Archive notice: This article was originally published on August 3, 2005. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.
In addition to the new version 8 of 3ds max, on which we have already reported, Autodesk has also presented new versions of its systems: The SGI-based solutions Fire, Smoke, Inferno and Flame were completely rewritten for 64 bit in order to master the ever-growing quantities of data.
The most important new functions in Fire 7.0 and Smoke 7.0 in brief:
- 64-bit architecture permits access to a larger amount of memory, provides additional possibilities for interactive editing of uncompressed, multi-layered HD, 2K and 4K images and higher resolutions (available only for Fire 7.0 and Smoke 7.0 systems on SGI IRIX)
- new, optimized Timewarp: Uses the proprietary motion analys technology of Autodesk’s Media and Entertainment Division. According to the provider, provides improved accuracy in image interpolation, supports the creation of sharper images, particularly when calculation substantial changes in timing
- Clip History: Enables artists and editors to revise the projects they have created more easily and efficiently. Clip History is stored with the media in the Clip Library and can be used jointly by the Autodesk systems for revising and creating effects in order to improve interoperability and collaboration.
- Soft Text in Timeline: Direct creation, revision and playback of text in the timeline without rendering.
- Burn/Timeline: Users can now use Autodesk Burn for the remote rendering of effects both from the timeline and from the source area and thus improve the workflow.
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Overlay user interface for color correction: A new, powerful color-correction interface that allows the user to see more of the image without being visually distracted by a permanent interface.
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Support for DPX keycode: enables matching of DPX film scans based on keycode information from offline editing (available only with Fire 7.0 and Smoke 7.0 DI on SGI IRIX)
Most important new functions in Inferno 6.5, Flame 9.5 and Flint 9.5:
- 64-bit architecture: permits access to a larger amount of memory, provides additional possibilities for interactive editing of uncompressed, multi-layered HD, 2K and 4K images and higher resolutions (available only for Inferno 6.5 and Flame 9.5 systems).
Layer-based color: the color module offers users a high-resolution color system with more design flexibility for layer-based graphics creation within the Batch workflow
Most important new functions in Lustre 2.6:
- a new editorial metadata architecture and a new subsystem provide powerful matching and revision functions.
intelligent handling of problematic EDLs (Edit Decision Lists)
expanded handling of film keycode and video timecode
expanded flags system and new integrated notes for improved collaboration on the project
improved linear-mode primary color correction
user-selectable keyer source as Pre/Post Input Primary
improved browser performance with fast parsing of comprehensive clip databases
Autodesk Stone Shared optimization improves real-time performance from the central SAN (Storage Area Network)
According to the manufacturer, the Fire 7.0, Smoke 7.0 and Lustre 2.6 systems are available immediately. Inferno 6.5, Flame 9.5 and Flint 9.5 are expected to become available in late summer 2005 for customers who have corresponding and valid support or subscription agreements with the Autodesk Media and Entertainment Division.
Further Links:
- Further product information (Autodesk)
