Getting Started

What is 4mapper?

4mapper is a web-based projection mapping tool designed for visual artists, performers, and VJs who want to create stunning visual experiences without complex software. [memory:3] Whether you're mapping onto buildings, stage props, or art installations, 4mapper provides an intuitive interface for real-time visual control.

System Requirements

• Browser: Chrome, Firefox, or Edge (latest versions recommended)
• Hardware: Modern computer with GPU acceleration
• Projector: Any HDMI/DisplayPort projector (1920×1080 minimum recommended)
• Internet: Required for initial setup and account access

Interface Overview

Main Workspace

The 4mapper interface is divided into main functional areas:

1. Canvas Area (Center)

Your main workspace where you create and position mapping surfaces. This is where you'll see your video content and arrange your projection layout.

2. Layer Panel (Left)

Manage all your surfaces and videos as layers. Drag to reorder, toggle visibility, or lock layers to prevent accidental changes.

3. Properties Panel (Right)

Fine-tune selected surfaces with controls for position, rotation, scale, opacity, and blend modes.

4. Toolbar (Top)

Quick access to common tools: add surfaces, import media, save project, and playback controls.

Projection Mapping Basics

Creating Your First Surface

Surfaces are the foundation of projection mapping. They define the areas where your content will be projected. [web:30]

1. Add a Surface: Click the "+" button in the layer panel and choose a shape (quad, triangle, circle, or polygon)
2. Position It: Drag the surface to match your physical projection area
3. Warp Corners: Click corner points and drag to align with your real-world surface
4. Add Content: Drag a video or image file onto the surface

Warping and Alignment

Warping is essential for making flat video content appear correctly on non-flat surfaces.

Corner Pinning

The most common warping technique. Select a surface and drag its corner handles to match the physical projection surface exactly.

Mesh Warping

For complex curved surfaces, enable mesh mode to add control points across the entire surface. This allows precise warping on spheres, cylinders, or irregular shapes.

Masking

Masks let you hide parts of your projection, perfect for working around windows, doors, or other obstacles.

• Add Mask: Select a surface and click "Add Mask" in the properties panel
• Draw Shape: Click to create mask points around the area you want to hide
• Invert: Toggle mask inversion to project only inside the masked area instead of outside

Live Performance

Pre-Show Setup

Proper preparation ensures smooth performances without technical issues.

Pre-Show Checklist

• Test Projectors: Verify all projectors are working and properly connected
• Verify Alignment: Re-check surface warping before show starts
• Load Content: Pre-load all video files and test playback
• Backup Plan: Have backup content and alternative surfaces ready
• Save Project: Save multiple versions of your project file

Dual Monitor Setup

Professional setups use two displays: one for control and one for projection output.

1. Connect projector as second display in your OS
2. Open 4mapper on primary monitor for controls
3. Enable "Full Screen Output" mode in 4mapper
4. Output window appears on projector in full screen
5. Control everything from your primary display

Real-Time Adjustments

4mapper allows live tweaking during performances:

• Opacity Control: Fade layers in and out smoothly
• Position/Scale: Adjust surface placement on the fly
• Layer Visibility: Show/hide specific elements instantly

Pro Tips & Best Practices

Performance Optimization

• Video Codecs: Use H.264 MP4 files for best performance. Avoid heavy codecs like ProRes.
• Resolution: Match your projector's native resolution (typically 1920×1080)
• File Size: Keep individual videos under 10MB for smooth playback
• GPU Acceleration: Enable hardware acceleration in browser settings
• RAM: 8GB minimum, 16GB+ recommended for complex projects

Content Creation Tips

• High Contrast: Use bold colors and high contrast for visibility
• Test Patterns: Always project test grids before adding final content
• Edge Feathering: Add soft edges to content for smoother blends
• Safe Zones: Keep important content away from surface edges
• Frame Rate: 30fps is sufficient for most projections, saves file size

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Wrong Aspect Ratio: Distorted content happens when source and surface ratios don't match
• Low Brightness: Projector lumens matter—2000+ ANSI lumens for most venues
• Too Many Layers: Limit active layers to 5-10 for stable performance
• Forgotten Ambient Light: Dark surfaces and controlled lighting give best results
• No Backup: Always have backup content and saved project files

Projector Setup

• Throw Distance: Calculate correct distance for your projector lens and surface size
• Keystone Correction: Minimize digital keystone, use physical positioning instead
• Focus: Project test patterns with fine details to verify sharp focus
• Color Calibration: Calibrate projector colors before adding final content

Troubleshooting

Video Playback Issues

Choppy or Stuttering Video

• Reduce video resolution or bitrate
• Close other browser tabs and applications
• Check GPU usage in Task Manager (should be under 80%)
• Enable hardware acceleration in browser settings
• Try converting video to H.264 MP4 format

Video Won't Load

• Verify file format (MP4 H.264 recommended)
• Check file isn't corrupted by opening in media player
• Try re-encoding with HandBrake or similar tool
• Check browser console for error messages

Projection Issues

Misaligned Mapping

• Use test grid to identify alignment problems
• Check projector isn't moving or vibrating
• Re-warp corner points from scratch if needed
• Verify projector zoom/focus hasn't changed
• Ensure surface hasn't moved since last calibration

Colors Look Wrong

• Calibrate projector color settings
• Check surface color (white or light gray works best)
• Disable auto-brightness features on projector
• Match browser color profile to projector
• Test with known reference image

Browser Performance

Interface Lagging

• Close unnecessary browser tabs
• Disable browser extensions temporarily
• Clear browser cache and reload 4mapper
• Update browser to latest version
• Try different browser (Chrome recommended)

Project Won't Save

• Check internet connection
• Verify you're logged in to your account
• Check browser storage isn't full
• Try exporting project as backup file
• Contact support if issue persists