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HD-SDI Support and Advanced Colour Correction in Version 3.0.13 of Hippotizer Software
This month sees the release of Hippotizer software version 3.0.13 for public use. The release heralds several new features including new HD-SDI and DVI options, colour correction and support for Matrox's Dual and Triple Head To Go output extenders. Other new components include a Cue Controller and the ability to flag media.
"This release is a milestone for us because the features within provide solutions to issues we see time and time again in current media server applications," says Nigel Sadler, head of Green Hippo's special projects division.
The new HD-SDI card option bypasses the traditional drivers, allowing Hippotizer software access to the card functionality directly. "We sent one of our key developers into the manufacturer resulting in a relationship which we feel is unique in the media server field," says Sadler. "We believe our research and unique approach has given us the edge in the battle for low latency. Tests show that under certain conditions Hippotizer can provide class-leading low latency on HD-SDI inputs." The new HD-SDI cards, when used with 3.0.13 software also support auto format sensing and auto configuration.
New DVI/VGA input cards in single and dual form are also added to the options list. These are new high performance cards supporting up to full HD resolution at 60Hz. Again, Green Hippo have worked with the manufacturer and implemented direct support for their products meaning low latency, unprecedented performance and ease of use.
As a response to requests from the high grade video sector, Hippotizer now boasts advanced Colour Correction options too. "Once loaded, the Colour Correction functionality can be assigned to any or all of the active outputs. Allowing access down to Gamma Curve level right at the base of the system is particularly useful when edge blending between different types of projectors or different ages of projector lamps," adds Sadler. "The programmers have enabled software driven adjustment of editable graphs or the entering of numerical values and all fully integrated into the user interface."
Beyond this, support for Sencore's OTC1000 Colorimeter means that levels can be set quickly with feedback from the device, reducing hours spent manually configuring black levels and providing new levels of accuracy for colour in large set-ups.
Hippotizer HD now has advanced support for Matrox Dual and Triple Head To Go devices. "One of the main issues with these devices is that often, the server doesn't allow edge-blending of subsequent screen configurations beyond the system's on-board connections," explains Sadler. "With Hippotizer you can now blend easily between any screens connected to Matrox's third party device. And the De-Gapper function allows the inverse by introducing unseen space where bezels on screens are found."
Particularly useful are several new display modes including horizontal and vertical Pan-Clone modes which duplicates a source image but allows individual configuration of each display, including separate keystone, geometry and warping parameters. This is invaluable when piggy-backing projectors with differing projection angles. Since 3.0.13 also incorporates an instance of the new Colour Correction feature per screen, compensation between different brands of projector or differences in lamp life when piggy-backing is easily addressed.
The new Cue Controller component allows a more traditional cue based operation state often preferred by theatre and corporate users. The feature provides drag and drop functionality and also a particularly fast Automated Generation mode which will take events sequenced on any timeline or several subsequent timelines and build a comprehensive but simple cue list automatically.
Factory Media Flagging is a new development which prevents the deletion or moving of factory supplied media. Furthermore, users can perform the same locking functionality on after-market clips and images. This speeds up rental reset and turnaround whilst guaranteeing uniformity across a fleet of Hippotizers.
One slightly less useful but potentially entertaining feature in 3.0.13 is the addition of two hidden games. "We're no stranger to the endless hours of waiting that some productions sometimes bring so as a service to our loyal users we've given them two hidden games. We're looking forward to receiving some very interesting video of these being played in the most unusual environments. Just don't blame us when the producer catches you!"
Hippotizer 3.0.13 software is available for free download to Hippotizer owners from Green Hippo's support website www.green-hippo.com/support
15th July 2009
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