SOFTWARE VERSION 3.9 WWW.PRG.
AutoPar®, Bad Boy®, Best Boy®, Mbox®, Nocturne®, PRG Series 400®, ReNEW®, V476®, V676®, and Virtuoso® are trademarks of Production Resource Group, LLC, registered in the U.S. and other countries. Mac®, QuickTime® and FireWire® are registered trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc. All other brand names which may be mentioned in this manual are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies. This manual is for informational use only and is subject to change without notice. Please check www.
TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction About This Manual........................................................................................................................................................................ Important Note About Consoles!.................................................................................................................................................. Additional Documentation .............................................................................................
Suggested Hardware Configurations .................................................................................................................................. Licensing Mbox Software ........................................................................................................................................................... Launching Mbox Studio..................................................................................................................................................
Playout........................................................................................................................................................................................ 54 Restart ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 54 3D Objects and Digital Gobos About 3D Models and Digital Gobos (Objects) ................................................
Chapter 5. Pixel Remapping About Pixel Remapping Overview ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 88 Pixel Remapping Tutorial Overview ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 89 Projected Mapping ................................
REVISION HISTORY This manual has been revised as follows: Version Release Date Notes 02.9800.0003.36 January 8, 2013 Initial release. 02.9800.0003.36 A April 24, 2013 Updated to software version 3.6.1 02.9800.0003.37 January 6, 2014 Updated to software version 3.7 02.9800.0003.38 May 9, 2014 Updated to software version 3.8 02.9800.0003.39 December 14, 2014 Updated to software version 3.
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INTRODUCTION About This Manual This manual provides necessary information regarding product safety, installation, and operation for the following PRG product: + Mbox® Studio This manual applies to software version 3.9. Familiarizing yourself with this information will help you get the most out of your PRG product. WARNING: It is important to read ALL accompanying safety and installation instructions to avoid damage to the product and potential injury to yourself or others.
Training Videos Mbox Media Server Training Videos are available on the PRG website. The following is a list of videos that apply to Mbox Studio: + Patching: http://www.prg.com/mbox-media-server-training-video-4/ + CITP - Streaming Feedback & Thumbnails: http://www.prg.com/mbox-media-server-training-video-6/ + Daemon Application: http://www.prg.com/mbox-media-server-training-video-7/ + Media Server Concepts: http://www.prg.com/mbox-media-server-training-video-10/ + Play Modes: http://www.prg.
1. OVERVIEW This chapter provides an overview of Mbox features and operations.
GENERAL OVERVIEW Features Mbox Studio allows advanced video playback and effects to be integrated into an automated lighting system. Powerful real time rendering, built-in effects, and interactive 3D objects provide tools for combining pre-recorded movies and still images to create visual imagery, which can be displayed by any projector, LED wall, plasma screen or LED lighting fixture.
Concepts of Operation Basic Function The basic function of Mbox is to control dynamic media - such as movie clips, still images and 3D objects - during a stage show or other performance. The resulting visual imagery is output to a display device such as a projector, LED wall, plasma screen or LED lighting fixture. Built-in features allow the media to be manipulated "on the fly" so that changes can be made during the actual performance and immediately seen on stage.
FIXTURE DESCRIPTIONS Mbox Environment Concept In order to get the most from Mbox Studio, it is important to understand the overall concept of the Mbox environment, which is essentially a building platform for "virtual scenery." The final "look" of this virtual scenery is comprised of multiple layers. These layers can be made up of backgrounds and 3D objects, all of which are controllable elements within the Mbox environment.
Training Video: Mbox Media Server Training Video Chapter 10: Media Server Concepts Fixture and Layer Overview The Mbox environment is based on the concept of layers. The system supports up to 8 active layers at a time, each having its own particular elements and parameters. The elements include a choice of still images, movies, or 3D objects. The parameters include settings such as opacity, texture, intensity, color, blending, rotation, and many more.
LAYERS Fixture: Texture (2D) + Effect 1 with Controls A & B + Effect 2 with Controls A & B + Blend Mode + Drawmode + Color: Red, Green, Blue + Opacity + Texture Folder Number + Texture File Number + Playmode + Playspeed + In-Frame + Out-Frame + Sync Stream and Sync Offset (Timecode and Layer-to-Layer) + Frame Blending + Crossfade Type and Timing Fixture: Objects (3D) + X and Y Position + Scale + X and Y Scale + X, Y, Z Rotation + Object File Number + Animation Control A Color indications: + Green - at defa
Lighting Fixtures The tools for image composition in the Mbox software incorporate a 3D environment into which objects can be placed. While textures need no lighting to be visible, 3D objects require some form of lighting to be properly visible. The lighting fixtures are virtual (i.e., they can't be seen in the composite view) and affect all objects in the scene equally. The lighting will create shadows on the surface of objects based on the shape of each individual object.
Pixel Mapping Output Level The Pixel Mapping Output Level parameter masters the overall brightness levels of all pixel mapping output - all fixtures, all contexts, and all protocols. This control is able to dim the pixel mapping output in cases where dimming the video output would be undesirable. (The pixel mapping group controls are available for use in dimming groups of fixtures - or even individual fixtures - when dimming all fixtures is not appropriate.
Shutter Position Shutter position allows all four shutters to be moved left/right or up/down as a unit. Shutter Rotation Shutter rotation rotates all four shutter blades - each one around its own rotation point - by the same amount. This is not the same as rotating the entire shutter arrangement as a single unit.
Keystone Position The Position parameters can be used to move the entire keystone surface left/right and up/down so as to achieve a more accurate alignment with the surface that is being projected upon. Keystone position can be adjusted even without any other keystone controls being changed, giving the impression of a linear translation of the overall Mbox output.
Object The Object controls allow selection and manipulation of 3D objects and digital gobos. The controls allow further manipulation of the layer in 3D space, as well as control over transitions and effects within the 3D environment. The Object controls include scaling on X and Y axes and rotations on all three axes. Training Video: Mbox Media Server Training Video Chapter 18: 3D Functionality Animated Gobos and Textures The Mbox software has two forms of proprietary animated content.
+ When applied to the Master, shaders work within the boundaries of the entire screen and will affect everything visible on the screen. + Shaders are written as mathematical expressions that modify the properties of individual pixels in the source content. There are three basic manipulations (with infinite possibilities) that shaders can make: color, opacity, and position. + Shaders can be created by anyone and compiled for use on the Mac platform. They can then be imported for use with Mbox.
OPERATING MODES Mbox Studio Modes Mbox Studio has two modes of operation: Studio (Single Output), and Studio Pan Wide (Panoramic Wide). The primary purpose of the operating modes is to configure the screen arrangement and required Art-Net universes. Note: Mbox Studio modes are not compatible with Mbox Designer or Mbox Extreme profiles. The Mbox Setup tab, covered later in this manual, is used to change the operating mode. (Refer to "Setup" on page 38).
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2. INSTALLATION This chapter provides instructions for installing the Mbox Studio software and getting started.
GETTING STARTED Before You Start It is strongly recommended that you install and test the Mbox software on your computer before purchasing a license! Mbox Designer, Studio, and Mini require OSX 10.6.7 or greater to be installed on the computer and a minimum of 100MB on the Boot Drive with additional space for any custom content. The user who installs Mbox must also be an Administrator of the machine. Note on Code Signing and Gatekeeper (for OSX 10.7, 10.8, & 10.
Suggested Hardware Configurations Mbox Studio performance options: + Highest performance - Apple MacPro with 8 or more CPU cores, boot hard-drive and separate RAID or SSD drive for content, Blackmagic Decklink video capture card, ATI 4870 or 5870 graphics card, 4GB or more RAM. + Medium performance - Apple iMac with quad-core processor, boot hard-drive and separate hard-drive for content, ATI 6770 or 6790 graphics card, 4GB or more RAM, external video output adapter for connection to stage device.
Licensing Mbox Software CAUTION! Always install the Mbox software before licensing! Software-only license (eSellerate) If you purchased a software-only license online, then you should have received a receipt and an email with your serial number. The serial number will start with the characters "PRGMBS-" for Mbox Studio or "PRGMBM-" for Mbox Mini. To license your installation of Mbox, you must then connect the computer to the internet and launch the Mbox application.
Launching Mbox Studio When launched, the Mbox Studio software will initially show a splash screen. After a brief pause, the application window will appear. During this time the software will scan and index all media. Depending on the preferences, the software may enter Fullscreen mode. In Fullscreen mode, if no control signal is being received the output screen may be black. This is normal and you can exit Fullscreen mode at any time (see below).
Mbox Daemon Mbox network communication involves a software application called Mbox Daemon. This software is required on all Mbox servers to enable remote feedback. When the Mbox application is launched (on the Mbox server), it will automatically launch the last version of Mbox Daemon used on that computer. To view the Daemon interface, choose it in the dock or press [ D] while the Mbox application is in Window mode.
PATCHING FIXTURES Patching Fixtures In order to control Mbox, it will need to be "patched" to a control console. Patching allows channels to be mapped to the controllable elements of the Mbox environment. Use the following guidelines when patching: + The Mbox Studio software, using eight layers of playback, requires at least 410 channels. + One control universe per server is required.
Parameter Mapping Summary: Single Output Start Size Type 1 4 Ambient Light 5 4 Spot Light 1 9 4 Spot Light 2 13 4 Spot Light 3 17 4 Spot Light 4 21 11 Master 32 20 Keystone 52 15 Shutter 67 43 Layer 1 110 43 Layer 2 153 43 Layer 3 196 43 Layer 4 239 43 Layer 5 282 43 Layer 6 325 43 Layer 7 368 43 Layer 8 Universe 1st 410 Total Channels Summary: Dual Output - Panoramic Wide 24 Start Size Type 1 4 Ambient Light 5 4 Spot Light 1 9 4 Spot Light 2
Playing Back Video - Quick Start Once a console has been connected, the Mbox fixtures patched, and the display device turned on, video can be played back. IMPORTANT! The following procedure assumes that some content has been placed at Folder 001 / File 001. To immediately play back video: Step 1. At console, select Master fixture and set its intensity to full. Step 2. Select Layer 1 fixture and set its opacity to full. (Note that when viewing in the HUD, opacity will be shown as "opac.
Step 4. At this point, adjust the folder and file parameters to change to different media content. For example, changing to another folder and file might result in the following clip: Step 5. To apply an effect to the layer, for example, set the Effect 1 parameter to 2 (sepia tone) and set the Effect 1 Control A to 255 (full).
3. CONFIGURATION This chapter provides information regarding the initial configuration of Mbox Studio.
MEDIA CONTENT File Type Specifications Mbox supports Apple QuickTime® technology for rendering and playback of images and movie files. The following file types are supported: Still Image Files JPEG (.jpeg or .jpg), PNG (.png), TARGA (.tga), TIFF (.tiff or .tif) for still image files. + For still images not requiring transparency, JPEG is the best choice. + To use files with transparency, PNG is the best choice. Movie Files QuickTime format (.mov) for movie files.
If the file extension of a DV movie file is changed from .mov to .vid, Mbox will deinterlace the movie as it plays. The results of deinterlacing on the fly are not as good as when using deinterlaced content, but this means that interlaced content can be played without it looking as noticeable. As is the case with all media servers, Mbox playback performance can decrease as the resolution of its media files increases.
Library folders within the Media folder must have a number prefix and can have a descriptive name separated from the number by a period or a space. For example: 025.Central Park or 025 Central Park Files within each library folder must have a numerical prefix, can have a descriptive name if desired, and must have a three-letter file extension. Each of these parts should be separated by a period: 001.Great Lawn.jpg or 001.
Additional Media Content Organization Guidelines + Media folders 000 and 255 are reserved for default files and utility files respectively. The Mbox Studio software can use a video capture card to receive external video input. This input can be used to display video from an external source on any layer, as if it were content on the server's harddrive. You may also display video from a USB or FireWire® camera connected directly to the computer.
Adding Media Content When adding content files, it is recommended that new, unique folder numbers be created for the custom content. It is possible to have more than one folder with the same numerical prefix, however, as long as the content files within such folders do not have the same numerical prefix. Also, folders need not have numerical prefixes. CAUTION! Numbered content files will be assigned a folder number that is equal to the numerical prefix of their immediate parent folder.
Grouped Content Description The Mbox applications support the use of "content grouping" in order to allow servers to have content for all servers stored on their hard-drive, but to allow each server to play only the content desired for its own output(s). In this manner, content synchronization can ensure that all show content is on all servers (allowing for one server to take over for another). When programming, selecting a folder and file will cause content (with the matching folder.
Note: Because the panoramic output modes are treated as one larger output when placing and sizing content for playback on a server's layers, their output is treated as only one content group by the Mbox server. The identity setting for the server's second output (Output 2) will affect keystone, warp, and projection mapping for that output, but in panoramic modes, different content will not (and cannot) be selected automatically based on the Identity for Output 2.
Creating and Viewing Content Thumbnails The Mbox Studio software can create thumbnail images of content placed on the hard-drive. To force an update of thumbnails by Mbox Studio, press [ T]. Thumbnail images are stored in a standard location on every server and are grouped with HTML files that allow any networked computer (Mac or PC) to use an HTML browser to view the thumbnails. Individual thumbnails can also be used by consoles connected to the server.
Viewing Thumbnails in a Browser Another way to view media thumbnails on an Mbox server without a CITP-connected console or Mbox Director, is to use the web browser of any computer connected to the Mbox network. Enter the following into the browser: + If using a browser on the local Mbox sever, the address http://127.0.0.1/Mbox can be used to view the local thumbnails. + To view the thumbnails on a remote machine, enter that machine’s IP address. For example: http://192.168.0.
APPLICATION WINDOW Overview The Mbox Studio application window allows the server’s output to be viewed in either Window or Fullscreen mode on the preview monitor. Fullscreen - While in Fullscreen mode, the server’s output (i.e., video) will be displayed at "full screen" without any user interface showing. Window - While in Window mode, the application’s user interface will be displayed.
Setup The Setup tab of the Mbox application window is used to: + Set the operating mode and Art-Net universe for the Mbox server. + Set the application to start in either Window or Fullscreen mode. For Window mode, the window size can be set. For Fullscreen mode, the resolution can be set. + Input License Key to authorize the application. + Set a width and height for Textures.
Setup: Control The Control section is used to set the operating mode, protocol, address and layer count for the server. + Mode - use this pop-up menu to select the desired mode. (Refer to "Operating Modes" on page 15 for detailed information about each mode.) It is important that the operating mode match the console profile that is being used.
Setup: Fullscreen Mode The Fullscreen Mode section is used to set the resolution, frequency, and aspect ratio of the rendering context that Mbox uses. It is not uncommon to change the Fullscreen Mode settings since, for example, a standard definition projector would require different settings than an HD projector, etc. Getting pixel accurate results from any Fullscreen mode setting requires the computer to be receiving EDID information that matches the Fullscreen mode settings.
+ Use Current Mode - This checkbox is used to force Mbox to always use the current desktop resolution and frequency, no matter what Fullscreen Mode resolution and frequency are selected by the controls above. The fullscreen context will be positioned and scaled to fit that resolution based on the selections made in the Fullscreen Mode and AutoFit popups.
Setup: Rendering Mbox will always try to output video frames to the Mac graphics card at the same rate as the current output frequency. However, in some circumstances (e.g., a heavy load), Mbox is unable to deliver the full number of frames per second, and must automatically reduce the number of frames it delivers to the graphics card. At the default setting of x1, Mbox will automatically adjust its update rate.
Setup: Network The Network section is used to configure the Sync, Management, and CITP settings when connecting two or more Mbox servers. + Sync - sets which port the server will use for layer-to-layer and network timecode sync. + Management/CITP - selects the port that the Mbox Daemon application uses for communication with consoles and the Mbox Remote application. When changes are made here, it will be reflected 4-5 seconds later in the Daemon screen.
Setup: I/O Module Note: Mbox Studio supports the use of the Mbox Extreme Dual I/O Module, but does not come with an I/O Module. This section would only apply if the Mbox Studio computer were connected to a Dual IO Module obtained from PRG. The I/O Module section is used to verify the configuration of the connected I/O module output sections. This is important when using Dual Independent mode, as Mbox must know which output to dim with Camera 1 and which output to dim with Camera 2.
Setup: Media Log (Media Errors) The Media Log button opens the Mbox Media Report window, which contains a list of all indexed content (textures, objects, effects, and transitions). When Mbox performs a media scan, it also looks for files with timecode links, errors, or other conflicts and reports them. For example, two media files with the same number would be reported as an error in the log. If a file does not appear in this list, then Mbox will not attempt to play it.
HEADS UP DISPLAYS (HUDS) Overview Mbox Studio provides Heads Up Displays (HUDs) that contain detailed information about the server. There are two methods for calling up most of these HUDs: the Master fixture control channel or the keyboard. Refer to the chart on page 137 for a listing of discrete values for the Master Control Channel.
Using the HUDs The HUDs can be very useful during programming to view the values for fixtures and parameters. When making changes to the parameters, the values will be immediately reflected in HUD screens. For example, when making changes to parameters on the Layer 1 Fixture, they can be viewed in the Layer:Texture HUD (F2). The following screen shows Layer 1 with the default levels: This next screen shows Layer 1 after some modifications have been made to the effects, color and position.
DISPLAY DEVICES Connected Display Devices and EDID Without special hardware or software, a typical computer can only output video resolutions and frequencies that are supported by the display equipment that is connected to it. Display devices communicate their required input configurations via EDID (Extended Display Identification Data), which is essentially a communication protocol used between a device and a computer.
ENHANCING MBOX PERFORMANCE Recommended Practices Use the following recommended practices to enhance the performance of your Mbox system: + Disable any screen-savers. + Disable File Sharing and Remote Management (any and all sharing, in fact). + Turn off automatic software updates. + Disable Spotlight on all connected hard-drives by placing them in the Privacy table. + Set Energy Saver settings to disable computer and display sleep, and to stop hard-drives from being put to sleep.
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4. OPERATION This chapter provides operating instructions for the Mbox Studio software.
PLAYMODES For a complete channel map, refer to "Play Mode" on page 140. Basic Modes Loop (Forward & Reverse) - Looping playmodes will play the movie from In-Frame to Out-Frame (Forward) or OutFrame to In-Frame (Reverse) in a looping fashion. When the layer's opacity is reduced to 0, the playhead continues to mark time, meaning that when opacity is restored, the playhead will be at a later point in time.
Timecode Sync Strict Lock - Used with a timecode (LTC or MTC) input. Movie playback waits on In-Frame for matching timecode value, at which point playback is locked to timecode. If timecode stops, the playback stops. If timecode jumps (forward or backwards) playback will jump accordingly. Sync then Freewheel - Used with a timecode (LTC or MTC) input.
+ The SMPTE Kiosk mode requires the use of the MediaTimeCodes.plist for assignment of start times for the individual files (refer to "Linking Files to Timecode (Method 1)" on page 77. It is not compatible with the TC DMX Controls. Playout Playout modes can be used on bump buttons, such as the Restart mode. 5 Seconds - playback position will skip ahead to five seconds from the end of the movie. 10 Seconds - playback position will skip ahead to ten seconds from the end of the movie.
3D OBJECTS AND DIGITAL GOBOS About 3D Models and Digital Gobos (Objects) 3D Model and Digital Gobo files are arranged into individual folders within the /Mbox/Models folder. Lighting All 3D models and digital gobos require some amount of lighting to be properly visible. If the object file is used without turning on one of the Mbox lighting fixtures or without using Drawmode 1 (Light), then the object will appear on the screen as a black silhouette.
All appropriate files in the Models folder will be compiled automatically the first time Mbox Studio is started (and successfully locates them). Thereafter, files in the Models folder will only be compiled if they are new or if they have been modified since the last time Mbox Studio was used. Compiling all of the stock files in the Models folder takes some time, but this task occurs in the background, allowing all other functions to be available during this process.
Creating Custom Digital Gobos Overview Custom digital gobos can be created in two formats: SVG and AI (Adobe Illustrator®). Adobe Illustrator is the best application for creating custom digital gobos because it provides the best toolset for features that Mbox supports. SVG files are the most compatible and they provide better functionality than AI files. The Mbox vertex array compiler pays attention to "object fill" information in these file types.
Step 2. Use the various drawing tools to compose the gobo. The most useful tools are the objects (ellipse, rectangle, polygon, or star), the paintbrush, the linear tools (line, arc, spiral), text tool, and the pencil. All of these tools, except the line tool, will create a filled object. Filled objects will be compiled as solid areas in Mbox and will be the areas that accept a texture, if one is applied. Text Lines Objects Paint Brush Pencil Tool Options Step 3.
Step 4. To expand an object, first select the object, then choose Expand from the Object menu. This will open a pop-up window. You don't need to change any of the options in the window, just press OK. Add more objects as desired. (You can use multiple layers, if required.) Step 5. Use the text tool to create text as desired. Use the Character options to set font and size.
Step 6. Text is a special case, and must be converted out "outlines." Switch to the Selection Tool and select the text. Select "Type" in the menu bar, and then select "Create Outlines." You cannot make outlined text (stroke only), it has to be filled. Step 7. If you are creating an SVG gobo, you need to apply a crop area to the document. The size and location of this crop area will determine whether your digital gobo will fall under Option 1 or Option 2.
Step 8. Before you saving the file, consider where the center of the file should be. By default, the center of a digital gobo will appear in the center of the Mbox window and the gobo will rotate around that center point. If you save the file as an AI file, you can set the center by modifying the origin of the file in Illustrator.
Animated Digital Gobos Mbox animated gobos are similar to SVG gobos, but they have special functions. Animated gobos, saved as .dgob files, are located in the /Mbox/Models folder. Unlike normal digital gobos, these files do not need to be compiled so there will be no corresponding .vtxa files. Like other digital gobos, the animated gobos are treated as objects and some of them require lighting. EuroFlag The EuroFlag animated gobo is very basic. The layer’s texture is applied to each star.
TV Screen v1.4 The TV Screen animated gobo allows a texture to be placed onto a plane in 3D space and manipulated it as a 3D object. The texture can rotate and spin on all three X, Y, and Z axes. (A texture on its own will only rotate on the Z axis.) The TV Screen will automatically light itself and Drawmode 1 does not have to be set for it to be visible.
ANIMATED TEXTURES Using Animated Textures (Animations) Animated Textures are found in folder 248 of the Media folder. They are similar to the Animated Gobos in the Models folder, but are controlled differently and cannot have a texture (movie, still image, etc.) applied to them. Each animated texture has white areas and transparent areas. The white areas can be colored using the RGB controls on the layer.
DRAWMODES Using Drawmodes The Drawmodes feature provides control over how a 3D object is lit and how it interacts with other layers. Drawmode has its own control channel with several modes: + + + + 0 = Idle 1 = Light 2 = Cut Stencil 3 = Cut plus Light + + + + 4 = Cut and Draw 5 = Cut, Draw plus Light 6 = Draw Thru Stencil 7 = Draw Thru plus Light + 8 = Draw Onto Stencil + 9 = Draw Onto plus Light For a complete channel map, refer to "Draw Mode" on page 140.
The Stencil To explain the Drawmodes other than "Light" requires an explanation of the "Stencil" and what it means to cut it, draw onto it and draw through it. The Stencil is an imaginary layer that can be cut, as if cutting holes in a piece of paper. The Stencil can then be used as a tool to tell other layers how their textures are applied: either onto the areas where the stencil is whole or the areas where the Stencil has holes in it.
The following shows an example of using the Stencil to affect a higher numbered layer. The left image shows a digital gobo on Layer 1 in Drawmode 1 (Light) so that it can be seen. The right image shows a movie clip on Layer 2 in Drawmode 0 (idle). The movie on Layer 2 obscures the gobo on Layer 1. In the example below, on the left, Layer 2 has been set to Drawmode 6 (Draw thru Stencil) and on the right it has been set to Drawmode 8 (Draw onto Stencil).
The benefits of the various Drawmodes become more apparent when the holes cut into the Stencil are used to affect more than one layer. Interesting results can be achieved by using a movie with a transparency effect to cut the Stencil. In the example below, the left-hand image shows a movie playing on Layer 1, and on the right, that same movie with the White Alpha Effect (056) turned on.
LAYER BLENDING MODES Using Layer Blending There are seven layer blending modes. Many of these layer blending modes have been chosen to best replicate common modes found in commercial image editing software (e.g. PhotoShop®, After Effects®). The modes and their values are: + 0 - Default Overlay: no layer blending + 1 - Additive: layer’s colors are added to underlying colors (blacks appear transparent). + 2 - Screen: similar to above, with less of underlying color (blacks appear transparent).
LAYER COPY Using Layer Copy At times, there may be a need to play the same movie content on more than one layer at the same time. The same content can be requested on multiple layers, but doing so causes the content to be read from the hard-drive more than once, as well as being decompressed more than once. This is a waste of resources if you intend to display the same frame of the same movie on multiple layers at the same time.
TEXT FILES Support for Text Files Mbox can display text using RTF (Rich Text Format) or TXT (Text) files. Both files will work, but the RTF format will result in higher quality. .rtf An RTF file can be created by using the TextEdit application on the Mac computer. Simply type some text into a document and then save as an RTF file. Be sure to give the document a numerical prefix, make sure it has a file extension of .rtf, and place it in the Media folder.
SCRIPTS Using Scripts with Mbox Beginning with Mbox v3.9, it is possible to trigger custom scripts. These scripts can be either AppleScripts or shell scripts. The two types of scripts are created differently, but both types can be triggered identically. Scripts are numerically indexed using an 8-bit prefix, just like other content on the server. Scripts must be placed in the /Mbox/plugins/scripts folder. AppleScripts must use the file extension '.scpt' and shell scripts must use the file extension '.
More Information There are many sources for information about AppleScripting and shell scripting on the internet and in book form. Suggestions: https://developer.apple.com/library/mac/documentation/AppleScript/conceptual/AppleScriptLangGuide/ introduction/ASLR_intro.html http://macosxautomation.com/applescript/index.html http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AppleScript http://macscripter.
AUDIO Audio Output Features Overview In addition to movies, still images, and 3D objects, Mbox can also play audio files. Audio can be played back by any of the following methods: + The Mac computer’s internal speaker. + The Mac computer’s line-out or digital audio connectors. Selecting an Output Device In order for sound to play, the appropriate audio output device must be selected in the Mac's Sound Preference window. The balance and volume may also be adjusted at the Sound window.
+ The sample rate of the audio file must match the default sample rate of the computer for it to play at the correct speed (44.1kHz) . + A triggered audio file will always loop when the triggering movie loops (at the movie's out-point). If the audio is triggered by a still image, it will play once and not loop. + If an audio file is triggered with a movie, and that movie's playmode set to Forward Loop, the audio file will loop at the exact same time as the movie.
Audio Volume Control There are two overall methods for controlling audio volume with Mbox: + The master volume control provided by the Master fixture. (Refer to "Master Fixture" on page 9.) or... + Individual layer volume controls. When controlling the audio volume on individual layers, two sub-options are available: 1) Using opacity. 2) Using added control channels.
SYNCHRONIZATION Timecode Synchronization (Timecode Sync Playmode) Mbox allows movie playback to be synchronized to external SMPTE or MIDI timecode, or a simple internal clock. The timecode sync works with both 30 fps non-drop and 30 fps drop-frame timecode and requires the use of either the TC Reader application (explained later in this section) or the Mbox Remote application (refer to the Mbox Remote User manual for more information).
Step 5. Press [return]. Step 6. Continue adding entries by pressing Add Item button. Step 7. At File menu, select Save As. Navigate to the Mbox/Media folder, enter MediaTimeCodes.plist as the file name and click Save. IMPORTANT! All values entered in the MediaTimeCodes.plist file must have the padding zeros. Folder and file numbers must have three digits, and the timecode values must have two digits. Incorrectly formatted values will result in those entries being ignored.
To use a Timecode DMX Control, set each of the four channels to the desired values (8-bit numerical). For example, to use the patched channels from the example above, set Layer 1 to start at 02:15:25:02 and set the following values: Universe.Address Value 101,1 002 101,2 015 101,3 025 101,4 002 Guidelines: + Using the TC DMX Control with a movie file will override the TC Default and MediaTimeCodes.plists methods of setting timecode start time for a file.
Receiving SMPTE Timecode (LTC) SMPTE timecode input can be connected to the audio line-in port on the Mac computer. Both balanced and unbalanced SMPTE signals are accepted, as are both 30fps non-drop-frame and 30fps dropframe formats. "Line In" must be selected as the audio input source in the Sound preference window in the Mac's system preferences. The input volume can also be adjusted here. Receiving MIDI Timecode A USB->MIDI interface box is required to receive MIDI timecode within Mbox Studio.
Note: The Timecode Reader window does not have to be visible to function. If timecode is being received, it will be shown at the top-right of the Remote main window. Guidelines: + Since TC Reader can retransmit the timecode data via Ethernet, a timecode source can be connected to one Mbox server and then retransmitted to any other networked servers. The servers must be networked together using a compatible network setup.
Layer-To-Layer Synchronization Mbox offers the ability to synchronize playback of a designated master layer on one server to a layer on another server. A layer on one server can sync to the same numbered layer on another server, or one of two sync streams can be selected for both sync mastering and slaving.
ALIGNMENT RECTANGLES Using Alignment Rectangles Oftentimes there is a need for program content to conform to a particular area of the output. This is especially true when outputting to a device that will crop the video signal or when using one server to drive multiple LED screens using one layer per screen. In this case, Alignment Rectangles can be used to aid in the placement of content on the Mbox video outputs.
Alignment Rectangle Grouping: It is possible to have nine (9) groups of Alignment Rectangles. The group number comes into play when the Master control channel is set to a value that makes Alignment Rectangles visible. Rectangles can be assigned to groups using the Mbox Remote application. (Refer to the Mbox Remote User manual for more information.
EFFECTS AND TRANSITIONS Effects and Transitions with Additional Input Files Effects and transitions that require additional image input files will use numbered files placed in a specific location inside the Mbox folder.
PROJECTION MAPPING Overview Projection Mapping is an advanced feature within the Mbox Remote application (separate from Mbox Studio). This feature, in its basic form, can used to configure output settings for simple keystone, warp, and multi-head output. Projection surfaces (Topography files) and more complex projection mapping settings can also be created, applied, and adjusted for use with Mbox Studio. For instructions on using Projection Mapping, refer to its section within the Mbox Remote User manual.
5. PIXEL REMAPPING This chapter provides instructions for the Mbox pixel remapping feature.
ABOUT PIXEL REMAPPING Overview The Pixel Remapping functionality of the Mbox software allows the creation of one or more two-dimensional rectangular objects for use on a layer. Each object can be textured by content used on the layer and can have properties that act upon its entirety or smaller regions thereof. Configuration options for Pixel Remapping allow for opacity changes, texture position changes, rotations, and object position changes.
PIXEL REMAPPING TUTORIAL Training Videos: Pixel Remapping (9 videos): http://www.prg.com/mbox-training-videos/ Overview The concept of Pixel Remapping can be best explained using a tutorial. The example provided in the following tutorial will use a square that will be broken into nine smaller squares. The following image represents this square: The tutorial will create two configurations.
Projected Mapping Pixel Remapping is configured using the MultiScreen Editor application. To open the MultiScreen Editor, locate its icon in the MboxExtreme/Utilities folder and double-click. Upon opening the MultiScreen Editor application for the first time, you are presented with two windows and a blank workspace: + MultiScreen Editor (main) window - allows numerical data entry to set up the configuration and the screens. + Preview window - a scalable view of the selected configuration and screens.
You can see the added the entry in the list (the one that says "[000] {720, 480}"), this is your first configuration (with index 0). You can have more than one configuration (by the end of this tutorial we will have two) with each having the same screen objects (same size/position of screens, etc.), but each configuration may have different pixel remapping, scaling, or additional controls. All configurations get saved into the same MultiScreenData.
Note: You can adjust the Editor's window size by dragging the bottom-right corner. Step 5. Click on the small, blue pop-up handle again (with configuration [000] still selected) and choose Add Screen from the list. You'll see a small disclosure arrow appear to the left of the configuration's entry in the listbox. Click on this arrow to expand it.
Note: The text field at the top of the Preview window shows the current scale of the view and information about the selected screen. Step 7. Reduce the scale and center the background within the view. The selected screen appears at the top-left of the background, with the screen's top-left corner (the selected screen's origin) indicated by a red diamond.
alongside the 2D screen objects. For previsualization purposes, the viewing perspective of 3D screen objects can be altered by repositioning the Mbox camera. + Z-Pos: Used with 3D screen objects to adjust the distance of the screen object from the camera in order to correctly position multiple screens (to represent their position in the real world) or to ensure that screens that can overlap look correct when doing so. Unlike the Active and Texture values, the Z-Pos value is not scaled in pixels.
Step 9. Before adding the other eight screen objects, you're going to add some controls to the first screen object. Remember that we said you would need Opacity, X Position, and Y Position controls for each screen object. With the Square 1 screen object selected in the MultiScreen Editor app, click once again on the small popup handle at the top right of the window. This time select Add Control from the list. As when you added a screen object, a disclosure arrow will appear in the listbox.
b. Control Type Pop-up: This is where the property of the screen that is to be controlled is selected position, texture position, rotation, etc. Refer to "Screen Object Control Types (Units, Typical Scale Value)" on page 106 for more details on the control types. c. Scale/Counts Pop-up: This switches between the two methods of scaling the incoming Art-Net data to apply it to a control.
Step 14. After adding the opacity control press the Save button; then you can add the X and Y position controls. Here's where you can speed things up by using copy and paste. Make sure that the opacity control is highlighted in the listbox, press [ C] and then [ V], and you'll get a copy of the opacity control. Rename it "tX position." a. For the Texture X position control, the universe is the same, the address is 2, the data type is "8-bit 127", stride is still 27. Two complex decisions remain though.
There is a Control Test Value slider on the main window that changes scale based on the selected control's data format, and allows you to test linear controls (e.g., position, opacity) within the MultiScreen Editor application. If you look at the Preview window, the text field at the top will show you both the screen object's location and the texture location. As you move the slider, you should be able to see these values change and also check to see if the direction is correct. Step 16.
Step 17. To test the configuration you have created on Layer 1 - select Object folder 2, file 9 for the MultiScreen object, select the sample PNG as the texture on the same layer, and also supply the correct additional ArtNet data (for the opacity and texture X & Y position) on Universe 5. You should see something like this: Note: Since the texture X & Y position controls default to 127, you will need to set them to that value to see the portion of the texture in the illustration above.
Step 19. On the main window of the MultiScreen Editor application, uncheck the box labeled "Ortho" in the Display section. You should end up with this: Step 20. You can use the Control Test Value Slider to mimic what will happen when this multiscreen object receives data. Because the Texture X Position and X Position controls (likewise the Texture Y and Y position) use the same address, when you move the slider, the 3D screen object moves and the texture moves on that object.
b. Whereas the 2D representation will look like this, with the graph paper moving around, but the outline of the complete MultiScreen object staying the same. Note: In both the 2D and 3D representations, the pink coloring is used to show a portion of the screen object that has no texture (i.e., where the screen object is fully transparent) due to the either the object's texture origin/width/height or the received control values.
The 3D representation will be positioned across the boundary between the two screens and it will occupy some of the same screen area as the 2D representation. As mentioned previously, you should place the 3D representation onto the second output so it doesn't get in the way of the images being send to the LED panels. Step 22.
And if you then make some adjustments to the various controls for each of the nine squares, you might end up with something like this: Note: In the 2D representation, the screen objects don't move but the texture does, resulting in a jumbled image. In the 3D representation, the screen objects move, but the overall texture is not jumbled and is viewable where the screen objects are. The edges of the screen objects are not visible/shown, only the portion of the screen object that has texture on it.
ADVANCED CONTROL The following section covers advanced Pixel Remapping features. If you are unsure about how to use these features, contact PRG support for assistance. Triangle Strips and Triangle Fans (3D Vertex Array Screen Objects) In order to support non-rectangular shapes and/or to allow screen objects to be rotated in 3D space, standard screen objects may be converted to Triangle Strip screen objects or Triangle Fan screen objects.
By editing the X and Y coordinates of the triangle strip, you can create differently sized triangles. Editing the tX and tY coordinates adjusts the texture mapping to the vertices of the screen object. Textures will be stretched as required to match the coordinates, be careful, otherwise your texture may be distorted! The + and - buttons allow you to add or delete individual vertices to as to create shapes that are not four-sided.
GLOSSARY Screen Object Control Types (Units, Typical Scale Value) 1) Texture X Position - Left/Right position of the texture on screen object. (pixels, varies) 2) Texture Y Position - Up/Down position of the texture on screen object. (pixels, varies) 3) X Position - Left/Right position of the screen object. (pixels, varies) 4) Y Position - Up/Down position of the screen object. (pixels, varies) 5) Dimmer - Brightness (fade to black, not transparent) of texture on screen object. (0 - 1, 0.
23) Opacity (Global) - Transparency (fade to transparent) of texture on all screen objects. (0 - 1, 0.00390625) 24) Origin X - Moves the origin X from the default origin (top left corner) of a screen object. This is a sticky control. (pixels, 0 - use offset) 25) Origin Y - Moves the origin Y from the default origin (top left corner) of a screen object. This is a sticky control.
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6. VIDEO INPUT This chapter provides instructions for the Mbox video inputs.
EXTERNAL VIDEO SIGNAL INPUT Overview Mbox supports three types of external video inputs: PCIe cards, Blackmagic UltraStudio Thunderbolt, and USB/ Firewire devices. For best performance, Mbox has native support for the Blackmagic (Decklink and UltraStudio) and the Active Silicon Phoenix products. Other PCIe cards that support QuickTime streaming may work, but not as well. USB/FireWire devices must output a QuickTime stream. Mbox Studio allows up to two video inputs per server.
Blackmagic Decklink and Active Silicon Phoenix Video Capture Cards (PCIe) Mbox has been optimized to provide the best possible video input (quality, framerate, latency) with Blackmagic Decklink and Active Silicon Phoenix PCIe cards. Note: At present time Mbox does not support the Decklink 4k capture card, or the Active Silicon LFG cards.
Step 4. At Blackmagic Design Decklink window, click on "Set input" pop-up menu to select an appropriate input type. The three possible selections are: SDI Video, Y, R-Y, B-Y Video, and NTSC/PAL (Y in). These correspond to SDI, Component, and Composite video input types. Because Mbox does not use the audio input on the Decklink Video Capture card, the audio type in each of the inputs can be ignored. Step 5. Close Blackmagic Design Decklink window.
a. Decklink card: At Video Inputs window ,set input type pop-up to "Blackmagic," then set input number pop-up to match the input you will be using on the card. Always use 1 for HD Extreme and use 1-4 for Quad. Finally, set the input format pop-up to the correct type. b. Phoenix card: At Video Inputs window ,set input type popup to "Phoenix," then set the input number pop-up to match the input you will be using on the card.
Blackmagic UltraStudio Devices (Thunderbolt) Mbox also supports the UltraStudio Mini Recorder, Express, and 4K. To obtain the best performance with these products, make sure that the Thunderbolt bus has enough available bandwidth for the capture device and any other connected Thunderbolt devices. Latency with Thunderbolt devices may be slightly higher than that obtained with PCIe cards. Note: At present time Mbox does not support input resolutions larger than 1920 x 1080 from UltraStudio devices.
Step 4. At Blackmagic Design Decklink window, click on "Set input" pop-up menu to select an appropriate input type. The possible selections may include SDI Video, HDMI Video, Y, R-Y, B-Y Video, and NTSC/PAL (Y in), and will depend on the UltraStudio device installed. Because Mbox does not use the audio input on the UltraStudio device, the audio type in each of the inputs can be ignored. Step 5. Close Blackmagic Design Decklink window. To configure Mbox video inputs for UltraStudio card: Step 1.
Step 3. At Video Inputs window, set input type pop-up to "Blackmagic," then set input number pop-up to input 1. Finally, set the input format pop-up to the correct type. Step 4. The edit fields labeled T, B, R, and L can be used to enter a crop (in pixels) to the incoming video signal. Step 5. When enabled, the Sub checkbox will cause Mbox to display a substitute image if a video input is not available. The default substitute image is a blue rectangle with the input type number and format listed.
QuickTime Streaming Devices (PCIe or USB/FireWire) Mbox also supports all other capture devices that conform to the QuickTime streaming format. Such devices include USB and FireWire cameras, and some PCIe capture cards. Setup on Mac: QuickTime streaming devices may require driver software to be installed. Check with the manufacturer and install the most current version. Additional setup may be required depending on the device. To configure Mbox video inputs for QuickTime streaming device: Step 1.
Step 7. Make sure Texture Size width and height settings are as large or larger than the camera input resolution width and height. Failing to set the Texture Size correctly will result in an unusable image when the video input is requested for display. Texture Size is entered at the Setup tab of the Mbox Setup window. Step 8. In some cases, you may need to restart the Mbox software after changing the video input settings.
SYPHON VIDEO INPUT Using Syphon Mbox Studio includes the Syphon framework, which allows Mbox to either send or receive real-time, full-framerate videos or stills between applications on the same machine. For example, it is possible to place the video output from Quartz Composer, Unity 3, or other applications onto a layer within Mbox. Note: For more information on the Syphon framework, refer to the webpage: http://syphon.v002.
Step 4. Once you have identified the application and source names, copy and paste the App:Source pair into a Syphon Sources item in Remote Preferences to reserve that source for a specific Syphon input (refer to the Mbox Remote User manual for more information). When Mbox next finds that App:Source pair, it will automatically allocate it to the configured Syphon input. Guidelines: + Mbox Studio has a limit of 4 Syphon inputs.
7. CONTENT CREATION This chapter contains information on the proper formatting of content for playback with Mbox.
CREATING CUSTOM CONTENT Creating Movies and Audio Files As mentioned earlier in this manual, Mbox will try to play any QuickTime movie -no matter what codec it may be however, movies using non-preferred codecs may not play as well as movies that use the preferred codecs. While Mbox will do the best job possible to play any movie content, if the file is not optimized specifically for Mbox, poor results may occur.
+ Other codecs, when treated as non-preferred, are played in a QuickTime "wrapper" rather than natively in Mbox. Because of this, playback may be poor, playmodes other than FWD Loop and FWD Once may not work, movies may not loop unless the in/out points are rolled inwards slightly, frame blending will not work, and some transitions and effects may not work properly. On the plus side, embedded audio tracks in movies with nonpreferred codecs may play when the movie is played.
of either file (especially the movie file) once the two have been separated. (You can always shorten the movie or play portions of it by adjusting the in and out points.) AIFF audio files for playback on Mbox must be encoded as 2-channel (Stereo: L & R), LPCM, 16-bit Integer (Big or Little Endian) at a sample rate of 44.1 kHz. Other sample rates will play, but will not play at the correct speed. Mbox cannot play more than one AIFF audio file at a time. The most recent file requested will play.
Alpha Channel in Movies – the Animation and ProRes 4444 Codecs It is often very useful to be able to add areas of transparency to a layer when using Mbox. This will make it possible to see other layers behind, to create a "knockout" for IMAG, or to properly display a movie that uses green-screen technology. When creating content, there are several QuickTime codecs that allow an alpha channel (transparency information) to be embedded in a movie.
Notes 126 MBOX ® STUDIO USER MANUAL
A. NETWORKING FOR MBOX This appendix provides guidelines for setting up Mbox networks.
MBOX NETWORKING GUIDELINES Concepts The majority of communications to and from Mbox use Ethernet protocols. This means Ethernet networks route the data into the Mbox server and from the server to other connected devices. Because all of these protocols need to live in harmony, steps need to be taken to avoid interference between protocols, and to maximize the available network bandwidth/speed.
How the IP Address and Subnet Mask Work Together For a device with the IP address of 192.168.0.123 and a subnet mask of 255.255.0.0, the first two octets of the IP address "192.168" are used to specify the sub-network, and the last two octets "0.123" specify the device's unique identifier within that network.
It is possible for interfaces to send packets to or receive packets sent to a multicast address without joining the corresponding multicast group. But unless the interfaces join the multicast group, switches between the devices may not forward the multicast packets correctly. Most of the time you can use a /8 subnet mask (255.0.0.0) with Mbox.
KiNET KiNET is intended to be unicast only. Therefore all packets are addressed to specific IP addresses. This is efficient, but as with Art-Net unicast, the user must know all of the IP addresses of the connected devices that they want to communicate with. Also, the Mbox computer must still have a port that is on the same subnet as the receiving device.
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B. PARAMETER MAPPING This Appendix contains tables for the combined parameter map, as well as, additional controls such as playmodes, tiling, shutter shapes, aspect control, blending control, texture effect, transitions, and built-in shapes.
Parameter Mapping Charts One Mbox server running v3.6 software or greater is made up of between 14 and 22 fixtures depending on the operating mode. For ease of use, some consoles may split the Layer fixture into two separate fixtures. Previous operating modes have significant differences in the arrangement of parameters. In all cases, a show programmed to run in one particular operating mode will not be compatible with a server running another mode.
Summary: Single Output Start Size Type 1 4 Ambient Light 5 4 Spot Light 1 9 4 Spot Light 2 13 4 Spot Light 3 17 4 Spot Light 4 21 11 Master 32 20 Keystone 52 15 Shutter 67 43 Layer 1 110 43 Layer 2 153 43 Layer 3 196 43 Layer 4 239 43 Layer 5 282 43 Layer 6 325 43 Layer 7 368 43 Layer 8 Parameter Descriptions Universe Fixture Intensity Ambient Light Size Type 1 4 Ambient Light 5 4 Spot Light 1 9 4 Spot Light 2 13 4 Spot Light 3 17 4 Spot
Parameter Descriptions (Continued) Fixture Parameter Keystone Mode Keystone X Keystone Y Scale Edge 1 Edge 2 Edge 3 Edge 4 Keystone Corner 1X Corner 1Y Corner 2X Corner 2Y Corner 3X Corner 3Y Corner 4X Corner 4Y Rotation Shape Red 136 Selects the keystone mode and curve of the edge-blend Moves the entire keystoned image left and right Moves the entire keystoned image up and down Adjusts the size of the entire keystoned image Adjusts the position of the top blend Adjusts the position of the left blend A
Parameter Descriptions (Continued) Fixture Parameter Y Scale Layer (continued) Master Control Channel (Continued) Description Values Adjusts the height of content on the layer Adjusts rotation of the layer through the Z axis 110-111 Timecode HUD Center 112-113 Timecode HUD Top Right X Rotation Adjusts rotation of the layer through the X axis 114-115 Timecode HUD Top Left Adjusts rotation of the layer through the Y axis 116-117 Timecode HUD Bottom Right Y Rotation 118-119 Timecode HUD Bot
Master Control Channel (Continued) Values Command 245 246 247 * Keystone Mode (Continued) Value Disable Pixel Mapping Output * Enable Masked Pixel Mapping fixtures * Disable Masked Pixel Mapping fixtures * 250 Quit Mbox Application * 251 Shutdown Computer * 252 Restart Computer * 253 Restart Mbox Application * 1-8 9 10-18 19 20-28 29 30 31 32 39 40 41 42 49 Special commands require that the parameter value be held for three seconds, followed by an immediate change to value 0 (without any othe
Layer (Continued) Shutter Shape Values Shape Notes 0-9 Disabled 10-19 Moving Light Mode 20-29 Leko Mode 30-39 Iris Mode 40-49 Blob Mode Separate controls for each end of shutter. If both controls are zero, shutter disappears. Distance and angle controls. If distance is zero, shutter disappears. A round iris, scale is magnified to enclose the screen. No other controls. A Bezier curve is drawn touching the midpoints of the rectangle formed by Leko Mode.
Layer Blend Mode Play Mode Values Mode 0 Default Overlay no layer blending 0 1 1 Additive layer’s colors are added to underlying colors (blacks appear transparent) 2 Screen similar to above, with less of underlying color (blacks appear transparent) 2 layer’s colors are subtracted from underlying colors (blacks appear transparent) 22 Exclusion underlying colors are inverted where layer color is lighter; layer’s colors are then added to underlying colors (blacks appear transparent) Invert S
Frame Blending DMX Layer Volume Control Values Description 0 No Frame Blending (more accurately, blend time = 0) 1-255 Variable Frame Blend Time, as a proportion of the frame time. This is a square-law control, and 50% blend time is achieved at value 210, 25% blend time at value 165.
Effects Refer to notes at end of Effects table.
Effects (Continued) Refer to notes at end of Effects table.
Effects (Continued) Refer to notes at end of Effects table.
Effects (Continued) Refer to notes at end of Effects table.
Transitions Refer to notes at end of Transitions table.
Transitions (Continued) Refer to notes at end of Transitions table.
Notes 148 MBOX ® STUDIO USER MANUAL
Mbox® Studio User Manual Version as of: December 14, 2014 PRG part number: 02.9800.0003.
Production Resource Group, LLC Dallas Office 8617 Ambassador Row, Suite 120 Dallas, Texas 75247 www.prg.
