Stream to 3D Hardware and Software Requirements

Updated 4 September 2026

Need help? Start with User FAQ & Troubleshooting. For quick checks, see Tools & Dependencies and Performance primer.

This page summarises the typical hardware and software needed for Stream to 3D. Exact requirements depend on your workflow (Play, Stream, Convert, or Live Sources), the input resolution/frame rate, and the chosen output format (Half vs Full).

Hardware

Windows PC: a modern multicore 64-bit PC. The Temporal method remains suitable for a broad range of hardware and does not require a high-end AI-capable GPU. Higher source and output resolutions, full-frame stereoscopic layouts, output-rate interpolation, file encoding and network streaming benefit from more capable hardware.
Depth Guided graphics: Release 6 uses compatible Windows graphics acceleration for the Depth Guided method. Suitable performance depends on the GPU, driver, source and selected workflow; a model name or amount of graphics memory alone is not a guarantee. For real-time Play and Stream, select Compare and recommend when you want the Configuration Wizard to measure the selected source. Depth Guided Convert can run below real time.
Encoding acceleration: supported NVIDIA or AMD graphics hardware can reduce encoding time for Stream and Convert. This is separate from Depth Guided conversion. Software encoding remains available when compatible encoding acceleration is not available.
Memory and storage: requirements depend on the source, resolution and workflow. File conversion needs enough free space for the converted output; high-resolution and full-frame stereoscopic files can be substantially larger than the source.
Viewing device: depends on the workflow. Examples include a VR or XR headset, compatible glasses, a 3D television, a 3D projector or another stereoscopic display route.
Network for Stream: use a stable home LAN or Wi-Fi connection. Wired Ethernet for the Windows PC is preferable where practical. A successful PC-side performance check does not prove Wi-Fi capacity, firewall access or receiving-player compatibility.
Laptop power: connect the PC to mains power for performance proving and demanding real-time use. Battery and power-saving modes can materially reduce available performance.

Software

Windows: Stream to 3D supports 64-bit Windows 10 and Windows 11. Running the application itself through SteamOS, Linux or Proton is not supported.
Media player for Play: use a supported 64-bit Windows media player that is detected in Settings > Tools. MPC-HC is the recommended baseline; PotPlayer and VLC are also supported when their required optional components are installed.
Supporting applications: the installer offers the supporting applications needed for the selected edition and workflows. After installation or an update, check Settings > Tools. See the Tools and Dependencies Checklist for exact checks and repair routes.

The receiving device does not need to run Stream to 3D. A compatible player on a headset, phone, tablet, television, SteamOS device or another computer can receive a network stream produced by Stream to 3D on a Windows PC. Converted 3D files can likewise be transferred to any device with a compatible stereoscopic player.

Optional third-party applications have their own licences and are not authored or supported by their publishers as part of Stream to 3D.