Enable WATCHOUT on Your Hardware
WATCHOUT runs on any Windows PC with a capable GPU. This guide covers configuration for custom-built machines and workstations—WATCHPAX systems are pre-configured.
Cloning Warning
When cloning disk images: delete the settings folder before imaging, or on each cloned machine.
Each WATCHOUT node stores a unique machine ID in wo7_settings. Duplicate IDs cause identification conflicts in your cluster.
Settings folder location:
- Custom servers:
C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Roaming\Dataton\WATCHOUT 7\
Software Update Allowlist
Software updates are disabled by default for security. You must explicitly enable them.
Create allow_list.json in your WATCHOUT settings folder:
{
"folders": ["D:/shows/"],
"update_allowed": true
}
Without this file, Producer cannot push software updates to your machines.
| Field | Purpose |
|---|---|
folders | Paths accessible for asset transfer |
update_allowed | Set true to allow remote software updates |
To find the settings folder: File → Explore Settings Folder in Producer.
WATCHPAX systems are pre-configured.
Requirements
- Latest graphics driver
- Media Feature Pack (Windows N/KN editions only)
Hardware
WATCHOUT puts sustained load on SSDs and GPUs. These components can throttle or overheat.
- Use enterprise-grade SSDs for 24/7 installations
- Ensure adequate GPU cooling
- Monitor temperatures during extended testing
Software Optimization
- Minimize background programs
- Disable notifications and popups
- Kill Explorer if needed:
taskkill /im explorer.exe /f
Display Channel Numbering
Windows can re-number display outputs when connections change. To lock physical GPU connectors to fixed channel numbers, set this environment variable:
USE_GPU_CONNECTORS_AS_CHANNELS=TRUE
Restart WATCHOUT after changing.
Video Capture
Supported interfaces:
| Interface | Notes |
|---|---|
| Deltacast VideoMaster | GPU-direct capture (NVIDIA only). HDMI/SDI boards only. |
| Windows Media Foundation | USB devices, Magewell, Datapath. Performance varies. |
| NDI | Network-based capture. |
Interlaced Video
WATCHOUT de-interlaces by interpolating missing lines. Deltacast and NDI provide lower-latency interlaced fields. Media Foundation typically de-interlaces in hardware or delivers at half framerate.
Tested Hardware
- WATCHPAX systems
- Magewell Pro Capture Quad SDI (driver V1.3.0.4323, firmware 1.34)