What is Butler?

The viewneo Butler is an IoT gateway that connects your Digital Signage installation with external devices. Via the Butler, you can control lights, motors, power outlets, and other actuators directly from the viewneo CMS.

How It Works

The viewneo Butler connects to your viewneo player via the local network and controls connected devices via radio (Zigbee). Actions can be triggered in three ways:

• On a schedule — Define times when devices should turn on or off automatically.
• Event-based — React to triggers such as playlist changes, content events, or sensor input.
• Manually — Control devices on demand directly from the CMS.

The communication flow is as follows:

1. The Butler connects to the same local network as your viewneo player.
2. You pair Zigbee-compatible actuators (lights, outlets, motors) with the Butler.
3. The viewneo CMS sends commands to the player, which relays them to the Butler.
4. The Butler sends the corresponding radio signal to the paired actuator.

Products

Product	Description
viewneo Butler	IoT gateway (standalone unit). Connects to your network and communicates with Zigbee actuators.
viewneo Butler Set	Starter package that includes the Butler gateway and a selection of actuators to get started immediately.

Tip

If you are new to the Butler, the Butler Set is the easiest way to get started. It includes everything you need for a first installation.

Use Cases

The Butler enables a wide range of IoT-driven Digital Signage scenarios:

• Retail — Synchronize lighting effects with on-screen content to draw attention to promotions or products.
• Hospitality — Schedule power outlets to automatically control displays, ambient lighting, or signage in lobbies and restaurants.
• Corporate — Drive motorized displays or screen lifts that activate based on meeting schedules or sensor triggers.
• Education — Automate room lighting in lecture halls or classrooms in sync with presentation content.

Requirements

Before setting up the Butler, make sure you have:

• An active viewneo account with a plan that includes the Butler Plugin.
• A viewneo player connected to your local network.
• The Butler hardware unit.
• One or more Zigbee-compatible actuators (lights, outlets, motors, etc.).

Note

The Butler Plugin must be activated in your viewneo plan. If you do not see the Butler option in your CMS, contact your administrator or upgrade your plan.

Next Steps

• Activate Butler — Connect the Butler to your network and register it in the CMS.
• Pair Zigbee Devices — Add actuators to your Butler.
• Butler Events — Set up automated actions triggered by events or schedules.