# Notch

To play Notch blocks we assume that in 99% of the cases you will use [Notch ](https://docs.lightact.com/layers-and-layouts/stock-layer-templates/content-layer-templates/notch-layer-template)layer template. However, if you double click on it, you will see that the node that is actually rendering the Notch block is called **Play Notch Block**.

<div align="left"><figure><img src="https://3312042618-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F9sVaJpWJhPbmscipukhh%2Fuploads%2Fj4cHxrBffB6dFzQ8RArM%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=74003d70-2d3c-4acf-9926-ee5793a0ed89" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

You will also notice that the inputs of this node correspond to the exposed Layer variables described in [Notch layer template](https://docs.lightact.com/layers-and-layouts/stock-layer-templates/content-layer-templates/notch-layer-template). Refer to that page for the explanation of the input pins of the node.

<div align="left"><figure><img src="https://3312042618-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F9sVaJpWJhPbmscipukhh%2Fuploads%2FFrhExuaW0I11OKFbcM2J%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=39d21f04-da58-4e69-a3d6-f877aed46981" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

If you select *Play Notch Block* node, you'll see an **Unload on layer exit** checkbox in the Node properties on the right. If enabled, this option ensures that the Notch block is cleared from VRAM, which can be beneficial if VRAM usage is high.

## Performance

We regularly test the Notchmarks of our servers. Some of these results are published on the official [Notchmarks page](https://manual.notch.one/1.0/en/docs/reference/notchmarks/).

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**Good to know**: by far the most important components in the system for good Notch performance is the GPU.
{% endhint %}

## Notch license

To play Notch blocks in LightAct you need a **valid Notch license**. Usually it's a **Playback** license, but **Builder** license also allows you to play a limited resolution of Notch blocks.For more information please contact Notch (10bit FX) directly.

<div align="left"><figure><img src="https://3312042618-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F9sVaJpWJhPbmscipukhh%2Fuploads%2FqpIfyHB98mQbKq7vQGGb%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=28a52c67-f98a-48ca-86ab-b8e0acbe8125" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

If *Play Notch Block* node has an Error and the warning says **Failed to load node** contents, it most likely means that you don't have an appropriate license.

### Learning edition

We don't test Notch playback with Learning edition (PLE) of Notch license, however what our users have reported is that it is possible to play watermarked Notch blocks in LightAct with PLE license, if that Notch block has been exported with PLE edition as well.

## Other considerations

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**Integrated GPU:** Please note that you need to have a discreet GPU, preferably Nvidia for Notch playback to work. &#x20;
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Multi-gpu systems:** Please contact us before attempting to play Notch blocks on multi-GPU systems.
{% endhint %}