MMM-Jellyfin Install Guide: Troubleshooting & Fixes

Aug 10, 2025 by Henrik Larsen 52 views

Troubleshooting MMM-Jellyfin Installation: A Comprehensive Guide

Hey guys! So, you're diving into the awesome world of smart mirrors and want to get MMM-Jellyfin up and running? That's fantastic! This module is a game-changer for integrating your media library right into your mirror. But, as with any tech project, you might hit a snag or two along the way. Don't worry, I've got your back! This guide is here to walk you through some common installation hiccups and how to solve them. We'll break it down in a super easy-to-follow way, so you can get your MMM-Jellyfin module working flawlessly.

Common Installation Issues and Solutions

1. The Dreaded `git clone` Error: Getting the Right Repository

When installing MMM-Jellyfin, the first hurdle many of us face is the git clone command. The installation instructions on the MMM-Jellyfin GitHub page are generally pretty solid, but there's a small detail in Step 2 that can trip you up. The instructions might show something like:

git clone https://github.com/yourusername/MMM-JellyNew.git

Now, if you're like most of us, you probably realized that yourusername is just a placeholder. But here's where it gets tricky: even if you replace yourusername with the actual repository owner's username (rakeshloi), you might still be cloning a repository that doesn't exist, especially if you're trying MMM-JellyNew. The key here is the repository name. It seems like there was some talk about renaming the module from MMM-Jellyfin to MMM-JellyNew, but the actual repository still lives under the old name. So, to get the correct code, you'll want to use the following command:

git clone https://github.com/rakeshloi/MMM-Jellyfin

This command is your golden ticket! It clones the actual, working repository to your local machine. If you've been banging your head against the wall trying to figure out why MMM-JellyNew isn't working, this is likely the solution you've been searching for. Remember, always double-check the repository URL to ensure you're pulling the correct files. A small typo or an outdated name can lead to a lot of frustration. Once you've successfully cloned the repository, you're one big step closer to having MMM-Jellyfin up and running on your smart mirror.

2. Navigating the Module Directory: `cd MMM-Jellyfin`

Okay, so you've successfully cloned the repository – awesome! Now, the next step is to actually get into the module's directory. This is crucial because you need to be inside the module's folder to perform any further actions, like installing dependencies or configuring the module. Step 3 of the installation instructions typically guides you to do this, but it's worth emphasizing because it's a common spot where people can get a little lost. The command you're looking for is simple but essential:

cd MMM-Jellyfin

This command, cd, stands for "change directory." It's your bread and butter for navigating the file system in the command line. By typing cd MMM-Jellyfin, you're telling your terminal to move from your current location into the MMM-Jellyfin directory that you just cloned. Think of it like stepping into the room where all the MMM-Jellyfin module's files are stored. Why is this so important? Well, many of the subsequent steps, like installing dependencies (npm install) or modifying the configuration file, need to be executed from within this directory. If you try to run these commands from the wrong location, they simply won't work, or worse, they might mess things up in unexpected ways. So, after you've cloned the repository, make sure this is the very next thing you do. Double-check that you're in the MMM-Jellyfin directory before moving on. A quick way to confirm this is to use the pwd command (print working directory), which will show you the current directory you're in. If it doesn't show MMM-Jellyfin as part of the path, you know you need to cd into it. Getting this step right sets the stage for a smooth installation process. Trust me, it's worth taking the extra moment to ensure you're in the correct location!

3. Module Configuration: Finding `module: "MMM-Jellyfin"`

Alright, you've cloned the repository and navigated into the module's directory – excellent progress! Now, let's talk about configuring the module within your MagicMirror² setup. This is where you tell MagicMirror² to actually load and display the MMM-Jellyfin module. The key thing to look for inside the module's configuration is the line module: "MMM-Jellyfin". This line is the magic incantation that tells MagicMirror² which module to load. It's like telling your smart mirror, "Hey, I want you to use the MMM-Jellyfin module!" You'll typically find this line within the modules array in your config.js file, which is the main configuration file for MagicMirror². If you're not familiar with this file, it's usually located in the ~/MagicMirror/config/ directory. Open it up in your favorite text editor, and you'll see a structured JavaScript object with various settings. The modules array is where you list all the modules you want to use in your mirror. To add MMM-Jellyfin, you'll need to add an entry for it within this array. This entry should include the module: "MMM-Jellyfin" line, along with any other configuration options specific to the module, like your Jellyfin server URL, API key, and display preferences. If you're scratching your head and thinking, "Wait, why MMM-Jellyfin and not MMM-JellyNew?", that's a great question! As we discussed earlier, despite the potential name change, the module is still registered and recognized under the MMM-Jellyfin name within MagicMirror². So, even if you see references to JellyNew elsewhere, stick with MMM-Jellyfin in your config.js file. Failing to use the correct module name here is a common mistake that can prevent the module from loading. If you've added the module to your config.js but aren't seeing it on your mirror, double-check that you've spelled MMM-Jellyfin correctly and that it's enclosed in quotes. A small typo can make a big difference! Once you've confirmed this, save your config.js file and restart MagicMirror² to see the changes. If all goes well, MMM-Jellyfin should now be up and running, displaying your media library on your smart mirror. You're doing great! Keep going!

4. The Mystery of the Renamed Module: Jellyfin vs. JellyNew

Let's dive a bit deeper into the potential confusion surrounding the module's name – Jellyfin versus JellyNew. It appears there was an attempt, or at least a consideration, to rename the module from MMM-Jellyfin to something along the lines of MMM-JellyNew. This kind of thing happens in software development all the time; names evolve, projects get rebranded, and things can get a little messy in the process. However, in this particular case, it seems the renaming didn't fully materialize, or at least it didn't propagate across all aspects of the module. The key takeaway here is that while you might see references to JellyNew in some places, the module's core identity and the name it's registered under within MagicMirror² remain MMM-Jellyfin. This is why using module: "MMM-Jellyfin" in your config.js file is crucial, as we discussed earlier. Think of it like this: the module might have a nickname (JellyNew), but its official, legal name is still MMM-Jellyfin. MagicMirror² only recognizes the official name. So, why the potential confusion? Well, it's possible that the developer, rakeshloi, was experimenting with a new name, perhaps for a future version or a different direction for the module. It's also possible that some documentation or instructions got updated with the new name prematurely, before the actual renaming was fully implemented. Whatever the reason, the important thing is to be aware of this discrepancy and to always use MMM-Jellyfin when referring to the module in your configuration and installation steps. This might seem like a minor detail, but it's a perfect example of how small inconsistencies can lead to big headaches when you're setting up software. By understanding the history and the current state of the module's naming, you can avoid a common pitfall and ensure a smoother installation experience. And hey, if you're ever unsure, it's always a good idea to double-check the official repository and documentation for the most up-to-date information. You're becoming a pro at troubleshooting already!

Wrapping Up: You've Got This!

So there you have it! We've tackled some of the most common stumbling blocks in the MMM-Jellyfin installation process. From getting the right git clone command to navigating the module directory and understanding the Jellyfin vs. JellyNew naming mystery, you're now armed with the knowledge to overcome these challenges. Remember, the key to successful troubleshooting is patience, persistence, and a willingness to dig into the details. Don't be afraid to experiment, double-check your work, and consult the documentation or online communities when you get stuck. The smart mirror world is all about learning and sharing, so there are plenty of resources available to help you along the way. And the feeling of accomplishment when you finally get everything working perfectly? Totally worth it! You'll be basking in the glow of your awesome, media-integrated smart mirror in no time. Thanks for working on this project!! You're part of an amazing community, and your contributions and feedback help make these projects even better. Now go forth, install MMM-Jellyfin, and enjoy the fruits of your labor! You've got this! Happy mirroring, guys!