Copy the Timer URL
In ProTimer, open Network → OBS · Phone and copy the view-only Timer address, such as http://192.168.1.50:7878.
OBS Browser Source · transparent output
Add a stage timer to OBS
ProTimer sends a clean, view-only countdown to OBS while Start, Reset, GO, messages and the rundown stay in the separate operator control window.
- Browser Source
- Transparent background
- Warning colors
- NDI through OBS
OBS setup in four steps
Keep ProTimer open on the show computer and connect over the same local network.
Add Browser Source
In OBS, add a new Browser Source to the scene and paste that URL into its URL field.
Choose the look
Turn on Transparent background in ProTimer for an overlay, or leave the background solid for a full-frame timer.
Run a rehearsal
Test white, yellow, red and overtime states, plus blackout and text, while watching the final program canvas.
Keep control private: OBS needs the Timer URL, not the Remote URL. The Timer page is view-only; the Remote link contains the session token used for operator commands.
A clean overlay without screen capture
The Browser Source receives the current timer state directly from ProTimer. Window chrome, the mouse pointer and the operator controls never need to enter the OBS scene.
- Transparent or solid background from the same source.
- Large timer digits that adapt to the Browser Source canvas.
- Optional NOW/NEXT labels and on-screen messages.
- Warning colors and overtime update with the live timer.
Build a reliable show setup
A few production habits prevent most Browser Source problems.
Use the local address
For a show-critical OBS source, use the LAN URL displayed by ProTimer. Keep the ProTimer computer and OBS computer on a network you control.
Open ProTimer first
The local page is served by the desktop app. If ProTimer closes or its IP changes, refresh the Browser Source with the new address.
Rehearse state changes
Confirm the transparent background, warning thresholds, fonts and NOW/NEXT layout in the actual scene resolution before doors open.
Need NDI or another screen?
ProTimer does not emit NDI directly. Add the Timer URL to OBS first, then send the finished OBS scene through an NDI output such as the DistroAV plugin.
The same local web output can also open in a normal browser on another computer or TV, while the Backstage URL provides the full NOW/NEXT schedule for the crew.
OBS stage timer FAQ
Answers for common production setups.
Is the OBS timer free?
Yes. ProTimer is free and open source, and the Browser Source output has no watermark, account or subscription.
Can OBS and ProTimer run on different computers?
Yes, when both computers can reach the local Timer URL. Use a stable production LAN and test the address before the show.
Can I show only the digits?
Use the transparent background for an overlay and leave optional NOW/NEXT and text elements off. Resize and position the Browser Source inside OBS.
Why is the Browser Source blank?
Confirm ProTimer is open, paste the current Timer URL again, verify both computers are on the same reachable network and refresh the OBS Browser Source.
More ProTimer setups
Choose the next guide for your production.