How to Install OpenRGB on Manjaro Linux

OpenRGB offers a variety of advantages for Manjaro Linux users looking to manage their RGB devices seamlessly. By utilizing the AUR and command line terminal, you can unlock the full potential of your RGB hardware. Let’s explore some key features that make OpenRGB an excellent choice for Manjaro Linux users:

• Universal compatibility: OpenRGB supports many devices, including motherboards, graphics cards, RAM, keyboards, mice, and more. This eliminates the need to rely on multiple brand-specific software solutions for your RGB setup.
• Open-source nature: As an open-source project, OpenRGB benefits from a community-driven development approach, leading to constant improvements, updates, and new features.
• No proprietary software: OpenRGB allows you to avoid using clunky, proprietary RGB control software, making your system lighter and more streamlined.
• Customizable profiles: Easily create, save, and switch between RGB profiles for various activities and moods.
• Scriptable: OpenRGB provides a command-line interface for scripting and automation, giving you even more control over your RGB configuration.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of how to install and use OpenRGB on Manjaro Linux.

Step 1: Update Manjaro

Before diving into the installation process for OpenRGB, it’s crucial to ensure your system is up-to-date. This will help avoid potential conflicts when installing OpenRGB, particularly from the AUR.

To update your Manjaro system, run the following command:

sudo pacman -Syu

If your system processes many updates, especially if the Linux Kernel is updated, make sure to reboot your system.

Step 2: Enable AUR for OpenRGB on Manjaro

To install OpenRGB on Manjaro Linux using the pamac AUR helper, you must first enable the Arch User Repository (AUR). AUR is a community-managed repository that houses numerous packages unavailable in the official repositories.

To check if AUR is already enabled on your system, execute the following command:

cat /etc/pamac.conf | grep EnableAUR

This command searches for the “EnableAUR” line in the “pamac.conf” file. If AUR is enabled, the output will display the “EnableAUR” line without the “#” symbol at the beginning of the line.

If AUR is not yet enabled on your Manjaro Linux system, enable it by running the following command:

sudo sed -Ei '/EnableAUR/s/^#//' /etc/pamac.conf

This “sed” command locates the “EnableAUR” line in the “pamac.conf” file and removes the “#” symbol from the beginning of the line to enable AUR. With AUR enabled, you can now proceed to install OpenRGB on your Manjaro Linux system.

Example:

Step 3: Install OpenRGB on Manjaro

Now that the AUR package manager is enabled, you can install the stable version of OpenRGB using the command below:

sudo pamac install openrgb

Step 4: Launch OpenRGB on Manjaro

Congratulations on successfully installing OpenRGB! There are a few ways to launch the application on your Manjaro system.

Launching OpenRGB from the Command Line Terminal

To quickly open OpenRGB using the command line terminal, enter the following command:

openrgb

Launching OpenRGB through the Graphical User Interface (GUI)

For desktop users who prefer not to use the command line terminal, you can easily open OpenRGB by navigating through the graphical user interface:

1. Click on the Taskbar (usually located at the bottom of your screen).
2. Look for the Utilities or Accessories category and click on it.
3. Find OpenRGB in the list of applications and click on it to launch the program.

Example of OpenRGB application icon on Manjaro Linux:

Step 5: Getting started with OpenRGB on Manjaro

After successfully installing and launching OpenRGB on your Manjaro Linux system, it’s time to explore some of its features and capabilities. This section will cover general tips, customizations, and other useful information to help you get the most out of OpenRGB.

1. Device Detection and Compatibility

OpenRGB automatically detects supported RGB devices on your system. However, it’s essential to note that not all devices are compatible with OpenRGB. You can find a list of supported devices on the OpenRGB GitHub page or the OpenRGB Wiki. If your device isn’t currently supported, consider contributing to the project or requesting support for your specific device.

2. Customizing Device Colors

To customize the colors of your devices, follow these simple steps:

• Select the device you want to customize from the list of detected devices in the main OpenRGB window.
• Click on the color picker or enter the RGB values directly to choose a color.
• Choose a lighting effect from the drop-down menu if your device supports it.
• Click “Apply” to save the changes.

3. Creating and Managing Profiles

OpenRGB allows you to create and manage multiple profiles, making switching between different color schemes and lighting effects easy. To create and manage profiles:

• Click on the “Profiles” menu at the top of the OpenRGB window.
• Select “New” to create a new profile.
• Customize your devices as desired.
• Click “Save” in the “Profiles” menu to save your current setup as a profile.
• Select the desired profile from the “Profiles” menu to switch between profiles.

4. Synchronizing RGB Devices

OpenRGB enables you to synchronize the colors and effects across multiple devices:

• Click on the “Synchronize” button at the top of the OpenRGB window.
• Select the devices you want to synchronize.
• Customize the colors and effects as desired.
• Click “Apply” to synchronize the selected devices.

5. Using OpenRGB Command Line Interface

For advanced users, OpenRGB provides a command-line interface that allows for scripting, automation, and remote control of your RGB devices. Some useful command line options include:

• --list-devices: Lists all detected devices.
• --device: Specifies the device to control (by index or name).
• --mode: Sets the device mode (e.g., static, breathing, etc.).
• --color: Sets the device color (RGB values).
• --profile: Loads a saved profile.

Example of OpenRGB Settings on Manjaro Linux:

Additional Commands

How to Remove OpenRGB on Manjaro

If you decide to uninstall OpenRGB from your system, open your terminal and run the following command:

sudo pamac remove openrgb

Conclusion

This guide covered installing OpenRGB on Manjaro Linux, enabling the AUR, and launching the application. We’ve also provided an overview of getting started with OpenRGB, including device detection, customization, profile management, synchronization, and command-line usage. By following these steps, you can unlock the full potential of your RGB hardware and elevate your customization experience on Manjaro Linux.

Additional Resources and Links

To further enhance your OpenRGB experience, consider exploring the following official resources:

• OpenRGB GitHub Repository: The official GitHub repository for OpenRGB, where you can find the latest source code, report issues, and contribute to the project.
• OpenRGB Wiki: The official OpenRGB Wiki provides comprehensive documentation on the application, including supported devices, features, and troubleshooting tips.
• OpenRGB User Manual: The official user manual for OpenRGB offers in-depth guidance on using the application and its various features.
• OpenRGB Community: Participate in the OpenRGB community by reporting issues, discussing features, and collaborating on the project.
• Manjaro Linux Official Website: The official website of Manjaro Linux, where you can find information about the distribution, download the latest release, and access community resources.