User manual

Paper Portrait — User Manual

Everything there is to know about your Portrait display.

Welcome to your Paper Portrait Wi-Fi eInk display. This manual covers setup, features, troubleshooting, and safety. You can save a copy by clicking Download PDF and choosing Save as PDFin your browser's print dialog.

1. Product overview

Paper Portrait is a Wi-Fi-connected eInk display that brings dynamic content to your home or office. Unlike a traditional screen, eInk provides a paper-like viewing experience with minimal power consumption and no eye strain.

Key features

  • Paper-like display: high-contrast monochrome eInk for comfortable, glare-free viewing.
  • Wi-Fi connected: receives updates over your home network.
  • NFC setup: quick, cable-free configuration using your phone.
  • Low power: efficient design with USB-C charging.
  • Many content types: images, text, QR codes, live data, and more.

2. What's in the box

  • Portrait display unit — your Wi-Fi eInk display.
  • Quick start guide — basic setup instructions.
You will need: a USB-C cable and USB power adapter (5 V, 1 A minimum recommended). These are not included.

3. Technical specifications

Display

Display typeMonochrome eInk (E-Paper)
Resolution400 × 300 pixels
ColorsBlack and white
Viewing angle180° (paper-like)

Connectivity

Wi-Fi2.4 GHz 802.11 b/g/n
NFCBuilt-in for device setup
ProcessorESP32-C3 (Espressif)

Power

Charging portUSB-C (right side)
BatteryBuilt-in rechargeable lithium-ion
Charging ICBQ24040 (Texas Instruments)

Physical

Dimensions90 mm × 76 mm (3.5" × 3.0")
ModelPP-100
Important: Paper Portrait only supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. On a dual-band router, connect to the 2.4 GHz network (often labeled "2.4G" in the network name).

4. Hardware setup

Device layout

Front view
┌─────────────────────┐
│  ┌───────────────┐  │
│  │               │  │
│  │    DISPLAY    │  │
│  │   400 x 300   │  │
│  │               │  │
│  └───────────────┘  │
│                     │
└─────────────────────┘
Back view
┌─────────────────────┐
│   ┌───────────┐     │
│   │  NFC TAP  │     │  ← Hold phone
│   │   AREA    │     │    here for setup
│   └───────────┘     │
│                     │
│          [RESTART]  │  ← Restart button
│                     │
│ [SWITCH]      ● ●   │  ← LEDs
│              USB-C ─┤
│                     │
└─────────────────────┘

PP-100 — 90 mm × 76 mm

LED indicators

Two charging LEDs are located on the back right side of the device.

LEDColorStatus
Power LED (on)BlueExternal power source connected via USB-C
Power LED (off)No external power source connected
Charge LED (on)RedBattery is charging
Charge LED (off)Fully charged or not connected to power

Initial charging

  1. Connect the USB-C cable to the side port.
  2. Plug the other end into a USB adapter or computer.
  3. The blue LED turns on (power); the red LED turns on while charging.
  4. Allow 1 – 2 hours for a full charge before first use.

Placement & positioning

  • Indoor use only.
  • Stable surface: place flat or mount securely.
  • Wi-Fi range: ensure good signal at the chosen spot.
  • Viewing distance: 1 – 6 feet.
  • Avoid direct sunlight for extended periods.
  • Temperature: 50 °F – 95 °F (10 °C – 35 °C).

Orientation

  • Portrait: taller than wide — ideal for text, verses, stocks.
  • Landscape: wider than tall — ideal for images, weather, transit.
Content is automatically formatted for the display. Orientation doesn't change how it renders.

Switch operation

PositionResult
Switch upDevice on (5 – 10 s to connect to Wi-Fi)
Switch downDevice off

Restart button

A restart button sits on the back. If the device becomes unresponsive, press it to reboot. It reconnects to Wi-Fi within 5 – 10 seconds.

5. App setup & device registration

Get signed in

  1. Create your Paper Portrait account at www.paperportraitdisplay.com/signup, or download Paper Portrait Connect on iPhone.
  2. Sign in on any device — accounts are shared across iPhone, Android, and web.
Download on the App Store
Requirement for first-time Wi-Fi setup: an NFC-capable phone (iPhone 7 or later running iOS 14+, or an Android phone with Chrome supporting Web NFC). Once the device is online, you can manage it from any browser.

Register your device

  1. Power on your Portrait (toggle the side switch up).
  2. In the app or web dashboard, tap Add device.
  3. Enter Wi-Fi credentials — an SSID on a 2.4 GHz network and the password (case-sensitive).
  4. Tap Tap device (or Connect & Register Device on iOS).
  5. Hold your phone to the back of the Portrait, near the top.
  6. The device receives the credentials and writes back its registration code.
  7. A 6-digit verification code appears on the display.
  8. Type that code into the app to confirm ownership.
  9. Optionally name your device (e.g. Kitchen, Office).
  10. Tap Register device.
Tip: if NFC fails, reposition your phone. The NFC antenna on most iPhones is at the top edge.

6. Display features

Paper Portrait supports many content types. Open any registered device to pick one.

Image

  1. Choose Image.
  2. Pick a photo — it's automatically optimized for eInk.
  3. Choose a fit: Original, Fill width, or Fill height.
  4. Send.
High-contrast images with a clear subject look best. Avoid subtle color gradients.

Text

  1. Choose Text.
  2. Type your message and send.

QR code

  1. Choose QR Code.
  2. Enter a URL — preview updates live.
  3. Send.
Handy for guest Wi-Fi, a menu, your portfolio, or contact info.

Bible verse

  1. Choose Bible Verse.
  2. Pick an interval (1 min – Daily) and send.

Clock (Premium)

  1. Choose Clock.
  2. Pick a timezone and a refresh interval (1 – 30 min), then send.

MTA transit (Premium)

  1. Choose MTA Updates.
  2. Search for your stop by name or line.
  3. Select it, pick a refresh interval, then send.

Stock prices (Premium)

  1. Choose Stock Prices.
  2. Search by symbol or company name (e.g. AAPL, GOOGL, TSLA).
  3. Select the stock, pick an interval, then send.

Weather (Premium)

  1. Choose Weather Updates.
  2. Search for your city.
  3. Pick an interval and send.

7. Device management

Rename

Open a device and tap its name to edit. Great for distinguishing multiple Portraits.

Change icon

Tap the device icon to pick a new one.

Pause / resume

Use the power toggle on the device detail page to pause updates. While paused:

  • You can't change the display mode.
  • If already on a live mode, new data still arrives.
  • Resume to change the mode.

Update Wi-Fi credentials

  1. Open the device and tap Wi-Fi under Device settings (Chrome on Android).
  2. Enter the new credentials.
  3. Tap Tap device and hold your phone to the back of the Portrait.

On iOS, use the Wi-Fi icon on the device's card.

Remove

Tap Remove device on the detail page, or swipe left on iOS. This unlinks it from your account — the device itself is untouched and can be registered again later.

8. Daily operation

How content updates work

Portrait uses two operating modes for different content types.

Live updates mode (default)

  • Used for: Clock, MTA, Stocks, Weather, Bible.
  • The device keeps a secure Wi-Fi connection to receive updates.
  • Updates occur at your chosen interval (1 min – 24 h).
  • Display refreshes automatically when new content arrives.
  • Slightly higher power consumption (Wi-Fi active).

Static display mode

  • Used for: Image, Text, QR Code.
  • Content is sent once and displayed until changed.
  • Wi-Fi can be disabled to conserve power.
  • Display keeps the content even when powered off (that's eInk).
  • Very low power consumption.

Update intervals

IntervalBest for
1 minuteMTA arrivals (real-time accuracy)
5 minutesClock, stocks during market hours
30 minutesWeather, general monitoring
1 hourBible verses, ambient displays
DailyDaily inspiration, low-priority content
Power tip: longer intervals use less battery. For unplugged operation, use 30 min or longer.

During a refresh

  1. The screen may briefly flash black and white — this is normal for eInk.
  2. New content appears within 1 – 2 seconds.
  3. The device returns to low-power state until the next update.

Staying connected

  • Stable Wi-Fi: keep your router on and working.
  • Signal strength: move closer to the router if updates are flaky.
  • Network changes: update credentials in the app if your password changes.
  • Power: keep charged or plugged in for continuous operation.

Battery life expectations

Usage patternApproximate life
Live mode (frequent updates)1.5 – 2 days
Static content (Image / Text / QR)Weeks to months
For live data (MTA, Stocks, Weather), keep the device plugged in. Otherwise, turn it off between sessions.

9. Premium subscription

Free features

  • Text
  • QR code
  • Image
  • Bible verse (scheduled)

Premium features

  • Clock (with timezone selection)
  • MTA subway & bus
  • Stock prices
  • Weather updates

Subscribe

On the web: sign in and visit the Account page. On iPhone: tap the Profile tab in the app and choose Upgrade to Premium.

Subscriptions are billed through RevenueCat on web (via Stripe) or the App Store on iPhone. A single subscription works on iPhone, Android, and web when you sign in with the same account.

10. Maintenance & care

Cleaning the display

  1. Power off the device before cleaning.
  2. Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth.
  3. Gently wipe in one direction.
  4. For stubborn marks, slightly dampen the cloth with distilled water.
  5. Never spray liquid directly on the device.
Do not use alcohol, ammonia, window cleaners, abrasive cloths, paper towels, or harsh chemicals. These permanently damage eInk.

Cleaning the body

  • Wipe with a soft, slightly damp cloth.
  • Avoid moisture near ports or buttons.
  • Let the device dry completely before powering on.

Battery maintenance

  • Avoid full discharge — recharge before it hits empty.
  • Long-term storage: charge to ~50% first.
  • Temperature: don't charge in extreme heat or cold.
  • Quality chargers: use reputable USB adapters (5 V output).
For always-on displays, it's safe to keep the device plugged in continuously. The charging circuit prevents overcharging.

App updates

  1. Open the App Store on iPhone.
  2. Tap your profile picture.
  3. Scroll to pending updates.
  4. Update Paper Portrait Connect.

Network maintenance

  • Wi-Fi password changed: update credentials from the device detail page (or iOS app).
  • New router: re-register the device with the new network.
  • SSID changed: the device needs new credentials via NFC.

Long-term storage

  1. Charge to ~50%.
  2. Power off the device.
  3. Store in a cool, dry place (50 °F – 77 °F).
  4. Avoid humid environments.
  5. Recharge every 3 – 6 months.

Recommended maintenance schedule

TaskFrequency
Clean display surfaceAs needed (weekly to monthly)
Check for app updatesMonthly
Verify Wi-Fi connectionIf updates stop working
Full charge cycleMonthly (for unplugged devices)
Check device placement / ventilationSeasonally

11. Troubleshooting

Won't connect to Wi-Fi

  • Portrait only supports 2.4 GHz.
  • Passwords are case-sensitive — verify.
  • Restart your router and try again.
  • Move the Portrait closer during setup.

NFC fails

  • Hold the top of your phone to the back of the Portrait, near the top edge.
  • Thick cases can interfere — try removing yours.
  • Hold the position for 2 – 3 seconds.
  • Ensure NFC is enabled in phone settings (Android) / foreground reading is allowed (iOS).

Display not updating

  • Device isn't paused.
  • Wi-Fi is in range and working.
  • Wait for the next interval — updates happen on schedule.
  • Open the device and tap a new display to force a refresh.

App issues

  • Update to the latest version.
  • Force quit and reopen.
  • Sign out and back in.
  • Reinstall as a last resort.

Battery draining quickly

  • Live mode lasts 1.5 – 2 days; this is normal.
  • Use static content to extend battery life.
  • Turn off the device when not in use.
  • Keep it plugged in for always-on use.

Verification code not showing

  • Wait 5 – 10 seconds after NFC transfer.
  • The device needs Wi-Fi before showing the code.
  • Restart the device and retry registration.

12. Safety information

Intended use

Paper Portrait is designed for stationary indoor use. Great placements include:

  • Desktop: desk, nightstand, kitchen counter.
  • Shelf: bookshelf, mantle, entertainment center.
  • Wall-mounted: hallway, office, living space.
  • Reception areas: lobbies, waiting rooms, storefronts.
This device is for fixed placement. It's not intended for portable or body-worn use.

General safety

  • Dry, indoor environment.
  • Avoid prolonged direct sunlight.
  • Operating range: 32 °F – 113 °F (0 °C – 45 °C).
  • Keep out of reach of small children and pets.
  • Don't place near heat sources, radiators, or open flames.

Battery safety

  • Use only standard USB-C cables and USB adapters (5 V, 1 – 2 A).
  • Don't open, modify, or replace the battery.
  • If the device gets hot, swells, or smells, stop using it and contact support.
  • Don't puncture, crush, or expose the battery to fire.
  • Dispose according to local electronics recycling regulations.

Electrical safety

  • Keep away from water, rain, and excessive moisture.
  • Don't use with wet hands.
  • Unplug during electrical storms.
  • Don't use damaged cables or adapters.
  • Ensure ventilation while charging.

Display safety

  • eInk contains no backlight and emits no harmful blue light.
  • If the display cracks, avoid touching internal components.
  • Don't apply pressure to the display surface.

13. Regulatory & compliance

Each Paper Portrait model is tested and certified separately. Find the model number on the back of your device, then read the matching section below. Required regulatory statements that apply to all models appear at the end of this section.

FCC compliance mark

Displayed voluntarily per 47 CFR §2.1074 as a visual indication that the product complies with the applicable FCC Supplier's Declaration of Conformity requirements.

Model PP-100 — Paper Portrait

Wi-Fi eInk display, 90 × 76 mm, with an EEMB LP603449 lithium-polymer battery (3.7 V, 1100 mAh, 4.07 Wh).

Certifications

Radio-frequency emissions (USA)FCC Part 15 Subpart B, Class B
Radio-frequency emissions (Canada)ICES-003 Issue 7:2020, Class B
Wi-Fi moduleContains FCC ID 2AC7Z-ESPC3WROOM / IC 21098-ESPC3WROOM
Battery cell safetyUL 1642 and IEC 62133-2
Battery shippingUN 38.3 (UN3481 — lithium-ion contained in equipment)

Wi-Fi module

Paper Portrait PP-100 uses a pre-certified 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi module from Espressif (ESP32-C3-WROOM).

  • Contains FCC ID: 2AC7Z-ESPC3WROOM
  • Contains IC: 21098-ESPC3WROOM

Battery

The PP-100 uses a single EEMB LP603449 rechargeable lithium-polymer cell with built-in protection circuitry. The cell has been tested to two independent battery-safety standards (one US, one international) and meets the United Nations test requirements for safe shipping.

ManufacturerEEMB Co., Ltd
Cell modelLP603449
ChemistryLithium-polymer (Li-Poly), rechargeable
Voltage / capacity3.7 V, 1100 mAh, 4.07 Wh
Dimensions34.5 × 51 × 6.3 mm
Safety standardsUL 1642, IEC 62133-2
Shipping classificationUN3481 — lithium-ion contained in equipment, Packing Instruction 967 Section II (under 100 Wh)

Supplier's Declaration of Conformity

In accordance with 47 CFR §2.1077:

ProductPaper Portrait, Model PP-100
ComplianceFCC 47 CFR Part 15 Subpart B, Class B
Responsible partyWanyeki Technologies LLC
Address222 East 34th Street Apt 2325, New York, NY 10016, USA
Contactbabs@wanyekitech.com

Required regulatory statements

The notices below are required by US and Canadian regulators and apply to all Paper Portrait models.

FCC compliance (United States)

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Wanyeki Technologies LLC could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
FCC Class B digital device notice

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception — which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on — the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

  • Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
  • Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
  • Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
  • Consult the dealer or an experienced radio / TV technician for help.

ISED compliance (Canada)

CAN ICES-003(B) / NMB-003(B)

This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

Licence-exempt radio apparatus (RSS-Gen)

This device contains licence-exempt transmitter(s)/receiver(s) that comply with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada's licence-exempt RSS(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

  1. This device may not cause interference.
  2. This device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

L'émetteur/récepteur exempt de licence contenu dans le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Innovation, Sciences et Développement économique Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de licence. L'exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes : (1) L'appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage ; (2) L'appareil doit accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage est susceptible d'en compromettre le fonctionnement.

Need the actual certification documents?

Copies of the FCC / ISED test reports, UL 1642 and IEC 62133-2 battery certificates, UN 38.3 transportation test summary, and Safety Data Sheet are available on request. Email babs@wanyekitech.com with your model number and we'll send the relevant PDFs.

14. Support & contact

When contacting support, please include:

  • Your device's registration code (if applicable).
  • A description of the issue.
  • Your phone model and OS version.
  • Any error messages you saw.

Manual version 1.0 — last updated February 2026.

Quick start guide