Rokomote: The Roku Remote in Linux Bash

Rokomote is a simple, lightweight Bash-based CLI tool that allows you to control your Roku device from a Linux terminal. With features like navigation, text input, volume control, and power management, Rokomote transforms your terminal into a Roku remote.

Why Rokomote was Created

So, I lost my Roku Remote. Those remotes are so small, they are hard to find. I was holding my UbuntuBook, thinking about how I could use the terminal to control my Roku, and how cool that would be. I searched for anything linked to Roku Remotes and the command line, and couldn't find anything. So after some research, I chose to make my own. After all, some coding would help me in the future.

Description

Rokomote is Free and Open Source Software (FOSS), designed as a simple, easy, and accessible solution for Roku users. It scans your local network for Roku devices, lets you select one, and provides intuitive key mappings to control the device. It's ideal for Linux users who want a quick, command-line alternative to a physical remote or mobile app.

Notes

• Rokomote versions may be different: Rokomote will maintain up to 3 versions of its software to avoid code loss and to also allow users to test out various versions, just in case one doesn't work. It is recommended that you use the latest version of Rokomote.sh

• Tested on an Acer C720 Chromebook: This project was developed and tested using an Acer C720 Chromebook running Ubuntu, so the default keyboard layout may not be optimal for your setup. If you don't like the layout, you can easily edit the Bash file to assign your preferred keys.

• Not in Development: This project is not being further developed right now.

• If you encounter any bugs, please report them in the Issues section of the repository.

• Roku Compatibility: This tool has only been tested with Roku TVs. If you find that it does not work with your Roku device, please report the issue.

• Contributions Welcome: If you're able to fix issues or improve the tool, feel free to submit a pull request.

Prerequisites

Before using Rokomote, ensure the following:

• Your Roku device and Linux machine are on the same local network.
• curl and nmap are installed on your system.
  • sudo snap install curl && sudo apt install nmap
• Your terminal supports raw input handling for keypress detection.

How to Use Rokomote

1. Clone the repository

• git clone https://github.com/jri-creator/rokomote.git
• cd rokomote

2. Make the script executable

• chmod +x rokomote.sh

3. (Optional) Move the script to a directory in your PATH for easier use

   • Rename rokomote.sh to rokomote (no ending)
   • sudo mv rokomote /usr/local/bin
   • • Now you can run the program simply by typing rokomote in any terminal.

4. Run the script

Follow the prompts

1. • Select the Roku device you wish to control.

   • Use the following key mappings to control your Roku:

     • Arrow keys: Navigation (Up, Down, Left, Right)
     • Backspace: Home
     • /: OK (Select)
     • . (Period): Backspace
     • - (Minus): Volume Down
     • = (Equals): Volume Up
     • p: Power on/off prompt
     • ' (Apostrophe): Text mode (type input and press Enter)
     • , (Comma): Roku Options
     • Esc: Exit the script

2. Enjoy controlling your Roku, the easy way!

Acknowledgments

Rokomote is Free and Open Source Software, developed with assistance from ChatGPT. If you find this tool helpful, consider starring the repository and sharing it with others.