CompuServe Thread

#ARexx and VideoToaster

11 messages in this thread
#25937From: StephenAug 12, 1991 12:30 AM
Is it possible to use ARexx to time sequence various VideoToaster effects? Are there any other ways? I am investigating using VideoToaster as a pre-programmed video mixer.
#25939From: RAD Moose @ NewTek, Inc.Aug 12, 1991 2:11 AM
stephen, currently, the arexx support of the video toaster effects are limited, but some basic control can be done.. it is possible that additional control will be added soon. rad moosr
#25969From: StephenAug 13, 1991 12:45 AM
Where can I find out more information on Video Toaster's ARexx interface? It was not documented in the user manual. Stephen, 😎
#25987From: RAD Moose @ NewTek, Inc.Aug 13, 1991 10:02 PM
Stephen, AT this time, the only ARexx access that is set is the ToasterPaint application. This is documented in the user manual. Additional access will be documented when it is finalized. "'o.o'"
#26063From: Wayne ColeAug 16, 1991 1:22 AM
YAaaa! Speakin' of the Toaster Manual, I had my Toaster installed 13 days ago and I got a complaint about the manual – its too thick for the binder, and I don't want to split it into a common every day binder – I want another one of those fancy Video Toaster binders!!!! ;^} Seriously, considering the magnitude of the job this is one of the best software (hardware?) manuals I've seen in a while. Hopefully other Amiga software producers take note of it. And hopefully NewTek has aptly rewarded the authors. Now if I could only turn the pages without having to open the binder…. wmc
#26080From: RAD Moose @ NewTek, Inc.Aug 16, 1991 2:38 PM
wmc… I know what you mean by the binder problem… it is being looked into… I just split the manual into another binder. Thanks for the comments on the manual. I will pass them on to the people who worked on it (I just read it and made corrections since I always moosetype) RAD Moose "'o.o'"
#26116From: Lee BoschAug 17, 1991 5:44 PM
Am I doing something wrong, or do I have a top secret version of the Video Toaster software and manual? I have documentation in appendix J (page 139) of the manual for the switcher and a copy of the scripts to run the dealer demo thingy. Oh, I see, it isn't "set" in stone yet. Lee Bosch – via Whap!
#26282From: RAD Moose @ NewTek, Inc.Aug 23, 1991 2:10 PM
Lee… It escaped me since I hoof so many versions of the manual and hoof not played with the ARexx functions of the switcher very much. Everyone that has an updated manual should hoof the ARexx switcher commands. RAD Moose "'o.o'"
#26083From: RAD Moose @ NewTek, Inc.Aug 16, 1991 2:52 PM
Stephen, At the end of the Switcher section of your manual should have the ARexx codes to access basic Switcher functions. Since I have only worked with the ToasterPaint ARexx functions (in a limited manner), I overlooked the Switcher access. If you manual does not have ARexx information for the Switcher, please call the NewTek Support department via the 800 number. RAD Moose "'o.o'"
#25943From: Frank VanellaAug 12, 1991 12:00 PM
Stephen, Check out a software package called "Showmaker" the advertising claims that it will do what you want. It's from Gold Disk you can check with your dealer or call them direct at 416-602-4000. Frank
#25954From: John GolitsisAug 12, 1991 8:48 PM
I have been using ShowMaker for about a month now and it seems like it will do what you are asking. It is a completely time driven (as opposed to event driven) program with full support of all the AREXX compatible hooks in the Toaster software. It uses a really efficient time-line metaphore that makes editing a breeze. One of the nicest features about it's Toaster support is the ability to control the Video Toaster host computer remotely over a serial cable. Our demonstration unit at our store includes an a2500 with Toaster, an a3000 with a Commodore multi-serial port board and ShowMaker. ShowMaker is controlling 2 NEC PC-VCR's, a Pioneer laser disc player, a MIDI synth setup, and the Video Toaster system. The only frustrating thing about setting up a production is that it is difficult to tell exactly how long a particular event is going to take when you are first putting things together. What happens is that if you are loading, say, a CG page on the Toaster, and you only alot 2 seconds for the operation, the next Toaster event will simply not happen because the time it was supposed to occur has passed. Alot of editing has to be performed on the production. Thankfully, it is simply a matter of clicking and dragging line to be longer or shorter (hence longer or shorter times). When everything is set up, it is simply a matter of sitting back, hitting RECORD on your output VCR and watching in amazement as VCR's laser disc players, MIDI equipment, etc. play, rewind, and search all automatically!!!