My work is interested in exploring possible options for distributed computing to transcode footage, which we edit in Avid. I have searched for an easy answer to this question and had no luck, so can anyone tell me in a nutshell if this is possible with Avid or does a third party application/process need to be used?
Thank you in advance.
Can you elaborate exactly what you are looking for - platform, media type, etc.
Do you need direct to Avid MXF format or MOV will suffice? I assume in a shared storage configuration?
DQS
www.mpenyc.com
Sorry if that was a little too vague and thanks for your response.
We are working in a mac-based environment running mostly OS 10.8.5, processing footage from various cameras but mostly Canon C-300s and Gopros. We are looking for direct to MXF, with our main media on a Panasas server.
I am curious if there is any sort of a standard process when it comes to this concept in a workflow in Avid.
Thanks again!
MXF is not as easy as you think if you need direct to an Avid MediaFiles folder (local or shared storage). It will require you to "check it in" or create/update your Avid media databases. Not to mention you need to create the accompanying master clip to link the media to.
Check out AutoIngest. It generates Avid compatible MXF (OPAtom), AAF for master clip creation and scanning databases. Excellent product but PC based.
There are other ways like a watch folder using Telestream Episode, Sorenson Squeeze, Proxymill, or any Quicktime based encoder you like. But the workflow requires more steps (AMA linking, consolidate, etc.). Most of the time they generate MXF OP1Atom or MOV. These file types cannot be dropped directly in to an Avid MXF folder.
I tihnk you're misunderstanding his question.
All software that makes MXF OP-Aatom files for Avid, with the exception of Resolve Studio (not Lite), only transcodes media on a single machine.
OP wants to distribute his transcode over multiple machines to speed the process up.
I would LOVE to hear if anyone has found a solution to this. It's mind-blowing that it doesn't exist.
Side stepping the question/wisdom of transcoding GoPro footage ( the run time of GoProfootage can be so large that pre selection via AMA is often more effective)
Many Post houses do this any way.
4 Avid stations linking to AMA sources can background Transcode to either shared storage or locally.
If an AMA re-link option is required at conform then an AMA link (LUT spplication etc) and Transcode is the best route.
And an Avid ingest station the best way to achive that.
The AMc route makes that more expensive but an HP Z420 is cheap nowadays at around £400 with warranties.
Broadcast & Post Production Consultant / Trainer Avid Certified Instructor VET (Retired Early 2022)
Still offering training and support for: QC/QAR Training - Understanding Digital Media - Advanced Files * Compression - Avid Ingest - PSE fixing courses and more.
Mainly delivered remotely via zoom but onsite possible.
T 07581 201248 | E pat@vet-training.co.uk
If you are looking for a professional solution that can integrate with Avid.
http://www.telestream.net/vantage/overview.htm
and
http://www.nltek.com/AvidWorkflows
What works best for you depends on your needs.
Jeroen van Eekeres
Technical director, Broadcast support engineer, Avid ACSR.
Always have a backup of your projects....Always!!!! Yes Always!!!!
A.V.I.D....... Another Version In Development
www.mediaoffline.com
© Copyright 2011 Avid Technology, Inc. Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Site Map | Find a Reseller