Network Configuration

Establishing a robust and properly configured network is critical for WATCHOUT 7. The system relies on the network not just for file transfer, but for frame-accurate synchronization (UDP) and system control (TCP).

General Recommendations

• Dedicated Network: The WATCHOUT network should be a closed, dedicated local area network (LAN). Do not connect it to the internet or a general office network alongside your show data.
• Wired Connections: Always use wired Ethernet connections (Cat5e, Cat6, or fiber). Wi-Fi is not supported for show synchronization due to latency and packet loss.
• Quality Components: Invest in reliable, professional-grade networking equipment. Consumer-grade hardware may introduce latency spikes or dropped packets under sustained load.

Recommended Network Hardware

Choosing the right hardware ensures stable, low-latency communication between your Production and Display computers.

Network Switches

For most WATCHOUT installations, a quality unmanaged gigabit switch is sufficient. However, for larger or more demanding setups, consider managed switches that offer greater control.

Network Interface Cards (NICs)

Built-in motherboard NICs (Intel I211, I225, Realtek RTL8125) are typically adequate. For demanding workflows (10GbE, NDI sources), consider dedicated add-in cards:

• Intel X550-T2: Dual-port 10GbE, excellent driver support.
• Mellanox ConnectX-3: High performance, often used in broadcast environments.
• ASUS XG-C100C: Cost-effective 10GbE option for smaller budgets.

Cabling

• Cat5e: Suitable for Gigabit Ethernet up to 100 meters.
• Cat6/Cat6a: Recommended for 10GbE or runs approaching 100 meters with better shielding.
• Fiber Optic (SFP/SFP+): Essential for long-distance runs (over 100 meters) or electrically noisy environments (near LED walls, dimmers, etc.).

IP Addressing

WATCHOUT computers must be on the same subnet to discover each other. We recommend using static IP addresses to ensure consistent connectivity.

Recommended Scheme

• Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0 (Class C)
• Production Computer: 192.168.1.10
• Display Computers: 192.168.1.11, 192.168.1.12, etc.

Windows Firewall

WATCHOUT 7 requires specific network ports to operate. Upon installation, the installer typically adds the necessary rules to the Windows Defender Firewall.

If you need to manage ports manually:

• TCP Port 3040: Main communication.
• UDP Port 3040: Synchronization.
• Asset Management: Various ports are used for the new Asset Manager syncing; ensure the Dataton.Watchout.exe and Dataton.Watchout.Display.exe applications are fully allowed through the firewall for both Private and Public profile types.

Complete Port Reference

WATCHOUT uses the following ports for internal communication and external integration. All ports listed here should be allowed through any firewall on WATCHOUT machines.

Internal Communication

External Communication

Multicast Discovery

WATCHOUT nodes discover each other on the local network using multicast:

Advanced: Jumbo Frames

For 10GbE networks or systems pushing very high bandwidth video data (especially NDI or uncompressed streams), enabling Jumbo Frames (usually 9000 MTU) on all network cards and switches can improve performance. Ensure every device in the chain supports and is configured for the same MTU size.