> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://captivatehelp.newbluelive.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://captivatehelp.newbluelive.com/set-up-your-production/chapter-index/output-graphics-to-tricaster.md).

# Output graphics to a TriCaster

> *Availability — included in Broadcast and Enterprise.*

If you’re sending Captivate graphics to a NewTek/Vizrt TriCaster switcher, you have two options:

1. **AirSend (Tricaster)** — TriCaster’s direct integration, with bidirectional tally and command support.
2. **NDI** — TriCaster’s standard NDI Net Inputs, with audio and an unlimited number of channels.

This article covers the **AirSend (Tricaster)** option. For NDI, see [Output graphics with NDI](/set-up-your-production/chapter-index/output-graphics-with-ndi.md).

## When to use AirSend (Tricaster)

Choose AirSend when you want any of the following:

* TriCaster preview/program **tally** to drive Captivate’s tally indicators.
* TriCaster macros or DSK commands to be received by Captivate (so a switcher operator can trigger Captivate animations).
* Direct integration with TriCaster’s AirSend inputs.

Choose **NDI** instead when you need:

* **Audio** with your graphics. AirSend is video-only.
* More than two simultaneous TriCaster destinations from one Captivate.
* Compatibility with non-TriCaster receivers from the same output.

## Setup

1. In the Captivate playout window, click the **Program Out** menu and choose **AirSend (Tricaster)**.
2. On your TriCaster, configure your AirSend input(s) to receive from this Captivate machine. (Refer to your TriCaster documentation for AirSend input setup.)

AirSend supports up to **two** TriCaster destinations from a single Captivate session. If you need more, use NDI.

## What works

* **Video only**: graphics with alpha key, sized to your project resolution and frame rate.
* **Tally**: when a TriCaster operator places the AirSend input on preview or program, Captivate’s tally indicator for that channel lights up.
* **Bidirectional commands**: TriCaster macros that target the AirSend input can trigger Captivate playout actions.

## What doesn’t work with AirSend

* **Audio** — AirSend output is video-only in Captivate. If you need audio with your graphics, use NDI.
* **More than two destinations** — AirSend is fixed at two destination devices.
* **Mac** — AirSend output is Windows-only. Mac users must use NDI.

## AirSend vs. NDI on a TriCaster — at a glance

| Capability                        | AirSend (Tricaster) | NDI                       |
| --------------------------------- | ------------------- | ------------------------- |
| Video                             | Yes                 | Yes                       |
| Audio                             | **No**              | Yes                       |
| Tally back to Captivate           | Yes                 | Yes                       |
| TriCaster command round-trip      | Yes                 | No                        |
| Maximum simultaneous destinations | 2                   | Set by your channel limit |
| Platform                          | Windows only        | Windows and macOS         |

## See also

* [Output graphics with NDI](/set-up-your-production/chapter-index/output-graphics-with-ndi.md)
* [Set the project format](/set-up-your-production/set-up-your-project.md)


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