Raspberry Pi reporting while also finding the best coupons and deals on all tech.
-
TechLurker While it appears to be a longshot, I'm hoping this becomes successful enough to be a truly open source alternative to Chromecast, or at least Miracast. The fact it also got some attention from another group working on a similar initiative (in the Dev's blog post) is hopeful sign that maybe there can be some collaborative effort towards open source alternatives.Reply