Catalyst Manual - Cal Stage

Introduction
The High End Systems Catalyst® Media Server utilizes Catalyst software to allow
simultaneous preview and play back of multiple still images or movie files. Catalyst
software add effects such as crossfading (dissolves), montages, masking, strobing, color
changes, and 3D geometry—all rendered in real time. The resulting composite image can
be triggered from a lighting console using DMX-512 protocol; or, in the case of userdefined
Presets, with a computer keyboard, mouse or touchscreen.
The Media Server plays many types of content—Quicktime video files, JPEG and GIF still
images, and any other industry-standard format supported by Apple’s Quicktime player.
The Catalyst system package includes a wide variety of still and movie files. In addition,
custom content can be easily added to the system. Independent video signals can be sent
to LED walls, DL1 digital lights, or digital media projectors, each controlled and operated
independently.
Catalyst Media Servers are available in a turnkey system with fully configured hardware
and software. Information on configuring a hardware system to run Catalyst software only
projects can be found in the Digital Lighting Support section of the High End Systems
website.
Catalyst Software Versions
High End Systems currently offers three Catalyst Media Server software products.
• Catalyst Pro offers eight layers with two video feeds from one server.
• Catalyst DV is a single digital output solution with five cross-fadable layers.
• Catalyst Xpress is a software only product with 2 movie layers, 1 mask layer and a
single output.
Choosing the right version of Catalyst software will depend on the number of layers,
inputs and outputs you will need and your performance requirements.
The following matrix compares each version’s feature set.
Feature Pro * DV ** Xpress**
Dual Output Yes No No
Single Output Yes Yes Yes
Total number of layers 8 5 3
Movie Playback layers 4 4 2
Video Inputs 2 2 1
Catalyst® V3 Media Server User Manual v