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Remote RViz workflow - Tailscale + NoMachine

Problem: You have a beefy linux computer for ROS development but you want to develop on-the-go on a MacBook Air 

Solution: Use Tailscale + VS Code + NoMachine

  1. Tailscale: Creates a virtual private network (VPN) to connect your laptop and desktop as if they're on the same local network. It’s easy to set up and requires no router configuration. Alternatively, use ZeroTier.

  2. NoMachine: A remote desktop GUI tool that allows you to access your Linux computer from your laptop. For optimal performance:

    • Use a dummy HDMI plug to adjust your host PC's resolution easily.

  3. For latency-sensitive tasks (e.g., RViz, CloudCompare), NoMachine may introduce mouse lag. In such cases, consider using Sunshine on the server along with a Moonlight client for better responsiveness.

In ideal world, RViz would be a web-application. Cruise's Webviz offers this but is not actively maintained.