Configuration

After installing the Arcam Solo integration in Home Assistant, you'll need to configure it to connect to your device. Here's how:

  1. Go to Settings -> Devices & Services.
  2. Click Add Integration in the bottom right corner.
  3. Search for "Arcam Solo" and select it.

You'll then be presented with the configuration form. Here's what you'll need to enter:

  • Name: Give your Arcam Solo a friendly name (e.g., "Living Room Stereo").
  • Host:
    • Serial Adapter Method (Recommended): If you're using the recommended serial adapter method, this field should contain the path to the serial device on your system. This is typically something like /dev/ttyUSB0, /dev/ttyACM0, or, preferably, the more reliable path by ID (e.g., /dev/serial/by-id/usb-Prolific_Technology_Inc._USB-Serial_Controller-if00-port0). Refer to the Installation section for how to determine the correct path.
    • ESP32 Method: If you're using the ESP32 method, this will be the IP address or hostname of the ESP32 device on your network.
  • Port:
    • Serial Adapter Method (Recommended): If you are using a serial adapter, this field should be set to the baud rate of the serial connection, which is 38400.
    • ESP32 Method: If you are using the ESP32 method, this field should be the port number the ESP32 is listening on (typically configured in your ESPHome configuration).
  • Use Local Serial Port: Check this box if you are using the serial adapter connected directly to your Home Assistant host. Leave it unchecked if you are using the ESP32 method or a serial connection over the network.
  • Scan Interval (Optional): This setting determines how often Home Assistant checks for updates from your Arcam Solo. The default value is usually sufficient. You can adjust it if you need more frequent updates or want to reduce network traffic. The minimum value is 120 seconds (2 minutes).
  • Enabled Features (Optional): This setting allows you to select which features of the integration are enabled. By default, the following features are enabled:
    • virtual_remote: Provides a virtual remote control interface in Home Assistant.
    • sound_controls: Enables controls for adjusting volume, mute, and other sound settings.
    • display_controls: Enables control of the Arcam Solo's display (if supported).
    • radio_controls: Enables controls for radio functions (if supported).
    • virtual_buttons: Creates virtual buttons for specific commands. Currently, the following virtual buttons are available:
      • CD Eject: Ejects the CD from the Arcam Solo.

After filling in the details, click Submit.

Important Notes:

  • If you're using the serial adapter method, ensure you have identified the correct device path (as described in the Installation section) and configure your serial-to-network bridge (if applicable) accordingly.
  • If you're using the ESP32 method, ensure your ESP32 is correctly configured and connected to your network.
  • If you encounter any issues during configuration, refer to the Troubleshooting section.