Concepts Of Operation - PRG MBOX User Manual

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 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. This eliminates the need to modify media
clips in advance, which can take considerable time. Mbox is like a combination of After Effects, Photoshop, Maya, and
Final Cut Pro which can be used in real-time to project custom imagery.
Control
Mbox can be controlled by either a lighting console or a personal computer running Mbox Director software. In either
case, the console or computer can be used to configure and control all aspects of the Mbox media content and playback
parameters.
+ Console - Since a lighting console would typically be used in a stage production, this method is a convenient and
logical way to consolidate all stage control elements into a single device.
+ Mbox Director - Mbox Director is a software application that allows control of Mbox from either another Macintosh
computer or optionally from the same computer running Mbox - depending on the required performance of the Mbox
software.
This manual assumes that a lighting console is being used to control the Mbox software. For instructions on using Mbox
Director, refer to the separate Mbox Director User Manual (02.9800.0002.xx).
Primary Components
A typical Mbox system is made up of several different components that work together to achieve the final result. The
following simplified diagram illustrates how the components work together:
Mbox is a software product that requires a suitable Mac computer to achieve desired performance levels. The following
items should be considered:
+ Video Card
+ Hard Drive Configuration (RAID, SSD)
+ Number of Processor Cores and Processor Speed
MBOX® USER MANUAL
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