High End Systems (HES) is now shipping the fourth version of its Catalyst® software and Media Server. The new Catalyst v4 is enhanced with support for additional input/output devices as well as complementary products. This support includes built-in cue list functionality for greater show control integration and pixelMAD functionality, expanding the possibilities for users. Version 4 also enables Catalyst to be controlled by video- and music-industry standard controllers such as Mackie and MIDI controllers.
Catalyst software was first introduced as the industry standard for media servers in 2001. By fusing lighting with digital media, it allows the user to create virtual scenery and unlimited visual effects.
Version 4 is the first Catalyst product to not require a DMX controller. The Pro version of Catalyst features four independent on-screen output mixes and 10 independent assignable layers. Multiple on-screen mixes means that the show operator can break down his set design and run different effects over different sets of fixtures.
PixelMAD brings with it an entirely new and expanded user interface. It features multiple onscreen mixes, which is applicable for both DMX LED lighting fixtures and LED walls.
The Catalyst v4 also offers new custom color and visual effects including improved kaleidoscope, pixilation and wave effects. An innovative sub-mix system gives cutting-edge control of LED DMX fixtures and processed video display systems such as LED walls. A built-in web server allows for remote diagnostics and control. The software upgrade also enables users to import 3D rendered images (.obj format).
The software runs on existing Catalyst Servers (for optimal performance, hardware upgrades may be required). Catalyst v4 runs on both Panther and Tiger OS, 10.3.9 and 10.4.5 or higher. It is compatible with Mac OS 10.4.5 or higher and Mac OS 10.3.9.
High End Systems offers three versions of Catalyst v4 software (Catalyst v4 Pro, DV, and Xpress) to accommodate a range of budgets and features needed. A beta version of Catalyst v4 was specified on the Nobel Prize Awards Banquet in Stockholm in December 2005. The first North American pro version was recently used on Premio Lo Nuestro in Miami, aired on Univision.