PatternSpace is a native macOS calibration pattern generator. pgen_client is an open-source desktop utility that controls a Raspberry Pi running PGenerator. Both can serve technical calibration workflows, but they use different output paths and setup models.
Quick Recommendation
Choose PatternSpace when you want a Mac App Store app with a visual pattern library, direct display selection, SDR/HDR output presets, and built-in network protocols. Choose pgen_client when you specifically want a Raspberry Pi-based HDMI output path and are comfortable configuring PGenerator and its calibration dependencies.
At a glance
| Topic | PatternSpace | pgen_client |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | A Mac running macOS 15.6 or later | A desktop utility that controls a Raspberry Pi running PGenerator |
| Output path | The Mac display you choose, plus a separate DeckLink SDI output for SDR | The Raspberry Pi’s HDMI output |
| Automation | ColourSpace, CalMAN, and PGenerator-compatible software with Pro, plus the PatternSpace Remote JSON-RPC protocol | Manual patches, ArgyllCMS spotread measurement lists, and DisplayCAL through its Resolve interface |
| HDR | SDR, and HDR on a Mac display with Pro; DeckLink SDI output is SDR, plus PQ and HLG HDR on compatible hardware with Pro | SDR, HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HLG modes per its documentation, subject to the PGenerator setup and display |
| Cost | Free download; Pro and DeckLink SDI are separate one-time purchases | Open source; needs a Raspberry Pi running PGenerator |
Setup Model
- PatternSpace: Install on macOS, choose a display, render patterns locally, or let calibration software drive the app over the network.
- pgen_client: Configure a Raspberry Pi target and supporting tools, then drive patterns through the client utility.
- Audience: PatternSpace is designed for calibrators who want the Mac to be the pattern source; pgen_client is better suited to advanced users who already want a Pi in the chain.
Automation
PatternSpace Pro accepts patches from ColourSpace, CalMAN, and
PGenerator-compatible software. PatternSpace Remote is also available
for custom JSON-RPC control, with a free evaluation allowance.
pgen_client can send patches manually, measure preset or custom CSV
lists with ArgyllCMS spotread, or relay 10-bit patches
from DisplayCAL through its Resolve interface.
HDR and Signal Path
pgen_client can configure PGenerator's HDMI output format, range, bit depth, and HDR signaling. Its documentation lists SDR, HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HLG modes, subject to the PGenerator setup and the connected display. PatternSpace renders SDR and Pro-enabled HDR patches on a selected Mac display; its separate DeckLink SDI output supports SDR patches, plus PQ and HLG HDR patches on compatible hardware with Pro.
Best Fit
PatternSpace is the pragmatic choice for Mac-centered calibration benches, rapid pattern inspection, and mixed software automation. pgen_client fits workflows that need a Raspberry Pi HDMI source and hands-on control of its video signal.
Sources
pgen_client behavior and requirements should be checked against the official GitHub repository before building a workflow around it. Its maintainer advises independently checking the measurement data reported by its internal generator.
More Comparisons
Compare PatternSpace with Patterns for Mac, LightSpace Connect, or ColourSpace direct PC output.