Troubleshooting Python VLC Errors with Multiprocessing on Raspberry Pi 3B+

Discover how to resolve `VLC` errors encountered when running a Python script using multiprocessing on Raspberry Pi 3B+ . This post addresses the issue and provides a simple solution.
---

Visit these links for original content and any more details, such as alternate solutions, latest updates/developments on topic, comments, revision history etc. For example, the original title of the Question was: Python vlc errors when running script with multiprocessing on RPi 3B+

If anything seems off to you, please feel free to write me at vlogize [AT] gmail [DOT] com.
---
Troubleshooting Python VLC Errors with Multiprocessing on Raspberry Pi 3B+

If you're working with multimedia applications in Python, especially on a Raspberry Pi 3B+ , you may run into errors when trying to use VLC with multiprocessing. This guide dives into a common issue faced by developers when running scripts that play audio, such as a webradio stream or MP3 files, and provides a simple solution to fix the problem.

The Problem

ALSA Errors

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

PulseAudio Errors

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

The user encountered these errors after reinstalling Raspbian on the Raspberry Pi, raising the question: What could have changed in the configuration that triggered these errors?

Understanding the Cause

This structure meant that the audio player was instantiated prematurely, before the appropriate multiprocessing context was set up.

The Solution

The solution to the problem is straightforward: move the initialization of instance and player inside the main() function. By doing this, objects will only be created when the program flow enters the main() function, removing any chance of conflicts during multiprocessing.

Working Example Code

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Conclusion

Moving the instantiation of variables into the main() function has solved the multiplexing issues, allowing sound playback from VLC to function correctly under multiprocessing.

If you’re facing similar issues in your projects, remember to pay close attention to how and where you initialize your modules and the order in which they run.

Happy coding!