> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.timeinpixels.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.timeinpixels.com/nobe-omniscope/outside-broadcast.md).

# OB and live broadcast monitoring

Set up Nobe OmniScope for SDI monitoring, camera shading and camera matching in OB trucks, studios and flypacks.

Use Nobe OmniScope as a software scope station for camera shading and camera matching in outside broadcast (OB) trucks and vans, studios, and flypack systems. Keep the selected camera picture, waveform and vectorscope together in a layout suited to your production.

This guide covers a practical SDI monitoring workflow. Start with [system requirements](/nobe-omniscope/requirements.md) and qualify your computer, capture hardware, drivers and signal format together before using the station on a show.

## Connect an SDI feed

1. Route the camera, router or production switcher output you want to inspect to a supported capture device on the OmniScope computer. See [DeckLink and UltraStudio](/nobe-omniscope/sources/decklink-and-ultrastudio.md), [AJA](/nobe-omniscope/sources/aja.md) or [DeltaCast](/nobe-omniscope/sources/deltacast.md) for setup details.
2. Open **Input > Connect to...** and select the capture source. Confirm that the picture is the intended feed and the capture device supports the incoming format.
3. Check the input's [signal range](/nobe-omniscope/sources/decklink-and-ultrastudio/signal-range.md) against the upstream source. Confirm how your scopes display Video or Full range before judging levels.

A [dedicated scope computer](/nobe-omniscope/sources/decklink-and-ultrastudio/dedicated-scope-pc.md) needs a capture input for an existing SDI feed. The separate output device described in that guide is needed when sending a signal from a grading computer; it is not an extra requirement when your camera or router already provides SDI.

## Build a camera shading layout

Combine the picture with a [waveform](/nobe-omniscope/scopes/waveform.md) for exposure and channel balance, and a [vectorscope](/nobe-omniscope/scopes/vectorscope.md) for color comparisons. Save the arrangement as a [layout](/nobe-omniscope/layouts.md) for the next production. Use consistent source settings and scope scales when comparing cameras.

For several connected feeds, enable **View > Input Strip**. Assign each scope to its intended source using the scope's **Input Device** menu. The [multiple input sources guide](/nobe-omniscope/sources/multiple-input-sources.md) explains assignment and the color-coded source indicators. Verify these assignments after changing the layout or routing.

## Compare cameras with a reference

Capture a [snapshot](/nobe-omniscope/scopes/snapshot.md) of your reference camera to compare exposure, neutral balance and color while adjusting another camera. Use a comparable scene, lighting and framing so differences in the picture do not obscure the comparison.

With [Live Pack](/nobe-omniscope/live-pack-add-on.md), you can also use a [snapshot as a source](/nobe-omniscope/live-pack-add-on/snapshot-as-source.md) or arrange feeds in a [composite input](/nobe-omniscope/live-pack-add-on/composite-input.md). A composite overview is useful for orientation; keep individual scope assignments clear when judging a particular camera.

## Choose the tools your production needs

OmniScope provides the scope workspace and supported input sources. Live Pack is an add-on for **OmniScope Pro** that adds tools such as composite views, SDI output, recording, focus peaking and loudness metering. See the [Live Pack overview](/nobe-omniscope/live-pack-add-on.md) for the available features and license options.

For an SDR/HDR setup, establish the incoming signal, any transforms and the intended measurement point before comparing readings. The [HDR and SDR monitoring example](/nobe-omniscope/sources/decklink-and-ultrastudio/hdr-and-sdr-monitoring-with-decklink-8k-pro.md) describes one hardware configuration.

## Check the station before a show

* Confirm the incoming format, signal range, scope scales and source assignments with known test material.
* Exercise the router or switcher changes you expect during production. Check picture recovery and source identification after a feed change or interruption.
* Run the intended inputs, scopes, recording and outputs together for a representative session. Check responsiveness and end-to-end delay on the actual hardware.
* Review the [live processing rate](/nobe-omniscope/sources.md#live-processing-rate). In OmniScope 1.11.55 and later, adaptive or reduced analysis rates can omit frames; live QC and recordings use the sampled video. Use file analysis when every frame must be checked.
* Verify [license activation](/nobe-omniscope/license/license-activation.md), including [offline activation](/nobe-omniscope/license/offline-activation.md) if the production computer will not have internet access.

Keep the tested hardware, driver versions, signal formats and saved layout with your production setup notes so the station can be reproduced.