> 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/sources/decklink-and-ultrastudio/dedicated-scope-pc.md).

# Dedicated Scope PC

Set up a dedicated scope computer for grading suites, SDI camera shading and outside broadcast monitoring.

OmniScope software can be used on a dedicated machine.

When monitoring the output of a separate grading computer, you will need **2 I/O devices**. The **output device** should be connected to your DaVinci Resolve system to send the SDI/HDMI signal to the other system.

On the second system you will need an **input device** to receive the SDI/HDMI signal.

For an existing SDI feed from a camera, router or production switcher, connect that feed directly to a supported capture input on the scope computer. See [OB and live broadcast monitoring](/nobe-omniscope/outside-broadcast.md) for a camera shading workflow in an OB truck or flypack.

## PC with a PCIe card

On a desktop PC with PCIe slots, install a DeckLink **output card** in your grading system and a DeckLink **input card** in the dedicated scope PC.

Please see the below diagram:

![](https://565437294-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-MFqn5MuayPgQPMZ9pwf%2F-MYdOa5Zqbd9Wg7_bXgT%2F-MYd_gxppghchWMSWZ5k%2Fexternal_box.png?alt=media\&token=823e754c-ee98-46a5-a5c6-94550f1cb6fc)

You could also use multi-I/O cards, just make sure to have an SDI/HDMI in and outs as described above.

## Mac Mini with Thunderbolt

Modern Macs no longer offer PCIe expansion, but you can build the same setup with external Thunderbolt capture devices. A Mac Mini makes an excellent compact dedicated scope machine:

1. **Grading system** — connect an **UltraStudio 4K Mini** (or another Blackmagic Design output device) and send the signal out via SDI.
2. **Scope Mac** — receive the SDI signal with a Thunderbolt capture device connected to the Mac Mini running OmniScope:
   * **UltraStudio Mini Recorder 12G** — **recommended**. Captures UHD up to 2160p60 over 12G-SDI and is the most cost-effective capture device for a dedicated scope machine.
   * **UltraStudio Recorder 3G** — budget HD-only option, up to 1080p60
   * A second **UltraStudio 4K Mini** — if you also need SDI/HDMI output from the scope Mac
3. Connect your GUI monitor to the Mac Mini as a normal desktop display.

Please see the below diagram:

![](https://565437294-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F-MFqn5MuayPgQPMZ9pwf%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-bd7cfa1b55b8c9a3c8ec0b0f63dba026f13cd993%2Fmac_mini_thunderbolt.png?alt=media)

{% hint style="success" %}
**Recommended:** the **UltraStudio Mini Recorder 12G** is the default choice for a dedicated scope Mac. It's an input-only Thunderbolt device, handles everything up to UHD 2160p60, and costs considerably less than a second UltraStudio 4K Mini — which you'd otherwise buy only to use its input. Install the latest Blackmagic Desktop Video driver, then select it in OmniScope under **Connect To**.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="info" %}
**Resolution caveat:** the UltraStudio Recorder 3G has a 3G-SDI input only, so it cannot capture UHD signals. If you need to monitor UHD (up to 2160p60), use an UltraStudio Mini Recorder 12G or another 12G-SDI capable capture device on the scope Mac.
{% endhint %}