Test Patterns

pMix includes built-in test pattern generators for calibrating monitors, testing output pipelines, and filling empty slots during setup.

Adding a test pattern

  1. Tap + on an empty source slot
  2. Select Color Bars
  3. Choose a pattern

Available patterns

SMPTE Bars

The standard SMPTE color bar pattern used in broadcast television. Includes the primary and secondary color bars, the PLUGE (Picture Line-Up Generation Equipment) section at the bottom for brightness calibration.

Use for: Monitor calibration, verifying color accuracy, testing that your output pipeline preserves colors correctly.

EBU Bars

The European Broadcasting Union color bar pattern. Similar purpose to SMPTE bars but follows the European standard.

Use for: Same as SMPTE bars, using the European standard.

Gray Gradient

A smooth gradient from black to white across the screen.

Use for: Checking for banding, verifying the output bit depth, and testing encoder quality. Gradients are notoriously difficult for video encoders — if you see banding or artifacts, your bitrate may be too low.

Grid Pattern

A geometric grid overlay useful for checking alignment, scaling, and aspect ratio.

Use for: Verifying that your output is correctly framed, checking for cropping or scaling issues.

Visualizer

An animated audio-reactive pattern.

Use for: Visual filler, audio testing, or as a dynamic background source.

Solid color source

In addition to test patterns, you can add a Solid Color source:

  1. Tap + on an empty source slot
  2. Select Solid Color
  3. Choose any color (RGBA)

Solid colors are useful as:

  • Background fills for scenes
  • Color mattes for compositing
  • A simple black source for manually fading to black

The color can be set via OSC: /pmix/source/{n}/color with four float arguments (R, G, B, A each 0–1).

Tips

  • SMPTE bars as a holding pattern — Put them on program before your show starts so your stream has a recognizable “we’ll be right back” signal
  • Test your encoder with the gray gradient — it’s the most demanding test for video compression quality
  • Fill empty slots with test patterns during setup so every slot has a valid source