Compix Announces 3D Broadcast Graphics Innovation With VirtualOverlay Technology

Compix, a leading developer of professional character generators (CGs), has announced the release of the Compix Persona character generator line with its revolutionary VirtualOverlay technology - a new way of thinking about and working with sophisticated 3D broadcast graphics.
Users can now create up to six independent channels of motion-filled graphics and composite them virtually, using only one physical output. This new innovative technology can potentially save tens of thousands of dollars by combining the functionality of six character generator units into one. The use of VirtualOverlay can also free up valuable resources in switcher M/Es and DSKs by combining the graphic elements prior to being mixed with video sources.
Each VirtualOverlay has its own timeline and includes unlimited object layers such as 3D, images and clips per overlay channel. Logos, channel IDs, lower thirds, scoreboards, over-the-shoulder graphics, text crawls, RSS feeds and temperature displays can quickly and easily be inserted or taken out with Compix Persona's LiveAction keyboard, which comes standard in all Compix Persona systems. The commands that are readily accessible from this dedicated, clearly labeled, colour-coded custom keyboard allow operators to quickly control the VirtualOverlay display and all graphic page output controls. Dynamic data and automated control plug-ins can be used in any of the VirtualOverlay Channels.
Prior to its release in North America, Compix Persona has been sold and used in over 800 locations around the world in major broadcasting facilities and international sporting events. Veronica Kim, President and CEO of Compix, said: "With this amazing foundation, we are able to provide a rock solid product with a proven track record."
3D text and shapes can be created directly in Compix Persona and 3D objects from applications such as 3Ds MAX, Maya and LightWave can be placed directly in the canvas for real-time playback in the X file format. No pre-rendering is necessary. Compressed video clips in Windows AVI and WMV formats are also included in Compix Persona. Adobe Photoshop files and Adobe Illustrator files can be imported into Compix Persona while maintaining their original individual layers. A live input source can be captured and used in the graphic layout as part of the design. All graphics created can be rendered to disk as an image sequence for use with any non-linear system, such as Apple Final Cut Pro.
Kim said: "Our new generation broadcast graphics innovation provides powerful live motion, advanced CG capabilities and the ease-of-use that Compix is known around the world for." Featuring integrated real-time 3D/2D objects, moving clips, key framed animations, LiveAction keyboard and VirtualOverlay technology, Compix Persona is available as a full turnket HD/SD system. Compix is accepting orders at NAB and is expecting to ship beginning April 30, 2011.
(KMcA/GK)