Lightware Advanced Room Automation 2.0 (LARA 2.0)
SKU: LARA 2.0
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Introducing LARA 2.0
LARA 2.0 is a major upgrade to the LARA room automation platform. The core change is a redesigned backend that switches from a multithreaded to a single-threaded processing model, improving efficiency and laying the groundwork for more advanced configurations. Alongside the architecture change, several practical new features have been added: built-in resource monitoring, optional password protection for user panels, and remote log delivery.
A Smarter Processing Core
The backend redesign changes how LARA handles tasks. The new single-threaded model is more efficient than the previous approach, and removes the earlier practical guidance around configuration size limits. How large a configuration can actually run is now measurable directly. The built-in monitoring tool shows real resource usage in a live configuration, making it possible to verify any specific setup with confidence.
Real-Time Resource Monitoring
A new built-in monitoring tool tracks current and peak CPU and memory usage since last reset. This is the most accurate way to assess how close a configuration is to the platform's computational limits, useful for commissioning, proofing, and answering client questions about capacity.
An empty configuration uses approximately 80 to 100 MB. Each added module increases usage by a small amount, depending on module type.
Secure User Panels
User panels now support optional password protection with automatic logout. API key, password, logout timeout, and logout message are all configurable, making shared touchscreens and lectern panels suitable for access-controlled environments such as education or corporate facilities.
Remote Log Delivery
Log messages can now be sent to remote servers in addition to the local LARA interface. Selected message groups can be routed to consoles, management systems, or admin portals.
Note: JS syntax for logging has changed slightly in 2.0. Current syntax is always visible in the source of any generated log command.
Built-in and Compatible Modules
To reduce memory footprint, only Lightware and customizable modules are built into LARA 2.0. Third-party driver modules are available via a direct link inside LARA, filtered for native 2.0 compatibility on the Lightware website. Existing configurations from 1.3.X are automatically converted on upgrade. A compatibility table on this page shows the current status of each module.
Gradual Rollout, Easy Updates
LARA 2.0 is released gradually with each new firmware package. For devices not yet on a LARA 2.0 firmware, a dedicated LARA-only update package is available through the Early Access Programme. Note: devices updated via a LARA-only package will revert to 1.3.X after a full device factory reset.
Meet LARA Wizard
Create, Customize, Deploy – It’s That Simple
LARA Wizard helps integrators and AV professionals build powerful room automation setups by answering a few guided questions.
Steps:
- Select your room type and setup needs
- LARA Wizard generates the config file
- Upload it to a compatible Lightware device (e.g., UCX or MMX2)
- (Optional) Customize it in the LARA Editor
Cisco Room Device integration on LARA 2.0
Join Our Early Access Program!
Our Cisco Room Device integration received a major update and is now utilizing LARA 2.0’s robust architecture to improve the performance and reliability of our BYOD & Room Control integration with Cisco codecs.
Features
Single-Thread Architecture
More efficient task processing for larger configs
Live Resource Monitoring
Live resource tracking since last reset
Secure User Panels
Optional login and auto-logout for user panels
Remote Log Delivery
Route selected logs to remote servers or portals
Leaner Built-in Library
Only Lightware modules built in; 3rd party online
Auto Config Conversion
1.3.X configurations convert on upgrade
LARA 2.0 Early Access Program
Be among the first to try LARA 2.0. Join the program for early builds, direct support, and to provide feedback that shapes the final product. After submission, an email will be sent to your inbox containing all access details and the downloadable files.