Basics: Getting Started with Catalyst and a Computer
Which Catalyst v4 software do I need - Pro, DV or Xpress?
Choosing the right version of Catalyst software will depend on the number of layers, inputs and outputs you will need and your performance requirements. Contact a High End Systems Sales Representative for pricing info. The following matrix compares each version’s feature set to help you get the most out of your investment:
Note 1:
In general, Catalyst Pro software can process several media files simultateously when provided enough CPU, a seperate fast harddisk dedicated to serving content files, and proper configuration. Some hardware configurations can affect performance
for multi-layer playback. For example, a Catalyst server running on a Dual 2.0 GHz G5 with all stock
media served on an Atlas IV 10,000 RPM SCSI drive can generally playback a maximum of four simultaneous
movies at PAL or NTSC resolutions and framerates,
or fewer at higher resolutions. The additional layers can still be used effectively for masks,
video input, images/gobos or for pre-loading movies.
Note 2: Catalyst DV and Xpress have one output that can mix layers and one that can display only the separate layers with or without FX layout. DV and Xpress also contain a non-movie layer that can serve as a 'mask' layer, which can play still images, 'gobos', or movie frames only. Pro does not contain such a layer.
Disclaimer: Product specifications are subject to change without notice.
