Technical Knowledgebase

GenCG opens in demo mode

There are numerous types of Compix systems available. Please determine what type of system you have by looking at the Compix serial number located on the Compix chassis itself.

For AllCG Compix Systems (serial number similar to: AA0001-SA-001 or AA0001-SDA-001)

1. 1. Open the AllCG Control on your desktop and click on the [Lock] button. Make sure GenCG is activated. If it is not, please contact Compix Support.
2. 2. If GenCG is activated, close the GenCG welcome screen and go to C:\Program Files\Compix. Rename your GenCG folder. Afterwards, download GenCG SD from our downloads page located at www.compix.tv/downloads/downloadselect.html. The installation will create a new GenCG folder. If it opens successfully, you can cut and paste its contents into the new GenCG folder.

For Matrox Compix Systems (serial number similar to: A00001)

If GenCG does not open correctly with your HD or HD Ready Compix system, you'll need to make sure your Compix Controller is properly set. Close GenCG and all other messages before continuing.

1. 1. Open your Compix Controller from your desktop.
2. 2. Make sure all settings are correct under the [Genlock] tab.
   1. A. If you have analog Black Burst going into the Ref-In of your system, set [Genlock] to [NTSC] and [Source] to [Black Burst] with [Frame Rate] at [30M].
   2. B. If you have 1080i video going through the Compix system, set [Genlock] to [1080i (1920x1080)] and [Source] at [Video In] with [Frame Rate] to the corresponding video.
   Once your Genlock is setup correctly, [Source] should turn from [Free Running] to [Locked].
3. 3. Now click on the [Change] button inside the [Video] tab. These settings pertain to your video output. Make sure [Frame Rate], [Bit Count], and [Aspect Ratio] are the same between both the [Genlock] and [Video] tabs.
4. 4. Once finished, press the [Test Pattern] button. Go to [Initialize] > [Start].
5. 5. Pick a test pattern. If you do not see it on your output monitor, adjust the [Vertical] and [Horizontal] settings.
6. 6. Once everything is set in place, click [Save] and re-open GenCG. It should open successfully.

For G3 Compix Systems (serial number ending in: T)

This happens if Windows has been recently updated, the system is improperly shutdown, or if there had been significant changes to the system.

1. 1. Click on [Start] > [All Programs] > [Startup] then click [VGAinit3] or [G3init].
2. 2. Once clicked, completely shut down the system and disconnect the power cord for 20 seconds (until there is no power going to the motherboard).
3. 3. Now reconnect the power cord and boot up the system. Everything should work properly.

For Genlock Compix Systems (serial number ending in: +, A, U, U/T, N, or P)

1. 1. Check if the system detects the Compix Board:
   1. A. Click on [Start] > [Settings] > [Control Panel].
   1. B. Go to [System] > [Hardware] > [Device Manager]. (If you do not see [System] under [Control Panel], please click on [Switch to Classic View].)
   2. C. Under [Display Adaptors] you will find "Cirrus Logic Laguna 5465" with an exclamation (!) mark.
   3. D. If you see the above, you know the system is detecting your board. Continue to step 2.
   4. E. If you do not see "Cirrus Logic Laguna 5465," skip to step 4.
   5. F. If you do not see an exclamation (!) mark, skip to step 5.

1. 2. Check if the system detects the Compix Drivers:
   1. A. From the [Device Manager], click [View] > [Resources By Type].
   2. B. Double click [Interrupt Request (IRQ)] to open the list.
   3. C. About halfway down the list, you should see "GenlockVGA".
   4. D. If you see the above, you know the system is detecting your Compix Drivers. Continue to step 3.
   5. E. If you do not see the above, please install the GenlockVGA Utilities from the Compix past software downloads page located at http://www.compix.tv/downloads/past-software-other-downloads.html. Go back to step 1.
2. 3. Activating start-up type:
   1. A. From [Resources By Type] > [Interrupt Request (IRQ)] in step 2, double click [GenlockVGA] to open the window.
   2. B. Click on the [Driver] tab.
   3. C. Under [Startup Type], select [System] and click [OK].
   4. D. Restart your system and open GenCG; everything should work properly.
3. 4. Have a Compix Fresh Start:
   1. A. If Windows is not detecting your Compix Board, shut your system down. Take off the cover to your system.
   2. B. Locate the green Compix Board with two (2) black connectors (with a white sticker on the board).
   3. C. Take out the Compix Board and wipe off the copper connector strip with an eraser.
   4. D. Place the compix Board into a new PCI slot or, if none are available, back into the same slot.
   5. E. Turn your system on. Everything should work properly.
   6. F. If there is a VGA-init error at start-up, go to step 1.
   7. G. If you run GenCG and receive a welcome screen, go to step 5.
4. 5. Checking BIOS:
   1. A. If you do not see an exclamation mark next to "Cirrus Logic Laguna 5465" from step 1, the Compix Board is having conflicts with the graphics card. Restart your system and go into the BIOS (rapidly press the Delete key as you restart the system until inside the BIOS).
   2. B. If your VGA monitor stays black, plug the VGA cable directly into the Compix Board.
   3. C. Once inside the BIOS, go to [Advanced] > [Chipset] > [Northbridge] > [Primary Graphics Adaptor]. (Note: All motherboards have a different BIOS, but try navigating to something regarding your Display or Graphics Adaptor.)
   4. D. Change the [Primary Graphics Adaptor] to [Onboard AGP], press the Enter key then F10 to save changes and exit.
   5. E. Once your system restarts, make sure your VGA cable is plugged into the graphics card, not the Compix Board.
   6. F. If you receive an error message when Windows starts, go to step 1.

For 3DX Compix Systems (serial number similar to: 3DX-001)

This happens because the LCG9000R HD actually converts your second monitor to an HD signal. When Windows loads, make sure your VGA monitor is turned on so Windows will know to display through that monitor as default and not your HD output.

1. 1. Completely shut down the system and disconnect the short DVI to DVI cable in the back.
2. 2. Boot up the system. After Windows completely loads, reconnect the DVi to DVI cable.
3. 3. Right click your Desktop and select [Properties] > [Settings]. Change the second monitor to 1920x1080.
4. 4. Select [Extend My Windows Desktop onto this Monitor] and click [OK].
5. 5. Now you will see a grey icon on the bottom toolbar next to the clock that says "3DX Control". Open it.
   1. A. If you have HD-SDI video going through your Compix system, select [Internal Overlay] and [Video Out]under [Output Mode].
   2. B. If you have your Compix system going into your switcher, do not select [Internal Overlay]. Only select [Video Out] and [Key Out] under [Output Mode].
6. 6. After making changes, click [OK] and open GenCG. It should open properly.

Dissolve or cross-dissolve in GenCG

GenCG has over 260 different types of transition effects to choose from, but primarily a simple Cut or Dissolve is all you need.

Note: to dissolve pages, you will need a video input or page to dissolve with. If the Compix output is going through a switcher, bring up a camera or bars before continuing.

Standard Dissolve 

To dissolve a page, you will first need the In transition effect set to [F] (fade). Inside the Page List, click on the upper Transition Effect of the page; this will bring up the Efects tab shown below. Now click on the [F] transition effect.

Cross-Dissolve

With GenCG 5.0 and higher*, you are able to cross-dissolve pages with the [F] Transition Effect. To seamlessly cross-dissolve from one page to the next, set all In transitions to [F] and the Run Mode to [Manual (In)] or [Auto (In)]. If you would like to have an In transition as well as an Out transition while allowing some pages to have a cross-dissolve, set the Out transition of the first page to [X] and the In transition of the second page to [F].

* The ability to cross-dissolve also relies on your Compix hardware. If you use the latest AllCG or Martrox board structure, you are able to run GenCG 5.0 and higher which allows you to cross-dissolve successfully. IF you are running Genlock hardware (serial number ending in +, A, U, U/T, N, or P) with GenCG 5.0 or higher, cross-dissolves will not work properly, as GenCG 5.0 and higher are not intended for that Compix board structure.

Upgrading to GenCG 5.5

Is my Compix system compatible?

Please go to the link below to see if your system is able to run GenCG 5.5:

http://www.compix.tv/downloads/check-comp.html

Problems upgrading with HD or HD Ready Matrox systems (serial number similar to: A00001)

If you are upgrading from GenCG 4.7 HD, you will need to upgrade to the latest HD drivers and Controller before installing GenCG 5.5. Please follow the steps below to complete your setup.

1. 1. Download the latest HD or HD Ready drivers, Controller, and GenCG software from http://www.compix.tv/downloads/downloadselect.html
2. 2. Extract the zipped Compix drivers folder and install it first. After running the installation, it will remove your current drivers which may require a restart before finishing the installation. If, after restarting, the Compix driver installation does not automatically start when Windows loads, please run the installation again.
3. 3. After installing the Compix drivers, you should see a blue "M" icon on your toolbar next to your clock. If so, click to open it. At the top you will see "Display Information About: Software". Change it to "Hardware". If installed correctly, your board number and temperature should be displayed.
4. 4. Before going any further, go into your C:\Windows\system32 folder and delete these three DLL files:
   1. MatroxTransfer.dll (there are two)
   2. MVCentralManager.dll
5. 5. Now install the Compix Controller and GenCG software. If GenCG still opens in demo mode, please make sure it is activated by opening your Compix Controller and clicking on [Lock Info].

Problems upgrading with HD 3DX systems (serial number similar to: 3DX-001)

For all LCG9000R HD 3DX systems, the highest recommended GenCG version is GenCG 4.6. All other versions have not been tested. If you are looking to upgrade your GenCG software beyond the recommended supported software, please contact sales at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for more information about Compix hardware alternatives.

Chroma key images in GenCG

If you import a 24bit .bmp or .tga file, GenCG will automatically take out any black area of the image containing the color code: R=0, G=0, B=0. One way to achieve this is through Microsoft Paint. Fill the empty space around the image with black and save. This is useful if you don't have Adobe Photoshop®.

Numeric keypad shortcuts in GenCG

These shortcuts can be found on the numeric keypad.

Key		Function
0-9		Page Number Input
Enter		Load to Preview/Playback
0, Enter		Load Previous Page in Preview
+		Increase Crawl/Roll Speed
-		Decrease Crawl/Roll Speed
*		Pause Crawl
/		Cancel Crawl or Animation, Reveal, Clock, Timer
0(Insert)		Cut Current Page to Air
.(Del)		Clear Program Output

Adjusting the safe area

You can enable the GenCG safe area adjustment option by going to [Tools] > [Adjust Safe Area] and changing the safe area directly on the canvas. Also, when this option is enabled, you can click on [Live View] in the toolbar or press F5, enabling you to see the safe area on your video output. Once you have made the proper changes, go to [Tools] > [Adjust Safe Area] to deactivate the option.

The [Tools] > [Controller] or GenlockVGA Control is grayed out

The reason why the controller cannot be accessed is because GenCG is either playing a graphic or the software is in Demo mode. To stop playing, go to the [Playback Control] and click on the stop button then on [Clear]. If it is not supposed to be in Demo mode, please contact our support team.

Page List thumbnails are too small/large

Option 1 - Changing the Page Thumbnail Size

For GenCG 4.7 or above, you can change the page thumbnail size in the Page List and Playback Control window by going to [View] > [Stamp Size] and selecting the appropriate size. GenCG default setting is [Medium].

Option 2 - Exporting Text Information on Each Page

You can view text from all the pages in Notepad by clicking the Notepad icon on the toolbar or press Ctrl + Alt + V. The page number associated with the text is denoted by the open and closed angle brackets (< and >). Even though the file is read-only, you can print it for reference. If you are interested in having GenCG watch text files and have the information automatically update the page, please contact your Compix dealer to ask about the AutoCast automation software.

Option 3 - Using a Second VGA Monitor

Connect a second VGA monitor to the Compix system. Go to [View] > [Page Window] or press F11. All the pages in the Page List can be viewed in this window. Move the Page Window into your second monitor for a well-organized view of your sequence.

View more page thumbnails on the Page List window

Option 1

If you are using GenCG 4.7 or above, you can decrease the size of your page thumbnails in the Page List and Playback Control window by going to [View] > [Stamp Size] > [Small]. GenCG default setting is [Medium]. With smaller page thumbnails, you are able to see more.

Option 2

Increasing the resolution of your VGA monitor will enable you to see more page thumbnails. Right-click on your desktop and go to [Properties] > [Settings]. The resolution settings are directly related to your VGA graphics card and/or VGA monitor capabilities.

The clock in GenCG cuts off and on with each page

For the clock to permanently be on-air throughout your page playout sequence without interruption, a dual channel Compix system or upgrade kit for a single channel system is needed. With a dual channel system, the clock can be placed with other objects on one channel, while the page sequence containing lower thirds and other full page graphics can be on the second channel.

With a single channel system, the clock will cut off and on with each page that plays.

What's the difference between Resident Clock and Clock/Timer?

Clock/Timer

With the Clock/Timer option, the clock will only appear for the page it is on. This is great for sporting applications.

Resident Clock

With the Resident Clock option, the clock reappears on every page following the insertion point to the very last page. The clock will appear at the same location on each page.

Controlling GenCG's clock through my scoreboard

This can be achieved through the Compix AutoCast software. With OES, Daktronics, or Translux/Fairplay scoreboards, you are able to automate the clock, as well as other data, through the controller. Call us for more information.

Quick navigation between Page Lists with CynerG2 (dual channel) systems

When running two instances of GenCG, there are a couple options that are available for dual channel users.

Option 1 - Multi-CG Page List

Both channels can be easily and seamlessly accessed through the Page List while using the [Multiple CG Page List] button. Select it on the first channel, minimize GenCG, and select it again on the second channel. With this, you will no longer have to access the two channels through the Microsoft Windows toolbar.

Option 2 - Multiple CG Controller

The icon next to [Multiple CG Page List] is the [Multiple CG Controller]. This allows you to control both channels simultaneously with one Controller. For easy switching between channels, press Ctrl + Tab. This will let you control the playout by using the numeric keypad on channel 1, channel 2, or both channels. When using this in addition to your normal numeric keypad functionality, you can completely control GenCG without using your mouse.

Targa files created in Adobe Photoshop® look distorted in GenCG

When creating a graphic in Adobe Photoshop®, also create an alpha channel for that graphic and save it as a 32 bit Targa file. It is recommended that graphics are saved as PNG as it includes transparency. Please see the 3rd Party Software section in this knowledgebase for instructions on how to create alpha channels in Adobe Photoshop®.

Using animations on any layer in GenCG 5.5

With GenCG 5.0 and above, you can place objects over animations as well as placing multiple animations on a single page. For customers running GenCG 4.7 or below, your compix hardware might not be compatible for GenCG's enhanced animation functionality. To see if your Compix system is compatible, please go to http://www.compix.tv/downloads/check-comp.html.

If you are placing animations behind other layers, you will need to change your GenCG Page Mode from [Still] to [Multi-Layer]. If your GenCG Page Mode is in [Still], the animation will always be in the foreground.

Controlling GenCG through GPI Trigger or APC

For direct communication with GenCG, GPI trigger or APC are available. This functionality enables the control of GenCG without being near the Compix system. Using a GPI trigger will allow you to play the pages in the same sequence as it is displayed in the Page List. Pages cannot be played out of order using this method. However, using the APC protocol will allow for you to do so.

GPI Trigger

With a GPI trigger connected through the serial port, you are able to Play, Stop, Pause, Clear, and Cut your graphics. Below is the diagram of the pin connections for GPI functionality.

Once you have connected the cable, open GenCG and go to [Tools] > [Options]. Under the [External Controller] tab, select the corresponding port in the [Port] field of the [Remote Controller/GPI Trigger] section.

APC

With the APC protocol integration, you can have control of GenCG playout functions. It allows you to use all numeric keypad playback functions listed below. Please email us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it if you are interested in receiving the APC Protocol kit.

 

Time code with GenCG, NewsScroll, or AutoCast

If you are running a clock in GenCG or other Compix software (except in certain sports applications), the information comes from the Date & Time Properties on your Microsoft Windows operating system. There are options for syncing the computer clock with an external source.

Traditional GPS/Time Code

The traditional method of synchronizing the computer clock to an accurate time clock has been through using a PC based time code card to receive data from a master time clock. This master time clock receives the time code from a GPS, TCP/IP based network, or dial-up system.

The data dlow is similar to this:

Note: The GPS Antenna will pick up GMT time every few seconds or minutes.

This method is still used often in large facilities that can afford the GPS, clock, and T/C equipment. You can add an aftermarket time code card to the Compix system, as long as the current Windows operating system is compatible. Compix does not have a recommendation list for any specific manufacturer and has not completed any testing.

Computer Network Time Protocol (NTP)

NTP is often used as a method to sync PC-based computers to a time source. It is described in the Wikipedia link here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Network_Time_Protocol

Network administrators are usually familiar with the setup. Here is a diagram of the data flow:

Receiving GenCG Edit licensing

GenCG Edit is a great tool you can use to create graphics away from your main Compix unit. For each registered Compix system, you receive one free GenCG Edit license. If you would like to purchase more, please contact us at 949.585.0055 or email us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . For our educational users, please visit this website going over free GenCG Edit licensing for students: http://www.compix.tv/gencg-rs.php

Playing Pages with GenCG Edit

Depending on the graphics card installed, GenCG may be able to playback pages with animations and effects through the same graphics card. If the graphics card is not powerful enough, GenCG will display a "No Playback Supported" message when opened. Any PCI-Express graphics card with Pixel Shader 2.0 or above should work.

There are two options for play output. The first option is if there is only one VGA monitor or you would like to play out on the same monitor as GenCG. To play it on your 1st VGA monitor, click the [Play] button and a small window will appear with the output. Click the Esc key to clear this window. If you have another VGA monitor, the second option is playing it through your 2nd VGA monitor as a full screen image by going to [View] > [2nd VGA].

Changing HD/SD Resolution Formats

If you want to change the resolution of your GenCG Edit canvas, go to [File] > [Change Edit Resolution]. You are able to change the resolution to NTSC, PAL, 1920x1080, or 1280x720.

If changing the aspect ratio is required, go to [View] > [16:9<->4:3].

Note: Changing aspect ratio will not change the resolution of your Playback Control output.

Registration Error with GenCG Edit

If an error message comes up when typing in the GenCG Edit activation code, the software has most likely been activated at least once before on the computer. If this is the case, please do the following before typing in the new activation code:

1. 1. Delete all files below in the registry. Click on [Start] > [Run] and type "regedit" to get to the registry.
2.     Note: Please save your current registry before editing it by going to [File] > [Export].
   1. A. HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\GCJELE
   2. B. HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Compix\GenCG
3. 2. After deleting one or both files, close the registry and retry the activation.

After transferring a GenCG file, images are replaced by question marks

When you save a GenCG document, all imported files such as images and animations are not saved with the document; only the file location is saved. If you transfer GenCG files from a computer to your Compix system, GenCG will ask for the location which all imported objects are located.

Instead of saving the GenCG file, you will want to export the content. Go to [File] > [Export GEF] to export (GEF stands for GenCG Embedded File). This will embed all images and animations giving you the exported file to move around.

To import the GEF file, go to [File] > [Imported GEF]. GenCG will ask you where to extract the file to.

NewsScroll comes up in Demo Mode

If NewsScroll comes up in Demo Mode, you must find out if it is activated on the Compix system. Open your controller program (depending on the system, it can be any of the following: Control, AllCG Control, Compix Controller, or GenlockVGA Control) and locate the [Lock Info] button. This will tell you if NewsScroll is activated. If NewsScroll is not activated, please contact us at 949.585.0055 or email us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

If NewsScroll is activated and is still coming up in Demo Mode, try restarting your Compix system and opening NewsScroll again. Make sure that your Compix system has a free channel to open NewsScroll with. If you have a single channel system, you can run NewsScroll or GenCG, not both simultaneously.

If restarting the computer does not solve the issue, backup your data then uninstall and reinstall NewsScroll. Some configuration files might have been corrupted.

Crawl(s) are not showing up on the Preview Window

Option 1

Go to the [Layers] > [Position] (for NewsScroll 3.5, go to [Crawl] > [Set Crawl Area]). You will see [Crawl Gap] and [Bottom Margin] on the lower left hand side.

The [Crawl Gap] indicates the amount of lines between each crawl. The [Bottom MArgin] indicates the amount of lines beneath both crawls. Make sure they are set appropriately.

If you cannot change the value of [Crawl Gap] and [Bottom Margin], backup the NewsScroll folder data, delete the folder C:\Program Files\Compix\NewsScroll (subsequently deleting all nested folders), and reinstall NewsScroll.

Option 2

If your [Crawl Gap] and [Bottom Margin] are set correctly and you still do not see your crawl(s), open the template in GenCG by double-clicking on the corresponding template to the left. Once the template opening in GenCG, verify that "@1" exists on a lower third bar. Also verify that your [Page Mode] is set to [Crawl], not [Still]. Save your changes and close GenCG.

Option 3

If your crawl are set up properly and you still do not see them, please make sure the data is correctly entered. Your data should include the following information (if you open the text document or press [Script Mode] after opening the data in NewsScroll):

*sc TEST (TEST would represent your template file name without the .gcg extension. Make sure there is a space between "*sc" and "TEST".)

= Line 1 (make sure all lines have an equal (=) sign at the beginning)

= Line 2

#### (four (4) hash (#) signs at the end are necessary for the crawl)

If the Layer Postion, Template, and Data settings are correctly entered, you should see the crawl successfully in NewsScroll.

The ticker background bar disappears when crawling data

When generating your NewsScroll template in GenCG, make sure the background ticker bar is about the length of 3 canvases. The ticker bar has to be longer than the longest text line, whether reading from a text file or RSS feed.

Dissolving Crawls and the Rollup Mode

Dissolving Crawls

The default method of bringing in crawls is through a cut. NewsScroll does give you the option of dissolving crawls in and out. You can control the speed of the dissolve as well.

After opening your crawl, go to [Crawl] > [Crawl BG Option].

Select [Starting/End Blank BG] if you would like your crawl to start and end with a blank background bar. If you would like the blank bar to dissolve in and out, select [Blank BG Fade In/Out].

Rollup Mode

NewsScroll has a feature which allows you to roll up the crawl data, allowing for the static display of the data. Each text line rolls from the bottom to the top of your crawl area.

Inside NewsScroll, select [Crawl] > [Change Roll Up Mode] > [Upper (Primary) Crawl]. Now with the upper or primary crawl selected, the Rollup feature will apply only to that crawl.

The speed of the roll itself can be adjusted under [Crawl] > [Roll Up Speed Settings]. The lower and upper crawl can be set independently.

Playing NewsScroll files through the Auto Start Setting

With the Auto Start Setting, you are able to have NewsScroll 4.0 or later versions automatically start playing your file when the file is opened.

To use this feature, set up the items how you would like them to appear, click the [On] button, and go to [Options] > [Auto Start Settings]. With the feature selected, save the .nss file by going to [File] > [Save] or [File] > [Save As]. When the .nss file is opened, items that were previously playing will automatically be selected and played.

NewsScroll also gives you the ability to open the .nss file with just a double click on the file itself. With this, you can place a shortcut to the .nss file on your Startup Folder of the Compix system. When Windows on your Compix system starts, it will open the .nss file and start playing, all without needing to access your keyboard or mouse.

Placing GenCG files beneath NewsScroll data with Cut Mode

You can place GenCG files under NewsScroll data with NewsScroll 4.0 and above by using Cut Mode. To do so, open NewsScroll and click on the [Cut] tab. This opens the Browse option which allows you to browse for your GenCG file. Once opened, each GenCG page is displayed in NewsScroll. To play pages, double click on a thumbnail to highlight it, select the [Cut] button at the top of the screen, and click [ON]. The selected GenCG page will appear in the background of the NewsScroll data. To switch between pages, simply double click the next page within the Cut tab.

Note: While NewsScroll 3.5 also has the Cut Mode function, it displays GenCG pages in the foreground of all data instead of the background. This is a normal function of NewsScroll 3.5.

AutoCast and DNF Control front panel switch or similar integration

Usage

The DNF Control Universal Switch Panel can be used in conjunction with any Compix Media system by using the AutoCast software. Operate the DNF Control in one of two ways:

1. 1. Program the DNF Control USP buttons to create and/or load individual pages for on demand playback through Intelligent Interface. This is great for preprogrammed emergency alerts or bulletin boards.
2. 2. Program the DNF Control USP buttons for complete create and playback control. This gives you the ability to Play, Stop, Pause, and more, without having to be next to your Compix system.

Connectivity

Ethernet or RS232 (25pin to 9pin adaptor required).

What You Need

The DNF Universal Switch Panel (USP) has multiple options such as the 8 or 16 front panel switch. More information is located at http://www.dnfcontrols.com/product/detail.jsp?product=1351&type=51&ref=1

Compix Media character generators with the AutoCast software are also needed. More information is located at http://www.compix.tv/products/autocast.html

Ease of Use Programmability

The Universal Switch Panel is easily configured using an off-the-shelf web browser such as Internet Explorer, Netscape, Firefox, or other commonly available browsers. Configuration changes are immediately active; no reboot is required. All configuration settings are retained in non-volatile memory.

Once your browser is set up, you will see a list of programmable buttons. Simply select the button you would like to configure, add an LCD display name, and write the command for what you would like to accomplish upon button press.

Configuring AutoCast

Create multiple pages to play out in your AutoCast software. Connect the DNF USP to your Compix system via Ethernet or RS232. After that is completed, open your internet browser and type in the IP address of the DNF Control. The DNF Control menu will appear. Type in the commands for each button and attach them to the Compix Media AutoCast software.

Compix Media AutoCast User Manual (Intelligent Interface begins on page 184): http://www.compix.tv/images/stories/pdf/AutoCast_Users_Guide.pdf

DNF Controls Universal Switch Panel User Manual: http://www.dnfcontrols.com/media/1352.pdf

Setting up an RSS Feed

Step 1

Create your RSS page in GenCG before linking the RSS feed. Begin by opening GenCG. Create two blank pages: the first page will be our static RSS page while the second page will be an RSS crawl. With the first page selected, create a few text boxes and graphics as seen in the image below. Your textboxes act as placeholders for the RSS data, therefore the content of each text box does not currently matter. Add alias names of "1Title", "2Title", and "3Title" on all dynamic data fields. All alias names must have the form "#" + "text" for AutoCast to communicate properly. (To create alias names for your placeholder objects, right click the object and select [Assign Alias].)

Step 2

For the second page, change your Page Mode from [Still] to [Crawl] (located on the upper GenCG toolbar). To create dynamic crawls for AutoCast, you will need 3 alias objects: background bar, an image you would like to display between feeds, and your default text. If you do not want an image to display between feeds, simply make the image object 100% transparent. For the defauls text, be sure to type "@1" so that AutoCast can communicate properly. Be sure to set the desired font type, size, and color of the text to be displayed. After creating the objects, right click on each one an select [Assign Alias].

• - Image alias name should be "@crawl_image"
• - Default text (@1) alias name should be "@crawl_data"
• - Background bar alias name should be "@crawl_bar"

Step 3

Go to [File] > [Save As] and save your RSS GenCG file inside the C:\Program Files\Compix\AutoCast\Templates folder. Close GenCG and open AutoCast. AutoCast now displays your new pages under the Template List to the left. They are named GenCG_file_name:1 and GenCG_file_name:2.

Step 4

Click on your first RSS page (GenCG_file_name:1) and check [Watch] in your Play Item Edit Window. Change your Data Type at the top to [RSS]. Now copy and paste your RSS feed address into the [Feed Source] in AutoCast and click [Add]. AutoCast will now load all data from the RSS feed. Click [OK]. You can now see the RSS feed data on the page within the Play Item Edit Window. Select [Fit] or [Wrap] if neccessary, otherwise click [Add] to add the page to your PlayList.

Step 5

Select the crawl page in the Template List. The three alias names appear in the Play Item Edit Window alias column. Check the [Watch] box and change the Data Type to [RSS]. Check the [Crawl Sequence] box at the top next to Data Type, then copy and paste the RSS feed address into the [Feed Source] field. Click [Add].

Step 6

Click on the Field column heading located at the bottom of the window, then select the Title column heading above the first RSS feed data. You will now see the label "Title" under the Field column. Click [OK] Your RSS feed will load accordingly. Now click [Add] in the Play Item Edit Window to add the page to the PlayList. Your RSS feeds are ready for air.

AutoCast stalls

If AutoCast stalls, crashes, or hangs when the application is open, the configuration files are most likely damaged.

1. 1. Go into C:\Program Files\Compix\AutoCast and delete the autocast.cfg file. Reopen AutoCast.

1. 2. If AutoCast continues to stall, a folder in your registry might be corrupted. Go into your registry by clicking on [Start] > [Run] and type in "regedit". Note: before editing your registry, back it up by going to [File] > [Export].
2. 3. Locate and delete the AutoCast file inside HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\LocalAppWizard-Generated Applications.
3. 4. If AutoCast still does not work, completely uninstall AutoCast, delete the AutoCast folder in C:\Program Files\Compix, and reinstall AutoCast.

Changing Object Layers

Compix Persona treats the layering of 3D and 2D objects differently.

Adjusting 2D Objects

There are multiple options for adjusting the layer of 2D objects. Use the layering options on your upper Toolbar shown in the image below. These settings can also be accessed when right-clicking on the object itself.

The layering of 2D objects can be manipulated in the Timeline as well. Find your selected object in the Timeline then left click and drag it to the appropriate position.

Adjusting 3D Objects

To adjust the layering of 3D objects, you will need to adjust them using the Z-axis in the Attributes tab.

Note: To bring 2D objects to the foreground above the 3D objects, adjust the objects appropriately using the timeline.

Disabling Mouse Wheel Zoom on Edit Window

To disable the mouse wheel from zooming in and out on the Edit Window, go to [Tools] > [Options] > [Customize] and select [No Mouse Wheel Zoom].

Importing Adobe Illustrator Files

When saving your file, Adobe Illustrator CS3, CS4, and above will need to be set up properly for a successful import. For CS3, make sure no options are checked in the Options menu when saving your file. When you are saving a file in CS4 or above, only check the [Create PDF Compatible File] box.

What file formats does Persona accept?

Here is a complete list of file formats Persona accepts: Targa, Bitmap, JPEG, Tiff, Gif, PNG, ZSoft, Paintbrush, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, DirectX, WMF, EMF, AVI, GenCG, WAV, and MP3.

When inserting objects, nothing appears or objects appear in a text box

When working with Persona, always make sure the Select Tool is active on your upper Toolbar before importing any object or information. You can easily access the Select Tool by pressing the Esc key on your keyboard.

When inserting an object, first press Esc, then select [Insert] > [Image Object].

Everything you need to know about Persona and Video Files

Persona accepts AVI files for video playback. The AVI file's audio is stripped when imported, but you can import WAV and MP3 files for Timeline implementation. The following information goes over everything you will need to know for the successful import and use of AVI files.

Playing AVI Files in the Compix Persona Software

Please insert the AVI files as Image Objects. To do this, go to [Insert] > [Image Object]. Select the video file and open. When playing the video, make sure your Page Mode is set to [Animation]. To preview the video file within the Timeline, make sure the Timeline is active by clicking on the [Animation] button to the left of the screen. By inserting AVI files as an Image Object, you can manipulate its size, hue, and other settings through the Transform tab.

Playing AVI Files with the HD Codecs Option

You can insert and play AVI files in one of two ways: as a Background or as an Image Object. For use as a background, you can only use Matrox codec based AVI clips, as it uses the Matrox hardware to play out. HD videos should only be played in the background.

1. 1. To play videos in the background, right click on your canvas and select [Set Background]. Select the video file and insert. Afterwards, select [Show Background] under the Page tab. When playing the video, make sure your Page Mode is set to [Animation]. To preview the video file within the Timeline, make sure the Timeline is active by selecting the [Animation] button to the left of the screen.
2. 2. To play videos as an Image Object, go to [Insert] > [Image Object]. Select the video file and open. When playing the video, make sure your Page Mode is set to [Animation].

List of Supported Codecs for AVI Files

• SD Codecs for insertion as Image Objects:
  
• DVCAM (25)
• DVCPRO 25
• DVCPRO 50
• D10
• MPEG-2I-frame 4:2:2 and 4:2:2:4
• MPEG-2IBP 4:2:0

 

• HD Codecs for insertion as Backgrounds - available with the HD Codec Upgrade Option

• MPEG-2I-frame 4:2:2 and 4:2:2:4
• MPEG-2IBP 4:2:0
• HDV (decode only)

Everything you need to know about Persona and Audio Files

Compix Persona accepts MP3 and WAV files for playback. You can insert them as an In or Out transition in the Timeline of each page. Persona plays audio files through the embedded SDI output on Channel 1 and Channel 2. If you have a video feed going through the Persona system (connected downstream of your switcher), there is no added CG audio output to that feed.

Inserting Audio Files

Under the Page tab, you have two options for audio input: insert an In Audio or an Out Audio. If you insert an In Audio, the audio file will play at the beginning of your Timeline. If you insert an Out Audio, the audio file will play when your Timeline finishes. To play either, select [Use] first then browse for your audio file.

Note: Audio files will play in their entirety regardless of how long the Timeline is. Please keep this in mind.

Persona crashes when opening

If the Video tab in the Options menu is incorrectly manipulated, Compix Persona might become temporarily unstable. If it crashes continuously when opening, please perform the following steps.

1. 1. Remove the blue USB lock from the Compix Persona system and open Persona. The software should open in Demo Mode.
2. 2. Now go to [Tools] > [Options] to open the Options menu. Now click on the Video tab. The Video tab will revert back to its default settings. Change a setting elsewhere in the Options menu and click [Apply], then [Save].
3. 3. Shut down Persona, place the blue USB lock back on the system. If placing it into a new USB slot, wait until the blue USB lock drivers completely install. Now open the software again.
4. 4. Go back to [Tools] > [Options] > [Video]. Change the Video Board to [Matrox DSXle2]. The resolution and other settings should be set appropriately, depending on your setup.

No video output or blue screen appears

When Persona is running, it is imperative that your computer's Power Settings are correct. Please verify the following settings if you get no video output or receive a Blue Screen of Death after using Persona.

1. 1. Right click on your desktop and select [Personalize]. Click on [Screen Saver] at the bottom right of the window and set it to [None]. Click [Change Power Settings] in the Power Management section to open the power options.
2. 2. Select [High Performance] then click [Change Plan Settings]. You may need to Show Additional Plans to see the High Performance option.
3. 3. Choose [Never] for both the [Turn off the display] and [Put the computer to sleep] fields. Click [Save Changes].
4. 4. Restart the Compix system.

Adobe Photoshop®: Saving Targa Files for GenCG Import

If an imported Targa file seems distorted in GenCG, the alpha channel was probably not created within Adobe Photoshop®.

With Adobe Photoshop® CS series, you will need to create an alpha channel for 3rd party software, such as GenCG, to read the image properly. Versions of Adobe Photoshop® before the CS line will create and save alpha channels within your Targa file automatically.

Please follow these steps to create an alpha channel:

1. 1. Open the image you created in Adobe Photoshop®. If it has multiple layers and you see the transparent background, merge your image by going to [Layer] > [Merge Visible]. If you do not see a transparent background, select the Eraser or Magic Eraser tool and delete the background after you've flattened the image.
2. 2. Locate the flattened layer on your Layers palette and select the transparency of the image by holding CTRL and left-clicking on the layer. This will create a marquee around the image.
3. 3. While the marquee is still around the image, bring up your Channels palette and create a new channel by clicking the [New Channel] button at the bottom of the palette.
4. 4. You will now see five channels: RGB, R, G, B, and Alpha 1. Select Alpha 1 and make sure every other channel is turned off.
5. 5. Select white as your foreground color on your main toolbar and fill the selection of the alpha channel by going to [Edit] > [Fill]. Make sure you set the Content Fill to [Foreground color] with [Normal] selected for the Blending Option and Opacity set to [100%].
6. 6. Save the image as a 32-bit Targa file and import the Targa file into GenCG.

Digital Juice: Exporting Animation for GenCG

The instructions below are for Juicer 3 only. Juicer 3 is Digital Juice's free software for customizing your animations

Basic Digital Juice Operations

1. 1. After opening the software, click [Jump Backs] to the left and locate the Jump Backs you currently own. You will notice that all Jump Back animations load in the center. Click on one to see the animation.
2. 2. Right click on the animation you want and select [[Add Item(s) to Batch]. The animation will then move to the Batch Panel.
3. 3. Select the Jump Back in the Batch Panel and click [Settings]. To the left you will see all customizable features that Juicer 3 has to offer. Please change the following:
   1. A. Canvas Size: If you want only the lower third animated, squash it down by making the dimensions around 720x125 for NTSC.
   2. B. Duration: Most Digital Juice files are 20-30 seconds long. Considering there are 30 images per second, it could take up a lot of space. It is highly recommended that the length be about 4-5 seconds long. Cross Dissolves can then be used to transition from the last frame to the first frame smoothly.
   3. C. Cross Dissolve: If you do shorten the animation, this option gives you the ability to cross dissolve your last frame with your first frame.

Setting Targa Sequence in Digital Juice

1. 1. After changing the settings to you liking, go to [Output] > [Format] > [Targa Sequence]. Change the [Output Location] and give it a file name. Note: When creating your file name, do not include numbers. This will complicate the GenCG import in detecting the sequence.
2. 2. Click [Render].

Inserting the Animation in GenCG

1. 1. After manipulating the Targa sequence in Digital Juice is complete, open GenCG and click on [Insert] > [Animation].
2. 2. Set [Files of Type] to [Image Files] and open the first image in your sequence. GenCG will ask if you want to save your sequence with its current name and if you would like to delete your sequence after the import.
3. 3. After it is loaded in GenCG, click on the Attributes tab and look for [Animation Loop] at the bottom. If the [Animation Loop] is set to 0, GenCG will play the animation continuously until the page is finished. If the [Animation Loop] is set to 100, the animation will loop continuously until you stop it. If you have your animation playing infinitely (set loop to 100), instantly cut it out by pressing the forward slash (/) key on your numeric keypad.

SwordSearcher®: Text Import to GenCG

SwordSearcher® is a Bible verse program that comes with Compix Spirit. For more information on this addon package, please contact us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

SwordSearcher® gives you multiple options for exporting data. The best way to insert text that GenCG can manipulate is by going to [File] > [Export Verses to File]. Select the verse of your choosing.

If you would like to just copy one verse, click [OK]. If you would like to copy multiple verses, type in the ending verse within the [Specify Verse(s)] field. In the above example, to copy three verses, type in Joh 1:2-4.

After saving the exported text file, open GenCG and go to [Insert] > [File As Text]. If you have [Word Wrap] selected in the options menu, your text will automatically align itself to the horizontal and vertical boundaries of your GenCG canvas. If the text goes beyond one page, GenCG will automatically create new pages to accommodate all text imported.

If you simply copy and paste your text from SwordSearcher®, no formatting will apply and it will simply be one page of text that may go beyond the boundaries of your page.

 

If you insert your file as text, here are some helpful tips to gear your up for a swift setup:

1. 1. If graphics are inserted before importing text, the graphic will appear on every new page created. If you have a standard lower third for all Bible verses, insert the graphic before importing the text. After aligning the lower third, adjust the GenCG horizontal and vertical boundaries so the text will only be inserted inside the lower third.
2. 2. Vertical and horizontal boundaries can be saved as a template by right clicking the Edit Window and selecting [Save Page to Catalog]. Once that is done, drag and drop the template into the Edit Window and your boundaries will already be set. If you have specific attributes for your text like color, height, and font, you can also save it with your page as a template.
3. 3. Text attributes can be changed on one page and have it propagate to multiple pages automatically. As an example, you change your text from white to yellow. To apply the change to multiple pages, select the text that was edited and select the pages you would like this change to apply to (hold Shift or Ctrl and click on multiple thumbnails in the Page List). Go to [Edit] > [Match Attribute] for the change to take effect.

Microsoft PowerPoint®: Importing Slides to GenCG

GenCG has an "import as background" feature that makes importing slides seamless. This can be found at [Insert] > [Background Image Sequence].

Follow the steps below to import slides into GenCG:

1. 1. Inside Microsoft PowerPoint®, open the desired file and go to [File] > [Save As] > [Other Formats].
2. 2. Under [Save As Type] select [JPG File Interchange Format].
3. 3. A window will appear asking "Do you want to export every slide in the presentation or only the current slide?" Choose the appropriate selection.
4. 4. Microsoft PowerPoint® will export all slides as an image sequence. Once it finished, open GenCG.
5. 5. Go to [Insert] > [Background Image Sequence]. Click on the first slide in your sequence and adjust the size and position within the GenCG menu.
6. 6. Insert the image. Now GenCG will automatically resize all images within the sequence.

Because the slides were inserted as a background, they can be easily typed over. If you would like the slides to be inserted as images instead, go to [Insert] > [Image Sequence].

Selecting an Anti-Virus Software for Your Compix System

If you are connecting your Compix system to the Internet, it is highly recommended that you install anti-virus software. You can use any anti-virus software, but make sure you disable the real-time protection option. If real-time protection is enabled, it might slow down your Compix system as that function requires a high usage of RAM.

If you are running Windows XP, you can also setup Power User accounts and restrict access to the Internet.