Cellular Automata Test

Proof of Concept, Using Conway's Game of Life to generate or de-generate shapes, in this case ShowBlender.

Does anyone have experience with Reverse Cellular Automata, or, more practically, generating stable patterns(Still lifes/Oscillators/Spaceships/Garden Of Eden) using Conway's Game of Life or other cellular automata techniques(Critters/Highlander/Block cellular automaton is a better option)? Any math majors understand Curtis–Hedlund–Lyndon Theory enough to explain it to me?

Local 16:Cow Palace Video Engineering Troubleshooting Guide

This post is largely going to be useful to only a very small set of individuals, but for those panicked few who need this information, they may find it invaluable.  Video Engineering for the Rodeo at the Cow Palace is a strange experience filled with stubborn mules and bullshit(not to mention the livestock).  Had to re-engineer the media server system such that I pity the next engineer, so I posted a helpful guide if you are ever thrown in with their janky Resolume rig.  I added custom MIDI control surface for playback because the only monitor they have powers on and off at random, and their keyboard is missing keys.  The media server is full of dirt and and manure from being stationed near the bullriders and was routinely being hit with bucked clods of olfactory treats.  I didn't escape very well either...  http://www.showblender.com/blog-1/2014/10/24/local-16cow-palace-video-engineering-troubleshooting-guide

 

Cow Palace Media Server Overview

System:  Windows 7 Resolume Avenue Server Connected via CAT-5 Processor to LED wall running at 768x384@59.94(2:1 AR) with live video input(via Canopus Firewire) and MIDI show control.

Hardware:

Windows 7 Server w/Firewire Input card

LED Processor

14MM LED 96x96px (8x4 Panel) 2:1 AR Wall

Canopus Firewire AV bridge

KORG nanoPAD2

VGA Monitor


Software:

Resolume Avenue

KORG MIDI Control


Operation:

1. Wire all hardware components before powering on(Monitor[VGA], Canopus[Composite source-In/Firewire Out to Media Server], LED Processor[Cat-5 to wall/USB to Media Server/DVI from Media Server], MIDI pad[USB], keyboard[USB] and mouse[USB]).

2. Power up all peripherals, then power up the Media server.

3. If you see an error message on startup press Function F2 to bypass boot error message.

4. Windows Login/Pass: groovebox1  (if NumLock is on press Function NumLock to toggle off in order to type the ‘1’).

5.  Open Resolute Avenue (The Blue A icon on the task bar).

6.  Drag source files into a Layer(presumably layer 1), and check that they play in the preview window.

7.  Have a great show!


Troubleshooting:

Tiling is off-Make sure the SenderBox(SB-8) is set to 32(the number of LED tiles).

All sources are overscanned - Make sure the project is set to 768x384(there are saved files that can get you back on track if you need to.

No live video on Canopus sources(click the Video settings for the canopus, and make sure that timecode is running)- Save settings(Save As is best), power down server, make sure all connections are made, and power server back up.

Canopus sources are overscanned - Use the remote to adjust zoom to 1:1, and check source/transform settings on the source in Resolume.

Sources only play for a short time, ex. 5 sec then stop, adjust video Duration on the clip.(0 is forever 5000=5 sec…)

Good luck!

Set Safety: New App for Filmmakers with Safety in Mind

Safety needs to be taken absolutely seriously in our industry, as accidents can have permanent consequences.  I'm currently being treated for hearing damage from someone blowing out a speaker that I happened to be walking by(Meyer UPM at full volume 6 inches from my ear).

In response to the tragic death of Sarah Jones the people at A Pledge for Sarah have developed an app called "Set Safety" designed for reporting unsafe working conditions or hours on productions.

Here are direct links to the (Surprisingly hard to find) Apps:

From A Pledge to Sarah.

 

We ask all cast & crew, regardless of pay scale or position, to take this pledge and agree to reaffirm it every year with the understanding that only together can we create change.
I solemnly pledge from this day forward that a safe set will be my first and highest priority.
I pledge to look out for the safety of those around me and in turn will expect others to do the same.
As a department head I pledge to speak up on behalf of anyone who comes to me with a concern. As a member of the cast or crew I pledge to always watch out for everyone’s safety, because safety is too big of a job for any one person to cover.
I pledge that every day I will have my fellow crewmembers’ backs and that I will do whatever is necessary to ensure their safety.
I pledge to be a part of the solution and it starts right now.
In the name of Sarah Jones, Brent Hershman, and all those who have been taken from us too soon, this is my pledge.

You can sign the pledge here:

BugWatch: This .xcode project crashes xCode

I was testing the new spriteKit Particle emitters, and have somehow made configurations in a project such that xCode crashes when it opens the project.  I've restarted and tried it on my backup machine.  This is happening in both the Xcode 6 beta, and the production 6.0.1 release.

I pushed the project source to github if anyone wants to take a look at it.

.zip Download Link Here

Problem Report Pastebin

UPDATE from Apple:

Apple Developer Relations   
08-Oct-2014 07:55 AM
Engineering has provided the following information:
We believe this issue has been addressed in the latest Xcode 6.1 beta.  
This pre-release version of the Xcode 6.1 developer tools is required when developing for OS X Yosemite, and includes the Swift programming language. Xcode 6.1 beta runs on OS X Mavericks and OS X Yosemite Developer Preview.
Please test with this release, and update your bug report with the results.  
Xcode 6.1 beta - Build 6A1046b
https://developer.apple.com/xcode/downloads/
Please let us know if that resolves the issue for you by updating your bug report.

 

 

Lynda.com Classes for IATSE Video Engineering

Local 16 is offering Lynda.com training to its members.  I found it extremely valuable, and tried to complete as many classes as possible in the time allotted.  There are a lot of classes that are relevant to our field, and I wanted to give you some feedback on my experiences. 

Courses:

Keynote 6 Essential Training

Great 4 hour in-depth class which covers every aspect of Apple Keynote.  Many skills are applicable to Powerpoint as well.  Great for Graphics, Good for Video.

Compressor 4.1 Essential Training

This class discusses using Apple Compressor, and video compression in general.  Good explanations of resolutions, frame-rates, codecs, formats, file container, wrappers.  Good for Video Engineers/Camera.

Video Production Techniques: Location Audio Recording

Good discussion of basic Audio recording considerations.  Basic mic placement, practical for video capture.  Good for intro Audio, Video.

PowerPoint 2010: Audio and Video in Depth

This is an advanced Powerpoint instructional video.  There is a lot of information about compatibility, and troubleshooting video and audio playback.  Some basic scripting for external applications.  Somewhat esoteric knowledge, but I learned a few tricks that I know will come in handy in the field.  Good for Graphics/Video(not a beginner class).

Lighting a Video Interview

This course describes in detail how to set up a video shoot for an interview, but the concepts apply to our craft as well.  Some of the ideas are really useful, like sightlines, staging, and Exposure Triangle.  It can also serve as a very Basic Lighting course.  Good for Video, Camera or Intro Lighting.

Shooting with Blackmagic Cameras

This is a great introductory course for shooting with DSLR cameras.  The workflow for these cameras is different, and their functionality is limited in some strange ways.  Even seasoned Journeymen Cameramen could benefit from this class, as Blackmagic Cameras don't work at all like Studio Cameras.  Would be good as a basic Intro Video/Cameras.  

Lighting Design for Video Production

This was my favorite of the Lighting Classes.  It clearly explains how to light indoor and outdoor shots for video production.  It also talks about techniques to achieve different moods through lighting.  Good for Video/Camera/Lighting.

Photography and the Law: Understanding Copyright 

This is a good 1 hour class about basic copyright, and usage of audio, stills, and video.  Could help the union avoid infringement issues.  Good for Graphics/Audio/Video.

Video Production Techniques: Promotional Videos

This is a broad course, which doesn't focus much on technical aspects.  It shows all the basic considerations of making a video, describing all phases of pre/post-production.  Ok for Into Video/Camera.

 

All in all, lynda.com is a pretty amazing resource for IATSE members to draw upon.  They follow product releases and give up-to-date training for a number of applications we will continue to need to support.  They also have some basic stagecraft training which would benefit our members as well.  

Classes seem relatively good, although I would prefer that there were some form of testing integrated into their 'certifications'.  FYI-A certification from lynda doesn't necessarily prove knowledge of a subject, it just proves your played through all the videos.

Lynda.com is a FAR better experience than the online education experiences I've had on OSHA, and Infocomm.  I support our members furthering their education via online resources like Lynda.com.  You may want to explore https://www.udemy.com/courses/ which has similar courses, but is not a paid subscription model(some classes are free) and may be more cost effective training if a member only needs a particular class.

Thanks to the union for this opportunity to further my education, and let me know if you are going to be taking these classes and want advice.

In Solidarity,

-Joe McCraw

Aww look, its trying to express itself artistically. - Arduino ArtBot v0.1b

Arduino is an amazing microcontroller platform.  Bridging the gap between software development and interacting with the physical world is really amazing.  Jordan Sitkin and I made a very silly autonomous artbot. 
Planning to ruggedize it a little add a springloaded stick of chalk to it and send it out into the streets!  

 Video of the little guy in action here: 

 

End Result:

 

Arduino ArtBot v0.1b  

Arduino ArtBot v0.1b  

SF Production Jobs Threatened by New Ordinance 140854

Please help keep SF a competitive place to make films.  Thousands of jobs depend on it.  Please do your part, and call the numbers below and advocate for the original neighborhood notification language to stand.

Thanks!

-Joe

Notice I received from FilmSF:

ACTION NEEDED NOW IN ORDER TO KEEP SF FILM FRIENDLY AND KEEP PRODUCTIONS HERE!!!!

What You Need to Do:  CALL    Supervisor Malia Cohen's office @ (415) 554-7670  IDENTIFY WHICH UNION YOU REPRESENT

When:  NOW

Why:  TO SAVE PRODUCTION JOBS IN SF

Supervisor Cohen (District 10) has introduced Ordinance 140854 which goes before the full Board of Supervisors Tuesday at 2pm, which would require productions to notify neighborhoods 72 hours in advance of filming - with no exceptions.  Initially, Supervisor Cohen asked for "24 hour notification, when feasible" but she changed this to 72 hours and withdrew this "when feasible" clause Monday afternoon. 

We all know that things change in the production world.  "Acts of God" can occur such as:

  • Bad Weather (rain or fog can cancel a shoot day)
  • Actor suddenly not available due to illness or schedule
  • Weather causes flight delays so Director or key crew can't get to SF to film on selected day
  • Nearby construction causes noise which prevents recording sound
  • Unexpected construction in same place as scheduled location (like a torn up street which wasn't there when it was scouted)
  • Location pulls agreement at the last minute
  • Creatives see a "better" location driving around our city and change their minds!

 

This legislation HURTS productions, and HURTS JOBS.  It is a signal to productions that San Francisco IS NOT FILM FRIENDLY.

We just had a huge win with the expansion of the State Film Tax Credit, which brings us the opportunity to have MORE production here - MORE LOCAL MIDDLE CLASS JOBS.  We can't afford to scare productions away with this type of restriction.  We support the need to notify neighborhoods - but there needs to be room for these last minute changes that we all know can happen.

Tell Supervisor Cohen this is important to you - and URGE HER TO RE-INSERT THE "WHEN FEASIBLE" CLAUSE INTO Ordinance 140854

***KEEP CALLING UNTIL YOU REACH SOMEONE.  DON'T GIVE UP!  State your Union Affiliation!

Also, call as many of the other Supervisors listed below and give them the same message, as they vote on this Tuesday afternoon.  If Supervisor Cohen won’t agree to re-insert the "when feasible" clause, the other Supervisors need to vote this legislation down.  They need to hear your voice - “ that this is important to you" - to keep middle class jobs thriving in San Francisco through production.  **There is no public comment Tuesday before the Supervisors vote – so between now and Tuesday at 2pm is the time to have your voice heard by all of the Supervisors.

CALL the Supervisors and tell them to VOTE NO ON ORDINANCE 140854

Supervisor Avalos                    District 11:       415-554-6975

Supervisor Campos                  District 9:         415-554-5144

Supervisor Kim                        District 6:         415-554-7970

Supervisor Tang                       District 4 :        415-554-7460

Supervisor Breed                     District 5:         415-554-7630

Supervisor Chiu                        District 3:         415-554-7450

Supervisor Farrell                     District 2:         415-554-7752

Supervisor Mar                         District 1:         415-554-7410

Supervisor Wiener                   District 8:         415-554-6968

Supervisor Yee                         District 7:         415-554-6516

 

ACT NOW! 

SAVE FILM JOBS IN SF BY KEEPING SF FILM FRIENDLY!

Pass this email on to your members and friends who value keeping film in San Francisco!

Thanks for your help!

Susannah Greason Robbins

Executive Director

San Francisco Film  Commission

City Hall, Room 473

San Francisco, CA  94102

415-554-6642 (direct line)

415-554-6241 (office)

415-554-6301 (fax)

 

Via:

http://twitter.com/film_sf

http://facebook.com/filmSF

 

PS-This information did not appear via a google search.  If you find a better link, let me know, and if legit, I'll forward the link there.

PRESS RELEASE: ShowBlender, Opens Beta Access to Procedural Generations Motion Graphics Software

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - September 14, 2014

Contact: Joe McCraw - joe@showblender.com - 888-573-5589

ShowBlender, Opens Beta Access to Procedural Generations Motion Graphics Software


New software from Berkeley-based audiovisual industry specialist has potential to transform the events and production industry.


Compile Instead of Render


Berkeley, Calif.  -- ShowBlender, a Berkeley-based audiovisual industry specialist, announced today the opening of beta access for its new Procedural Generations Motion Graphics Software, a motion graphics solution designed to compress media files dramatically, and reduce render times for applications by shrinking to the kilo- to mega-byte range from the typical gigabyte range.


ShowBlender has years of industry expertise operating within the confines of massive data workflows. Procedural Generations takes an alternative approach to production workflows by using GPUs to render media live.  With this new model, there is very little disk I/O, which ends the need for large RAID, SSD or expensive media servers, as well as heavy disk reading and writing.  Procedural Generations significantly reduces time spent in buffering or copying files, which frees users to deploy resources in more productive areas.


Build custom-applications for Mac beginning with the next live event. Powered by native components—CoreGraphics, SpriteKit and Quartz—the applications are efficient OS X applications; they enjoy stability, optimized performance, and efficient memory management. Applications are scalable to any resolution or aspect ratio(limited only by the graphic card). Applications are event-driven, meaning they are responsive to the keyboard, live audio, MIDI, mouse or touch. ShowBlender offers single-app solutions, which integrate with Syphon to share frames in real-time and build creative applications.


Deploy skilled human resources flexibly without having to wait long for re-rendering large video formats or make changes on the fly with the elegant solution. Beginning with the next event, license un-watermarked content or develop branded visual content to match any design—RBG color values, show-pacing and tone.


ShowBlender offers digital media solutions for specific design requirements using its advanced motion graphics and video engineering technology. The Berkeley-based provider has established a clientele for high-resolution, multi-format, widescreen digital media, optimizable for LED or projection systems and playback or video switching needs. The team at ShowBlender understands the needs of content-focused, creative design teams who often face challenges in areas such as bandwidth constraints, blend regions, or aspect-ratio projection designs. Custom-templates or solutions are designed to help clients overcome such stumbling blocks. Over the years, ShowBlender has successfully engineered solutions for equipment vendors and production managers and design teams, enabling them develop solutions for any production needs.


Procedural Generations is ideally suited for corporate events, digital signage, live event production, meetings and trade shows.


For more information, and to request beta access,, please visit http://www.ShowBlender.com/procedural-generations or call + 1 888 573 5589.


About ShowBlender

ShowBlender, a Berkeley-based software developer led by Joe McCraw, specializes in the products for audiovisual industry. ShowBlender provides unique engineering, software and production design services to make your next event shine. Other popular software developed by the specialist provider include SpeakerSync, Promptly, Quietcomm, Twitterpated and UpTime.


Web: http://www.showblender.com/procedural-generations/

Email: joe@showblender.com



New BlackMagic ATEM 4K 6.0 Update has Connection Bugs

For the record, I love BlackMagic hardware products.  The MiniRecorder, the HD-SDI Router, and the converters are all great products.  The only problem is the software.  I've had an unbelievable amount of troubles with the software they offer.  I've had Blue Screens of Death, random crashes, and whenever I try to play an mp4 in Media Express, it crashes.  

My advice?  Stay with whatever version is working for you, and avoid being an early adopter of their software updates, especially not before a show.

Setting the ip of the ATEM switcher after the update will not connect.  Changing the IP via USB Setup Utility works, but the Software just won't connect after flashing the software to 6.0, restarting, changing IPs(172, 10.x.x.x's are the same).…

Setting the ip of the ATEM switcher after the update will not connect.  Changing the IP via USB Setup Utility works, but the Software just won't connect after flashing the software to 6.0, restarting, changing IPs(172, 10.x.x.x's are the same).

Previously:

 

Community Based Awesöme Orchestra plays Game of Thrones!

Every once in a while I get a break from production and get to enjoy some down time in the San Francisco Bay Area.  This weekend, I was lucky enough to see the Awesöme Orchestra some play at the Firehouse Art Collective in Berkeley, CA.  Really fun event(Don't forget to bring beer for the performers!).

 

This is a video of the Game of Thrones Theme played for their second time ever.

Awesöme Orchestra(http://www.awesomeorchestra.org/).  This Community Orchestra offers anyone a chance to play with(or just come listen to) an orchestra.  

They play at the Firehouse Art Collective(http://firehouseartcollective.blogspot.com/) in Berkeley, CA

Traffic Advisory: San Francisco Film Production on SF Bridges

"Terminator 5 will be filming on 2 Bay Area Bridges this weekend.

 

Saturday 8/2 from 4am to 9am filming will be on the Bay Bridge.

 

Sunday 8/3 from 6am to 10am beginning on the Waldo Grade and continuing across the Golden Gate Bridge.

 

There will be rolling traffic breaks which will most certainly result in additional traffic congestion. Please plan accordingly!

 

In Solidarity,

 

The Officers and Staff of Local 16"

via IATSE Local 16 Staff

Spyder Ops: Is Vista Advanced 4.0.4 Production Ready?

Spyder Operators:  How has your experience been with Vista Advanced 4.0.4 so far?
Here is my experience on a current show, and some of the quirks I've had to work around.  Let me know how its been working out for you.

1. The GUI Command keys often freeze up(command keys can be cloned, but not deleted or moved).  This requires a repair data list.
2. Loading a Still to a PVW layer takes a the normal time, but for some reason, but reloads each still before mixing into program(The rest of the command key executes immediately with stills showing up 15-20 seconds after).
3. The GUI(even the default layout) has a ton of minor glitches that really need a polish(see attached image).  Responsive design elements would greatly improve the UI.
4. A Generate OpMon PixelSpace Overlays would be nice.
5. Switch Known Crosspoints keeps getting turned on somehow, requiring a frame restart.  Seems like maybe its a default setting that overrides the current settings(A checkbox in the configurator would be great).
6. Horizontal line of noise on ConfigMon only(glitch appears on any mon set as Config).
7. Offset Cloning a Still Layer in All Pixelspaces doesn't render the clone.(Never tried this before, so disregard if this wouldn't work in the first place).
Current setup(x20, 4.0.4, no Still Server, BM 40x40, LW 32x32, Spyder Client).
Cheers!
-Joe


ShowBlender: Premier Live Production Services, now with 4K Support!

ShowBlender proudly announces a newly furnished addition to their resource pool – adding the precision, high definition quality of Blackmagic's 4K UltraHD 6GSDI Production Studio to the ShowBlender Team's record of expertise as a part of California's live production industry. As a team that values both pixel-perfect media technology and hands-on, site by site AV service, we're constantly expanding our resources in order to maintain production quality and service range that is in a class of its own. As such: we found an incredible fit for our top-tier projects in Blackmagic's sharp, seamless professional switcher.

Some new features and capabilities that this brings to our events and projects are:

  • Four times the resolution of Full HD

  • Built-in two channel audio mixer

  • Six video outputs

  • Upstream keyer core effects protocol

 

Those familiar with live production event coordination will recognize the purpose and necessity of having an AV team armed with fresh, quality equipment fine-tuned for the job. Equally import is our record of service, known throughout the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond.

 

We're proud to direct you to our portfolio here

...and to see where the future of premier live production services can go with 6GSDI 4K Ultra HD gear backing up our proven ability to coordinate, develop, and carry out events with flexibility, creativity, and unforgettable quality.

 

ShowBlender – using Blackmagic technology – is committed to bringing California event planners incredible service.

ShowBlender: Premier Live Production Services, now with 4K ATEM Production Switcher capabilities. Contact us today to learn more!

  • ShowBlender LLC
  • 1917 6th St #8
  • Berkeley, CA 94710
  • 888-573-5589

WARNING: Open Source Screen Capture Software CamStudio has a Virus!

I'm sorry to report that the extremely popular Open Source Screen Recording software CamStudio has been infected with the Artemis!935C478B6850 trojan.  I had recently installed CamStudio in order to produce a tutorial video, and I began to notice a ton of new applications popping up and marked decreases in performance.  Guess its time to dust of those Windows 7 install discs....

A search of wikipedia yields some disturbing results.

I can confirm this is still the case as of today. I downloaded the file straight from camstudio.org, and McAfee quarantined Artemis!935C478B6850. Vegemarmalade (talk) 22:55, 19 March 2014 (UTC)

via Wikipedia

Although I have been using CamStudio for years now, I recommend you seek out alternatives to this software.  Further exploit information can be found at HerdProject. 

Some people are Using VLC to capture/transcode their desktops, though I've had mixed results.

Get VLC here

Mac Users can use a little known feature in Quicktime Player. 

 

Use ShowBlender for Your Next Corporate Event!

ShowBlender LLC is Open for Business

 

A newly launched company, ShowBlender LLC, has been showing off their creativity and distinction when it comes to large scale corporate events. ShowBlender is a Live-Event Production Services Company focusing on Production Software and Services for General Session, and Keynote Events. ShowBlender LLC offers three products within three distinct divisions(Creative, On-Site, and Software). Each division is unmatched in it’s features and control offerings. Any company involved in organizing a great live-event can benefit from one, or many of the products offered by ShowBlender.

 

The cornerstone of ShowBlender is High-Resolution Video Production Consulting.  ShowBlender offers a complete solution for system integrated visual design for Multi-Format High Resolution Motion Graphics.  Offering Creative After Effects/Motion Graphics Design for on-site editing with live-monitoring of branded content.  Playback of high-resolution motion-graphic content requires specific editing workflows, including capture, editing and compression; coordinated with custom formats, optimized for any playback/rendering platform(Playback Pro, Watchout, ChromaSquid) and display(LED, Wide-screen High-Rez Projection, Video-Wall, Multi-format etc) requirements of your show. ShowBlender LLC offers skilled On-site Production services for presentation graphics, motion-graphics, and custom moderated audience response systems. ShowBlender offers A/V Software Solutions designed with Production Specific Features and reliability needed for the A/V industry. ShowBlender offers site license sales discounts with included branded software deployments, tailored to any production needs.

 

ShowBlender LLC offers 5 new A/V software products developed specifically for the needs of live production environments: SpeakerSync, QuietComm, ARS-Tweet, Promptly and ConnecTime. ShowBlender LLC is company offering state-of-the-art production solutions to a wide range of production clients in the av industry; meeting the demands of mission-critical audio-visual production.

 

ShowBlender LLC can help ambitious companies, creating dynamic custom visual content to coordinate with marketing/event/communication goals. ShowBlender offers detail-oriented consultations to make sure that their event will be unique and unforgettable. The main goal of ShowBlender is to build a relationship between our client and our event’s participants. Through creativity and consistency they have developed the most coveted and loyal clientele.

 

For more information, please visit ShowBlender.com