SIGGRAPH 97
Basics of Video Animation Systems
Computer Options

NOTES:

The type of computer system to invest in for video applications will vary widley on the intended use of the system. Some general rules can be applied

Some card versions use the same graphics board as the computer monitor to support video. This is usually is less expensive solution, since the manufacturer does not have to build seperate graphics engines.  Unfortunately, this solution displays the imagery/graphics as an interlaced video, which can cause eye strain during long design sessions and detailed image manipulaton.

More advanced systems will allow a second output that is strictly video. This allows you to do design work in a native format with a constant reference to what the final product will look like.  This is extremly important, how something appears on a computer monitor can be very different from how it will appear on video. A constant reference is a must for designers and programmers who are working in the video domain.

More advanced systems, and systems used for on air will have two or more video outputs that work simultaniusly. This allows graphics to be built in one buffer while another is being displayed. This sort of configuration is generally known as preview and program, and is important for live and broadcast situations.

Output quality should be determined by the equipment that the system is intended to be used with, such as Composite, S-Video, Component, RGB, and Digital ( 4:1:1, 4:2:0 and 4:2:2.) 

The ability to genlock is important for systems that are intended to interface with multiple systems or effect units. External control may also be an option. Generally computer controls are RS-232 and video control systems are RS-422 or GPI. Remote control of the computer equipment from a modilar piece of video equipment, such as an editing system, will require use of a video control protcol.  Companies do make conversion equipment, however configuration can sometimes be challenging.

In the design of a video plant, some forsight should be given. Careful planning of the design must be made from the outset. There are numerous options and considerations when evaluating a basic production facility's growth and longevity. The design of a facility must not only focus on the individual system configuration, but on how the systems are linked together via network.  The communication between systems directly impacts system configuration.