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3 Dplay
3 Dplay
3 Dplay
Version 5.5
User Guide
May
2014
Copyright © 2014 by Orad Hi-Tec Systems Ltd. All rights reserved worldwide.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, modified, transmitted, transcribed, stored
in retrieval system, or translated into any human or computer language, in any form or by
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the express written permission of Orad Hi-Tec Systems (www.orad.tv).
Orad provides this documentation without warranty in any form, either expressed or
implied.
Orad may revise this document at any time without notice.
This document may contain proprietary information and shall be respected as a
proprietary document with permission for review and usage given only to the rightful
owner of the equipment to which this document is associated.
This document was written, designed, produced and published by Orad Hi-Tec Systems.
Trademark Notice: 3DPlay, Morpho 3D, 3Designer, Maestro, Maestro Controller, Maestro
PageEditor, JStation, JServer, ProSet, 3DPlay, DVG 2U, DVP-500, X-pecto, Morpho 3D are
trademarks of Orad Hi-Tec Systems.
All other brand and product names may be trademarks of their respective companies.
If you require technical support services, contact Orad Hi-Tec Systems Ltd. at
support.il@orad.tv.
1.Introduction ..................................................................................... 7
What is 3DPlay?..................................................................................8
Workflow........................................................................................8
What’s New in 3DPlay 5.5?...................................................................9
Changes Implemented in Version 5.5 .................................................9
Changes Implemented in Version 5.0 .................................................9
System Requirements........................................................................ 11
Conventions Used in this Document..................................................... 12
Related Documents ........................................................................... 12
2.Getting Started..............................................................................13
Starting 3DPlay ................................................................................ 14
Server Messages ........................................................................... 16
The 3DPlay Production Window ........................................................... 17
3DPlay Menus ............................................................................... 17
The Device Bar ............................................................................. 22
Tool Icons .................................................................................... 22
Layout: Panels and Containers............................................................ 23
The Playout Controller ....................................................................... 25
Opening a Preview Window ................................................................ 27
Saving Your Work ............................................................................. 28
Archiving a Production ................................................................... 28
Saving Controls............................................................................. 30
3.Devices .............................................................................................31
Render Unit Manager......................................................................... 32
Unloading Graphics........................................................................ 34
Connecting Devices ....................................................................... 34
Data Source Manager ........................................................................ 35
Indirect Database Configuration ...................................................... 36
Configuring a Database .................................................................. 36
GPIO Manager .................................................................................. 38
Simulating a GPIO Device ............................................................... 40
Automation Mediator Manager ............................................................ 41
Setting Up an Automation Mediator.................................................. 41
Data Stream Manager........................................................................ 45
Setting Up a Data Stream............................................................... 45
Clip Server Manager .......................................................................... 48
Setting Up a Clip Server ................................................................. 48
4.Controls............................................................................................51
Production Controls ........................................................................... 52
The Control Manager...................................................................... 54
Action Controls ................................................................................. 55
Actions – The Details Tab ............................................................... 56
Actions – The Graphic Item Tab....................................................... 60
Actions – The Data Tab .................................................................. 75
Pacer Controls .................................................................................. 78
Pacers – The Graphic Item Tab........................................................ 78
Pacers – Data Tab ......................................................................... 80
Pacers – Lines Tab......................................................................... 81
Data Groups..................................................................................... 82
GPIO Controls .................................................................................. 84
Playlist Controls ................................................................................ 84
Automation Mediator Controls............................................................. 85
Data Streamer Controls ..................................................................... 86
Clip Viewer Controls .......................................................................... 87
5.Productions ....................................................................................89
Creating a Production ........................................................................ 90
Using If-Then Commands................................................................... 90
Playing Animations............................................................................ 92
Running Tickers ................................................................................ 93
Playing Scenes ................................................................................. 94
Playing Other Controls ....................................................................... 95
6.Databases........................................................................................97
Using a Database .............................................................................. 98
7.Playlists.......................................................................................... 101
Advanced Playlist Controls ............................................................... 102
Building a Playlist............................................................................ 109
Additional Options ....................................................................... 109
Groups....................................................................................... 111
Automation Playlists ........................................................................ 112
Running a Playlist from an Automation System ................................ 117
Logging Playlist Events................................................................. 119
Metadata tab .............................................................................. 120
Building an Automation Playlist ..................................................... 120
Playlist Validation ........................................................................ 122
Automatic Event Creation................................................................. 123
Appendix.......................................................................................... 147
Available CallByName Commands...................................................... 148
1. Introduction
Workflow
3DPlay creates productions using graphic templates authored in 3Designer.
In 3DPlay you define devices and controls as the basis of your production. 3DPlay uses
a production file as the convention for saving your work for future use.
1. Introduction
Devices are hardware or software modules that are used to play graphics to air, such
as a render unit, a GPIO device, a database, etc.
3DPlay controls are tools for controlling graphics, data display, GPIO triggering, etc.
Production files can be divided into panels to reflect stages of production, control
types, or any other division required.
All controls are saved separately within a production folder. Controls can be used and
re-used within the same production (across panels) or in different productions.
8 What is 3DPlay? |
What’s New in 3DPlay 5.5?
Changes Implemented in Version 5.5
New Playlist with Scheduler
The current version introduces a new type of playlist that utilizes a new playlist engine
(Blend). Video and graphics are now controlled from the same user interface. The
advanced playlist allows pre-scheduling playlist events to play on a specified date and
time. The original playlist is available for continued support of automation systems.
For more information, see Advanced Playlist Controls on page 102.
Data Streaming
In version 5.5, you can stream third-party data for use in a 3DPlay production without
delays, using a Data Streamer control.
For more information, see Data Stream Manager on page 45 and Data Streamer
Controls on page 86.
Clip Viewer
1. Introduction
The current version enables connection to a video server to allow playing clips directly.
Available clips are listed in the Clip Viewer
For more information, see Clip Server Manager on page 48 and Clip Viewer Controls on
page 87.
GI Parameter Changes
From version 5.0, you can set a Live Mode connection so that values are passed to
RenderEngine automatically, without having to cue or play the Control.
A new type of GI parameter is now available - values can be set using a slider. GI
1. Introduction
1. Introduction
System Requirements | 11
Conventions Used in this Document
This symbol marks a step-by-step procedure.
TIP:
A tip provides useful information on shortcuts, or how to do things differently.
Bold text marks a part of the GUI, such as a menu item, dialog box name, or GUI
button. For example, “click OK”.
ALL CAPITALS text specifies a keyboard key. For example, “press CTRL and drag the
name...”.
Related Documents
The following related documents are available from Orad:
1. Introduction
This chapter provides general information on using 3DPlay and an overview of the 3DPlay
GUI. It contains the following sections:
Starting 3DPlay on page 14
The 3DPlay Production Window on page 17
Layout: Panels and Containers on page 23
The Playout Controller on page 25
Opening a Preview Window on page 27
Saving Your Work on page 28
Starting 3DPlay
3DPlay is opened from the Start in Orad > 3DPlay.
You can also use the shortcuts placed on the desktop during installation, as shown
below.
NOTE:
In order to work with the 3DPlay client, the Server Controller must be open and the
service must be running.
2. Getting Started
14 Starting 3DPlay |
3. If required, change the StartUp Type definition, and set the other options, as
described here:
Startup Change how the server will start, the next time you open the Server
Type Controller.
Manual - Allows you to open the 3DPlay Server Controller without
starting the server. (You can start it manually after the Controller is
opened.)
Automatic - Automatically starts the Server when you open the
3DPlay Server Controller.
Service Specify the name and path of the log file for the current session.
Log Create new file when service starts - When this check box is
selected, a new log file is created for each session. If the check box is
cleared, The file Server.log is overwritten.
Always Select this check box if you want the 3DPlay Server Controller
on top visible at all times (regardless of the active window). This option is
useful if you want the server messages visible (see Server Messages
on page 16). To allow the 3DPlay Server Controller to run in the
background, clear the check box.
2. Getting Started
Server Host Host name or IP address of the computer on which the server is
installed.
NOTE:
The name “localhost” is used when the 3DPlay Server and
3DPlay Client are installed on the same computer.
Starting 3DPlay | 15
Server Port Port number must be 6900.
User+ Enter the user name and password according to your storage
Password authentication type.
NOTE
After the initial startup, you can set 3DPlay to start without displaying this dialog
box. For more information, see Automatic Login on page 126.
6. Click Connect.
The 3DPlay Client opens.
Server Messages
The 3DPlay Server Controller displays messages in the Server Messages tab, that
can help you understand the current status of the server, or explain errors.
These messages are saved to a log, and can be sent to Orad for support, if required.
2. Getting Started
16 Starting 3DPlay |
The 3DPlay Production Window
The 3DPlay Production window allows access to all of 3DPlay’s menus, functions, and
windows.
2. Getting Started
Device Bar Log Tool Icons
3DPlay Menus
The following sections provide information on the 3DPlay menus.
File Menu
New Open a new production.
Save Save the current production in the default directory, as defined in the
application settings (see Storage on page 133).
For more information, see Saving Your Work on page 28.
Save As Open a browser window, to save the production under a new name
(in the location set in the settings window, see Storage on
page 133).
For more information, see Saving Your Work on page 28.
Merge Open a browser window, to open another 3DPlay 3.X production into
Production the current production (to be saved as one file). If no production is
currently open, the content of the saved production is opened as a
new, unnamed production
Import and Opens browser window, to open another 3DPlay production (versions
Merge 2.5 or later) into the current production (to be saved as one file). If
Production no production is currently open, the content of a saved production is
opened as a new, unnamed production
2. Getting Started
Search Open a dialog box to search for controls in all productions, when
using a MS SQL database for storage.
Archive Open a dialog box with various options for creating a zipped archive
of the current production and scenes.
For more information, see Archiving a Production on page 28.
Switch User Open a dialog box to login with a different user name (for different
user privileges), when using a MS SQL database for storage.
Rename Open the Rename Panel dialog box, allowing you to change the
name of the panel.
Remove Delete the current production panel permanently from the production.
(Controls are still available in the Control Manager.)
Load to All Load all graphics in the current panel to their defined render unit
Renders devices. The Loading Status window is displayed.
Stop All Stop all currently playing controls in this panel. Note that this does not
unload graphics that are already playing.
Controls Menu
Control Toggle the Control Manager.
Manager For more information, see The Control Manager on page 54.
Callback Add an interactive control (that uses a touch screen); a dialog box
2. Getting Started
Action opens, from which you can select the type of action for activating
the control. Available only with a license for Interactive mode.
Data Group Add an Data Group control to the production in the current panel.
For more information, see Data Groups on page 82.
GPIO Add a GPIO control to the production in the current panel to allow
Control you to configure which controls are triggered by GPIO keys.
For more information, see GPIO Controls on page 84.
Data Add a Data Streamer control to the production in the current panel
Streamer to allow 3DPlay to stream data from an external source.
For more information, see Data Streamer Controls on page 86.
Clip Viewer Add a Clip Viewer control to the production in the current panel to
list all clips available on a specified video server.
For more information, see Clip Viewer Controls on page 87.
Data Source Open the Data Source Manager to set the database connections.
Manager For more information, see Data Source Manager on page 35.
Data Open the Data Stream Manager to display data stream devices,
Stream and to add, configure, or remove devices.
Manager For more information, see Data Stream Manager on page 45.
Clip Server Open the Clip Server Manager to display clip servers, and to add,
Manager configure, or remove devices.
2. Getting Started
Tools Menu
Customize Set these options for GUI usability (Selected options are marked
with ):
Snap to Grid - When this option is selected, controls are snapped
to an invisible grid, for more controlled placement and scaling.
For more information, see Snap to Grid on page 22.
Snap Playout Elements - When this option is selected, all parts of
the Playout Controller (Control details, Inputs list, and playout
control) are displayed together. When this option is not selected,
each element can be moved separately.
Dock Elements - When this option is selected, controls are
snapped to one another in the workspace.
For more information, see Dock Elements on page 22.
Show Hotkeys - When this option is selected in the Tools menu,
the Hotkey defined for the control is displayed on the control.
For more information, see Hotkeys on page 54, and Show Hotkeys
on page 22.
Show Inputs - Toggle the Inputs list. For more information, see
The Playout Controller on page 25 and Show Inputs on page 22.
Metadata Open a dialog box, to set different metadata options. Available only
Settings when using an SQL database. For more information, see Creating
Metadata on page 58.
Global Open the Global Parameters Viewer, to view and change the current
Parameters values of the defined global parameters.
Viewer For more information, see Global Parameters on page 74.
Playlist Use this rule manager to create playlist events when certain
Creator automation commands are received. For more information, see
Automatic Event Creation on page 123.
On Air Menu
Connect All Connect all defined devices, such as render units, databases,
GPIO devices, etc.
Load All Load the entire production to the defined render units. The
Loading Status window is displayed.
2. Getting Started
Stop All Actions Stop all currently playing controls. (This does not unload
graphics that are already playing.)
Tool Icons
The Tools displayed in the lower left corner of The 3DPlay Production Window on
page 17, allow you to set the following workspace preferences:
Show Click this icon to toggle the display of hotkey on the controls in the
Hotkeys production. Only defined hotkeys are displayed.
2. Getting Started
Show Click this icon to toggle the Input list in the Playout Controller.
Inputs For more information, see The Playout Controller on page 25 and
Show Inputs on page 22.
Storage This icon is marked green when the current storage is connected,
status or red when there is a connection issue.
If there is a connection problem, 3DPlay displays a message to
that effect, and continually tries to reconnect.
2. Getting Started
NOTE:
When you close a panel, you have the option of removing all controls in the panel,
or keeping them within the production.
NOTE:
SHIFT and drag to add an existing control to the container.
CTRL and drag to copy an existing control in the container.
ALT and drag to create a control shortcut in the container.
NOTE:
You can add as many sub-containers as required, and expand and collapse them.
2. Getting Started
2. Getting Started
• Control details – lists the keys defined for the selected control, with the option to
change the value of the key manually. Also displays flags and pauses placed in the
control.
• Playout Control – Displays the system clock, and also the Cue, Play, Cue & Play,
Stop, and Reset buttons, and the same buttons are also displayed for the Preview
window, if enabled (see Opening a Preview Window on page 27).
• Inputs – lists all GI parameters for the selected control for which the Show in Inputs
window setting is selected, with the option to change the value of the GI parameter,
according to the type set when creating the GI parameter. You must click Apply for
the data to be displayed, or Set Defaults for the default values (set in the GI
parameters editor) to be displayed.
NOTE:
For controls that are connected to a data query, data that is entered in the Inputs is
overridden when the control is cued.
• When the Playout Controller is open in a split panel (see Layout: Panels and
Containers on page 23), an additional area is displayed at the bottom. Here you can
see the name and UID of the selected control, or the event UID if a playlist event is
selected.
• If you drag this button to the playlist when a control or event is selected, a new
event is added to the drop-spot in the playlist, using the original control.
• If you drag this button to a container when an event or control is selected, a new
control is added to the production, using the original control, but not the inputs
added to an event.
2. Getting Started
If you click this button when an event is selected (in Edit mode), a cloned event
with this icon is added to the end of the playlist.
• If you drag this button to the playlist when an event is selected, a new cloned
event is added to the drop-spot in the playlist.
A Preview window opens, and the PVW Cue, Play, Cue & Play, and Stop buttons
are displayed in The Playout Controller on page 25.
You can open as many previews as you want within the application. If you decide to
close them, the last instance of the Preview window might take a minute to close.
2. Getting Started
Archiving a Production
You can archive a production and all files related to the production as a zipped file, to
allow moving productions from one computer to another that doesn’t share a Projects
folder, or storage.
2. Getting Started
2. Under Archive List Content, select the elements you want to zip.
3DPlay Archive all productions saved in the 3DPlay file storage base.
Storage (Available only when using file storage.)
Production Archive the production and all of its controls. (Available only
when using file storage.)
Scenes Archive the 3Designer project folder containing the scenes used
in the current production.
NOTE:
To open an archived production on a new computer, extract the files to the
G:\ drive, using the Extractor tool located in C:\Orad\3DPlay_4_0\Client\Tools\.
1. In the Production window, right-click the control to display the graphic menu, and
click Save (see Save as on page 54).
Or-
In the control’s Editor, click Save.
A browser window opens at the general Action folder.
2. Click OK.
The control is saved independently of the current production (with no link).+
In 3DPlay, the term “device” refers to any external module that is required in order to air
graphics. This includes hardware modules, such as HDVGs and GPIO devices, and
software modules, such as databases and automation system connections.
All devices are listed in the Device Bar (see The Device Bar on page 22), and can be
manipulated from there.
This chapter describes how to set up a device to use in 3DPlay, in the following section:
Render Unit Manager on page 32
Data Source Manager on page 35
GPIO Manager on page 38
Automation Mediator Manager on page 41
Data Stream Manager on page 45
Clip Server Manager on page 48
The device is added to the list of clip servers. on page 50
NOTE:
A green icon in the listed devices indicates a connected device. A red icon indicates a
disconnected device.
Render Unit Manager
The Render Unit Manager allows you to define the devices to which 3DPlay sends
graphic commands. You can set up multiple devices to work simultaneously, as
required, and you can unload all graphics that are loaded to a channel.
UID The Unique ID that the device uses. If you do not assign a UID,
one is assigned automatically.
NOTE:
Preview Select this check box if you want the Preview window defined in
window as Use as Preview to open in an external window, outside of the
separate 3DPlay application.
window For more information, see Opening a Preview Window on page 27.
Log Level This determines what device operations are logged. The higher the
level, the more information will be logged. (Off=lower,
Verbose=higher).
3. Devices
Event This determines the frequency of communications between the
Level server and client for the purpose of updating the GUI. The higher
the level, the more frequently the GUI is updated. This may be at
the expense of response time, therefore, the log level can be
lowered or set to OFF.
3. Click OK.
The device is added to the list of channels in the Render Unit Manager.
Connecting Devices
Devices can be connected or disconnected in the Render Unit manager.
NOTE:
A device’s state can be changed in the Production window, as well. In the The
Device Bar, right-click the device, and choose the required option.
3. Devices
■ From the Devices menu, select Data Manager.
Configuring a Database
To set up a new database connection in 3DPlay:
1. In the Data Manager (Devices > Data Manager), click Add.
The Create Data Source dialog box opens.
3. Devices
Name The name used for this data source. This name appears in the
Device bar and the Data Manager.
UID The Unique ID that 3DPlay uses for this device. If you do not assign
a UID, one is assigned automatically.
NOTE:
Source From the list, select the type of database. The following fields in
Type this table are enabled or disabled, depending on the selected type.
Source When available, enter the path and file name of the required
Name database.
User When available, enter the user name for database connection.
Port When available, enter the number of port to which the database is
Number connected.
3. Devices
Always When this check box is selected, the database connection is
Connected maintained as long as 3DPlay is open, for quick access.
When this check box is cleared, the database connection is open
only when required. This requires logon to be performed each time
the connection is opened.
Log Level This determines what device operations are logged. The higher the
level, the more information will be logged. (Off=lower,
Verbose=higher).
3. Click OK.
The dialog box is closed and you are returned to the Data Manager.
4. Click Test to verify that the data source is set up properly.
In the Data manager you can also connect, disconnect, and reset the connection, by
selecting the database, and using the appropriate buttons.
NOTE:
When using a GPIO device, the Adlink 7256 driver must be installed first, and tested
with the Adlink test application.
38 GPIO Manager |
The Add Device dialog box opens.
Name The name you want to use to identify the GPIO device.
UID The Unique ID that 3DPlay uses for the GPIO device. If you do not
3. Devices
assign a UID, one is assigned automatically.
NOTE:
UIDs are the label by which a 3DPlay device/
control is identified to all other devices and controls. It is
recommended not to change a UID once it has been set.
Card ID Assign GPIO cards a unique ID when using multiple GPIO cards.
Polling Define, in milliseconds, how often the GPIO device state is read by
Interval 3DPlay.
Type From the list, select the type of GPIO device to be used. Each device
required the correct hardware and drivers to be installed.
Log Level This determines what operations are logged. The higher the level,
the more information will be logged. (Off=lower, Verbose=higher).
3. Click OK.
The device is added to the list of devices in the GPIO Manager.
Setting the commands triggered by the GPIO controls is done in 3DPlay in a GPIO
control. To create a control for the GPIO device, see GPIO Controls on page 84.
GPIO Manager | 39
Simulating a GPIO Device
You can simulate a GPIO device to test the settings in a GPIO control. For this, you
must create a GPIO control (see GPIO Controls on page 84) and assign it to a device.
Signal Type From the list, select source and destination of the signal; from
the GPIO device to 3DPlay (IN) or from 3DPlay to the GPIO
device (OUT).
Index From the list, select the number of the GPIO button.
State From the list, select the state of the GPIO button; pressed (ON)
or released (OFF)
40 GPIO Manager |
Automation Mediator Manager
3DPlay can be controlled by an Automation system using multiple CII, VDCP, and USC
protocols.
3. Devices
To define a new automation mediator:
1. In the Automation Mediator Manager (Devices > Automation Mediator
Manager), click Add.
Stop answering Select this check box to stop sending ping confirmations, in
PING when order to indicate to the automation system that a rendering
Render Unit is unit is offline.
not connected
Stop answering Select this check box to stop sending ping confirmations,
PING when no when there are no controls assigned to this automation
control is device.
assigned to
automation
device
TC Server Host Set the host of the Timecode server for frame accuracy
features.
TC Server Port Set the port of the Timecode server for frame accuracy
features. (default=20202)
TC Offset Set the offset to compensate for the expected delay set the
automation system.
CII Display Set an alternate mode for 3DPlay’s response when a Cue
Mode Support command is received. When this option is set to ON, Cue
executes Play. When set to VALIDATE, Cue validates
incoming commands.
Control name Define the default 3DPlay name to be used as the VDCP ID
for Cue/Play for Cue and Play commands.
3. Devices
Control name Define the default 3DPlay name to be used as the VDCP ID
for Stop for Stop commands.
Cue Play Mode Set the system to process Cue and Play commands only,
without sending a response.
Stop Control Stop a currently playing control upon receiving a new Play
(already command.
playing) on new
Play command
Port Type Set the port type. Definable port settings change according
to the port type selected here.
Baud Rate Set the number of symbols per second to be transmitted via
3DPlay.
Data Bits Set the allowed number of data bits in each character.
Stop Bits Select one, one-and-one half, or two stop bits to send at
the end of every character allow the receiving signal
hardware to detect the end of a character and to
re-synchronize with the character stream.
Parity Set the parity bit to add in each character to None, Odd, or
Even.
Log Level This determines what device operations are logged. The higher
the level, the more information will be logged. (Off=lower,
Verbose=higher).
4. Click OK.
The device is added to the list of channels in the Automation Mediator Manager.
In order to use this device, you must have an Automation Mediator control. For more
information, see Automation Mediator Controls on page 85.
3. Devices
UID The Unique ID that 3DPlay uses for this data stream. If you do
not assign a UID, one is assigned automatically.
NOTE:
UIDs are the label by which a 3DPlay device/
control is identified to all other devices and controls. It is
recommended not to change a UID once it has been set.
Protocol Set the protocol type from the list of available protocols.
Type
Baud Rate Set the number of symbols per second to be transmitted via
3DPlay.
Data Bits Set the allowed number of data bits in each character.
Stop Bits Select One, OnePointFive, or Two stop bits to send at the end
of every character allow the receiving signal hardware to detect
the end of a character and to re-synchronize with the character
stream.
Log Level This determines what device operations are logged. The higher
the level, the more information will be logged. (Off=lower,
Verbose=higher).
4. Click OK.
The device is added to the list of data streams.
3. Devices
3. Devices
2. Enter the following parameters, as described below.
UID The Unique ID that 3DPlay uses for this clip server. If you do not
assign a UID, one is assigned automatically.
NOTE:
UIDs are the label by which a 3DPlay device/
control is identified to all other devices and controls. It is
recommended not to change a UID once it has been set.
Port Set the port through which 3DPlay communicates with the clip
server.
Cue time Set the time for the Video engine to load a clip (if a shorter time
is specified in the playlist), before the system returns an error.
Storage Set the storage type; if the clips are stored in a Native
(standard) file structure, or if they are Stored in a MAM
database.
User Name When available, enter the user name for database connection.
Log Level This determines what device operations are logged. The higher
the level, the more information will be logged. (Off=lower,
Verbose=higher).
4. Click OK.
This chapter describes how to set up a control in 3DPlay in the following sections:
Production Controls on page 52
Action Controls on page 55
Pacer Controls on page 78
Data Groups on page 82
GPIO Controls on page 84
Automation Mediator Controls on page 85
Data Streamer Controls on page 86
Clip Viewer Controls on page 87
Production Controls
When you add new controls to a production, the control is represented graphically.
Each control determines the data sent to a device, and the output that is displayed.
Action Add an Action control to the current panel that allows you to
create graphics and animation-
related macros.
For more information, see Action Controls on page 55.
Pacer Add an Pacer control to the current panel that allows you to
create macros for tickers and other elements that require
repetition.
For more information, see Pacer Controls on page 78.
Data Group Add an Data Group control to the current panel to display a
predefined database.
For more information, see Data Groups on page 82.
4. Controls
GPIO Add a GPIO control to the current panel that allows you to
Control configure which the 3DPlay controls are triggered by GPIO keys.
For more information, see GPIO Controls on page 84.
Playlist Add a Playlist control to the current panel that allows you to build
a playlist referring all controls that you want to run during a
broadcast.
Data Add a Data Streamer control to the current panel that acts as an
Streamer open channel for transmitting external data.
For more information, see Data Streamer Controls on page 86.
Advanced Add an Advanced Playlist control to the current panel that allows
Playlist you to build a playlist referring all controls and clips that you want
to run during a broadcast with a scheduler.
Clip Viewer Add a Clip Viewer control to the current panel to display the clip
storage.
For more information, see Clip Viewer Controls on page 87.
52 Production Controls |
Container
4. Controls
■ Press ALT and drag the control to a new position in the panel.
A shortcut is created to the source control (with the same UID, so that both controls
are played together).
When you right-click on a control, a graphic menu is displayed. The following figure is
an example of an Action control menu. Menu item functions are described in the
following table.
Production Controls | 53
The Control Manager
Graphic menu for a control
Edit Opens the Editor for the current control and allows you to edit the
control parameters.
Color Opens a color palette to allow you to change the color band
settings for color-coding purposes.
Hotkeys Opens the Hotkeys dialog box, allowing you to set the hotkeys to
Select or to Select & Play the current control.
For more information, see Customize on page 20.
Save as Opens a browser window, allowing you to save the control outside
of the current production.
For more information, see Saving Controls on page 30.
Refresh Refreshes the control by reading the current state of the control
from the server. (For controls used by more than one production.)
Update Available only for a Pacer control. Refreshes the data read from
Data the defined database.
4. Controls
Remove Opens a dialog box that allows you to choose to remove the
control from the current panel or to remove the control (and all
shortcuts with the same UID) completely from the panel and the
production.
Stop Executes all commands placed in the Stop tab (in the control
editor).
The Control Manager displays a list of all controls that have been saved on the server
and are linked to the current production, in order to provide a comprehensive list when
working in a multi-panel production (see The 3DPlay Production Window on page 17).
54 Production Controls |
From the Control Manager, you can create copies of existing controls (Press CTRL and
drag the control to the required panel), or create shortcut controls to the controls
already in the list. (Press ALT and drag the control to the required panel.)
You can filter the controls displayed by entering characters in the case-sensitive
Filters field. When this field is empty, all controls are displayed.
Action Controls
The Action control is a versatile control that is a basic unit in 3DPlay. When you add an
Action control to a production, you can set it up to carry out any sequence of
commands, as required.
4. Controls
Action Controls | 55
Actions – The Details Tab
4. Controls
In the Details tab of the Action Editor, you can name the control, assign a unique ID
and a render unit for airing anything defined in this control, as follows.
UID A unique identifier that 3DPlay uses for this control only. If the UID is
not linked to the action name, and you leave this field empty, the
system assigns a UID automatically.
NOTE:
UIDs are the label by which a 3DPlay device/control is
identified to all other devices and controls. It is recommended
not to change a UID once it has been set.
Display - display the UID underneath the control or hide the UID
(None).
56 Action Controls |
Exclude Allows you to save the control independently of the production, in
from the specified directory.
production For more information, see Saving Controls on page 30.
Lock Aspect Controls can be resized by dragging the lower right corner. Select
Ratio this check box to keep the proportions of the control constant.
Image Browse to an image to apply to the control. Set the Opacity of the
image.
Font Set the font face and properties for displaying the control name.
Advanced Set up advanced logging options for the control, other than what you
set in the Application Settings dialog box.
To assign the render unit to which the control graphics are sent:
■ In the Devices list, select the required render unit.
TIP:
To select more than one render unit, hold down the CTRL key, and click to select.
4. Controls
Action Controls | 57
Creating Metadata
NOTE:
Metadata is available only when working with an MSSQL database.
Metadata can be added manually or filled in automatically in 3DPlay for better search
and sort capabilities. Any Control or Event can have defined metadata.
Autofill Create a string that will be created automatically from the data
you define here
58 Action Controls |
b. Set the Properties of the field.
Numeric Set the minimal and maximal values allowed in a numeric field,
as well as the incremental value, and the spaces after the
decimal point.
Autofill Define the data to be added to the string; choose from the
control information and existing metadata fields to create an
automatic string for each control. Set a separator to appear
between each datum.
c. Under Assign to assets, select the control types which will display the metadata
field that you defined.
d. Click OK.
3. The metadata field is now displayed for all selected control types.
4. Controls
Action Controls | 59
Actions – The Graphic Item Tab
4. Controls
The Graphic Item tab in the Action Editor, is where you define what actions will be
performed when you play the control, as described in the following sections.
60 Action Controls |
Command List
The Commands list, on the left, contains internal commands that are carried out
within 3DPlay (unrelated to an external device), and Render Unit commands that are
carried out on their assigned device.
Internal commands
Call by Used for entering any API commands (that are not listed in the
Name 3DPlay command list) supported by 3DPlay.
Target UID - leave the default or use the UID of a target control.
Command - enter the required command. For a list of possible
commands, see Available CallByName Commands on page 148.
Data - enter a value to be displayed as data, if required.
Data Delim. - enter the symbol that acts as a separator between
data items. You can use any character (except space), however it is
important not to use characters that might be a part of the data
value.
Assign to – assign a returned response from the server to a global
or GI parameter.
4. Controls
Data Control UID – enter the UID of the target control.
Data – enter the value to be displayed as data. If you enter more
than one value (using a deliminator), the first values are sent to the
defined keys, and the following values are sent to the GI parameters
that are defined as automation types.
Data Deliminator – enter the symbol that acts as a separator
between data items. You can use any character (except space),
however it is important not to use characters that might be a part of
the data value.
For more information, see Playing Other Controls on page 95.
Action Controls | 61
Internal commands
Calculator Use a global parameter to calculate values for internal use. See
Global Parameters on page 74.
Target name – the global parameter to where the calculated result
is sent.
a – A variable that takes its value from a global parameter or is
entered here.
operator – from the list, select the calculating operator, as follows:
• Addition (+), subtraction (-), multiplication (x), division (/).
• % – calculate what percent a is of b (e.g.,
5% 10 = 50).
• ^ Power of.
• Abs - use an absolute number in place of input value (e.g.,
-2=>2). Does not require a value in b.
• Int - use integer in place of input value (e.g., 1.8=>1). Does not
require a value in b.
• IntRand - use a random integer between the defined limits (a
and b) in place of the input value.
• Modulo – calculate the remainder of a divided by b (e.g., 13
Modulo 5 = 3).
• Rand - use a random number between the defined limits (a and
b) in place of the input value.
4. Controls
Convert Convert one time format to another; from <GI para> timecode,
milliseconds, frames, seconds.
Execute Execute external Java or Visual Basic script. This command allows
Script File you to utilize Java or Visual Basic commands that are not available in
3DPlay.
Group Group a series of commands for easier access, and for referencing as
a group. Click the V/> symbol to toggle the display of the grouped
commands.
It is recommended to group commands of the same purpose\type
and to name the group appropriately for viewing and working.
Label Used for creating a label to display in the Playout Controller and on
the button status indicator.
Pause Create a pause in play until Play is clicked again for the current
control. You can set a label to indicate the pause in the Playout
Controller. Other controls can be played during a pause.
62 Action Controls |
Internal commands
Set Global Set the value of a global parameter, to replace the value defined
Parameter when creating the parameter.
Can be used to replace a global parameter value with a GI parameter
value.
Can be used to create a new global parameter.
Sound Play Set a file name to play a sound on the 3DPlay client computer (e.g.,
as an alert).
4. Controls
Action Controls | 63
Render Unit commands
64 Action Controls |
Render Unit commands
4. Controls
Scene Unload Unload the specified scene from the DVG.
Scene Vslot - specify the Vslot from which to clear the scene.
Deactivate
Scene Deactivate all scenes that were previously activated, in all Vslots.
Deactivate All
Action Controls | 65
Render Unit commands
Clip Cache Cache a specified video file in the Render Unit memory before
playing. It is recommended to place this command in the Cue tab.
Path – path and file name of the required clip.
Alpha – specifies if the clip contains an alpha channel.
Interlaced – specifies if a clip was exported with interlacing
enabled.
Repeat – the number of times to play the clip.
Sync Master – specifies if the clip should be synchronized with
an audio clip.
Group – enter the name assigned to group the video and audio
clips (when Sync Master is selected).
Audio Channel – if synced with an audio clip, or if clip includes
audio, define the audio channel on which the clip will be played.
Uncache All Remove all clips from the Render Unit memory.
Clips
render unit – the render unit to which you want to load the audio
clip. (For example, when using channel branding firmware, use
numbers 1-16).
Repeat – the number of times you want to repeat the audio clip.
Group – enter the name assigned to group the video and audio
clips (when Sync Master is selected in the Clip Cache command).
File Export – from the Scene View tab, drag the required clip
texture export to this field.
Scene – automatically take the value of the Scene ID given
when defining the export.
Play Export – from the Scene View tab, drag the required clip
Play export to this field.
Clip Filename – clip location (full path).
Audio Clip Scene – automatically take the value of the Scene ID given
Stop when defining the export.
Play Export – from the Scene View tab, drag the required clip
Play export to this field.
66 Action Controls |
Render Unit commands
Audio Recall The HDVG can have up to eight audio presets. Here you can
Preset specify what preset to use when playing an audio clip.
Name – the number of the preset.
Transition time – define the time (in seconds) to transition from
one audio preset to another.
Render Unit Must place at least two Render Unit commands and define
different devices. The commands are executed simultaneously on
the defined devices, allowing you to play the same scene with
different data.
HDVG Route Set the type of signal sent from each output connector on the
S/HDVG.
Output – select the output connector.
Source – select the signal type.
Internal Mixer Enable the internal mixer to use the internal linear keyer of the
Render Unit platform.
4. Controls
Relevant only when internal mixer is in use.
Statistics When the Show Panel check box is selected, the statistics of all
Panel RenderEngine operations are displayed on the assigned Render
Unit (generally used for preview only).
Set Bypass Define if a bypass device is enabled (to have a backup feed ready,
in case the main feed is disrupted by a power failure). Requires an
installed bypass device.
Use – select True from the list to enable the bypass function, or
False to disable it.
WatchDog Set Set the delay after which the WatchDog device takes control of
the S/HDVG.
Action Controls | 67
Render Unit commands
Ticker Set Set the offset between the items in the ticker.
Offset Ticker Name – from the Scene View tab, drag the required
4. Controls
GPIO commands
Set Output Set the state for one GPIO channel as required.
Index – the number of the GPIO channel (1-16).
State – specify True (for ON) or False (for OFF).
Set All Set the state for all GPIO channels as required.
Outputs
68 Action Controls |
Workspace
At the center of the Graphic Item tab, is your workspace. Here, you create a macro
containing the commands to be performed by this control. The list at the top contains
the scenes used for the current control.
Commands are executed in the order in which they are placed here. Time between
commands is not always apparent, unless the macro is programmed with pause or wait
commands.
The Cue, Play, Pause, Continue, and Stop tabs are where you customize
the command variables used for this control.
• In the Cue tab, place commands that should be performed before sending to air,
such as cache commands or scene load commands.
• In the Play tab, place commands to send to air, such as animation play, ticker start,
or send export commands.
• In the Pause tab, place commands to perform when you click Pause in the Playout
controller. For example, you can display a status indicator when you pause a
production.
• In the Continue tab, place commands to perform when you click Continue in the
Playout controller. For example, set a pause indicator to display the continued
status.
• In the Stop tab, place commands to be executed when you click Stop in the Playout
4. Controls
controller.
Play Step by Play the control one command or group at a time, to verify
Step (jump that all commands/groups run as expected.
over groups)
Play Step by Play the control one command at a time, to verify that all
Step (step commands run as expected.
into groups)
Action Controls | 69
Load Open a browser window to load a saved as an XML file.
70 Action Controls |
Scene View
In the Scene View tab, at the right side of the Editor, you can select the required
project and scene, as programmed in 3Designer. From here, select scene elements
(animations, exports, or tickers) to add to a production, and if required, assign a
different graphics source.
NOTE:
In the Animation tab, you can preview the animation. In the Export tab, you can
update the export value.
4. Controls
■ Right-click the command, and then click Remove.
Action Controls | 71
GI Parameters
Graphic Item (GI) parameters, on the right side of the Graphic Item tab, connect to a
database for data retrieval, and are defined per control.
72 Action Controls |
Check Box To display a check box for enabling true/false parameters.
Multistyle To open a text editor that allows you to format the text as
Text required.
Validation Select the data type that will be validated for playlist events. For
more information, see Playlist Validation on page 122.
None - GI Parameter is not validated.
4. Controls
Text - input must be a text string.
Path - input must be an existing path and file name.
Numeric - input must be a numeric value.
Boolean - input must be a 0 or 1 value (or check box).
Default Set a default value for the parameter that can be called by using
value Set Defaults in the Playout Control.
6. Click OK.
The GI parameter is created and displayed in the list. It can be duplicated (with a
different name) using Duplicate in the right-click menu.
The Query Filter parameters display the GI Parameter’s data (when assigned to a
data source), and allow you to edit the data manually.
Set the Live Mode Connections to automatically send GI parameter values to
RenderEngine without cueing or playing the control.
To further define the GI parameter, see Actions – The Data Tab on page 75.
Action Controls | 73
Global Parameters
Global parameters, on the right side of the Graphic Item tab, are user-defined
parameters that can be used for a production, together with the internal or Render
Unit commands. Global commands are given a value that can be manipulated as part
of the script, as required.
When running a production, you can see the current value of the global parameters in
the production in the Global Parameters Viewer (Tools > Global Parameters
Viewer).
74 Action Controls |
Actions – The Data Tab
4. Controls
In the Data tab, set up one or more queries to retrieve data from a database for a GI
Parameter. Available GI parameters are listed on the left.
Execute Select to execute the query each time the action is cued.
Query on
Cue
Source Choose a database from the list. The available options are the
drop-down database connections that you set up in the Data Manager.
list Click Data Manager to configure your connections. (See Data
Source Manager on page 35)
Query field Enter a query using the appropriate query syntax for the selected
database. Click Execute to run the query.
Action Controls | 75
Key list Set a key to filter query results, by column.
When you use ? in the query syntax, you must define a filtering
key to limit the value or set a global or GI parameter to be used in
place of ?. Click Add Key (+), and define key name and value.
Use the Preprocess check box to replace the query entirely with
this key.
(In your query, the first key replaces the first ?, the second key
replaces the second ?, etc.)
If you have not used ? in the query syntax, it is not necessary to
define a key.
A key can be edited manually from the Playout controller or from a
Data Group.
Once you click Execute Query, the query results are displayed beneath the query
parameters. If the query syntax is incorrect, the error is shown at the lower part of
the query result box and in the server console window.
3. Select one of the following options:
• From the query results, select the cell that you want displayed as the GI
parameter value, and drag it to the Query column at the left. The GI parameter
will always display the results of this cell, regardless of its contents.
• From the query results, select the column head whose results you want to display
as a list in the Inputs list. If you choose this option, you must set the GI
parameter type to drop-down list. Query is executed once you press Cue in the
4. Controls
playout control.
76 Action Controls |
To refine query results:
1. Double-click the required GI parameter in the Data tab.
The GI Parameter Editor opens with the Query Filter fields enabled.
4. Controls
2. Fill in the following fields as required:
Ordinal The row number of the content to display. This is used together
with the column name to specify a permanent cell.
3. Click OK.
Action Controls | 77
Pacer Controls
Pacer controls are used to control tickers, loop animations, and for repetition of macros
in general.
This section describes the differences between the Graphic Item tab for an Action
control, as described in Actions – The Graphic Item Tab on page 60, and the Graphic
Item tab for a Pacer control.
78 Pacer Controls |
Line Manager
The Line manager in a Pacer control allows you to specify the following:
Delay Choose this option to set a delay between each loop, in hours,
minutes, seconds, and milliseconds.
4. Controls
Pacer Controls | 79
Pacers – Data Tab
4. Controls
80 Pacer Controls |
Pacers – Lines Tab
4. Controls
In the Lines tab, you can connect the GI parameter to a database in order to send
data sets to the ticker, and set the refresh rate of the data update.
3. Select a column from the list, and a GI parameter from the list.
4. Click OK.
Now, the content of the selected column can be sent to the ticker, by placing the GI
parameter as the value of a Send Export command in the ticker group.
Pacer Controls | 81
Data Groups
A Data Group control displays sets of data from a database, and allows you to choose a
set of data and to send its value to a control to be displayed when playing the control.
UID A unique identifier that 3DPlay uses for this control only. If the UID
is not linked to the action name, and you leave this field empty, the
system assigns a UID automatically.
NOTE:
UIDs are the label by which a 3DPlay device/control is
identified to all other devices and controls. It is
recommended not to change a UID once it has been set.
4. Controls
NOTE:
Queries can be defined for any database defined in the Data Manager (see Data
Source Manager on page 35). The database must be connected.
Source Choose a database from the list. The available options are the
drop-do database connections that you set up in the Data Manager.
wn list
Query Enter a query in the query language used by the selected database.
field Click Execute to run and test the query.
Key list You must use a key in order to allow choosing values from the data
group, to be played to a control.
If you use ? in the query syntax, you must click Add Key, and define
key name and value.
4. After you click Execute, set up the columns to be displayed in the Data Group list,
as follows:
82 Data Groups |
Value After you set up a query, select the key column to displayed in the
Column Data Group list and send it's value instead of the control's key.
Display After you set up a query, select the columns (up to four) to display in
Column the Data Group list. Click + to add columns.
5. Click OK.
The Editor is closed and the Data Group list is populated.
4. Controls
Data Groups | 83
GPIO Controls
A GPIO control allows you to set a GPIO device to activate 3DPlay controls (such as
Action or Pacer controls), as required.
Playlist Controls
A playlist control is used for creating and running a sequence of controls, both
manually and automatically.
For information on playlists, see Playlists on page 101.
84 GPIO Controls |
Automation Mediator Controls
Automation Mediator controls are used for playing productions from an automation
system. Automation Mediator controls cannot be played directly in the 3DPlay client,
however, in order for an automation system to be able to play a production, the
production must contain an Automation Mediator control (that is assigned to an
Automation Mediator device), that should be assigned to all required Automation
systems.
4. Controls
The Automation Mediator Control Editor settings are similar to those described for
an Action control, and are set the same way.
For more information, see Actions – The Details Tab on page 56.
The Data Streamer Editor settings are similar to those described for an Action
control, and are set the same way in the Details tab. For more information, see
Actions – The Details Tab on page 56.
In the Data tab, under Streaming, select a device defined in the Data Stream
manager (see Data Stream Manager on page 45).
4. Controls
4. Controls
2. Assign a Name and UID, and select a device under Clip Server.
To configure a Clip Viewer device, see Clip Server Manager on page 48.
3. Search for clips by creation dates or by adding metadata field to Selected Columns
(on the left).
4. Click OK to close the editor.
This chapter describes various steps you might take to create a production in 3DPlay,
once you have set up all required devices for your production. The following sections are
included:
Creating a Production on page 90
Using If-Then Commands on page 90
Playing Animations on page 92
Running Tickers on page 93
Playing Scenes on page 94
Playing Other Controls on page 95
Creating a Production
Before you begin creating a production in 3DPlay, it is important to review the graphics
prepared in 3Designer, and to verify that all graphic elements and exports required for
your production are clearly and correctly set up.
When you first open the 3DPlay client GUI, it opens with an empty production panel,
ready for work. You can begin work immediately, or save the empty production to give
it a name (see Saving Your Work on page 28).
Set up controls for running all required graphic elements, as described in Controls on
page 51.
NOTE:
When you play an Action or Pacer control, all static graphics in the scene used by
the control are played, as well.
90 Creating a Production |
Using an if-then command to display graphics-in/ graphics-out:
1. Create an Action control (see Production Controls on page 52), and name it
“graphics-in”. Assign a device (see Actions – The Details Tab on page 56).
2. In the Graphic Item tab, in the workspace, place an Anim.Play command to
define the graphics-in animation (see Anim. Play on page 64).
3. In the Global Parameters list, create a global parameter named “graphics
state” with the default value “out” (see Global Parameters on page 74).
4. In the workspace, add a Set Global Parameter command, and set the
“graphics state” global parameter value to “in” (see Set Global Parameter on
page 63).
This sets the global parameter value to “in” each time the “graphics-in”
control is played.
5. Click OK to save the control in the production.
6. Create a new control for “graphics-out” as described in steps 1–2.
7. In the workspace, add a Set Global Parameter command, and set the
“graphics state” global parameter value to “out” (see Set Global Parameter
on page 63).
This sets the global parameter value to “out” each time the “graphics-out”
5. Productions
control is played.
Example
Now, you must decide if you want to play the In and Out animations from the
same control (to always play them one after the other), or if you want
separate controls for each animation
(to allow playing other controls between the In and Out animations).
For separate controls, create another control named “graphics- out”, as
described in steps 1–2.
To run both animations from the same control:
3. Place a Pause or a Wait command in the workspace, as required:
Pause – if you want to play the Out animation manually.
Wait – if you want to define a waiting time, after which the Out animation is
played automatically.
Place another Anim.Play command in the workspace, to define the graphics-out
animation (see Anim. Play on page 64).
92 Playing Animations |
Running Tickers
A Ticker should be run using a Pacer control.
To run a ticker, you must select Ticker in the Line Manager section of the Pacer
Editor.
All related commands must be placed within in a Ticker command in the workspace
(see Pacer Controls on page 78).
When using a Send Export command, the Type must be Ticker.
Each ticker must be assigned to its own pacer control.
The following procedure is an example of how to create controls to run a ticker that
draws content from a database. For this, you must have a ticker prepared in
3Designer, and a database (set up as a device).
5. Productions
3. In the Lines tab, click Update Data.
The query results are shown above.
4. In the Graphic Item tab, in the Line Manager, select Ticker.
5. In the Scene list, load the 3Designer scene containing the required ticker.
6. Drag the ticker from the Scene list to the Ticker Name field.
The Scene/Level/Type dialog box opens.
7. Enter a Scene ID, and a default Vslot.
8. Click OK.
Example
Running Tickers | 93
NOTE:
Virtual Slots are like visual layers in a viewer (preview or on-air). Different scenes
can be played to different VSlots. The result would be one scene appearing to be
superimposed upon another, or one scene loaded in the ‘background’ waiting for a
scene in the ‘foreground’ to play out.
You can define up to 255 Vslots. 0 is the back layer, and 254 is the front layer.
Playing Scenes
Sometimes you want to display a scene as a graphic template without playing scene
elements.
(A scene is a set of graphics created in 3Designer. A scene can contain graphics,
textures, clips, animations, tickers, etc.)
3DPlay enables playing and clearing scenes from a defined Vslot. A Vslot can only
display one scene at a time, including the elements in the scene.
94 Playing Scenes |
Playing Other Controls
To play one control from another control:
1. In the source control, place a Control Play command.
2. Enter the Control UID of the target control.
The target control is played when the source control is played.
5. Productions
This chapter contains information on using a database. It contains the following sections:
Using a Database on page 98
Using a Database
Using a database is a way of airing content without the need for manual input. This
reduces the chance of airing incorrect content. Database queries allow you to display
data sets as required.
Before you begin, define a database to work with, as described in Data Source
Manager on page 35, and verify that the database is connected.
Query results must be placed in a GI parameter, in order to be accessible to 3DPlay
commands.
■ To set up a GI parameter, see GI Parameters on page 72.
■ To set up a query for a GI parameter, see Actions – The Data Tab on page 75.
Query results, in the form of GI parameters, can be used in many types of macro
commands used in 3DPlay. You can use results to play animations and clips, to display
text, to update a ticker, to send an export, etc.
The following procedure is an example of how to use a database to update the content
displayed in an export. For this you must have a scene with exports created in
3Designer.
6. Databases
7. From the GI parameters list, drag the GI parameter you created to the
Value field of the Send Export command.
8. In the Data tab, set up and execute your query to assign the required data to
the GI Parameter (see Actions – The Data Tab on page 75).
9. Click OK to save the control in the production.
Now, you have a number of possibilities.
• If you selected the content of a cell, you can display the data in the export
(Cue & Play).
• If you selected the content of a column, you can select the data set from list
in the Inputs list, as follows:
a. In the Production window, select the control, and click Cue.
b. In the Inputs list, from the drop-down list, select the required data set.
c. Click Apply.(cont.)
98 Using a Database |
d. Click Play.
The data set is displayed in the export.
• If you have a Data Group control, you can select a data set to display from
the Data Group.
a. Create a Data Group control and connect it to your database (see Data
Groups on page 82).
b. In the Action control, in the Data tab, set up a query and set a key as
required.
For example, In an MS Excel database, use the query:
Example
6. Databases
g. Click Cue & Play.
The selected data set is displayed in the export.
Using a Database | 99
6. Databases
An Advanced playlist control allows you to define a sequence in which to play controls
during a broadcast (“events”), and set their order, timing, and more.
This section explains the settings available for a playlist control. For information on
building a playlist, see Building a Playlist on page 109.
In order to use a playlist, you must set the time-base appropriate for your studio
setup. For information on how to do this, see Server on page 127.
When you add a playlist by right-clicking the production panel, and selecting from the
available controls, the Advanced playlist control is added to the production. It is
available in the Controls menu, as well.
The Advanced Playlist dialog box opens displaying the General tab.
3. Set the options in the General tab as required.
UID A unique identifier that 3DPlay uses for this control only. If the
UID is not linked to the action name, and you leave this field
empty, the system assigns a UID automatically.
NOTE:
UIDs are the label by which a 3DPlay device/control is
identified to all other devices and controls. It is
recommended not to change a UID once it has been set.
7. Playlists
Auto Advance - play one event after another, according to the
order set in the playlist. Clock - play events according to the
time set for each event. Manual - each event in the playlist must
be played manually.
Loop When this check box is selected, the playlist is played out in a
Playlist loop. You can set the number of loops to play in the Loop Times
field (0=infinite).
When cleared, the playlist is played once.
Remove When this check box is selected, the playlist is cleared of events
Event After that were played, not including the most recent items. You can
Play set the number of the recent items to keep, in the Leave Last X
Events field. Remember that if you save the production after
events are removed, that is how the playlist is saved.
When the check box is cleared, events are left in the playlist.
Log Level Set up advanced logging options for the control, other than what
you set in the Application Settings dialog box.
Event Level
Default Cue The default Cue time given to events when they are added to the
Time playlist, provided the time was not calculated in the control (see
The Cue&Play Toolbar on page 70) or that the actual cue time, is
shorter than the default.
Default The default Duration time given to events when they are added
Duration to the playlist, provided that the time was not calculated in the
Time control, or that the actual duration is shorter than the default.
Clone Used Select this check box to create virtual copies of the controls used
Actions in the playlist, to allow using the same control sequentially in
different events with different data.
I.e., one instance can be playing while another instance (with
different data) is being cued.
Get event When creating an event, its duration is set according to the
duration duration specified in the defined GI parameter, provided that the
from GI GI parameter duration is greater than the actual duration of the
Parameter event. If the GI parameter duration is lesser than the actual
event duration, the default event duration is used.
Forward Send event duration to Action control as play time upon cue.
event
duration to
control play
time
7. Playlists
Lock playlist Select to protect playlist event file during cue and play.
event file Fail CUE on playlist events (lock) error - if playlist event file
(.fzn) on cannot be locked, report cue failure.
CUE
When event Set what action to take when event is stopped; reset or stop
is stopped the Action control.
Expand When selected, show the expanded view of an event, when the
primary event is cued.
event on
CUE
If you want all subsequent playlists to be displayed this way, click Set as Default.
Event UID The unique identifier assigned to a playlist event. If one control is
added to the playlist twice, two events are created, each with it’s
own UID.
Details Displays the scene ID and Vslot details of the scene(s) used by the
referred control (assigned in the Scene View sub-tab) for a graphic
event, or the clip path for a clip event.
Display Displays the data matching the specified query key for the event,
Data defined as a display column in the data group. Up to four columns
can be displayed for a key. If the selected key is changed (for the
event), the change is sent to the referred control, only after the
event is cued.
Input Displays the input value that was specified for the control. Up to
four input values can be displayed, regardless of the number of
inputs in the Playout Controller.
Cue The time set for cueing the event. Default cue time is set in the
TimeOut Default Cue Time field.
You can calculate the cue time by clicking Cue in the control editor.
(See The Cue&Play Toolbar on page 70).
Play Time The time required to trigger all the commands in the control
referred to by the event. You can calculate the play time by clicking
Play in the control editor. (See The Cue&Play Toolbar on page 70).
Duration The time for which the event will remain current, before moving on
7. Playlists
to the next event. The duration can be set differently from the play
time, so that you can move to the next event before the current
event is played out, or leave the current event on air after it is
played out.
The default duration is set in the Default Duration Time field.
Status Shows the current status of the event, with color coding. When the
status is underlined, you can click it to get assistance from the
application.
Enable As Select this check box to create the As Run log file. When cleared,
Run File played events are not logged.
File Browse to select a file to use for logging. Logs are saved per day
in the specified location, using the original name with the current
date.
Play Play the current event to the defined device (and continues playlist
if Auto Advance mode is set).
Play Stop the current event and play the next scheduled event.
7. Playlists
next
Stop Stop the playlist sequence at the end of the current event.
Reset Reset the status of all events and sets the first event as the current
event. You can choose whether to load the playlist from the last
saved version (to include removed events), or not (to reset the
status of the events currently displayed in the playlist).
Edit The playlist control can be locked for editing (playlist is highlighted
Mode in blue) or open for editing (playlist is highlighted in green), by
toggling this button.
Additionally, you can right-click any “clock” to display a list of times that can be
displayed in the playlist.
Additional Options
In the Advanced playlist menus, you can perform the following;
Insert Open a browser window to insert a saved playlist to add into the
current playlist. New content is added as a group (or groups) after
the currently selected group.
Append Open a browser window to append a saved playlist to the end of the
current playlist.
Play Play the current event to the defined device (and continues playlist if
Auto Advance mode is set).
Reset Reset the status of all events and set the first event as the current
7. Playlists
event. You can choose whether to load the playlist from the last
saved version (to include removed events), or not (to reset the status
of the events currently displayed in the playlist).
Hotkeys Open the Hotkeys dialog box, allowing you to set the hotkeys to
Select or to Select & Play the current playlist.
For more information, see Customize on page 20.
Events menu
Load Event Open a browser window to open an event saved from a different
playlist or production.
Event Type Set the triggering type of the selected event to Auto Advance,
Manual, or Clock. For more information, see Default event type for
new events on page 103.
Edit Event Open the Edit Event dialog box to set UID, type, time, cue timeout,
and duration.
Edit For events that reference controls, open the control editor.
Control
Expand All Expand the display of all events in the current group.
Shrink All Collapse the display of all events in the current group.
Properties Open the Group Properties dialog box to change the group name or
Triggering Date. For more information, see
Tools menu
For a description of the options set in the Tools menu, see To define Playlist settings:
on page 103.
Groups
7. Playlists
A group in the playlist is a container for events. Groups may be assigned a name and
start time.
NOTE:
The Triggering Date check box is enabled when the first event in the group is a
clock event.
The Automation Playlist control allows you to define a sequence in which to play
controls during a broadcast (“events”), and set their order, timing, and more.
This section explains the settings available for a playlist control. For information on
building a playlist, see Building an Automation Playlist on page 120.
In order to use a playlist, you must set the timebase appropriate for your studio setup.
For information on how to do this, see Server on page 127.
1. Click Settings .
The Playlist Settings dialog box opens.
7. Playlists
UID A unique identifier that 3DPlay uses for this control only. If the
UID is not linked to the action name, and you leave this field
empty, the system assigns a UID automatically.
NOTE:
UIDs are the label by which a 3DPlay device/control is
identified to all other devices and controls. It is
recommended not to change a UID once it has been set.
Log Level Set up advanced logging options for the control, other than what
you set in the Application Settings dialog box.
Event Level
Loop When this check box is selected, the playlist is played out in a
7. Playlists
Playlist loop. You can set the number of loops to play in the Loop Times
field (0=infinite).
When cleared, the playlist is played once.
Remove When this check box is selected, the playlist is cleared of events
Event After that were played, not including the most recent items. You can
Play set the number of the recent items to keep, in the Leave Last X
Events field. Remember that if you save the production after
events are removed, that is how the playlist is saved.
When the check box is cleared, events are left in the playlist.
Default Cue The default Cue time given to events when they are added to the
Time playlist, provided the time was not calculated in the control (see
The Cue&Play Toolbar on page 70) or that the actual cue time, is
shorter than the default.
Default The default Duration time given to events when they are added
Duration to the playlist, provided that the time was not calculated in the
Time control, or that the actual duration is shorter than the default.
Clone Used Select this check box to create virtual copies of the controls used
Actions in the playlist, to allow using the same control sequentially in
different events with different data.
I.e., one instance can be playing while another instance (with
different data) is being cued.
Send event Get the event duration of the currently played event from the
duration to automation system and send it to the GI parameter defined here.
GI
Parameter
3. Click the View tab to set the columns to be shown in the playlist.
7. Playlists
4. Select the check box next to the columns you want to display, as follows.
If you want all subsequent playlists to be displayed this way, click Set as Default.
Allow When selected, you can sort the events in the playlist according to
event the values in each column, by clicking the column header. When
sorting by cleared columns cannot be sorted.
column
Event UID The unique identifier assigned to a playlist event. If one control is
added to the playlist twice, two events are created, each with it’s
own UID.
Scene Displays the scene ID and Vslot details of the scene(s) used by the
Details referred control (assigned in the Scene View sub-tab).
Display
7. Playlists
Displays the data matching the specified query key for the event,
Data defined as a display column in the data group. Up to four columns
can be displayed for a key. If the selected key is changed (for the
event), the change is sent to the referred control, only after the
event is cued.
Inputs Displays the input value that was specified for the control. Up to
four input values can be displayed, regardless of the number of
inputs in the Playout Controller.
Cue Time The time set for cueing the event. Default cue time is set in the
Default Cue Time field.
You can calculate the cue time by clicking Cue in the control editor.
(See The Cue&Play Toolbar on page 70).
Play Time The time required to trigger all the commands in the control
referred to by the event. You can calculate the play time by clicking
Play in the control editor. (See The Cue&Play Toolbar on page 70).
Duration The time for which the event will remain current, before moving on
to the next event. The duration can be set differently from the play
time, so that you can move to the next event before the current
event is played out, or leave the current event on air after it is
played out.
The default duration is set in the Default Duration Time field.
Status Shows the current status of the event, with color coding. When the
status is underlined, you can click it to get assistance from the
application.
NOTE:
Only basic playlists (available in the Controls menu) can be controlled by an
Automation system.
7. Playlists
Expose storage When selected, the Automation system can read saved
event UIDs to storage events. When cleared, saved storage events
automation are not accessible to automation.
On validation load When you validate the event in the playlist, load
missing events from missing events from storage if the event is missing
storage (and UID exists in storage).
Enable auto ordering When this check box is selected, the events in the
by event status playlist are automatically (and continually) ordered
according to their Status.
Update event Replace the currently known event duration with the
duration with duration parameter sent by the automation system.
received duration
5. Click OK.
7. Playlists
Each Playlist event is triggered by the Automation system, using the event UIDs.
NOTE:
In order to play a complete playlist from an automation system, a Automation
Mediator control must be defined, and the automation system must send the UID of
the playlist.
7. Playlists
3. Select the Enable ‘As Run’ File check box.
4. If required, browse to a different file in which to log the events, and set a character
to use as a separator.
5. Click OK.
Events are logged to the selected file, when the playlist is played.
NOTE:
The Metadata tab is available only when using SQL database storage. For more
information, see Storage on page 133.
Settings Opens a dialog box that allows you to set the way the current
Playlist control is run, displayed, logged, etc. (See Automation
Playlists on page 112).
Hotkeys Open the Hotkeys dialog box, allowing you to set the hotkeys to
Select or to Select & Play the current playlist.
For more information, see Customize on page 20.
Load Load controls referenced by the playlist, that have not been loaded
Missing as part of the production, or are not saved in the same production
Controls as the playlist.
Refresh Refresh the playlist by reading its current state from the server.
7. Playlists
For more information, see Playlist Validation on page 122.
Play Play the current event to the defined device (and continues playlist
if Auto Advance mode is set).
Stop Stop the playlist sequence at the end of the current event.
Set as Set the selected event to be the current event (the next event to
Current be played).
Reset Reset the status of all events and sets the first event as the current
event. You can choose whether to load the playlist from the last
saved version (to include removed events), or not (to reset the
status of the events currently displayed in the playlist).
Edit The playlist control can be locked for editing (playlist is highlighted
Mode in blue) or open for editing (playlist is highlighted in green), by
toggling this button.
Load Open the Fusions folder to allow you to open an event saved from a
Event different playlist or production.
from
Storage
Edit Open a dialog box allowing you to edit some of the event
Event properties.
Edit Open the editor for the control referenced by the selected event.
Control
Playlist Validation
Playlist events can be validated, according to the following parameters:
7. Playlists
The validation process is stopped if an item in the list is not validated, and an error
message is displayed. Validation can be done manually or from an automation system
(using the playlist/event UID).
Destination Set the 3DPlay playlist file to which the event will be added.
file
This chapter includes information on customizing 3DPlay for your needs. Preferences can
be set for the following:
Server on page 127
Plugins on page 132
Storage on page 133
Hotkeys on page 134
Client Logging on page 135
on page 135
NOTE:
Open the Application settings window from Tools > Settings.
Startup
The Startup settings allow you to choose actions to take when 3DPlay is started;
8. Setting Preferences
Automatic Select this check box to start 3DPlay without displaying the Connect
Login to 3DPlay Server dialog box. When cleared, you must confirm
connection details in the Connect to 3DPlay Server dialog box (see
Starting 3DPlay on page 14).
Load Select this check box to open the defined production upon startup.
Production When cleared, 3DPlay Controller opens in the state it was when last
closed.
Play Select this check box to set a control to play upon startup.
Control
126 Startup |
Server
The Server settings allow you to initial client settings upon opening 3DPlay (see
Starting 3DPlay on page 14) and to set clock preferences (the clock must be set in
order to work with playlists and timing controls).
8. Setting Preferences
Server and clock settings
Synchronize When this check box is selected, the current client production is
synchronized with the server data.
When cleared, the client opens without loading the server’s currently
opened production.
Server | 127
Server and clock settings
Log Level Set which events are saved to the Server log, as follows:
Off - No events are logged.
Exceptions - Only application errors are logged.
Important - Principle events and errors are logged.
Log - All events and errors are logged.
Verbose - All events, actions, and errors are logged.
Get update Specify the update frequency of reading time from system clock.
every
8. Setting Preferences
128 Server |
Cue
The Cue settings allow you to determine system behavior when a control is cued.
8. Setting Preferences
Default Cue Set the time before cue fail notification is displayed.
Timeout
Lock validate Select this check box to prevent changes to file validation when
file on cue an item is cued.
Fail CUE on Select this check box to display cue fail notification when a
assigned referenced render unit is disconnected. When cleared, no
Render Units notification is displayed.
disconnected
Fail CUE when Select this check box to display cue fail notification when
graphics not referenced graphics have not loaded. When cleared, no
loaded notification is displayed.
Fail CUE on Select this check box to display cue fail notification when a query
query error error occurs. When cleared, no notification is displayed.
Fail CUE on Select this check box to display cue fail notification when a file
File management error occurs.
Management
error
Cue | 129
Validation
The Validation settings allow you to determine parameters for successful validation.
8. Setting Preferences
130 Validation |
Playlist
The Playlist setting allows you to determine system behavior when a cued event is
stopped. The event can be Reset or Stopped.
8. Setting Preferences
Playlist | 131
Plugins
This list displays a list of plugins currently in use in 3DPlay.
8. Setting Preferences
132 Plugins |
Storage
In the Storage settings, you can determine where productions and production
elements are saved.
8. Setting Preferences
Storage settings
Database When you choose this option, you must indicate what database you are
Storage using. The File Storage option is for the MSSQL database.
The Native Database option is for the Orad database.
Below, enter the required connection information.
Storage | 133
Hotkeys
In the Hotkey settings, you can set keyboard shortcuts to control a number of playout
operations in the Production window. Set hotkeys for Play, Stop, Inputs, Cue, or
Cue & Play.
8. Setting Preferences
NOTE:
To remove the hotkey for any function, click Clear.
134 Hotkeys |
Client Logging
The Client Log is created as a file that lists errors, warnings, etc. to allow
troubleshooting errors in the application.
The log file is saved in the 3DPlay\Client folder as 3DPlay.log.
In the Client Logging settings, select the relevant check box to define which entry
types are added to the log.
8. Setting Preferences
136
Client Logging |
9. Browser
The 3DPlay Browser is a separate, standalone application intended to be used for creating
and previewing playlist events on any PC. The Browser uses RenderEngine to preview
events, and then to save them. You can render graphics to a video file and save them as
a a clip.
The events can later be loaded into a 3DPlay playlist manually or via an automation
system.
In this section:
Using the Browser on page 138
Browser Menus on page 142
Customizing the Layout on page 143
3DPlay Browser Settings on page 145
Using the Browser
To open the Browser:
■ Open the Browser application using the 3DPlay Browser desktop icon.
The Browser window opens.
9. Browser
9. Browser
b. Select a production, and click OK.
The production’s Action controls are loaded and displayed in the Production
Controls tab.
2. Select an Action to execute in your event.
The Action’s GI parameters are displayed under Inputs.
3. Edit the Action as required, and click Apply.
Only GI parameters that were defined as external can be edited manually.
If the Action is connected to a data group control (in 3DPlay), you can select the
data group from the drop-down list, and select an item from the data group to use
for the event.
NOTE:
In order to see Data Groups, you must copy the file devices.xml from
3DPlay\Server\config to 3DPlay\Browser\config.
4. Click Load All to load the Action’s graphics in the Preview window.
5. Adjust the aspect ratio as required, in the Playout Control drop-down lists.
6. Cue & Play the Action to review it.
If required, set the event duration.
7. Click Save to save the Action as a playlist event with the specified parameters.
If you don’t assign a UID manually, one is assigned automatically.
The saved event is displayed in the Events tab.
Output clip Set the required name for the clip, or leave the default name.
name
Priority Set the item’s priority in the playout control. Low, Normal, and
High priority items will be executed in relation to the other items
in the playout control. Critical items will stop the current item
and be executed immediately.
Frame count The duration of the event is displayed in frames. You can modify
the number of frames to be rendered as a clip.
Incoming Set the folder in which the “render to file” tasks are located; the
task folder Cue and Play script of the action or event.
Profiles Set the folder in which the output clip profile parameters are
description stored.
5. Click OK.
The item is added to the playout control, and executed in the cue.
9. Browser
Search Open the Search dialog box to search for assets according to
defined parameters.
Tools Menu
Settings Open the Settings dialog box to set various preferences for the
Browser. See 3DPlay Browser Settings on page 145.
Help Menu
Load layout When selected, the layout selected from the list is loaded upon
startup. When cleared, the default layout is loaded.
Load When selected, the production selected from the list is loaded
production upon startup. When cleared, the browser is started without
opening a production.
Load graphics When selected, when selecting a Control, only the graphics of
into RE the control are loaded to the Preview window. When cleared,
graphics are not loaded.
9. Browser
Server
Timebase Select the required video format time base for the clock.
25 fps – used for PAL.
29.97 fps and 30 fps – used for NTSC.
Render Unit
Render host Host name or IP address of the computer on which the Browser
is installed.
Storage
File Storage The location where productions and elements are stored.
Browse to the defined 3DPlay production folder.
Database When you choose this option, you must indicate what database
Storage you are using. The File Storage option is for the MSSQL
database.
The Native Database option is for the Orad database.
Below, enter the required connection information.
Event naming Define the naming format for each event created in the
method Browser; name can include a prefix and an incremental
number, or a manual name/number.
Take event Use the duration defined in the selected GI parameter as the
duration from event duration.
GI Parameter
Panels
CtrlUpdateAndPlay Data
CtrlSetDefaults Data
Disconnect
Reset
Appendix
a global or GI
parameter.
Numerics HDVG 32
connecting
all devices 21
3DPlay server controller 14 automation mediator 41, 48
database 36
A GPIO device 38
HDVG 32
render unit 34
action
container 24
control 52
control
editor 56
copying 53
adding
creating 52
advanced playlist 52 manager 54
automation mediator 41, 48
menu 53
control 52
pausing 62
database 36
control details 25
GI parameter 72 copying control 53
global parameter 74 creating
GPIO device 38
control 52
HDVG 32 GI parameter 72
new render unit 32 global parameter 74
playlist 52 new render unit 32
advanced playlist 52, 101 panels 23
control 102 cue tab 69
advanced playlist control 52
animations 92
application settings 20 D
archiving productions 18, 28
assigning graphics to channel/device 57 data group
assigning render unit 57 control 52
automation mediator editor 82
control 52 data source manager 35
editor 85 data streamer
automation systems 41, 85 editor 86
data tab 75
C database query 75
defining
database 36
calculator 62
database query 75
client-server 8
new render unit 32
clip viewer control 52
details tab 56
color palette 54
devices
command
bar 22
list of 61
connecting all 21
removing 71
disconnecting all 21
configuring
disconnecting
automation mediator 41, 48
all devices 21
automation system 41, 85
automation mediator 41, 48
database 36
database 36
GPIO device 38
| 151
GPIO device 38 M
HDVG 32
docking control/elements 20, 22
merging productions 18
E
N
editing
action control 55 new features 9
automation mediator control 85
data group 82 O
data streamer control 86
GPIO control 84
opening
pacer control 78
automation mediator manager 41, 48
exporting production for earlier version 18
control manager 54
GPIO manager 38
G render unit manager 32
GI parameter 72 P
GI parameter editor 72, 77
global parameter 74
pacer control 52
global parameters viewer 21
pacer editor 78
GPIO
panel 23
control 52
panels 23
editor 84
pausing a control 62
manager 38
play panel 25
graphic item tab 60, 78
play tab 69
graphic menu 53
playing
grouping commands 62
animations 92
GUI language 21
scenes 94
playlist 52
H control 112
validation 122
hotkeys 54, 110, 121, 134 playlist control 52
playlist, advanced 101
playout controller 25
I plugin 132
production window 17
if-then commands 90
importing production from earlier version Q
18
inputs list 20, 22, 25
interface language 21 query 75
refining 77
query tab 80
L
R
language 21
layout editor 23
line manager 79 refining database query 77
lines tab 81 removing
loading graphics 19 command 71
log 135 render unit 33
logic 91 renaming a production 28
render unit
152 |
assigning to control 57 vslot
manager 32 clearing 94
RenderEngine, starting and stopping 22
running
tickers 93
W
saving
control outside production 30
Z
production 28
production for earlier version 18 zipping productions 18, 28
to new location 133
scene 94
sending content to ticker 81
server controller 14
setting
interface language 21
ticker content 81
setting up a query 75
settings 20
shortcut to control 53
showing
hotkeys 20, 22
inputs 20, 22
simulating GPIO device 40
snapping to grid 20, 22
split panel 23
starting
3DPlay 14
RE 22
storage 133
streaming protocols 45
synchronizing 126, 127
synchronizing with server 127
| 153
154 |