Catalyst Manual - Cal Stage

System Overview
Selecting Media for Playback
Any content to be played back from the Catalyst Media Server is stored within computer
folders accessible from the application. The folder names begin with a three-digit number
from 000-253. This is known as the folder’s index number and corresponds directly to a
DMX value for the Library parameter. For example, when the DMX value of the Library
parameter is 11, the selected folder is the 011 Artbeats folder.
Similarly, the files in each Library file folder have names beginning with a three-digit
index number from 000 to 255. Each file’s index number corresponds directly to a DMX
value for the File parameter DMX channel. Adjusting the DMX value of the File
parameter on a lighting console selects a file from the active folder for playback.
Working with Layers
Catalyst layers have a fixed priority order of
visibility, similar to sheets stacked back-to-front. A
layer with higher priority is in front of those with
lower priority. Layer 1 is at the back of the stack
(lowest priority), and all other available layers are
stacked in front of it in numerical order. Reducing a
layer’s Intensity parameter DMX value reveals the
layer behind it in the stack.
Note: Different versions of Catalyst software
support a different number of layers.
Software Security
High End Systems uses a USB dongle to prevent
unauthorized copying of Catalyst software. Factory
configured Catalyst Media Servers have a dongle
internally installed. Software only versions of the
application require a USB dongle plugged into one
of the PowerMac USB ports.
When the USB dongle is not detected by the
Catalyst software, blue bars will appear at the top
and bottom of both outputs.
Reconnecting the USB dongle will remove the blue
bars.
2 Catalyst® V3 Media Server User Manual