External Inputs
Integrate video and media applications with Spectralite for reactive lighting
External Inputs
Spectralite can react to external video and media applications through NDI (Network Device Interface) video streams. This enables your lighting to respond to visual content from VJ software, live video, and other sources.
What is NDI?
NDI is a free protocol that transmits high-quality, low-latency video over standard networks. It's widely supported by professional video and media applications, making it ideal for connecting visual content to lighting control.
Supported Workflows
Sending NDI Video to Lights
Generic guide for any NDI-capable application
Resolume to Lights
Connect Resolume Arena/Avenue output to Spectralite
TouchDesigner to Lights
Send TouchDesigner compositions to lighting
VDMX to Lights
Output VDMX visuals to Spectralite
How It Works
- External Application outputs video via NDI
- Spectralite receives the NDI stream
- Effect Nodes sample pixel data from the video
- Lighting Output responds to the video content
This creates reactive lighting that follows your visual content - colors, brightness, and patterns all derived from the video stream.
Use Cases
VJ Performance
Sync your lighting rig with live VJ visuals, creating a unified audiovisual experience.
Live Video
React lighting to live camera feeds, player footage, or broadcast content.
Generative Art
Connect generative visual systems like TouchDesigner or Processing to create dynamic lighting experiences.
Content Playback
Use video content as a lighting control source for pre-programmed shows.
Getting Started
If you're new to NDI with Spectralite:
- Start with Sending NDI Video to Lights for the basic workflow
- Find your specific application guide for setup details
- Experiment with different effect nodes to sample the video
Network Considerations
For reliable NDI streaming:
- Wired Ethernet recommended for best performance
- Gigabit network for HD video streams
- Same subnet for automatic NDI discovery
- Low latency for real-time lighting response
Related
- Node Editor - Create effects that sample NDI streams
- Effects - Learn about available effect nodes