Archive notice: This article was originally published on April 15, 2009. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.
Working with Hamburg Pro Audio’s MXF4mac, ToolsOnAir has enabled direct writing of video streams into MXF containers on Apple Macintosh systems. Through the MXF4mac SDK, the video stream is wrapped directly and natively in an MXF container without further conversion or background processes.
Just:In supports edit-while-record operation with both QuickTime MOV and MXF. Video streams still being recorded can be opened immediately in QuickTime or edited in Apple Final Cut Studio. MXF streams are accessed through MXF4mac’s MXF Import QT plug-in, again without background processes or conversions such as referencing, chunking, or buffering. The live stream is available directly and without latency.
MXF is increasingly used in media production as a vendor-independent file format extensively specified by SMPTE. Camera formats including XDCAM and P2 already use it throughout, while more ingest and playout systems are adopting MXF. Mac systems can now capture directly to MXF with a wide selection of video-capture hardware, supporting a consistent format choice.
Just:In provides broadcasters and post-production companies with a cost-effective system for recording incoming satellite feeds, VTRs, and other video sources on Apple Mac Pro or Xserve systems. Video sources connect to compatible hardware from vendors including AJA and Blackmagic Design, while DV formats over FireWire are also supported.
“Cooperation with Hamburg Pro Audio is an excellent addition for ToolsOnAir in competing internationally in the broadcast market,” said Gilbert Leb, VP Sales at ToolsOnAir.