BomeBox Lets You Connect MIDI, and Transform It, Any Way You Want

Started by Elantric, January 28, 2015, 11:07:29 AM

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Elantric



http://createdigitalmusic.com/2015/01/bomebox-lets-connect-midi-transform-way-want/

BomeBox Lets You Connect MIDI, and Transform It, Any Way You Want
BY PETER KIRN



MIDI is a magical lingua franca between, well, sort of everything. But that's only if you get it connected. And then once you do have it connected, you might want to tame its messages so they accomplish what you want.
Now, the buzz is wearing off following last week's avalanche of new music gear announcements. You might realize you don't have $30,000 for a modular. But then, in the wake of that gear, comes one that flew under the radar – and it's one of the most powerful-looking bits of kit we've seen recently.
For years, Bome's Midi Translator has been the secret sauce used by drummers and beatboxers and other performers to make their MIDI gear perform amazing tricks. The software's approach is simple – get messages in, do something to them, send messages out. But by providing an insanely powerful set of rule-based operations on those messages, it has been the one piece of software that solves your needs when others can't.
And now it's hardware.

Yes, the Bome Box is a device that loads up MIDI Translator Pro project files and does all these MIDI-mangling tricks without a computer required.
And more than that, it's hardware that connects MIDI via whatever you want. In and out, of course, low latency, of course. But there's also a USB host – necessary for all these USB devices that lack MIDI DIN ports. And there are two Ethernet ports, for long-distance network cabling of MIDI.
And there's WiFi, too.
BomeBox is also the first hardware I've seen to advertise itself as HD-ready. No, we're not talking televisions – we're talking the next generation of MIDI. The MIDI makers are near to releasing the HD version of their protocol, which will happily make use of the added bandwidth of these connections with higher-resolution data (among other new features – more on that soon).
BomeBox is due in spring. No pricing yet.
I love boxes that solve problems – even if not terribly sexy problems. And BomeBox looks very intriguing, indeed. We'll have an eye on this box.
http://www.bome.com/products/bomebox

mbenigni


Albert

that looks like a problemsolver in a very compact package. I'll keep an eye on it!

crsmarker

Hello, has anyone gotten a closer look at this device yet? Being a fan of Bome's MIDI Translator Pro (MTP), I'm thinking this is the one.
I've been waiting forever to have one box to rule then all, where all of my dreams will come true. ????

Elantric

http://www.bome.com/news
QuoteMay 13, 2015: BomeBox Videos
Hey there!
At our booth at the NAMM Show 2015, we showed a few prototypes of the BomeBox in action.
Check it out: http://www.bome.com/products/bomebox/videos

The production plan is on schedule (summer 2015), we'll notify you when the BomeBox is available for purchase.


MusicOverGear

Wow very cool.

I used to use his Midi Translator software years ago on a Windows Ableton rig. To get a full license it didn't cost any money, you just had to send him an interesting postcard from wherever you are. Stuck me as the coolest thing ever.

Also the software was very good. I'll bet this new box is fantastic, just based on the kind of guy he is.

Elantric

https://www.bome.com/products/bomebox

BomeBox  Status

2016-02-22: we're still sorting out problems with manufacturing. We're working hard on fixing them and hope for production to start soon!

Elantric

https://www.bome.com/products/bomebox

Status

2016-06-06: we've finally received EMI (e.g. FCC) certification and are preparing the first production run now.

More Info

Availability planned in fall 2016 (sign up for notification)
Press release January 22, 2015
The BomeBox was presented in action at the NAMM Show 2015
"HD Protocol" ready
Specifications


https://www.bome.com/news


Jun 6, 2016: BomeBox Certified!
We're very happy to report that the BomeBox has finally received EMI certification (FCC, etc.). We had to slightly modify the circuitry, but we were able to keep the full functionality.

Right now we're sorting out the last bits for the first production run scheduled for July/August, with public availability afterwards.

We'll keep you posted!
Florian and the Bome team

Apr 1, 2016: Meet Bome at Musikmesse 2016
We would love to meet you at the Musikmesse 2016 in Frankfurt, Germany! Please schedule a meeting to see the BomeBox prototypes in action, or check out the upcoming version 1.8.1 of MIDI Translator Pro, or just talk shop with Bome Software founder Florian Bomers.

Dec 16, 2015: Meet Bome at the NAMM Show 2016
We would love to meet you at the NAMM Show 2016 in Anaheim, CA (January 21 to 24)! In our booth #1088 in hall E (downstairs), you'll have the chance to chat with Florian Bomers, founder, and Jared Helfer, our tech suport guru!

We'll also show the BomeBox in action, and showcase the new MIDI Translator Pro features. For scheduling a meeting, please contact us directly.

PS: we have recently discovered a new BomeBox production problem, delaying availability of the BomeBox. We're currently working on a fix, with certification scheduled right before NAMM. Crossing our fingers!

GuitarBuilder

I wonder how the BomeBox will compare to the MIDI Solutions Event Processor.  I got the latter for $149 and find it easy to program; once loaded, it's set and forget.

It looks like one still needs MTP to program this, bringing total investment up to 258 Euro.  Can the MTP users chime in?
"There's no-one left alive, it must be a draw"  Peter Gabriel 1973

Elantric



QuoteIt looks like one still needs MTP to program this,

http://www.bome.com/products/bomebox/faq
BomeBox™ FAQ

Availability

When will the BomeBox be available for purchase?
Unfortunately, we've run into problems with the production process, but count with general availability in 2016.
Please subscribe to the newsletter to be among the first to get the chance to order the BomeBox!

How much will the BomeBox cost?
The planned introductory price is EUR 199 (incl. VAT where it applies).
This corresponds to approx. 222 US Dollars.

Where will I be able to purchase the BomeBox?
Initially, we'll sell the BomeBox exclusively from our web site and ship to almost the entire world.

MIDI

Can I connect a USB-MIDI device and a 5-pin DIN MIDI device and they work together?
Yes, that's standard functionality. By default, all ports are forwarded to all other MIDI ports. But in the web config, you can define fine grained MIDI Routing.

Can I use one MIDI controller to control 5 other devices?
Yes, the web config allows unlimited routing, duplicating and merging of MIDI ports. And in conjunction with MIDI Translator Pro, the BomeBox will do all the filtering, mapping, translation, and processing you can dream of.

Does the BomeBox power USB devices?
Yes, the BomeBox provides up to 1A at the USB Type A port.

Can I attach multiple USB devices with a USB Hub?
Yes, the BomeBox supports powered and passive USB hubs.

Can I have more MIDI DIN ports?
Yes, use a USB to MIDI adapter. We recommend high quality MIDI adapters from e.g. Roland, or Yamaha because we have seen MIDI data loss with cheap MIDI adapters. Use multi-port adapters or a USB hub to get even more MIDI DIN ports.

Does the BomeBox support MIDI System Exclusive?
Yes, the BomeBox supports any MIDI message. For mapping e.g. control change message to Sys Ex (or vice versa), use a MIDI Translator Pro project (see below).

Can I use the BomeBox to map channels or controller response?
For such processing functionality, use a MIDI Translator Pro project (see below).

MIDI Translator Pro Support

How does MIDI Translator Pro work in the BomeBox?
The BomeBox contains a runtime of MIDI Translator Pro. So you will use the MIDI Translator Pro software on a PC or Mac to create your project file(s), and then use the web config to upload the project. The BomeBox stores up to 8MB of project files, and the web config makes it easy to select the project you want to run.

Which features of MIDI Translator Pro are available in the BomeBox?
It supports all features not related to a desktop computer: MIDI in/out, unlimited MIDI ports, MIDI routes, MIDI aliases, Rules, timers, enable/disable presets. Not supported is e.g. keystroke input or emulation, AppleScript, mouse emulation.

Will the BomeBox include a license of MIDI Translator Pro?
The BomeBox is priced very competitively, so it does not include a MIDI Translator Pro license. The BomeBox has a lot of functionality available in the web config, so for many use cases, the advanced mapping capabilities of MIDI Translator Pro are not even needed.

Connections

Can I connect the BomeBox to a computer?
One of our goals for creating the BomeBox was to get rid of the computer... consequently, you cannot directly connect to it, e.g. via USB. However, we will make available a server for Windows and OS X for our own NetMIDI protocol via Ethernet or WiFi. See also the following questions.

Can I connect to the BomeBox from iPad, iPhone, Android,...?
The built-in WiFi makes it very easy to connect to the BomeBox from a smart phone or tablet. This is mainly meant for accessing the web config. However, because the BomeBox does not implement RTP-MIDI (as used by OS X and iOS), no MIDI access is currently possible. We are considering to release a NetMIDI server for mobile devices. See also next question.

Why doesn't the BomeBox support RTP-MIDI (as used on OS X and iOS)?
When we needed a networked MIDI protocol years ago, RTP-MIDI did not fulfill our requirements of performance and ease of use. So we developed an own protocol which is very easy to set up, has built-in security, and has very low latency. But we're considering to add RTP-MIDI support in future with a firmware update.

Does the BomeBox support OSC?
Currently not. We're considering to add OSC support in future with a firmware update.

Web Config

How can I configure the BomeBox?
The BomeBox is configured via the Web Config, accessible from a browser via Ethernet or WiFi. This works similar to how you configure an Internet router.

Can I access the Web Config from a smartphone or tablet?
Yes, and that's our recommended way: use Ethernet for Network MIDI (if needed), and WiFi for web config from a tablet. Simply connect to the BomeBox WiFi (by default SSID "BomeBox"), open your mobile browser like Safari or Chrome, where you will be greeted by a BomeBox status page.

What can I configure in the Web Config?
Settings:

General: name, password
Ethernet: DHCP client (default), DHCP server, fixed IP address
WiFi: HotSpot (default), Client, Access Point
Backup/Updates: create and apply backups, reset to factory defaults, upload a firmware update
MIDI:

MIDI Ports: view available ports, assign MIDI Aliases
MIDI Routes: view/edit/create MIDI Routes, save and load Route Sets
Network MIDI: connect to another BomeBox, approve incoming connection request
MIDI Translator: view/upload/select project files, restart or close project
WiFi

Can I connect multiple devices to the BomeBox via WiFi?
Yes, by default, the BomeBox works like a wireless WiFi router.

Can I connect the BomeBox via WiFi to an existing WiFi router?
Yes, simply select "WiFi Client" instead of "WiFi HotSpot" in the web config.

Can I use WiFi Ad-Hoc connection?
No, and it won't be necessary, because the BomeBox works as a full WiFi HotSpot.

Ethernet

Can I connect two BomeBoxes without a network router?
Yes, this is possible via WiFi (one BomeBox is "WiFi Client", the other "WiFi HotSpot"), or via Ethernet: simply use a standard network cable to directly connect BomeBoxes. The network ports are MDIX auto sensing and support APIPA/link local addresses. Additionally, you can enable a DHCP server in a BomeBox.

Do I need a network router for using the BomeBox in a network?
No, the BomeBox has all the functionality of a router: it features a DHCP server, so you can run all your network on your BomeBox.

Why are there 2 Ethernet ports?
Apart from PoE (see below), they work like a mini network switch, so in many case you will not even need a network switch or router when using the BomeBox. Another great way to use BomeBoxes are to daisy chain them: one network cable connects to a second BomeBox, which connects a third BomeBox, and so on. In conjunction with PoE, you will not even need to attach a power adapter to the BomeBoxes.

Power over Ethernet (PoE)

Why are the network ports labeled PoE In and PoE Out?
PoE In is for getting power into the BomeBox, use any PoE source for that. The PoE Out port works as a PoE source for a daisy chained BomeBox. By daisy chaining, you can, for example, connect all the BomeBoxes on a stage setup with just one cable connection for providing power and Ethernet MIDI connections.

Security

How can I prevent an intruder to access the Web Config?
The Web Config is protected by a password, which you should set up when first connecting the BomeBox. Moreover, when using WiFi, you should also set a password there to prevent unauthorized access from your neighbors or the auditorium...

Can someone connect via NetMIDI without my authorization?
No, NetMIDI connections require a two-step setup: one side requests a NetMIDI connection, and the other side must approve it. For convenience, you can use the Pair button on the BomeBox to authorize an incoming NetMIDI connection request.

I forgot my password!
The BomeBox provides a way to reset the password: copy a password reset file on a USB thumb drive, plug the thumb drive in the BomeBox USB port, and then reboot the BomeBox. This will remove the password and you can access the web config without entering a password.

I misconfigured the BomeBox network and cannot access it anymore!
Similar in the way to reset your password, use a thumb drive with a special network reset file and reboot the BomeBox. This will reset the network to factory defaults (Ethernet client, WiFi HotSpot without password).

Open Source

Is the BomeBox Open Source?
Not entirely. But the BomeBox runs an adapted version of OpenWRT, which is licensed under the GNU Public License. As required by the license, we have published our modifications to OpenWRT on github, so it is possible to create your own version of OpenWRT to run on the BomeBox, if you wish.

Essentials

Can I play Pong?
Yes, the BomeBox ships with a Pong MIDI Translator Pro project for use with a Novation Launchpad. It is a 4-sided Pong.

Does it blend?
Absolutely.


Elantric

https://www.bome.com/shop/bomebox

BomeBox is Shipping
We're extremely happy to announce availability of the BomeBox™ in our web shop. It has come a long way, but this is just the start!
Our introductory offer for the first production batch is €199 (approx. US$225) plus shipping, so get it while supplies last!
Now we're thrilled to watch the BomeBox ecosystem grow in studios, stages, theaters... Let us know your experiences and questions in the web forum or via email. We also have an extensive FAQ.
Think inside the box!
The Bome team — Flori






admin


BomeBox FAQ
BomeBox™: the MIDI Hub for Stage and Studio
The BomeBox is the solution for connecting and mapping devices via MIDI, Ethernet, WiFi, and USB (without the need of a computer). Cross-connect USB-MIDI devices (powered by the BomeBox), MIDI 5-pin DIN, other BomeBoxes, and computers.
"   I want to just make music (...) and really I don't know how I would do it without your products.

Jake Orr

"   BomeBox...haven't seen that kind of ingenuity since the early MIDI days.

Lug N.

The ultimate Plug-and-Map Experience
BomeBox Overview

Key Features
Robust, reinforced ABS case
MIDI-DIN: 1x input, 1x output. You can add more via the USB Host
USB Host Type A: supports USB-MIDI devices, USB hubs, multi-port USB-MIDI devices
Built-in MIDI Router: unlimited virtual MIDI patch bay
Quick reconfiguration via tablet, smartphone, or computer
Create long distance MIDI connections via Ethernet
MIDI Networking: centralized access to all MIDI devices connected to the Ethernet network
Built-in 2-port Ethernet switch
Wireless MIDI connections via built-in WiFi
WiFi works as Hotspot, hub, or client
Connects to Windows and macOS using Ethernet or WiFi (Bome Network tool)
Allen & Heath dLive, GLD, Qu, SQ, and iLive mixer support via Ethernet (since firmware v1.2)
Unlimited mappings/splits/scenes/conditional routing and MIDI processing with built-in MIDI Translator Pro engine
Use USB QWERTY Keyboards and map to MIDI (since firmware v1.3)
Standard power supply: 5V micro-USB
Extra robust power supply: Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) with 48V
Pass on PoE and MIDI connections using PoE Out port
Small and light: 180g / 6.3oz

MIDI Translator Pro in a Box
The BomeBox can run basic or complex mappings and scripts on the MIDI data in realtime: load and execute Bome MIDI Translator Pro project files for all your MIDI needs (MIDI Translator Pro is sold separately).
Bome Network
For creating Network MIDI connections via Ethernet and/or WiFi to a computer, use the Bome Network tool.
→ Bome Network Tool

Product Brochure
BomeBox brochure

Photos
(for press-ready high quality photos, see below)
BomeBox with attached cables
BomeBox USB host and MIDI connectors
BomeBox with Bome USB cable
What's inside the box?
BomeBox with Mounting Flange
BomeBox USB host and MIDI connectors
BomeBox Ethernet, WiFi button, Pair button, and Micro-USB power connector
BomeBox with attached cables
BomeBox Ethernet, WiFi button, Pair button, and Micro-USB power connector
BomeBox with active USB hub
PoE Cascade
PoE Cascade
BomeBox powered by battery
Two BomeBoxes
A handful of a BomeBox
Web Config on a smartphone
BomeBox with Mounting Flange
BomeBox Ethernet, WiFi button, Pair button, and Micro-USB power connector

Press-Ready High Quality Photos
Download product photos in high quality: BomeBox_Photos.zip.

BomeBox Web Config
To configure the BomeBox, simply connect any computer, smartphone, or tablet to the BomeBox' built-in WiFi and invoke the web config in a standard browser like Safari, Chrome, or Firefox.

BomeBox Web Config: Overview page
BomeBox Web Config: General Settings
BomeBox Web Config: Ethernet Settings
BomeBox Web Config: WiFi Settings
BomeBox Web Config: Backup & Firmware
BomeBox Web Config: MIDI Routes
BomeBox Web Config: MIDI Translator
BomeBox Web Config: MIDI Ports
BomeBox Web Config: Network MIDI
BomeBox Web Config on a tablet
BomeBox Web Config on a smart phone
BomeBox Web Config on a smart phone
BomeBox Web Config: Allen & Heath page
BomeBox Web Config: Allen & Heath Routes
BomeBox Web Config: Allen & Heath MIDI Ports
BomeBox Instructions
BomeBox Instructions Brochure
Download Instructions Brochure (PDF)



→ Video Tutorials

BomeBox Specs
Define arbitrary MIDI Thru connections (routes) from/to all connected MIDI devices
Web Config for easy configuration from any WiFi enabled device
For advanced mappings, load & execute MIDI Translator Pro project files
MIDI Connections to computers using high-speed network protocol via Ethernet or WiFi using Bome Network Tool
MIDI in & out with very low latency
USB 2 Host (Type A receptacle) for connecting MIDI controllers, synthesizers, serial ports, USB Hubs, etc.
2x Ethernet 100MBit/s
WiFi: 802.11 b/g/n, 2.4 GHz
Power: uses approx 150mA, either
via Micro-USB Type B: standard cell phone charger, or
via Power over Ethernet (PoE, 48V): Ethernet In port
Provides power for
connected USB-MIDI devices (max. 1A)
other daisy chained BomeBoxes via PoE Out (if powered via PoE)
New Features will be made available via firmware update
Dimensions: 121mm x 96 mm x 38 mm (4.8″ x 3.7″ x 1.5″)
Weight: 180g
BomeBox Firmware Downloads
We recommend to always upgrade to the latest firmware.
If needed, you can also downgrade as you like.

For MIDI access to computers, see the Bome Network tool:
→ Bome Network Tool

Firmware Upgrade Process
After downloading the firmware file (*.bxfw), it is installed using the web config:

Log into the web config
Go to the Settings page
Go to the Backup & Firmware tab
In the Update BomeBox Firmware section, press the Browse button and navigate to your Downloads folder, selecting the respective .bxfw firmware file
Back in the web config, press the Update... button
After a short while, you should see a verification page. You can use it to compare the MD5 checksum to the one displayed next to the download below.
Press the Proceed button
Wait until the BomeBox restarted and the power LED stops blinking. That first restart after a firmware upgrade takes approx. 2 minutes.
If you see an error message when logging into the BomeBox web config after upgrading, or experience problems, press the F5 key, or click the refresh button, or restart the web browser.
→ Video Tutorial for Firmware Upgrade

Download BomeBox Firmware 1.4.2
Released: 2020-06-01
Download 1.4.2 (BomeBox Firmware)
MD5: 929188c07816c8397831910dd7c52cc6
Changes:
Enhancement: web config remembers login
Enhancement: if radio is on, display list of available WiFi networks in WiFi client settings
Improved stability

→ Download Archive
See the BomeBox in Action
These clips were recorded at the Bome booth at the NAMM Show.

You can also watch the clips on YouTube.

Many thanks to Nan of the midifan.com (Chinese) and to Sean Pappalardo for recording these video clips!

BomeBox™ FAQ
Availability
Where can I purchase the BomeBox?
We sell the BomeBox from our web shop and ship to almost the entire world.
We continuously grow our distributor network, the BomeBox is also available in more and more local stores and online shops.
For USA and Canada orders, click here for US retailers and online shops.

MIDI
Can I connect a USB-MIDI device and a 5-pin DIN MIDI device and they work together?
Yes, that's standard functionality. By default, all ports are forwarded to all other MIDI ports. But in the web config, you can define fine grained MIDI Routing.

Can I use one MIDI controller to control 5 other devices?
Yes, the web config allows unlimited routing, duplicating and merging of MIDI ports. And in conjunction with MIDI Translator Pro, the BomeBox will do all the filtering, mapping, translation, and processing you can dream of.

Can I have more MIDI DIN ports?
Yes, just use a USB to MIDI adapter. We recommend high quality MIDI adapters from e.g. ESI, Roland, or Yamaha because we have seen MIDI data loss with cheap MIDI adapters. Use multi-port adapters or a USB hub to get even more MIDI DIN ports.

Does the BomeBox support MIDI System Exclusive?
Yes, the BomeBox supports any valid MIDI message. For mapping e.g. control change message to Sys Ex (or vice versa), use a MIDI Translator Pro project (see below).

Can I use the BomeBox to map channels or controller response?
Yes. For such processing functionality, use a MIDI Translator Pro project (see below).

Does the BomeBox supply MIDI phantom power for MIDI powered devices?
Yes. The BomeBox implements the latest version of the official MIDI specification (though note that the MIDI standard does not specify powering devices via MIDI).

USB
Does the BomeBox power USB devices?
Yes, the BomeBox provides up to 1A at the USB Type A port (see below for power options).

Can I attach multiple USB-MIDI devices?
Yes, the BomeBox supports powered and passive USB hubs.

Does the BomeBox expose MIDI ports on a computer when attached using the Micro-USB connector?
No. The Micro-USB connector is for power only. You can use Ethernet or WiFi for connecting to a computer: see section Connections below.

MIDI Processing (with MIDI Translator Pro)
Which kind of MIDI Processing is available?
The BomeBox comes with very powerful capabilities for MIDI mapping, translation, filtering, routing, math calculations on values, conditional logic (if this then that), layers. Organize your translators in presets, apply your translators to specific MIDI devices or note ranges, and much much more.

How do I create MIDI Processing Rules?
MIDI Processing in the BomeBox is handled via MIDI Translator Pro (see below). You create and test your processing rules on a computer (Windows or macOS) and then upload the translation project file into the BomeBox. There, the translations run standalone.

How many Processing Rules can I use in the BomeBox?
The BomeBox has approx. 8MB built-in memory for your MIDI processing / MIDI Translator Pro projects. Since firmware v1.4, you can upload as many project files as you like. Additionally, you can use a USB thumb drive for virtually unlimited project space.
The internal memory is already good for approx. 500,000 translations.

MIDI Translator Pro in the BomeBox
How does MIDI Translator Pro work in the BomeBox?
The BomeBox contains a runtime of MIDI Translator Pro. So you will use the MIDI Translator Pro software on a PC or Mac to create your project file(s), and then use the web config to upload the project. The BomeBox stores up to 8MB of project files, and the web config makes it easy to select the project you want to run. Note: Bome MIDI Translator Pro is not included with the BomeBox, see the next questions, too.

Does the BomeBox keep the uploaded MT Pro Project Files when powered off?
Yes, and that's very important! There's up to 8MB available for your project files, and when you power cycle the BomeBox, it just continues where it was when powering off and starts the last loaded MIDI Translator Pro project.

Which features of MIDI Translator Pro are available in the BomeBox?
It supports all features not related to a desktop computer: MIDI in/out, unlimited MIDI ports, MIDI routes, MIDI aliases, Rules, timers, enable/disable presets. Not supported is e.g. keystroke emulation, AppleScript, mouse emulation.

Does the BomeBox include a license of MIDI Translator Pro?
The BomeBox is priced very competitively, so it does not include a MIDI Translator Pro license. The BomeBox has a lot of functionality available in the web config, so for many use cases, the advanced mapping capabilities of MIDI Translator Pro are not even needed. And if you've downloaded or received a Bome MIDI Translator Pro project file, you can run it in the BomeBox without owning a license of MT Pro.

Do I need a license of MIDI Translator Pro for running a project on the box?
If you got a MIDI Translator Pro project file, for example from your technician or downloaded on the Internet, you can upload it to the BomeBox and it will run even without a license of MIDI Translator Pro. You only need a Bome MIDI Translator Pro license if you want to create or modify project files. Project files created with the Trial version cannot be uploaded to the BomeBox.

Does the BomeBox support Keystroke-to-MIDI translation?
I.e. you attach a USB-QWERTY keyboard to the BomeBox and use it to trigger MIDI messages. This is supported since firmware v1.3.1. There is a generic translation project included with the BomeBox which maps every key on an ASCII keyboard to a MIDI note. But you can also create your own mappings using Bome MIDI Translator Pro.
You will need to attach the QWERTY keyboard(s) to a USB hub.

Can you translate game pads / joysticks to MIDI using the BomeBox?
This is planned for firmware v1.4 along with Mouse to MIDI translation.

Does the BomeBox support MIDI-to-Keystroke translation?
I.e. you connect the BomeBox to a computer via USB and there, it appears as a QWERTY keyboard which can be triggered via translators in a MT Pro project in the BomeBox. This is not possible, because the micro USB connector is for power only. Maybe BomeBox 2... For now, you can do this by using the Bome Network tool (see next section), and running MIDI Translator Pro on the computer for emulating the keystrokes.
Another way is to use the BomeBox' Serial Port support: some devices can recognize a serial as keystroke input.

Powering the BomeBox
What are the options for powering the BomeBox?
The simplest powering option is using a standard Micro-USB plug, using pretty much any cell phone charger. Since 04/2019, we ship the BomeBox with a high-quality USB cable with an angled micro-USB plug to make this powering option as robust as possible.

Note, however, that cell phone chargers have very different quality. The BomeBox is not picky and works with pretty much all. But when you connect USB devices and power them via the BomeBox, you may run into problems. In that case, we suggest a) a better USB power supply (like the excellent Raspberry Pi power supplies), or b) a powered USB hub, or c) Power-over-Ethernet (see below).

Using a powered USB hub has several advantages: you can connect multiple USB devices to the BomeBox, they're all given enough power, and you can also use one of the hub ports for powering the BomeBox itself. Be aware of hub ports marked as charging ports: sometimes they work best for powering the BomeBox, sometimes they don't work at all. In those cases, try another port on the hub.

What is Power over Ethernet (PoE)?
Power over Ethernet is a standard to use the Ethernet cable not only for Ethernet network data, but also for power. It runs on 48V, so it provides extremely stable power for the BomeBox and for powering attached USB devices.

For PoE, a simple injector is enough (which costs as little as $20): you can use it standalone by connecting an Ethernet/Cat5 cable from the injector's OUT port to the BomeBox' PoE In port. To not loose a network port, you can connect an Ethernet cable to the injector's INPUT port, which is passed through to the OUT port.

Alternatively, there are PoE network switches with 4 or more Ethernet ports, which provide PoE power to some or all of its ports.

Why are the network ports labeled PoE In and PoE Out?
PoE In is for getting power into the BomeBox: use any PoE source for that. The PoE Out port works as a PoE source for a daisy chained BomeBox. By daisy chaining, you can, for example, connect all the BomeBoxes on a stage setup with just one cable connection for providing power and Ethernet MIDI connections.

Connections
Can I connect the BomeBox to a computer?
One of our goals for creating the BomeBox was to get rid of the computer... However, you can use the Bome Network tool (Windows and macOS) for creating MIDI connections to and from a BomeBox via Ethernet or WiFi. See also the following questions.

Can I connect to the BomeBox from iPad, iPhone, Android,...?
The built-in WiFi makes it very easy to connect to the BomeBox from a smart phone or tablet. This is very useful for accessing the web config. In future, we'll provide the Bome Network tool as an app for mobile devices. Note that currently, the BomeBox does not implement RTP-MIDI (as used by macOS and iOS). See also next question.

Can I access all devices connected to the BomeBox from a computer?
Currently, each BomeBox only provides one MIDI IN/OUT stream per computer connection. So if you want to access multiple MIDI devices connected to the BomeBox, their MIDI data is merged. Using channel mappings, you can separate each device, but you are limited to 16 MIDI channels per MIDI stream.
Note: the BomeBox routes as many MIDI streams as are connected, each providing the full 16 channels. But you can only connect one stream per computer (currently).
We're working on a firmware update which allows you to connect more MIDI IN/OUT streams per computer — allowing you, for example, direct access to multiple connected devices with the full 16 channels each.

Why doesn't the BomeBox support RTP-MIDI (as used on macOS and iOS)?
When we needed a networked MIDI protocol years ago, RTP-MIDI did not fulfill our requirements of performance and ease of use. So we developed an own protocol which is very easy to set up, has built-in security, and has very low latency. But we're considering to add RTP-MIDI support in future with a firmware update.

Does the BomeBox support OSC?
In terms of OSC, the BomeBox currently just works as a router. So, for example, you can connect an iPad running an OSC app to the BomeBox via WiFi, then the BomeBox routes the OSC messages to and from any connected computer or device which the iPad app is configured to talk with.
However, but we're also working on OSC-to-MIDI mapping and have already shown a prototype featuring TouchOSC being connected to a BomeBox, converting OSC to MIDI, and driving a MIDI device connected to the BomeBox. So then you can control real MIDI gear from TouchOSC without a computer! OSC mapping support will be available as a firmware update.

How does the BomeBox connect to Allen & Heath Mixers?
Allen & Heath mixers of the dLive, Qu, GLD, and SQ series can be connected via Ethernet (other series like iLive may work, too, but only by manually connecting by IP address). The BomeBox detects any connected mixers and will let you use them in the internal MIDI router. So you can use MIDI devices connected to the USB or DIN ports to talk to the Allen & Heath mixers — without a computer.

Can I connect to devices with a Serial Port?
Yes, just attach one (or more) USB-to-Serial adapter to the BomeBox, and use a MIDI Translator Pro project to set up the translation from/to MIDI. The web config allows assigning the correct serial ports to the ones defined in the project.

Web Config
How can I configure the BomeBox?
The BomeBox is configured via the Web Config, accessible from a browser via Ethernet or WiFi. This works similar to how you configure an Internet router. Click here for a few web config screenshots.

Can I access the Web Config from a computer?
Yes, just open the browser and enter the IP address of the BomeBox. When connected via WiFi, the IP address is 192.168.153.1. When using the Bome Network tool, it displays a menu entry for directly opening a browser with the corresponding BomeBox web config page.

Can I access the Web Config from a smartphone or tablet?
Yes, and that's our recommended way: use Ethernet for Network MIDI (if needed), and WiFi for web config from a tablet. Simply connect to the BomeBox WiFi (by default SSID "BomeBox"), open your mobile browser like Safari or Chrome, where you will be greeted by a BomeBox status page. If you don't get routed to the web config, enter the IP address 192.168.153.1.

What can I configure in the Web Config?
Functions:

MIDI Ports: view available ports, assign MIDI Aliases
MIDI Routes: view/edit/create MIDI Routes, save and load Route Sets
Network MIDI: connect to another BomeBox, approve incoming connection request
MIDI Translator: view/upload/select project files, restart or close project
Serial Ports: manage serial ports plugged into USB (which can be mapped to/from MIDI using a MIDI Translator Pro project)
Allen & Heath: connect to Allen & Heath dLive, Qu, GLD, SQ, and other professional mixers

Settings:

General: name, password
Ethernet: DHCP client (default), DHCP server, fixed IP address
WiFi: HotSpot (default), Client, Access Point
Backup/Updates: create and apply backups, reset to factory defaults, install a firmware update
Wireless / WiFi
Can I connect multiple devices to the BomeBox via WiFi?
Yes, by default, the BomeBox works like a wireless WiFi router.

Can I connect the BomeBox via WiFi to an existing WiFi router?
Yes, simply select "WiFi Client" instead of "WiFi HotSpot" in the web config.

Can I use WiFi Ad-Hoc connection?
No, and it won't be necessary, because the BomeBox works as a full WiFi HotSpot.

Does the BomeBox support Bluetooth?
There is no built-in Bluetooth in the BomeBox, but you can plug in a Bluetooth-MIDI dongle like WIDI-Bud for connecting Bluetooth MIDI devices to the BomeBox.

Ethernet
Can I connect two BomeBoxes without a network router?
Yes, this is possible via Ethernet and WiFi. For Ethernet, simply use a standard network cable to directly connect BomeBoxes. The network ports are MDIX auto sensing and support APIPA/link local addresses. Additionally, you can enable a DHCP server in a BomeBox (Ethernet Master) and use a switch to connect even more devices. It'll serve other devices like computers, too.
For WiFi, you can set up a BomeBox as a WiFi Client, or as a WiFi Hotspot, so you can also create connections from one BomeBox to another.

Do I need a network router for using the BomeBox in a network?
No, the BomeBox has all the functionality of a router: it features a DHCP server, so you can run all your network on your BomeBox.
However, a BomeBox will also fit well into networks with an existing router.

Why are there 2 Ethernet ports?
Apart from PoE (see below), they work like a mini network switch, so in many cases, you will not even need a network switch or router when using the BomeBox.
Another great way to connect BomeBoxes are to daisy chain them: one network cable connects to a second BomeBox, which connects a third BomeBox, and so on. In conjunction with PoE, you will not even need to attach a power adapter to the BomeBoxes.

Security
How can I prevent an intruder to access the Web Config?
The Web Config is protected by a password, which you should set up when first connecting the BomeBox. Moreover, when using WiFi, you should also set a password there to prevent unauthorized access from your neighbors or the auditorium...

Can someone connect via Network MIDI without authorization?
No, Network MIDI connections require a two-step setup: one side requests a Network MIDI connection, and the other side must approve it. For convenience, you can use the Pair button on the BomeBox to authorize an incoming Network MIDI connection request.

I forgot my password!
The BomeBox provides a way to reset the password: copy the password reset file on a USB thumb drive, plug the thumb drive in the BomeBox USB port, and then reboot the BomeBox. This will revert the password to the default (serial number) for access to the web config.

I misconfigured the BomeBox network and cannot access it anymore!
Similar in the way to reset your password, use a thumb drive with a special network reset file and reboot the BomeBox. This will reset the network to factory defaults (Ethernet client, WiFi HotSpot without password).

Robustness
Why is the BomeBox made of plastic?
Using a metal case would have been nice, and not even more expensive. But with a metal case, for the WiFi to work, we would have had to use an external antenna! So we settled on an internal antenna and a particularly robust non-flammable ABS plastic case, enforced with a metal bolt in the center for extra robustness.

Is there an option for a more robust power supply than Micro-USB?
Yes, in that case you should power the box via Ethernet. The Ethernet jack is protected against involuntarily pulling out the cable.
A standard 48V Power-over-Ethernet injector for will work fine, like this Digitus PoE Injector. Or a PoE switch with multiple ports.
You can use such PoE power sources as a power supply even if not using Ethernet.

Open Source
Is the BomeBox Open Source?
Not entirely. But the BomeBox runs an adapted version of OpenWRT, which is licensed under the GNU Public License. As required by the license, we have published our modifications to OpenWRT on github, so it is possible to create your own version of OpenWRT to run on the BomeBox, if you wish (without Bome specific functionality).

Essentials
Can I play Pong?
Yes, and we recommend it. The BomeBox ships with a Pong MIDI Translator Pro project for use with a Novation Launchpad. It is a 4-sided Pong.

Will it blend?
Absolutely.