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Installation & Requirements

This page tells you what FXCanvas needs, and how to install it on Windows and macOS.

System Requirements​

WindowsmacOS
Operating system64-bit Windows 10 (version 1809 / build 17763) or Windows 11macOS 11 Big Sur or later
Processor64-bit (x64)Apple Silicon (M1 or newer)
GraphicsOpenGL 3.3-capable GPUOpenGL 3.3-capable GPU
NetworkUse Gigabit Ethernet for NDI streamingUse Gigabit Ethernet for NDI streaming
note

FXCanvas is a GPU application. A dedicated graphics card gives the best results. The integrated GPU of Apple Silicon also gives good results. High render resolutions and multiple effects need more GPU power.

Download​

Download the latest release for your platform from fxc.studio:

  • Windows — FXCanvas-<version>-Setup.exe (installer)
  • macOS (alpha) — the Apple Silicon disk image (.dmg)

Installing on Windows​

  1. Run the downloaded FXCanvas-<version>-Setup.exe
  2. Approve the administrator prompt (the installer writes to Program Files)
  3. Do the steps of the wizard. The Analytics & Privacy page asks whether you want to share anonymous usage data. FXCanvas selects that checkbox for you, so clear it to opt out. You can change the setting later in Settings → Analytics
  4. Complete the wizard. FXCanvas installs to Program Files\FXCanvas. It adds a Start Menu shortcut and an optional desktop icon, and it can then start immediately

To uninstall FXCanvas, use Settings → Apps in Windows, or the Start Menu uninstaller.

Installing on macOS​

macOS is in alpha

The macOS build is in alpha. The core feature set works. You can still find rough edges and platform-specific errors. The Windows build is more mature and fully supported. Report each error that you find.

  1. Open the downloaded .dmg
  2. Drag FXCanvas into your Applications folder
  3. Start FXCanvas from Applications
First launch on macOS

The macOS build is not signed with an Apple Developer ID yet. As a result, Gatekeeper blocks the first start. On macOS 15 Sequoia and later, start FXCanvas once. Click Done. Then approve FXCanvas in System Settings → Privacy & Security → Open Anyway. On macOS 14 and earlier, right-click FXCanvas in Applications and select Open. The page FXCanvas on macOS gives the full steps, and also the "app is damaged" case.

After Installing​

NDI streaming​

FXCanvas streams video over NDI. Your NDI outputs can fail to appear on the network in your console or media server. In that case, install the free NDI Tools / NDI Runtime (version 6) from ndi.video. Then make sure that your firewall permits NDI traffic. To configure the outputs, read Outputs.

Licensing​

FXCanvas runs free with no time limit. The full engine, every built-in source and effect, palettes, shows and cues, and NDI, Spout, or Syphon output work without a key. A license removes the free-tier limits (2 active effects, 2 outputs, 1280×720, 1 DMX universe, 2 DMX maps). A license also unlocks ISF web import, DeckLink, the REST and OSC APIs, Ableton Link, and Pioneer DJ sync.

For the full list, and for activation, machine management, and offline use, read Licensing.

Updates​

FXCanvas can update itself. For more information, read Software Updates. You do not need to download an installer again for a routine update.

Optional integrations​

Some integrations have more requirements. For example, Pioneer DJ sync uses a bundled helper that needs Java. If you sync to DJ equipment, read BPM Sync.

Troubleshooting​

"FXCanvas requires a 64-bit version of Windows"​

FXCanvas runs only on 64-bit Windows 10 (1809+) or Windows 11. FXCanvas does not support 32-bit Windows.

macOS does not open the app​

Gatekeeper blocks unsigned applications. For the approval steps for your macOS version, read FXCanvas on macOS. That page also gives the correction for the case when macOS reports that the app "is damaged".

NDI output is not visible​

  • Install the NDI Runtime/Tools (version 6) from ndi.video
  • Make sure that both machines are on the same network, and that no firewall blocks NDI
  • Use a Gigabit wired connection for reliable NDI