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Picture-in-Picture (PIP) Child Session

PIP mode allows the user to run and test automation workflows in an isolated desktop environment, simulating a separate machine. This enables the user to continue using the main desktop without interruptions, making it useful for RPA developers testing and debugging workflows.
Ideally, there are two ways to enable PIP mode. The first method is during installation, where a checkbox is provided to enable the child session. If it is not enabled during installation, the second method is to open PIP in Admin mode.

Using Studio Installer File

Steps:

  • During the installation of version 8, the Robot Details window appears with a heading called Manage Child Session.
  • Tick the checkbox under Manage Child Session to enable Genie Virtual Desktop.
  • Click Submit to proceed.
  • A popup will appear; click ok to log in again and enable the child session, then finish the installation.

Note: Properly signing out and signing back into the machine enhances the effectiveness of PIP mode.

Opening PIP in Admin Mode

Steps:

  • Navigate to C:\RPA.Genie\Runtime on local system.
  • Right-click on RPA.Genie.VirtualDesktop.Bot.
  • Select Run as Administrator from the menu.
  • Enter the required credentials when prompted.

A popup will confirm that the child session is enabled for the first time.

Note: Properly signing out and signing back into the machine enhances the effectiveness of PIP mode.

Advantages of PIP Mode

  • Parallel Execution: Allows attended bots to work on one desktop session while the user continues working in another.
  • Improved User Experience: Eliminates the common problem of bots interrupting users during automation.
  • Better Testing and Debugging: Developers can test how a process behaves in a separate session without logging off their own desktop.
  • Secure Environment: Runs in an isolated session, helping reduce the risk of sensitive data being manipulated during automation.
  • Increased Productivity: Multitasking becomes more efficient when automation doesn’t require full user interaction or session control.

How to run a project in PIP mode?

Steps:

  • Create a project in the studio and publish it.
  • Ensure that the Published Project is listed as a Package under the “Packages Tab”.
  • Add the required package as a process by selecting the appropriate package name and version.
  • Open the Co-pilot and search for the added project.
  • Hover on the Project, and the user can see the PIP mode icon.
  • Click on the PIP mode icon then the user can see a virtual desktop showing on their machine.

Note: The user can take control of the virtual desktop by clicking the Take Control button displayed within the virtual desktop.