How to Get Started with Autodarts: A Beginner’s Guide

Autodarts has quickly become one of the most exciting developments in home darts setups. By combining a DIY camera setup and dart detection software, Autodarts lets you play darts with automatic scoring, detailed analytics, and online matches—all from the comfort of your own space.

If you're wondering how to get started with Autodarts, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from the gear require to the software.

Understanding Autodarts

Before diving into setup, it’s helpful to understand what Autodarts actually is. At its core, it’s a project that uses cameras to track where your darts land on a dartboard. This data is processed by software that automatically scores each throw, eliminating the need for manual input. It’s especially popular with players looking to track their progress or play ranked matches or tournaments online with others around the world. One of the reasons for its popularity is that it that it's a much cheaper alternative to Scolia and Omni, whilst offering everything that they do and more.

You don’t need a fancy dartboard—just a standard steel-tip board like the Winmau Blade 6. What makes Autodarts powerful is how it integrates with your existing setup using a few affordable components and the Autodarts software.

What You'll Need

To get started with Autodarts, you’ll need three key things: a dartboard, a set of cameras and mounts, and a device to run the software. Most users opt for three OV9732 USB cameras, which are compact and affordable. You’ll also need a computer or Raspberry Pi 4 to run the Autodarts client. It is recommended that your device has 3 USB 2.0 ports to plug each individual camera cable, however, some opt for using powered USB hub. It's worth noting that some hubs work fine, and some don't, the reason for this is unclear so it's better to use a device with 3 USB ports.

Once you have those basics, you’ll need a way to mount your cameras around the board. That’s where our 3D-printed Autodarts Camera Mounts come in. Designed specifically to get you up and running! Our mounts either clip onto your existing light ring or can be wall mounted, holding the cameras at just the right angle for optimal accuracy. We also sell the cameras themselves, pre-flashed to work specifically with Autodarts, saving you long delivery and setup time and hassle.

Setting Up Your Cameras

Mounting the cameras is arguably the most important part of your Autodarts setup. The goal is to give the software a clear view of the entire board. Most setups use three cameras: ideally these are placed at 120° points around the board. These angles allow the software to triangulate dart positions with great accuracy. Autodarts recommend that they are set up in one of two ways:

Installing the Software

With the hardware in place, the next step is to install the Autodarts software. Head over to the Autodarts download page and follow the instructions for your operating system. The software is well-documented and comes with a setup wizard to help you calibrate your cameras.

During setup, you’ll test your cameras to ensure it's detecting the dartboard correctly. The system then runs through calibration. Once complete, you’re ready to play.

Playing Your First Game

Now the fun begins. You can log in to Autodarts at play.autodarts.io, using any device such as a mobile, tablet or laptop. You can choose to play a solo match, start a practice session, or join an online game with others. There are also many training games you can play. The software tracks your scores automatically, builds heatmaps of your throws, and logs your stats over time. It’s a great way to improve your game, and it takes the hassle out of scorekeeping.

It's easy to correct any inaccuracies, simply click the dart that needs correcting and rescore it.

Getting started with Autodarts is easy when you understand it—and the results are seriously impressive. With a few inexpensive components and a bit of time, you’ll have a fully automated scoring system that brings a pro-level feel to your home darts games.

If you're looking to get started with Autodarts, check out our range of Autodarts Camera Mounts.