ClusterHat networking, power, & console possible without clustering?

[hobbymattgrooms]

Can the ClusterHat board & USB gadget-mode networking/console be used without creating a cluster?

I need a simple five-node test bed of independent Raspberry Pi's. (a digital sign project with a Pi 2 in the ClusterHat 'controller' position, pushing images from a database  to FBI (frame buffer image viewer) running on each of the four Pi-zeros.  

It looks like Using the Clusterhat board ( & USB gadget) to provide networking, console connection, Zero power & Zero on/off control would be a great way to reduce wiring clutter, power packs, additional network switch, etc.

Does this sound doable? If so, the remaining challenge is how to access the downward facing HDMI connectors on the four Pi Zeros.

Ideas?

Thanks,
Matt

 

[Chris Burton]

The cluster is basically 5 Pi on the same network when using a the Cluster HAT. If you're using the supplied images standalone you would need to setup static IPs on the controller and Zeros to allow them to communicate over the Gadget USB Network (it's configured to use DHCP by default).

But to be honest it sounds like the current Cluster HAT wouldn't be a good fit for your needs if you need to access HDMI.

If you don't need the 4 USB ports on the Pi 2 for anything else you could just connect the Zeros directly without the HAT and stack them with spacers maybe (As I did a few months back - https://twitter.com/LincolnLUG/status/689945453765529609). With the Cluster HAT software images this would still give you access to the Pi Zero USB Gadget Network/Serial and allow access to the HDMI ports.

Your not the first person to ask about accessing the HDMI ports. I don't think this is going to be possible with a HAT but I've been developing a couple of bigger standalone boards where it might be. I have some right angle Mini HDMI adapters on order so should be able to see if these are going to work out or not shortly.

Chris.