Software that uses the extra speed
Article Abstract:
Only a few multimedia applications that can take advantage of the fast computing of multiprocessing workstations, such as Genesis MP for the Mac OS and Intergraph for Windows NT, are available. Of these, Adobe's Photoshop and Premiere remain the only multimedia applications that support both Mac and NT platforms. For Photoshop, the Genesis MP provided a more stable environment than Windows NT workstations, especially for dealing with large data files. Mac products seem to be moving more quickly toward multiprocessing support than NT software. NT applications that support video capture, editing and output are Adobe's Premiere and In:Sync's Speed Razor Mach III. For serious digital video throughput using high-end hard disk-array schemes, Adobe After Effects for the Macintosh is a powerful compositing and video special-effects program. On the other hand, for the highest-end 3D applications, software such as 3D Studio Max is a better alternative than Mac software.
Publication Name: Newmedia
Subject: Computers and office automation industries
ISSN: 1060-7188
Year: 1996
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Animator Studio adds audio, 24-bit color
Article Abstract:
Autodesk's $895 Animator Studio, a Windows-based 2-D animation software product, now offers 24-bit color and sound support. The interface is more straightforward than the older DOS version, and the learning curve has been substantially shortened. However, those who are accustomed to the DOS version will have to relearn several tasks. The brushes are improved, and users can edit more brush parameters such as softness or edge shape. However, although brush profiles can be modified, they cannot be saved. An animation is created by defining the first and last key frames, and additional key frames for motion and sprite manipulation. The sprite tool is used to load sprites, which can be in several different file formats. Animating a sprite is very easy and intuitive, it is merely dragged along a path. Animator Studio does not offer professional keying and blue-screen features, but it does support alpha channels and masks.
Publication Name: Newmedia
Subject: Computers and office automation industries
ISSN: 1060-7188
Year: 1995
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3D Studio changes are more than skin deep
Article Abstract:
Autodesk's $2,995 3D Studio Release 4, the DOS-based standard for 3D graphics, contains a number of enhancements, although the interface resembles that of the previous release. One new feature is Inverse Kinematics, used in creating complex character animations. There is also a new scripting language, for creating custom animation effects. A particularly significant change is represented by a new programming interface that lets third parties create plug-ins. By allowing most of 3D Studio's tools to be controlled from external programs, Autodesk has opened the door to a tremendous new market for third-party add-ons that may substantially enhance the program's functionality. The Keyscript scripting language is a hybrid language that combines the structure of BASIC with the data structure of 3D Studio 4.0 is highly flexible and allows for the creation of sophisticated animation effects.
Publication Name: Newmedia
Subject: Computers and office automation industries
ISSN: 1060-7188
Year: 1995
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