NeoDCP Player runs on a standard Windows PC. It decodes JPEG 2000 in software, so the processor decides what plays in real time: 2K DCPs at 24 or 48 fps, stereoscopic 2K, or 4K. Setting up the PC step by step: Set up a Windows PC for DCP screenings.
Recommended PC (as of November 2026)
The processor matters most. The faster the processor, the more headroom you have.
- Processor: for 4K playback, 12 or more cores, for example an AMD Ryzen 9. For 2K playback, at least 4 cores, such as an Intel Core i5, i7 or i9. Intel and AMD processors are both well supported.
- Memory: at least 16 GB.
- Graphics: a current NVIDIA or AMD graphics card works well. NeoDCP Player also runs on integrated graphics.
- Operating system: 64-bit Windows 10 or Windows 11.
Test before you buy: install the free 14-day trial on the PC you plan to use and play your own DCPs on it before you order a license. Download NeoDCP Player
Operating system
- 64-bit Windows 10 or Windows 11.
- A 32-bit version for older systems is also available on the download page.
- Apple Mac: only Intel-based Macs with Windows installed natively through Boot Camp. Macs with Apple silicon are not supported.
- Virtual machines are not supported, and no license keys are issued for virtual environments.
Processor and memory
| Playback | Processor |
|---|---|
| 1K playback of 2K DCPs | At least 2 cores |
| 2K DCPs | At least 4 cores, such as an Intel Core i5, i7 or i9 |
| Stereoscopic 2K DCPs (48 fps) | A fast multi-core processor, for example a quad-core with at least 3.5 GHz |
| 4K DCPs in full resolution | 12 or more cores, for example an AMD Ryzen 9 |
Memory: at least 16 GB.
On a PC that is not fast enough for full resolution, NeoDCP Player can play a lower-resolution version in real time and scale it to full screen. If DCPs don’t play smoothly, work through Smooth DCP playback and ingest: a troubleshooting checklist.
Graphics card and display connection
- A graphics card with HDMI or DisplayPort output and a current driver. A current NVIDIA or AMD card works well, and integrated graphics also work.
- Encrypted DCPs: graphics card, cable and display or projector must support HDCP (HDMI) or DisplayPort Content Protection (DPCP). NeoDCP Player plays encrypted content only over a protected connection.
- 30-bit deep color output: graphics card, driver and display or projector with 10-bit output.
- Stereoscopic (3D) output: HDMI 1.4 or DisplayPort 1.2 connection to a 3D-capable projector or display.
- The usual setup has two displays: the controller window on the primary display, full-screen playback on the second display or projector. With one display, use windowed mode.
Storage
- Enough fast storage for your DCPs and the DCP library.
- DCPs delivered on ext2/ext3 drives need a Linux file system driver for Windows: How do I read a DCP delivery drive on Windows?
Audio
- Any Windows audio device, including HDMI audio (up to 8 channels) to a projector, AV receiver or processor.
- ASIO-compatible audio interfaces for multi-channel DCP audio (Menu › Settings › Audio Settings › Audio system › ASIO).
Internet connection
- Not needed for playback or licensing; licenses are exchanged as files by email.
- Needed to download the installer, and for the optional automatic update check.
- The update check is the only function that contacts our server.
More answers: NeoDCP Player FAQ · Which license do I need? · Release notes