using multiple external video devices for output to multiple projectors

kurtmeadows

I recently started working with Isadora and I'm still learning as I go.

For a performance I should be able to output video to two different projectors.

I am using the program on a Mac Pro running MacOS Sierra (10.12.6) equipped with three Blackmagic DeckLink Mini Monitor video cards.

In the "output" pop up menu, I can see all three devices, but select only one.

Is there an option to use multiple external devices?

Or should I rely on the cpu graphics card for the second output?

I would prefer using the Blackmagic cards, as I would be able to output both on the SDI and the HDMI channel simultaneously, giving me monitor view - for detail - on the latter.

If I'd have to rely on the computer's thunderbolt connection, it would mean I'd have to split the signal externally to get the same result, ànd find another solution than SDI to cover the distance to the second projector, which is the cable currently available.

When running QLab, it is possible.

Regards.

keftaparty

Hi,

Can you give us some more details about your setup:

What model of macpro are you using ?

What's your GPU ?

I think using Blackmagic Decklink or Ultrastudio monitor as an output for isadora is not a good workflow.

These are video cards, not graphic cards.

You should connect your projectors to your graphic card. And then convert this signal to SDI if you need.

Have you checked the Stage tab in the preferences menu ?

@mark @Fred , can you confirm the sentence below :

For my understanding if using a Decklink or Ultrastudio as an output, your system has to pull the rendered texture from the GPU, and process it thru your CPU to send it to the video card used as output.

Hope this helps,

Mehdi

mark

@keftaparty said:

For my understanding if using a Decklink or Ultrastudio as an output, your system has to pull the rendered texture from the GPU, and process it thru your CPU to send it to the video card used as output.

100% correct. We'll offer direct output to Blackmagic in Isadora v3, but it will not be nearly as high performance as using a graphics card for the reason you give above.

Best Wishes,
Mark

keftaparty

@mark thank you for your answer.

I have the feeling a little warning when using the external video output would be good, not the first time this topic appears in the forum I think.

Best

Mehdi

Chumcw

Following this link: https://support.apple.com/kb/P...

I tested with my MacBook Pro (2014 version, with 2 thunderbolt, 1 HDMI, 2 USB ports built),connected it to 3 EPSON projectors via 2 VGA (via thunderbolt) and HDMI and it works! I got 3 independent projections / stages from Isadora. This is great but I have not tested enough to see if this is stable to run a show.

Best