Welcome & Overview

What is GRID?

GRID is an accessible 8-channel video mixing application designed for VJs, live streamers, and video artists. Mix multiple video sources in real-time with GPU-powered effects, smooth transitions, and hardware controller support.

System Requirements

• CPU: Multi-core processor (4+ cores recommended)
• GPU: Dedicated GPU with WebGL 2.0 support
• RAM: 8GB minimum, 16GB recommended
• Browser: Chrome, Edge, or Opera (required for MIDI/Stream Deck support)
• OS: Windows 10+, macOS 10.14+, or Linux
• Network: Gigabit Ethernet recommended for multi-machine setups

License Tiers

GRID offers two tiers:

GRID Lite Free

• 8 channels (4 per bank)
• 6×6 video grid (36 cells)
• 1 effect slot per bank
• Single output window
• All 20+ transition modes
• Basic keyboard shortcuts

GRID Max £29

• 9×9 video grid (81 cells)
• 3 grid decks (243 total cells)
• 4 effect slots per bank + 4 output effects
• Multiple output windows
• Per-channel effects
• Advanced masking (chroma key, luma key, shapes)
• Recording to file
• 7-day free trial included

Architecture Overview

GRID uses a client-server architecture with three node types that work together over your network.

Server Node

The Server Node runs on your main machine and handles:

• Video Library Management: Scans your video folder, generates thumbnails and sprite sheets
• State Synchronization: Keeps all Controller Nodes and Output Nodes in sync via WebSocket
• File Serving: Streams video files to Output Nodes
• License Validation: Manages Lite/Max features and trial status

Controller Node

The Controller Node is the web-based interface for mixing. You can open multiple Controller Nodes on different devices (laptop, tablet, phone) to control the same mixer.

• Video Grid: Browse and select videos from your library
• Mixer Panel: Control channel opacity, effects, and crossfader
• Settings: Configure grid size, effects, hardware controllers
• Hardware Integration: Map MIDI controllers, Stream Deck, OSC

Output Node

The Output Node renders the final composite video using WebGL. This is what you project or stream.

• GPU Rendering: Real-time compositing with effects and transitions
• Fullscreen Mode: Send to projector or capture device
• Master/Secondary: Run multiple Output Nodes for redundancy
• Video Caching: Preloads videos in browser for instant playback

Communication

All three node types communicate in real-time:

• Controller Nodes send commands (e.g., "load video to channel 1") to the Server Node via WebSocket
• Server Node broadcasts state changes to all connected Controller Nodes and Output Nodes
• Output Nodes report performance metrics (FPS, dropped frames) back to Controller Nodes

Basic Workflow

1. Start the Server

Launch the GRID application. The Server Launcher window shows the current status and provides access to all connected nodes.

Server Launcher Features

• Status Badge: Shows whether the server is Running or Stopped
• Version Display: Shows your current GRID edition (LITE or MAX)
• Allow Remote Network Access: Enable this to allow other computers/tablets on your network to connect to GRID. When enabled, the server will show your local IP address instead of localhost
• Controller Password: Optional password protection for Controller access
• Start/Stop Server: Control the GRID server
• Open Videos Folder: Quick access to your media library folder
• Control Node: The main mixing interface. Click Open to launch in your browser, or Copy to share the URL with other devices. The number shows connected controllers
• Output Node: The video output renderer for projectors/screens. This should run on a high-spec computer as it handles all video processing. The number shows connected outputs
• Media Manager: Upload and organize your video library. The number shows total videos in your media folder
• Server Logs: View real-time server activity. Click Copy to copy logs for troubleshooting, or Clear to reset the log view

2. Add Videos to Library

Click Media in the header to open the Media Manager.

• Drag video files into the upload area, or
• Set a video folder in Settings and let GRID scan it
• Wait for sprite sheets to generate (shows animated thumbnails)

3. Open the Output Window

Click Output in the header. A new window opens at /output. This is your video output.

• Click the fullscreen button or press F to go fullscreen
• Send this window to your projector or capture device

4. Load Videos to Channels

Back in the Controller:

• Select a video from the grid (left side)
• Press 1-8 to assign it to a channel, or press Space for quick-assign
• The video thumbnail appears on the channel strip

5. Mix with Opacity Faders

Each channel has a vertical opacity fader:

• Drag fader up to increase opacity (make video visible)
• Drag down to decrease opacity (fade out)
• Scroll mouse wheel for fine control

6. Crossfade Between Banks

GRID has two banks: Bank A (channels 1-4) and Bank B (channels 5-8).

• Load videos into both banks
• Use the crossfader slider to blend between banks
• Left = Bank A, Right = Bank B, Center = 50/50 mix
• Press , to auto-fade to Bank A or . to auto-fade to Bank B

Main Interface Layout

The Controller interface has four main areas:

1. Video Grid (Left)

Browse and select videos from your library.

• Animated sprite sheet thumbnails
• Folder navigation
• Grid size: 1×1 up to 9×9 (Max tier)
• Multi-deck support (up to 3 decks)

2. Mixer Section (Center)

Control your 8 channels organized into two banks:

• Bank A: Channels 1-4 (orange accent)
• Bank B: Channels 5-8 (cyan accent)
• Each channel has: opacity fader, effects, mask controls, audio volume

3. Crossfader & Previews (Right)

• Bank Previews: Live composite preview of each bank
• Crossfader: Blend between Bank A and Bank B
• Transition Mode: Select from 20+ transition types
• Output Preview: Final mixed output preview

4. Header Tools

• Media: Open Media Manager in new window
• Output: Open Output window
• Record: Start/stop recording Max
• Presets: Save/load mixer configurations
• Settings: Configure grid, effects, hardware
• ?: Keyboard shortcuts help
• Performance: FPS counter and connection status

Video Grid Navigation

The video grid is your video library browser. Videos are displayed with animated sprite sheet previews.

Grid Size

Configure grid dimensions in Settings → Grid & Channels. Grid cells are labeled with their column letter (A-I) and row number (1-9), such as A1, B2, C3, etc.:

• Columns: 1-9 (labeled A-I)
• Rows: 1-9
• Lite tier: max 6×6 (36 cells, A1 through F6)
• Max tier: up to 9×9 (81 cells, A1 through I9)

Multi-Deck Support

Grid Decks are separate pages of video assignments Max

• Configure 1-3 decks in Settings
• Switch decks with buttons in header (color-coded: yellow, orange, cyan)
• Keyboard shortcuts: Shift+1/2/3
• Each deck has independent video assignments

Selecting Videos

Use keyboard shortcuts for fast selection. Cells are labeled with their column letter and row number (A1, B2, C3, etc.):

• A-I to select column
• 1-9 to select row
• Example: Press C then 5 to select cell C5
• Arrow keys to navigate selected cell
• Esc to clear selection

Sprite Sheet Previews

Videos show animated thumbnails extracted from the video:

• Automatically generated when videos are added
• Can be disabled in Settings → Performance for better performance
• Regenerate all sprites in Settings → System

Loading Videos to Channels

Assignment Methods

Keyboard Assignment (Fastest)

1. Select a video in the grid (keyboard or mouse)
2. Press 1-8 to assign to that channel
3. Or press Space or Enter for smart assign (toggles between channels 1 and 2)

Drag and Drop

Drag a video thumbnail from the grid onto a channel fader to assign it.

Right-Click Menu

Right-click a video thumbnail for quick assign options.

Replacing Videos

Assigning a new video to a channel replaces the current video. The new video inherits the channel's current opacity and settings.

Clearing Channels

• Click the Clear button on a channel strip
• Use Clear All button (confirmation required)
• Keyboard: Select channel and press Delete or Backspace

Channel Controls

Each of the 8 channels has identical controls organized in a vertical strip.

Opacity Fader

The main vertical fader controls channel visibility (0-100% opacity).

How to use:

• Drag: Click and drag fader up/down
• Scroll: Hover and scroll mouse wheel for fine adjustment
• Double-click: Smoothly fade to/from black (1 second transition)

Fader Settings:

• Reverse scroll direction: Settings → UI Controls → Reverse Scroll Faders
• Scroll sensitivity: Adjust multiplier 1-10 (fine to coarse)

Channel Mute

Mute button instantly sets opacity to 0% without changing fader position. Unmute restores previous opacity.

Video Preview

Live thumbnail preview of the loaded video. Disable in Settings → Performance to save resources.

Channel Effects Max

Apply per-channel effects for individual channel processing.

Available Effects:

• Color & Tone: Brightness, Contrast, Saturation, Hue Rotation, Invert, Posterize
• Stylize: Blur, Pixelate, Vignette, Film Grain
• Glitch & Retro: Chromatic Aberration, RGB Split, Scanlines, Strobe
• Playback: Speed (0.25x-4x), Reverse

Using Channel Effects:

1. Click effect type dropdown
2. Select effect from list
3. Adjust effect amount with knob (drag or scroll)
4. Toggle bypass to compare effect on/off

Channel Masks Max

Mask options for transparency and compositing.

Chroma Key (Green/Blue Screen)

• Color: Pick key color (green, blue, or custom)
• Similarity: How close colors must match (0-100%)
• Smoothness: Edge feathering (0-100%)
• Best for: Talent compositing, green screen footage

Luma Key (Brightness-based)

• Low Threshold: Remove dark areas
• High Threshold: Remove bright areas
• Invert: Flip the key
• Best for: Light effects, removing black backgrounds

Shape Masks

Geometric shapes for precise masking:

• Shapes: Circle, Rectangle, Ellipse, Triangle, Polygon (up to 16 points)
• Edit: Drag points to adjust shape
• Feather: Soften edges
• Multiple Masks: Combine multiple shapes per channel

Audio Controls

Per-channel audio mixing (when audio is enabled):

• Volume Fader: Control channel audio level (0-100%)
• Mute: Silence this channel's audio
• Peak Meter: Visual feedback of audio level

Enable audio in Settings → Performance → Audio Enabled

Channel Settings

Click the gear icon on any channel to open Channel Settings. This panel provides quick access to channel configuration and history.

Recent Videos

Quick access to the 3 most recently loaded videos on this channel. Click any thumbnail to reload that video instantly.

Channel Name

Assign a custom name to identify the channel. Useful for organizing your mix when using multiple similar clips.

Restart on Fade Up

When enabled, the video automatically restarts from the beginning each time the channel fades up from zero opacity. Useful for intro clips or one-shot effects.

Quick Mask & Key Access

Direct access to mask and keying settings without navigating through multiple panels. Adjust chroma key, luma key, and shape masks from one location.

Crossfader & Bank Switching

The crossfader blends between Bank A (channels 1-4) and Bank B (channels 5-8) using transition effects.

Crossfader Slider

• Left (0%): Bank A fully visible, Bank B hidden
• Center (50%): Both banks blended 50/50
• Right (100%): Bank B fully visible, Bank A hidden

Control Methods:

• Drag: Click and drag slider
• Scroll: Hover and scroll mouse wheel
• Keyboard: , to fade to Bank A, . to fade to Bank B
• Auto-fade buttons: Click A or B for smooth automatic transition

Transition Modes

Select how banks blend together during crossfade. 20+ modes available:

Blend Modes (Smooth color mixing)

• Linear: Simple opacity blend (default)
• Luminance: Brightness-based blend
• Additive: Add colors together (brighter)
• Dissolve: Random pixel dissolve
• Ripple: Water ripple effect

Wipe Modes (Geometric reveals)

• Left/Right/Up/Down: Directional wipes
• Diagonal: 4 diagonal directions (TL-BR, TR-BL, etc.)
• Clock: Circular clockwise wipe

Motion Modes (Movement-based)

• Push Left/Right: Push old content off screen
• Zoom In/Out: Scale transition
• Iris Open/Close: Circular expand/contract

Special Effects

• Page Turn: 3D page flip effect
• Cube Rotation: 3D cube spin

Transition Duration

Control how long auto-fades take:

• Range: 0-5000ms (0-5 seconds)
• Adjust with rotary knob (drag or scroll)
• Affects: Auto-fade buttons and keyboard shortcuts , .
• Manual slider movements are instant (follow your drag speed)

Bank Previews

Live composite previews show what each bank looks like before crossfading:

• Enable in Settings → Performance → Bank Preview Live
• Shows: All channels in that bank composited together
• Use to: Preview your next bank before transitioning

Bank Strategy

Common mixing approaches:

Prepare-and-Switch

Load Bank A with current content. While it plays, prepare Bank B with next content. Crossfade when ready.

A/B Comparison

Load two different looks in each bank. Quickly toggle between them for comparison or beat-matched switching.

Layered Mixing

Use center crossfader position to blend both banks equally for layered visuals.

Effects System

GRID has three effect layers: per-channel, per-bank, and output-level.

Bank Effects

Apply effects to entire banks (all channels in Bank A or Bank B together).

• Lite tier: 1 effect slot per bank
• Max tier: Up to 4 effect slots per bank
• Configure slot count: Settings → Grid & Channels → Effect Slots

Using Bank Effects:

1. Open Bank Effects panel (below crossfader)
2. Select effect type from dropdown
3. Adjust effect amount with knob
4. Toggle bypass to A/B compare

Output Effects Max

Master output effects applied after banks are composited together.

• Up to 4 effect slots
• Affects final output sent to projection/stream
• Best for: Color grading, final vignette, global adjustments

Effect Order

Effects are applied in this order:

1. Channel Effects → Each channel processed individually Max
2. Channel Masks → Transparency applied per channel Max
3. Bank Compositing → Channels combined into Bank A and Bank B
4. Bank Effects → Applied to each bank's composite
5. Crossfader → Banks blended with transition
6. Output Effects → Final master effects Max
7. Output Mask → Final transparency mask Max

Effect Parameters

Most effects have a single amount/intensity parameter (0-100%). Some have multiple:

Performance Impact

Effects are GPU-accelerated but have varying performance costs:

• Low cost: Brightness, Contrast, Saturation, Hue, Invert
• Medium cost: Vignette, Posterize, Pixelate, Chromatic Aberration
• High cost: Blur (especially large radius), Film Grain

Reduce effect slots or disable unused effects if experiencing performance issues.

Output Window

The Output window is where GRID renders the final composited video. This is what you project or stream.

Opening Output

Click Output button in the header. A new browser window opens at http://localhost:3000/output

Fullscreen Mode

• Press F or click fullscreen button
• Send to external display/projector via browser window controls
• Exit fullscreen with Esc

Output Resolution

Configure in Settings → Output → Output Resolution:

• 720p: 1280×720 (lowest GPU load)
• 1080p: 1920×1080 (recommended)
• 1440p: 2560×1440
• 2K: 2048×1080
• 4K: 3840×2160 (requires powerful GPU)
• Native: Full display resolution

Target Framerate

Set output FPS in Settings → Output → Output Framerate:

• 24fps: Cinematic look, lowest GPU load
• 30fps: Standard video
• 60fps: Smooth motion, highest GPU load

Test Pattern

Display test patterns for output alignment and calibration:

• Enable in Settings → Output → Test Pattern
• Patterns: Color Bars, Grid, Solid colors, Checkerboard
• Use for: Display calibration, projector alignment, testing aspect ratio

Debug Overlay

Show performance metrics on output screen:

• Enable in Settings → Output → Debug overlay
• Shows: FPS, resolution, dropped frames
• Use for: Troubleshooting performance issues

Output Masks Max

Output masks define transparency for the entire final output. Use for custom projection shapes, edge blending, or masking to venue-specific screens.

Opening Mask Editor

Click Output Mask button in the output preview area.

Shape Types

• Circle: Circular projection (e.g., planetarium domes)
• Rectangle: Rectangular crop
• Ellipse: Oval shapes
• Triangle: Three-sided mask
• Polygon: Custom shape with up to 16 points

Editing Masks

1. Select shape type
2. Drag points on canvas to adjust shape
3. Add points (polygon mode): Click on edge
4. Remove points: Right-click point
5. Adjust feather slider to soften edges

Multiple Masks

Combine multiple shapes for complex projections:

• Add mask button to create additional shapes
• Toggle each mask on/off independently
• Useful for: Multi-screen installations, irregular venue shapes

Common Use Cases

Circular Projections

Use Circle mask for dome or circular screen projections. Adjust feather for soft edge blending.

Edge Blending

Use Rectangle with high feather value to create soft edges for multi-projector overlap zones.

Custom Venue Shapes

Use Polygon to mask exact shape of irregular screens or architectural projections.

Audio System

GRID supports audio mixing when audio is enabled. Audio from video files can be mixed alongside visual content.

Enabling Audio

Audio is toggled in Settings → Performance → Audio Enabled

• Enabled: Audio plays from videos, controls visible
• Disabled: All audio muted, controls hidden, saves CPU

Per-Channel Volume

Each channel has independent audio controls:

• Volume Fader: 0-100% audio level
• Mute Button: Instantly silence this channel
• Peak Indicator: Visual feedback of audio level

Master Audio Controls

• Master Volume: Control overall output level
• Master Mute: Silence all audio instantly
• Located in the output preview area

VU Meters

Visual audio level monitoring:

• Enable in Settings → Performance → Audio Meter (VU)
• Shows: Stereo levels (L/R channels)
• Peak indicators: Flash red when clipping
• Located: Next to master volume control

Audio Ducking

When crossfading between banks, audio automatically crossfades as well:

• Bank A at 100%: Only Bank A audio plays
• Crossfader at 50%: Both banks' audio at 50%
• Bank B at 100%: Only Bank B audio plays

Performance Mode

For video-only performances, disable audio to save CPU:

• Go to Settings → Performance
• Uncheck Audio Enabled
• Audio processing stops, controls hidden
• Can improve framerate on lower-end systems

Keyboard Shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts enable fast operation during live performance. Press ? in the Controller to view the shortcuts panel.

Grid Navigation

Channel Assignment

After selecting a video in the grid:

Deck Switching

Crossfader Control

Global

Example Workflow

Load video from grid cell D3 to channel 5:

1. Press D (select column D)
2. Press 3 (select row 3, grid cell D3 is now selected)
3. Press 5 (assign to channel 5)

Then fade to Bank B:

1. Press . (auto-fade to Bank B)

MIDI Controllers Experimental

Connect MIDI controllers (faders, knobs, buttons) for tactile control of GRID. Requires Web MIDI API support (Chrome, Edge, Opera).

Browser Support

• Supported: Chrome, Edge, Opera
• Not supported: Firefox, Safari

Connecting MIDI Controllers

1. Connect MIDI controller via USB
2. Open Settings → MIDI
3. Toggle Enable MIDI
4. Grant browser permission when prompted
5. Connected devices appear in the list (green indicator)

MIDI Learn Mode

Map MIDI controls to GRID parameters:

1. Right-click any control in GRID (fader, knob, button)
2. Select MIDI Learn
3. Move or press the MIDI control you want to map
4. Mapping is saved automatically
5. Right-click again to remove mapping

Mappable Controls

Continuous (Faders/Knobs)

• Channel opacity (all 8 channels)
• Channel volume (all 8 channels)
• Crossfader position
• Bank effect parameters
• Output effect parameters
• Master volume

Discrete (Buttons/Pads)

• Channel mute toggle
• Clear channel
• Effect bypass toggle
• Master mute toggle
• Auto-fade to Bank A/B

LED Feedback

Controllers with LED feedback receive visual updates:

• Select output device in Settings → MIDI
• GRID sends MIDI messages back to controller
• LEDs reflect current values (e.g., fader position, mute state)
• Useful for: Motorized faders, LED rings, button lights

Compatible Controllers

Any MIDI controller works, but these are commonly used:

• Akai APC40/APC Key 25: Faders, knobs, grid pads
• Novation Launch Control: Compact knobs and faders
• Korg nanoKONTROL: Affordable fader bank
• Behringer X-Touch: Motorized faders with feedback
• Any MIDI device: If it sends CC or Note messages, it works

Managing Mappings

View and edit mappings in Settings → MIDI:

• See all active mappings
• Device, control number, mapped parameter
• Select feedback output device per mapping
• Remove unwanted mappings

Stream Deck & OSC Experimental

Elgato Stream Deck

Turn your Stream Deck into a dedicated video mixing surface with visual feedback.

Browser Support

• Supported: Chrome, Edge, Chromium-based browsers
• Requires: WebHID API support

Compatible Devices

• Stream Deck MK.2
• Stream Deck XL
• Stream Deck Mini
• Stream Deck + (includes rotary encoders)

Connecting Stream Deck

1. Open Settings → Stream Deck
2. Toggle Enable Stream Deck
3. Click Connect Stream Deck
4. Select device from browser prompt
5. Device appears in connected list

Button Mapping

Similar to MIDI Learn:

1. Right-click a GRID control
2. Select Stream Deck Learn
3. Press the Stream Deck button you want to map
4. Mapping saved automatically

Mappable Actions

• Clear channel: Remove video from channel
• Toggle mute: Mute/unmute channel
• Auto-fade to bank: Smooth crossfade to A or B
• Effect bypass: Toggle effect on/off
• Master mute: Mute entire output

Visual Feedback

Stream Deck buttons can display:

• Color: Solid color based on action state
• Channel thumbnail: Show which video is loaded (color indicator)
• Bank preview: Bank A/B color coding
• Updates in real-time as you mix

OSC (Open Sound Control)

Network-based control protocol for custom controllers and software integration.

Enabling OSC

1. Open Settings → OSC
2. Toggle Enable OSC
3. Note the port number (default: 9000)

Compatible Clients

• TouchOSC: iOS/Android custom controller app
• Lemur: iOS advanced controller builder
• OSCulator: macOS OSC routing
• Any OSC client: Send UDP messages to GRID's port

OSC Addresses

Common control addresses:

• /channel/1-8/opacity - Float 0.0-1.0
• /channel/1-8/volume - Float 0.0-1.0
• /crossfader - Float 0.0-1.0 (0=Bank A, 1=Bank B)
• /bank/a|b/effect/1-4/value - Float 0.0-1.0
• /output/effect/1-4/value - Float 0.0-1.0

Bi-directional Feedback

OSC supports two-way communication:

• Send commands to GRID from your controller
• GRID sends state updates back to controller
• Controllers stay in sync with GRID's current state
• Loop prevention: Triggering client doesn't receive its own echo

Presets

Presets save complete mixer states for instant recall. Perfect for planned performances or starting points.

What Presets Save

A preset captures:

• All channel video assignments
• Channel opacity fader positions
• Channel effects and parameters
• Channel masks and settings
• Bank effects and parameters
• Output effects and parameters
• Crossfader position
• Audio levels (channel and master)

Presets do NOT save:

• Grid size or settings
• Hardware mappings (MIDI, Stream Deck)
• Performance settings
• License or system settings

Creating a Preset

1. Set up your mixer (load videos, set faders, apply effects)
2. Click Presets in the header
3. Click Save Preset
4. Enter a name (e.g., "Opening Set", "Slow Build", "Finale")
5. Click Save

Loading a Preset

1. Click Presets in the header
2. Select preset from list
3. Click Load
4. Mixer instantly updates to saved state

Managing Presets

• Rename: Click preset name to edit
• Delete: Click delete button (requires confirmation)
• Duplicate: Load preset, modify, save with new name

Preset Strategy

Performance Planning

Create presets for each section of your performance. Load them in sequence as your set progresses.

Starting Points

Save "templates" with common effect chains or channel setups. Load as starting point, then customize.

A/B Testing

Save variations of the same mix. Load each to compare different looks quickly.

Recording Max

Record your mixed output to video file for later playback or sharing.

Requirements

• GRID Max license
• Output window must be open and connected
• Sufficient disk space for video files

Starting a Recording

1. Open Output window
2. In Controller, click Record button in header
3. Recording starts immediately
4. Duration counter shows elapsed time
5. Red recording indicator pulses in header

Stopping Recording

1. Click Record button again to stop
2. Recording saves automatically
3. File location shown in notification

Recording Settings

Configure in Settings → Recordings:

• Output Format: WebM, MP4 (codec depends on browser)
• Quality: Bitrate selection for file size vs. quality
• Resolution: Matches current output resolution
• Framerate: Matches target FPS setting
• Save Location: Default recordings folder

Managing Recordings

View recordings in Settings → Recordings:

• List of all recordings with duration and size
• Preview playback
• Delete unwanted recordings
• Open recordings folder

Performance Impact

Recording uses additional CPU/GPU resources:

• May reduce output framerate on lower-end systems
• Lower resolution/framerate settings reduce impact
• Monitor FPS counter during recording
• Test before live performance to ensure acceptable performance

Multi-Output Setup

Run multiple output windows for backup displays or distributed projection setups.

Master/Secondary Architecture

GRID uses a master/secondary model:

• Master Output: Handles video caching, preview streaming, performance stats
• Secondary Outputs: Render-only, no extra processing
• Only one master at a time (reduces server load)
• Unlimited secondary outputs

Opening Multiple Outputs

1. Click Output button (first output becomes master)
2. Open another browser window/tab to /output
3. Additional outputs connect as secondary
4. View all connected outputs in Settings → Outputs

Switching Master Output

Change which output is the master:

1. Go to Settings → Outputs
2. See list of all connected outputs
3. Click Set Master next to desired output
4. Master designation transfers immediately

Use Cases

Backup Display

Run two outputs to separate displays. If main projector fails, switch to backup without interruption.

Multi-Screen Installation

Send same content to multiple screens/projectors. Useful for large venues or art installations.

Distributed Setup

Run outputs on different machines across network. Server on one machine, outputs on others.

Network Requirements

For best performance in distributed setups:

• Recommended: Gigabit Ethernet between machines
• Avoid: WiFi for output machines (latency, bandwidth)
• Controller: Can run on WiFi (less critical)
• Same Network: All devices must be on same local network

Identifying Outputs

Enable output identification to see which screen is which:

1. Go to Settings → Outputs
2. Toggle Identify Outputs
3. Output ID and status overlay appears on all output screens
4. Use to verify which output is which before performance

Settings & Configuration

Access Settings by clicking the Settings button in the header.

Grid & Channels

• Grid Size: Rows and columns (1-9, limited by license)
• Grid Decks: Number of deck pages (1-3)
• Mixer Channels: Channels per bank (1-4)
• Effect Slots: Number of effect slots per bank (0-4)

Output

• Output Framerate: 24fps, 30fps, or 60fps
• Output Resolution: 720p through 4K or Native
• Test Pattern: Display calibration patterns
• Debug Overlay: Show FPS and metrics on output

Outputs

• View all connected output windows
• Switch master output designation
• Identify outputs (show ID overlay)

UI Controls

• Reverse Scroll Faders: Invert mouse wheel direction
• Scroll Sensitivity: Multiplier 1-10 (fine to coarse)
• Touch Friendly Mode: Larger hit targets for tablets
• Gesture Sensitivity: Touch gesture responsiveness
• Apply to All Devices: Sync UI settings to all controllers

MIDI

• Enable/disable MIDI support
• View connected input/output devices
• Manage MIDI mappings
• Configure LED feedback devices

Stream Deck

• Enable/disable Stream Deck
• Connect/disconnect devices
• Manage button mappings
• Configure button feedback styles

OSC

• Enable/disable OSC server
• View port and connection info
• OSC address reference

Recordings Max

• Recording format and quality settings
• Save location
• List of recordings with playback
• Delete recordings

Performance

• Grid Preview Live: Animated sprite sheets in grid
• Channel Preview Live: Video previews on channel strips
• Bank Preview Live: Live bank composite previews
• Output Preview Live: Live output preview on controller
• Audio Enabled: Enable audio processing and controls
• Audio Meter (VU): Show VU meter visualization
• Apply to All Devices: Sync performance settings to all controllers

System

• Version: Current GRID version
• Video Cache: Preload status (output browser cache)
• Regenerate Sprites: Rebuild all sprite sheets
• License: Current tier, trial status, upgrade options
• Device ID: Unique identifier for license activation

Data Storage

The Server Node stores all your videos, presets, and settings in a user data folder. This folder is separate from the application itself, so your data persists across updates.

Storage Locations

macOS

~/Library/Application Support/GRID/

Windows

%APPDATA%\GRID\

Usually: C:\Users\YourName\AppData\Roaming\GRID\

Linux

~/.config/GRID/

Folder Structure

GRID/
├── public/videos/       - Your video files
├── public/thumbnails/   - Generated thumbnails and sprite sheets
├── public/recordings/   - Recorded videos (Max tier)
├── uploads/             - Temporary upload processing
└── configs/             - Presets and settings

Upgrading GRID

GRID automatically checks for updates when you launch the app. If a new version is available, you'll see a notification with a download link.

Manual Upgrade Process

1. Download the new version from gridvideo.net/download
2. Close GRID completely (quit the application)
3. Replace the old app with the new one:
   • macOS: Replace GRID.app in your Applications folder
   • Windows: Extract the new .zip and replace your GRID folder
   • Linux: Replace the old .AppImage with the new one
4. Launch the new version

Uninstalling GRID

To completely remove GRID and all user data:

Step 1: Delete the Application

• macOS: Delete GRID.app from your Applications folder
• Windows: Delete the extracted GRID folder
• Linux: Delete the .AppImage file

Step 2: Delete User Data (Optional)

If you want to remove all videos, presets, and settings:

• macOS: rm -rf ~/Library/Application\ Support/GRID
• Windows: Delete %APPDATA%\GRID folder
• Linux: rm -rf ~/.config/GRID

Performance Monitoring

GRID provides real-time performance metrics to ensure smooth operation.

Performance Indicators

Located in the Controller header:

• FPS Counter: Current framerate (green = good, red = issues)
• Dropped Frames: Number of frames dropped (should be near 0)
• Connection Status: Green dot = connected, red = disconnected

Performance Panel

Click the performance indicator to open detailed metrics:

• Current FPS
• Frame time (ms per frame)
• Total dropped frames
• Memory usage (Chrome only)
• Output connection status

Optimization Tips

Reduce Output Resolution

Lower resolution = less GPU load. Try 720p instead of 1080p.

Lower Target Framerate

24fps or 30fps uses less resources than 60fps. Cinematic content looks good at 24fps.

Disable Unused Previews

In Settings → Performance:

• Disable Grid Preview if you know your library
• Disable Channel Preview during performance
• Disable Bank/Output Preview if not needed

Reduce Effect Slots

Fewer effects = better performance. Set to 1-2 slots if not using many effects.

Disable Audio

If not using audio, disable it in Settings → Performance to save CPU.

Close Other Applications

Give GRID's output browser dedicated GPU access. Close other GPU-intensive apps.

Hardware Acceleration

Ensure browser hardware acceleration is enabled:

• Chrome: chrome://settings → System → Use hardware acceleration
• Edge: edge://settings → System → Use hardware acceleration

Video File Optimization

• Use H.264 codec (best browser support)
• Match video resolution to output resolution
• Consistent framerates (30fps or 60fps)
• Avoid extremely large files (>500MB per video)

Common Issues

Connection Issues

Controller Can't Connect to Server

• Verify server is running (check terminal/console)
• Check firewall isn't blocking port 3000
• Try accessing http://localhost:3000/control directly
• On network devices, use server's IP instead of localhost

Output Window Won't Connect

• Refresh output page
• Check WebSocket connection in browser console
• Verify no browser extensions blocking WebSocket
• Try different browser (Chrome recommended)

MIDI Controller Not Detected

• Use Chrome, Edge, or Opera (Firefox/Safari don't support Web MIDI)
• Grant browser permission when prompted
• Check MIDI device is connected and powered
• Try unplugging and reconnecting device
• Restart browser

Video Issues

Video Won't Play

• Check file codec (H.264 has best browser support)
• Try a different video to isolate issue
• Check browser console for errors
• Re-encode video with standard codec (FFmpeg/HandBrake)

Video Stutters or Lags

• Lower output resolution
• Reduce target FPS to 30 or 24
• Check video file size (very large files may lag)
• Ensure output browser window is visible/active
• Close other GPU-intensive applications

Sprite Sheets Not Generating

• Check server logs for errors
• Verify FFmpeg is installed (required for sprite generation)
• Manually regenerate: Settings → System → Regenerate Sprites
• Check file permissions on video folder

Audio Issues

No Audio Output

• Check Settings → Performance → Audio Enabled
• Verify master volume isn't muted or at 0%
• Check channel volume levels
• Ensure browser tab isn't muted (right-click tab)
• Verify system audio output device

Audio Clipping/Distortion

• Check VU meter for red peaks
• Lower channel volumes
• Reduce master volume
• Check source video audio levels

Effect Issues

Effects Not Visible

• Check effect bypass isn't enabled
• Increase effect amount parameter
• Verify channel opacity is above 0%
• Check crossfader position (bank may be hidden)

Effects Causing Performance Drop

• Reduce effect slot count
• Remove high-cost effects (blur with large radius)
• Lower output resolution
• Check GPU usage in system monitor

Getting Help

If issues persist:

• Check browser console for error messages (F12 → Console)
• Review server logs in terminal
• Note: GRID version, OS, browser, GPU model
• Report issues at GitHub repository
• Include error messages and steps to reproduce

Keyboard Shortcuts Reference

Effects Reference

All effects are GPU-accelerated and run in real-time. Max indicates effects available in per-channel and output slots (Max tier only).

Transition Modes Reference

20+ transition modes for crossfading between Bank A and Bank B.

FAQ

General

Can I use GRID offline?

Yes, once installed. Server, Controller, and Output all run locally. Internet only needed for initial download, updates, and license activation.

Does GRID work on Linux?

Yes. GRID runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux. Browser-based interface works the same across platforms.

Can I control GRID from my phone?

Yes. Open the Controller URL in your mobile browser. Touch-friendly mode (Settings → UI Controls) enlarges controls for easier mobile use.

Video Library

What video formats are supported?

Browsers support: MP4 (H.264), WebM (VP8/VP9). H.264 MP4 has best compatibility. Use FFmpeg or HandBrake to convert unsupported formats.

Can I organize videos into folders?

Yes. The Media Manager supports folder structure. Organize your videos folder however you like.

How do I delete videos from the library?

Delete video files from your videos folder. GRID rescans automatically or restart server to refresh library.

Performance

What GPU do I need?

Dedicated GPU recommended. NVIDIA or AMD with 2GB+ VRAM for 1080p. Integrated graphics may work at lower resolutions (720p, fewer effects).

Why is my framerate dropping?

• Lower output resolution (Settings → Output)
• Reduce target FPS to 24 or 30
• Disable previews (Settings → Performance)
• Reduce effect slots
• Close other GPU applications

Can I run multiple instances of GRID?

No. One server instance per machine. But you can have multiple controllers and outputs connected to one server.

Hardware Controllers

Do I need special drivers for MIDI controllers?

Usually no. USB MIDI controllers are class-compliant. Plug in and use. Some advanced features (LED feedback) may need device-specific drivers.

Can I use multiple MIDI controllers at once?

Yes. Connect multiple MIDI devices. Each shows up in Settings → MIDI. Map controls from any connected device.

Does Stream Deck require Elgato software?

No. GRID connects directly via WebHID. You don't need Stream Deck software running (but it won't interfere if installed).

Licensing

What happens when my trial expires?

After 7 days, GRID reverts to Lite tier. Your Max features (extra effects, recordings, etc.) become unavailable but your project remains intact.

Can I transfer my license to another machine?

Yes. Deactivate license on current machine (Settings → System → License), then activate on new machine using same license key.

How many machines can use one Max license?

One active machine at a time. You can transfer between machines but only one can run GRID Max simultaneously.

Troubleshooting

Output window is black/not rendering

• Check channel opacity faders are above 0%
• Verify crossfader position (may be hiding both banks)
• Ensure videos are loaded to channels
• Check browser console for WebGL errors
• Verify GPU/hardware acceleration is enabled in browser

Videos load but don't play

• Check playback isn't paused (should auto-play)
• Verify video codec (H.264 recommended)
• Check browser console for decode errors
• Try re-encoding with standard settings

Controller lost connection to server

• Check server is still running
• Verify network connection
• Refresh browser page
• Check firewall settings