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Release Notes

What changed in each version, newest first.

11.5 ST 2110 over IP · RT-Calib in SLAC · timeline markers & Events Editor · new Graph V2 nodes

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Servers
Version 11.5PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Previz & Simulation

PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

3D Scene

Overall
  • Transformation Priors are now integrated into Primitives
    • The transformation priors are now fully integrated into any primitive derived from virtual cameras (such as cameras, projectors, and depth sensors). There is no longer a need to create a separate primitive for prior reference. PHOTON · XENON
    • A new toggle has been added under primitive properties for the transformation prior, allowing users to show or hide the associated prior in the 3D scene. A combo box enables users to select and move the prior independently of the primitive's transformation. PHOTON · XENON
    • Buttons have been added to update the prior transformation to match the primitive transformation, which can be useful after performing a calibration. PHOTON · XENON
    • A migration step has been implemented to preserve data from older projects, updating the transformation priors to align with the new workflow. PHOTON · XENON
  • Decorative objects now appear black in texture rendering mode. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Semi-transparent objects no longer appear white in wireframe rendering mode. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • We have resolved the issue where the 3D model does not appear after restarting Photon until it is re-synchronized. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • We have fixed the issue where manual calibration does not highlight the selected item while searching. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Particle System Primitive
    • A toggle has been added in the Particle System primitive properties to switch to Graph V2. PHOTON · XENON
    • Drop-down menus have been added to select a Graph V2 and an instance for rendering particles in the 3D scene. PHOTON · XENON

Some DXF files from Leica were not loading anymore, but this issue has now been resolved. PHOTON · XENON

LED Mapper
Lock addresses editing + Edit icon
  • DMX addresses are now locked and uneditable on the quad/screen. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • An Edit icon has been added to clearly identify edited pixels. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Edited addresses are preserved by default when changing quad configurations. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

I/O

PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
ST 2110

Photon now has a new implementation of SMPTE ST 2110 streaming protocols. ST 2110 is a set of standards that allows for the transmission of professional media over IP networks, facilitating greater efficiency and flexibility in broadcast environments. PHOTON · XENON

  • Native support for SMPTE ST2110 uncompressed video (2110-20) input and output over IP using Deltacast IP Virtual Card API. PHOTON · XENON
  • Supporting standard resolutions and frame-rates (up to 4K DCI 60Hz) , as well as RGB 8/10/12 bit, YUV 444 8/10/12 bits and YUV 422 8/10/12 bits. PHOTON · XENON
  • Frame accurate synchronisation is supported using the PTP standard. PHOTON · XENON
  • Stream redundancy (2022-7) support. PHOTON · XENON
  • A maximum of 5 streams are currently supported (in or out) up to 4096x2160@60Hz RGB-10 bits per stream. PHOTON · XENON
  • ST2110 support requires a specific 2110 license and modern VYV hardware with dedicated dual 100Gb NICs. PHOTON · XENON

The software significantly reduces processing overhead, enabling smooth and sustained output bandwidth. This release marks a key step in advancing our IP broadcast capabilities, ensuring reliable and high-performance streaming for professional media applications. For more details, please refer to the accompanying documentation. PHOTON · XENON

Input Devices
  • Fixed feedback loop when using Test Card. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Updated NDI to version 6.0.1. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • A warning is now displayed when an NDI sender uses an unsupported format. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
DMX
SACN can now use unicast and multicast simultaneously

Unicast can now be enabled for specific universes; others will use multicast. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

New DMX controls in the Timeline DMX Fixture Controls
  • Sequence Tab selection. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Enable/Disable Timecode. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
OSC
  • We have resolved the crash due to the OSC Client receiving a malformed packet. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Light Sensors
  • We have disabled Yocto light sensors support; this feature is now deprecated. PHOTON · XENON

Calibration

PHOTON · XENON

RT-CALIB & SLAC

Overall
RT Calib integration into SLAC Workflow

There is now a step {RT Calibration} between the {Calibration} and the {Reconstruction} steps in the Calibration Workflow window. PHOTON · XENON

RT Calib Cross Fade

The cross-fade value is now independent of the calibration one. PHOTON · XENON

Copernic - Optitrack Tracker Exclusion

By using the camera Priors ID exclusion at the Copernic detection stage, it eliminates all Copernics within the defined ranges. PHOTON · XENON

Improved feedback in the RT Calib User Interface
  • The camera information in the Calibration Tool Window is now shown in the RT Calib UI (Calibration error, pose error, fps, residual, and camera count). PHOTON · XENON
  • Camera information is now always visible when paired with a projector. PHOTON · XENON
  • Enable/disable RT Calib is now accessible in the contextual menu in the pairing view. PHOTON · XENON
RT-Calib Reset Pose Transformation

There is now a button in the automation properties to reset the pose transformation for both the projector and the camera. PHOTON · XENON

SLAC
  • We have added a port control UI. PHOTON · XENON
  • A SLAC port has been added in {Settings > Network}. PHOTON · XENON
  • We have significantly increased the speed of the SLAC’s reconstruction. PHOTON · XENON
SLAC Workflow Simulation Mode

New features and updates in the SLAC Workflow simulation mode: PHOTON · XENON

  • Null Trackers are considered as decoded copernics in cameras. PHOTON · XENON
  • The Camera Prior represents the physical camera, and the calibration results are applied to the virtual camera. This enables us to observe calibration errors by measuring the distance between the prior and the virtual camera within the 3D scene. PHOTON · XENON
  • The acquisition simulation is now done within the prior view. PHOTON · XENON

Lighting Programming

PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Albion
  • It enables the visualization of visible trackers in camera views and simulates the calibration ground volume, including Rt Calib and Albion Tracking. PHOTON · XENON
  • Albion Virtual IDs now have a Vertical (Y) Offset. PHOTON · XENON
- Added the possibility to reorder (drag-and-drop) selected lines in EGLUI table. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
New efficiency optimization of EGLUI & File Manager, and Photon startup time when the File Manager contains a lot of media. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Tracking Systems

PHOTON · XENON
Depth Sensors

Depth Sensor Primitives now have a pyramid to better visualize their position and orientation without the need to show the gizmo. PHOTON · XENON

  • Depth Sensor Float Data Type: We have changed the internal data type, which reduces by three times the amount of data transmitted on the network. PHOTON · XENON
  • We disabled RealSense support because their depth sensors have been discontinued. PHOTON · XENON
  • We have implemented various optimizations related to lidars. PHOTON · XENON
Get Primitive Property now supports Input Device & Depth Sensor Device
blob ID offset parameter for the Voxelizer, Blob Tracking FX, and Particle Renderer.

This allows the starting blob ID for virtually generated blobs to be set to a value other than zero, preventing conflicts with Copernics and/or other instances of Nodes/FXs. PHOTON

File Management

PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
YA16 Conversion Fix
  • Fixed an alignment issue that was offsetting pixels in YA16 GPU conversion. The alignment issue was proportional to the ratio (width/height) of the content, hence more visible on very wide ratio content. PHOTON · XENON
LUTs Support
  • Better support of LUTs coming from Da Vinci Resolve. PHOTON · XENON
Optimized performance of the File Manager
  • Transfers and conversions have been sped up and are now more stable. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

File Sequences' speed transfer has also been vastly improved. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Editing & Programming

PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Timeline
Proxy Multiple Source Outputs

Allow the "Proxy" clip to specify which output will be used from the source layer. This feature is useful when sourcing a Graph V2 clip that has multiple texture outputs. PHOTON · XENON

Timeline's control tab last state is now saved (i.e., Tools vs. Regions). PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

We have added a shortcut to switch between Tools and Regions tabs in the Timeline Module: [D] PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Preview Programming

We have improved the Timeline Preview Programming by ensuring that exiting the preview no longer fast-forwards the controller's playhead, which had previously caused issues in multi-user environments. Additionally, we have fixed the synchronization issue that sent local time to the display for just a frame. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Timeline Markers

We have introduced a new marker clip type to enhance the workflow for show control and show navigation. Marker clips appear in beige in the Timeline and allow for external DMX transport control, enabling seamless integration of lighting and video cues for a single operator. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

When a DMX command is sent, the Timeline’s Playhead jumps to the corresponding marker clip, triggering video cues. Markers can have unique IDs linked to commands from the lighting desk or mimicking the stage manager list, ensuring efficient cueing. Users can also add notes to markers for valuable reference. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

XENON

  • Marker Clip Type
    : A new Marker clip type has been introduced, which includes an ID, a Sub ID, and an Info field for better organization and reference. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • DMX Timeline Control
    : We have implemented new DMX timeline control types: marker ID and Sub marker ID. This feature allows for jumping to a marker's time when triggered from DMX. In case of duplicate IDs, the marker that appears first in time will be triggered. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Shortcuts
    • [M]: Add marker clip. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
    • [Shift+M]: Next marker. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
    • [Ctrl-Shift-M]: Previous marker. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Default Marker Clip Time
    : The default marker clip time has been set to 30 seconds in the settings. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Clip-Specific Properties Multi-Selection
  • Multiple clips of the same type can be selected to edit specific properties for the following types: Media, Proxy, Input Device, Virtual Projector, and Cue. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • A list has been added above the specific properties in multi-selection, making it easier to see the selection, select the current clip, and remove clips from the selection if necessary. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
New Editing Shortcuts
New Selection Shortcuts
  • [ CTRL+ALT+SHIFT+; ]: Select all clips under Playhead in all screens. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • [ CTRL+ALT+SHIFT+' ]: Select all media clips under Playhead in all screens. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Copy/Paste of Shared Clip Properties
  • [ CTRL+ALT+C ]: Copy shared clip properties of the current clip. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • [ CTRL+ALT+V ]: Paste all shared clip properties for the selected clips. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

The clip contextual menu allows you to paste only a section (Geometry, Blending, Transitions, etc.). PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Clip Distributor & Automatic Media Assignation to Screens
Create clips on multiple screens + Auto assign medias:
  • A new tool to help create and distribute clips on multiple screens simultaneously with very few clicks. In the Timeline editor bar, select {Tools -> Create Clips on Multiple Screens} or click on the distributor icon in the new side Tools Panel of the Timeline. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • A new input box has been added to the Screen Properties for entering a screen media pattern. This same input box is also available in the clip creator widget for creating media clips. When a media file name matches the specified pattern, it is automatically assigned to the corresponding clip on the screen. If multiple media items match the pattern, the first media is assigned to the first clip, the second media to the second clip, and so on. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • A button has been added to the File Manager contextual menu for replacing selected media clips in the Timeline, using the screen pattern similarly. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • A button has been added in the File Manager contextual menu to auto-create media clips. It pops the Clip Creator widget with media clips, and assigns all selected medias that match a screen media. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • A toggle has been added to only create the clips on selected screens. Off by default, so all clips are created no matter the selection. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Events Editor + New Playlist Clip Type

Introducing the Events Editor, which can be accessed from the Show menu or by using the shortcut [Alt+E]. This tool allows users to create and edit Scheduler playlists. A playlist consists of a sequence of events that will be executed one after another. Currently, there are two supported event types: cues and media (which can be images or videos). PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

A new Timeline clip type using a Scheduler playlist. When the clip is activated, it will trigger the start of the playlist (with a free-run mode available). In the future, more triggering options will be added, such as specific times or DMX values. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Reorder Events PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Multi-Selection + External Drop PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

- Added the support of multi-selection in the Table. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

- Allowed drops of converted media from the File Manager and cues from the Cue Editor to create events more easily. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Various improvements and fixes...

...have been made to the Timeline, including resolving issues with item selection, DMX control, and stacking of duplicated clips. Offline layer render toggles have been removed for better management. Additionally, multi-user color correction issues have been addressed, ensuring Looks are applied correctly across multiple servers. XENON · TACHYON

Various improvements and fixes
have been made to the Timeline, including resolving issues with item selection, DMX control, and stacking of duplicated clips. Offline layer render toggles have been removed for better management. Additionally, multi-user color correction issues have been addressed, ensuring Looks are applied correctly across multiple servers. PHOTON

Graph V2
New Nodes
  • Depth Sensor Node PHOTON
  • Signal Generator Node
    • The Node supports sine, cosine, triangle, and square signals, with a rescale value. PHOTON
  • New DMX 3D Mapping Node
    • The Node sends DMX control values based on the fixture information linked to the moving lights. PHOTON
    • It supports moving light fixture control types:
      • color. PHOTON
      • pan-tilt. PHOTON
      • intensity. PHOTON
      • zoom controls. PHOTON
    • There are two rendering modes:
      • Position: Projects the moving light position in the input camera space and assigns the corresponding input texture color to the selected control type. PHOTON
      • Target: Renders the input objects in the moving light viewpoint and assigns the target color to the selected control type. PHOTON
  • Audio Analysis Node PHOTON
  • Network Host Node PHOTON
  • Delta Time Node
    • It returns the number of seconds since the last graph evaluation. Useful for making framerate-independent animations through the graph. PHOTON
  • Blob Kalman Filter Node PHOTON
  • UDP Client/Server Nodes PHOTON
  • Slots and Nodes to manage binary data PHOTON
  • Implementation of the Video Node from the Graph V1 into the Graph V2 PHOTON
  • Control Node: new node to fetch information under Settings->Control PHOTON
Usability Features from V1 Ported to V2
Advanced Search

Can now list and search all nodes in the current graph. PHOTON

Legend

Lists all the slot colors and types. PHOTON

Align + Move selected Nodes shortcuts
  • [L] to align the selection. PHOTON
  • [Up/Down/Left/Right] to move the selection. PHOTON
Profiling
  • Added profilers to the Nodes. PHOTON
  • Added a toggle to visualize the data flow, while using the profiling toggle to activate the graph profiling in the same fashion as with the Graph V1. PHOTON

Nodes can now be selected by clicking on their content instead of just their header.

Shortcuts + Drag & Drop to create a clip
  • Added the ability to drag-and-drop a Graph V2 onto a layer to create a clip. PHOTON
  • Added support for the [X] shortcut to find and select a graph from the timeline. It also selects the graph instance used in the clip. PHOTON
  • Added shortcut {W} to create a Graph V2 clip. PHOTON
Improvement & New Features

Graph Nodes, also known as metaNodes, are now depicted with a contour. Double-clicking on the contour will open the graph.

Exposed slots now feature an icon instead of a dashed circle.

Snap to Source

Added support for "Snap to Source". PHOTON

Implementation of Pass-Through

Disabling the Node without cutting data flow. PHOTON

When you duplicate Nodes, the input connections will be maintained

Network Nodes now include a localhost selection option

The Network Nodes (monitor and host name) input combo box now provides the localhost option alongside all server names. PHOTON

Value to List Converters

When a slot requires a list of values but the input is a single value, a converter will be added to create a single-element list containing that value. PHOTON

The list slots now display the text values of their elements in tooltips

Add minimum and maximum slider values for Effects Nodes

Copying variable Nodes will now also create their associated variables when pasted into a new Graph

The default minimum and maximum values for the Graph V2 slider are now set to 0 and 1

Get Primitive Property now supports Input Device & Depth Sensor Device

Mapper Node is now split into two nodes: Get/Set

New 'Localhost' option in the Network Host Node & Network Monitor Node

Added Graph V2 particle Voxel support

(Voxelizer Node => Particle Cuda Texture => Particle Texture Locator) PHOTON

blob ID offset parameter for the Voxelizer, Blob Tracking FX, and Particle Renderer.

This allows the starting blob ID for virtually generated blobs to be set to a value other than zero, preventing conflicts with Copernics and/or other instances of Nodes/FXs. PHOTON

FX
New FXs
Scope FX

We have added an FX that displays a vector-scope rendering of the input texture. PHOTON

Three modes are available: PHOTON

  • waveform. PHOTON
  • RGB waveform. PHOTON
  • RGB parade. PHOTON

The samples parameter can be used to adjust the brightness of the scope. PHOTON

Low Mid High FX

We have added an FX that allows adjustment of low, mid, and high intensities (not per color as currently in the CC module). PHOTON

Improvements

The Fluid FX has been improved with several fixes, including addressing over-saturation in the 10-bit pipeline, ensuring timestep-independent simulations perform consistently at 60 fps, and reducing framerate dependence for better overall performance. PHOTON

We have fixed the Time Code FX feature in the FX Stack. PHOTON

We have deprecated some effects: PHOTON

  • Removed Noise Gradient FX; you should use Noise 3D FX. PHOTON
  • Removed Vector Flow FX; you should use Particle System. PHOTON
  • Removed Seascape FX; you should use Ocean FX. PHOTON

Removed Noise Gradient requirement from Liquid Paint (now requires a second input as noise). PHOTON

UX

PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Settings
Display Ident New UI and Features
New interface for Display Ident in the Settings module
  • New option to select the outputs that will display the Ident. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Contrast control per output. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Ident color is now calculated using outputs instead of primitives. The colors are no longer affected by linked primitives. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Ident works with output with no linked displays. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
UI & Shortcuts

New shortcut to quit without saving: {Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Q} PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Natural sorting (e.g., 1, 2, 10, 20, 100, ...) is now used in various lists of our software (file names, host names, device names, etc.). The original lexical sorting order (e.g., 1, 10, 2, 20, 100, ...) can be reverted using an Advanced Option. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

The Log Manager now includes a scrollbar for the list of machines on the left side. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Profiler

Color thresholds: PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

  • We have added two sliders to control the color interpolation thresholds of the profiler—specifically, the mid-point and maximum values (from yellow to red), measured in milliseconds. These adjustments can be found under {Settings > General > Profiler}. This enhancement will help users to more easily identify bottlenecks in their project setups. The thresholds apply to both Profilers V1 and V2, as well as Graphs V1 and V2. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

We have made Profiler V2 indentation smaller to better see the labels. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Performance improvements

We have introduced the ability to disable the "FPS" and "Network Monitor" logs from being sent to the console. This adjustment addresses issues causing stuttering in high framerate scenarios. A new option in the advanced menu allows users to disable these console outputs. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Tachyon

Tachyon's Calibration UI has undergone several improvements. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

An issue was fixed where some widgets would disappear when the tab was unpinned and the layout was altered, as not all widgets were present. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Additionally, the calculation for 3D viewport size has been corrected to account for the size offset of the calibration tools. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

We have implemented the Marker Clip Feature. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Lastly, a problem was resolved where object transformations were not applied to calibration points in the reference object window. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

VNA
  • We have fixed an issue with installer dependencies, which would not install correctly. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • We have added the natural sort order to various lists. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • It should be noted that Windows 11 changed the way consoles are handled. As a result, the minimized console window is always shown in the TaskBar. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Advanced Menu

Advanced Settings options are now categorized to allow for a more compact layout. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Version 11.3PHOTON

Previz & Simulation

PHOTON

3D Scene

Calibration Tab redesign

We have reorganized the calibration tabs, separating manual calibration, SLAC, and LED into three different tabs. The Calibration window now takes the entire length of the 3D Scene. PHOTON

New LED tools

We've completely redesigned the LED mapping tools. Both views are now visible at the same time, and quadding and manipulations have been greatly improved! PHOTON

LED DMX mapping fully integrated into the 3D Scene

We now support LED DMX mapping in the 3D Scene, with a complete set of tools to efficiently map LED strips and LED lights over DMX. PHOTON

I/O

PHOTON
Mappings
New Joystick mapping mode + Edge button mapping

We added a new "Joystick" mapping mode that increments or decrements a slider value. We managed to ensure that events are sent every frame, even if the joystick is not moving until it returns to its neutral position to create smoother mapping. We made the joystick mapping frame-independent and added a speed parameter in the mapping manager for better control. We also considered raw panel button edges (2- and 4-way buttons) in the mapping manager. PHOTON

New Raw Panel support

We are now natively supporting SKAARHOJ Raw Panel devices. PHOTON

For more info, please check: <https://www.skaarhoj.com/discover/rawpanel> PHOTON

Calibration

PHOTON

SLAC

New workflow

One of the key features of this new release is the new workflow for the automatic alignment of cameras and projectors. It comes packed with a host of brand-new settings and features that are set to revolutionize the way we interact with Photon and Xenon. This exciting development is set to transform how we approach calibration and promises to deliver unparalleled accuracy and efficiency. With this advanced auto-alignment workflow, users can enjoy a more intuitive and streamlined experience that will take their work to the next level. PHOTON

NVZ SLAC

Invisible Calibration: it is now possible to perform an acquisition during rehearsals or preshows in invisible mode, during more challenging lit scenarios like work light or even daylight! PHOTON

Lighting Programming

PHOTON
Albion
MA3 Compatibility

We now support the import of grandMA3 fixtures for automated follow-spot tracking. PHOTON

Tracking Systems

PHOTON
Depth Sensor

Various Depth Sensor improvements PHOTON

We have revamped overall performance, especially when multiple Depth Sensors are in use, and have fixed a few corner cases when processing Depth Sensor data in the Voxelizer graph node. PHOTON

File Management

No changes in this version.

Editing & Programming

PHOTON
Timeline
The Timeline Module is now Multi-user!

When editing and creating media and effects on the timeline, this collaborative environment enables multiple users to work together on a project timeline. The system allows real-time collaboration, efficient task management, and seamless integration of various elements into the final visual production. PHOTON

Real-time collaboration

Several users can work simultaneously on different aspects of the project, such as editing sequences, applying effects, adjusting animations, grading, and more. Changes made by one user are immediately visible to others, ensuring synchronization and reducing the chances of conflicts. PHOTON

Speeding up the process

In large productions, Photon is capable of handling a massive amount of media and numerous requests from the creative team. Having multiple users who can interact with different parts of the timeline greatly increases the speed of creation. PHOTON

In summary, the multi-user timeline is essential for managing complex visual projects. It enables efficient collaboration and ensures high-quality outputs by coordinating efforts among multiple users. PHOTON

Preview Programming Playhead Mode

The playhead controllers are now fully detachable from the timeline during the show, allowing real-time editing of any part of the timeline while the show is running. The playhead turns green and allows you to edit any part of the timeline without interrupting what is being displayed on the screens. When you are finished, disable the preview programming, and you will return to the exact point of the show without any push action, refresh or synchronize to apply PHOTON

Playhead follow modes

When programming or operating a show, you now have the ability to decide whether the timeline view constantly reframes the playhead or if you can freely roam to other places on the timeline while the show is running. PHOTON

Looping Regions & Regions redesign

We have introduced new tools in the region tab: looping! These tools will help you solve tricky situations while programming complex shows. PHOTON

You can now loop a section of the timeline either indefinitely or a set number of times before exiting. PHOTON

After creating a region in 11.3, you’ll notice the Möbius strip toggle in front of the region label. When activated, the region will loop indefinitely when entered by the playhead. The region text will change color to orange and two triangles will appear on each side. Looping Options will allow you to loop the region a certain number of times before exiting. Auto Break will deactivate the loop mode upon the playhead exit. If not turned on, the looping settings will reset. PHOTON

Additionally, we have redesigned and placed the region in a tab to free up space and give the user the ability to unpin it and place it where they want. PHOTON

Introducing Graph V2

We have completely redesigned the graph from the ground up, with logic and graphic nodal programming in mind, while retaining all the capabilities of Graph V1. V2 opens up many new possibilities in terms of gamification and complex logic creation for your shows and events. PHOTON

Furthermore, you can now nest graphs into other ones, allowing abstraction of complex logic into reusable and versatile nodes. This will help you solve intricate challenges with more ease. PHOTON

This is still a work in progress, and we will continue to support V1 until V2 is completed. PHOTON

UX

PHOTON
VNA
EDID Management

You can now remotely load and unload EDID on all connected servers directly via the network assistant. PHOTON

Mosaics creation

You can now remotely create and manage your mosaics on all connected servers directly via the network assistant. PHOTON

UI

Added the ability to recursively expand/collapse lists by holding the Ctrl key and clicking the red triangle. PHOTON

Version 11.1PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Previz & Simulation

PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
UV
  • Adding uv_remap and uv_offset FXs.
    • UV Remap FX allows users to change an object's texture by using a UV pass to replace it with another. On the other hand, the UV Offset FX applies a relative offset to the source coordinates, allowing it to shift by a few texels in its surroundings. PHOTON · XENON
  • UV Preview with Hierarchy rendering.
    • Users can now preview an assembled version of UVs inside a hierarchy of objects. This tool lets users see the UV clusters of each object that makes up a hierarchy rendering and allows them to snap the texture to clusters independently. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • UV conversion and realtime splitting improvements (automatic media slicing for multi-server super high-resolution playback).
    • Added splitting support for Virtual Projector and LED screen PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
    • Added LED preview and timeline preview splitting support. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
3D Scene
  • Improved 3D object transparency rendering. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Virtual Projectors performance optimization:
    • Introducing vertex clipping mechanism to reduce the amount of pixels rasterized. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • FBX SDK update to 2020.3.1 PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

I/O

PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Livox
  • New support for AVIA's repetitive pattern and high-sensitivity options.
    Livox Avia can switch between a wide-angle pattern and a very narrow vertical FOV pattern (almost like a Lidar plane). PHOTON
  • New Support for the latest Livox Lidars production model HAP. PHOTON
Projector control
  • Introducing a new basic control feature for the Christie HS series. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Live input
  • Significant improvements to Black Magic Decklink input cards support. The System now supports Quad Link 3G-SDI (up to 8K) along with 10-bit YUV and multi-input support. PHOTON · XENON
Network Show Control
  • The GET_SYSTEM_STATE command will now provide the current task's percentage (%) in its reply. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • The new REMOVE_MEDIA command can now delete media from the Media Library, including files in playlists and the content folder. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
DMX
  • DMX layer control of "media index" now starts at 1.
    0 means "No Media". PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • DMX layer control performances using a "media index" with many media files are greatly improved. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • DMX Show Control value is now applied to its linked parameter only on value change. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • DMX timeline control of "region index" now starts at 1.
    0 means "Do Nothing." PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Calibration

PHOTON · XENON

SLAC (Structured Light Automatic Calibration)

Introducing NVZ SLAC (imperceptible automatic alignment)
  • Based on years of internal RnD, now allows to automatically align large quantities of projectors without disturbing your audience by projecting subtle patterns that can be imperceptible to most people's eyes. PHOTON · XENON
  • Continuous alignment mode allows to run NVZ SLAC continuously and improve projection alignment over time while your show is running. PHOTON · XENON
Improved GFS (super High speed mode)
  • Now working seamlessly with large quantities of cameras/projectors. PHOTON · XENON
  • Entirely optimized on GPU for smooth and quick experience. PHOTON · XENON
  • Calibrate large projection installations in less than 2 seconds per projector. PHOTON · XENON
SLAC improvements
  • Camera resolution for multiview is now fetched directly from the camera. PHOTON · XENON
  • MJPEG mode is now forced to the camera in NVZ and GFS Mode. PHOTON · XENON
  • Added Gaussian Dots pattern support for normal acquisition. PHOTON · XENON
  • Added Optitrack standard Prior Focal Length lenses. PHOTON · XENON
  • Added Calibration adjustment from Reference concept. Select a reference, then only apply a new calibration if optical centers and Intrinsic calibration parameters are close enough to their reference. PHOTON · XENON
  • Added SLAC progress report and Completion ETA. PHOTON · XENON
  • Added an option to filter mirror reflections (Advanced Menu). PHOTON · XENON
  • Automated selection of camera/projector pairs. PHOTON · XENON
  • Overall UI improvements. PHOTON · XENON
Calibration report list
  • Each calibration is now saved (up to the last 100), which allows comparing and investigating calibrations over time. PHOTON · XENON
Point Cloud Alignment
  • ICP Improvements: Changes to the number of samples and the inlier distance, it help the algorithm find the best alignment possible. PHOTON · XENON
  • Robustness improvement: Added a new outlier rejection mechanism to make the algorithm more robust when there are many outliers or when one point cloud is a subset of the other. PHOTON · XENON
  • Sampling Methods: Two new model sampling methods based on normals to improve the algorithm's convergence. PHOTON · XENON
  • Projective Transform: Improved accuracy, now estimating target and source normals if not provided. PHOTON · XENON

Lighting Programming

PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Improved shortcuts consistency.
  • Albion Monitoring shortcut is now ALT+SHIFT+A PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Tracking Systems

PHOTON

Voxelizer (Markerless Tracking)

Improved filtered rendering:
  • Better Raymarch Filtering to help eliminate stepping artifacts in the rendering. PHOTON
Optical Flow:
  • Added 3D Optical Flow to apply forces to particles. PHOTON
Background Removal
  • Background Load/Save slots allow support for multiple simultaneous Voxelizers. PHOTON
  • Auto Load Background after a restart/reload and Background Reset button. PHOTON
FX rendering:
  • Added multi-light source Blinn shading using Blobs as light sources and Shadow rendering for projector POV. PHOTON
Fixes:
  • Fixed unwanted blending accumulation in Blur and Erosion Filter. PHOTON
  • Fixed large voxel resolution bug. PHOTON

File Management

PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Export CSV.
  • Now includes an index column. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Export CSV index starts at 1. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • "Hide original" option is now considered. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
New File Manager filters
  • File Sequence: Groups .seq files and their associated VCI files. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Converted: Groups only converted VCI files. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Originals: Groups only imported original files. Ignores and disables the hide originals toggle automatically. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
New LED splitting on conversion support.
  • The systems can automatically crop the required slice of video at conversion for each playback machine based on its connected LED processor coverage. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Notch blocks now appear in used/unused Filters. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
P2P version 2023.
  • New and improved high-performance internal transfer engine for File Manager is now P2P v3, resulting in significantly better performance on high bandwidth networks. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Editing & Programming

PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Graph FX and Particles
  • The Relighting FX feature has been improved with the addition of multi-light support.
    • You can now add up to 128 simultaneous virtual point lights using blob input. PHOTON
  • New time source options for the Time Code FX.
    • Additional options for time sources in the Time Code FX allow flexibility in what time the effect displays. New options are available in the Time source combo: PHOTON
  • NEW FX: Range Visualizer.
    • Highlights out-of-range pixels. PHOTON
  • Support for multiple numerical outputs (as a single vector) in the OSC Client graph node. PHOTON
  • Improved "DMX Mapping" graph node performance. PHOTON
  • NEW FX Graph node: Flock Force.
    • Implementation of the flocking behavior to produce boids models with the particles. PHOTON
  • Introducing a new Particle renderer node: Mesh Renderer.
    • Enables rendering 3D particles, including animated 3D models. PHOTON
  • Preliminary support for animated FBX models in particle rendering. PHOTON
  • Voxelizer and Lidar can now interact with particles.
    • Voxel input enables each particle to be affected by optical flow from the Voxelizer, allowing trackerless natural interaction with particle systems. PHOTON
    • Particle Emitter Node now includes controls for controlling the simulation speed as well as freezing and reversing particle simulation at any moment. PHOTON
  • Unreal:
    • Perfect alignment between Photon and Unreal using FOV and Lens Shift through Unreal SceneCapture2D. PHOTON
Timeline
  • The preload media option is now disabled by default. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Timeline Editing: Shortcut to trim clips to fade-in/out points.
    • Trim using Ctrl+Shift+[ or Ctrl+Shift+] to consider the beginning or end of a transition. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Snap playhead to fade in/out values. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Visual cue when a clip snaps to the playhead. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Visual cue when a region snaps to the playhead. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • New DMX clip icon.
    • Display icon when the media clip is linked to a fixture. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • New media clip icons.
    • Icon for media type (image vs. video). PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
    • Icon if frame blending is enabled. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Ability to frame selected clips from Clip Properties using the shortcut [F]. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Improved Clips Cache now evaluates all clip types. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Added the ability to specify universal cross-fade delay threshold. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Photon's new synchronization mechanism supports Nvidia Gsync,
    allowing perfect multi-server frame accuracy and smoother playback. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Color Management
  • REC2100 colorspace and PQ curve
    are now supported for color transformation, allowing for even more accurate and vibrant colors. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • The Color Picker is now an independent module
    , making it more user-friendly and streamlined. It can directly be accessed with a simple shortcut: [Alt+Y]. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
UV
  • Adding uv_remap and uv_offset FXs.
    • UV Remap FX allows users to change an object's texture by using a UV pass to replace it with another. On the other hand, the UV Offset FX applies a relative offset to the source coordinates, allowing it to shift by a few texels in its surroundings. PHOTON · XENON
  • UV Preview with Hierarchy rendering.
    • Users can now preview an assembled version of UVs inside a hierarchy of objects. This tool lets users see the UV clusters of each object that makes up a hierarchy rendering and allows them to snap the texture to clusters independently. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • UV conversion and realtime splitting improvements (automatic media slicing for multi-server super high-resolution playback).
    • Added splitting support for Virtual Projector and LED screen PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
    • Added LED preview and timeline preview splitting support. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

UX

PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
UI/UX
  • Greatly improved Font Rendering. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Redesigned Scalable interface (4k compatible) with redesigned iconography. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Maximizable windows now have a dedicated indicator icon and can restore the original size. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Added instant search in all combo boxes. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Keyframe Editor now follows the zoom factor. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Improved shortcuts consistency.
    • Profiler shortcut is now ALT+P PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
    • Undo Manager is now ALT+SHIFT+U PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Logs
  • Improved logs when PHOTON connects or disconnects from projectors. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Improved log messages in case of errors when pressing on "NVIDIA Control Panel" from the Settings window. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Improved "Log Manager" internal networking pipeline. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Prevent overzealous logging from PJLink projectors. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Reduce the number of log entries for missing VCI / VCD files. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Complain only once about excess cameras in a project. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Shadow
  • You can save a project using the Shadow module without recording other actions.
    • The project will be saved in a shadow session if no recording types are selected (e.g. mouse, PSN...). PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Network Assistant
  • A new option to delay the startup of VNA to allow all system resources to complete boot. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
TACHYON
  • New FREE and DOWNLOADABLE version Tachyon Learning.
    • 2x watermarked output. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
    • Please download, learn, test and have fun at tachyon.video PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Added Virtual Projector support in the 3D Scene. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Added Composer clip support in Timeline. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Added FBX support. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Various UI improvements. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Version 10.5PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Previz & Simulation

PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

3D Scene

Added output and display resolutions to the ident card.

Output resolution is taken directly from the Settings window. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Soft silhouettes in order to help mitigate light bleed between objects.

This functionality replaces the previous "Smooth Silhouette", which was controlled by the config singleton "Silhouette Soft-edge (V-WIP)" (sic!). It is now referred to as "Soft Silhouettes" throughout, and consists in a new algorithm which automatically creates alpha blended fins around the model. There are interior fins, which follow the model's surface, and exterior fins, which extend beyond the model's geometry (akin to billboards) PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Added calibration priors that let the user exclude specific Copernic IDs from cameras. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
X-Ray Wireframe - Hidden line removal rendering option

Displaying Wireframe is very useful for calibration validation. However complex meshes can be hard to read visually when there are multiple layers of wireframe from a given POV. This new option Adds the ability to only see the first visible layer of wireframe. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Soft silhouettes help mitigate light bleed between objects.

This functionality replaces the previous “Smooth Silhouette”. It is a new algorithm that automatically creates alpha blended ‘fins’ around the model that result in a smoother, more natural blending. PHOTON

Added calibration priors to let users exclude specific Copernic IDs from cameras. PHOTON
X-Ray Wireframe - Hidden line removal rendering option.

Disaplying Wireframe is very useful for calibration validation. However, complex meshes can be hard to read visually when there are multiple layers of wireframe from a given point of view. This new option hides all but the first layer of wireframe. PHOTON

I/O

PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
DMX
  • New parameter “Time to Live” (TTL) for multicast packet in sACN. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • DMX Control - Add virtual projector selection control. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Added support for multiple unicast destination in sACN. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Start auto-fade of a moving light from the current Dimmer value fade in to 100% and fade out from current value. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • DMX Control Fx parameter extend from 2 to 16 controls. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • DMX Control - Add FX Graph numeric source type.
    New DMX Control in media family, FX Graph numeric source in graph clip can now be controlled with Fx parameter 01 to FX parameter 16. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
PSN
  • New TTL option in the PSN config to specify a Time To Live parameter for the multicast packets.
    (The default value for TTL for PSN is now 8; this is different from Windows default of 1.) PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Depth Sensor Update:
    Manipulation tools for depth sensor primitives.
    Visibility primitives of depth sensor in the calibration tool window can be used as ‘Blockers’. Visible primitives will include points inside the bounding box and blocker primitives will exclude points from the bounding box.
    PSN. PHOTON
  • New TTL option in the PSN config to specify a Time To Live parameter for the multicast packets. PHOTON
Projector Control
  • Add authentication support to our PJLink implementation.
    Talking PJLink with a projector that has a non-empty user password. The 'Add projector' panel has been modified to allow setting password. Note that for PJLink the username is not required and is ignored. Note also that even if you set a password when adding the projector it has no effect if the projector has authentication disabled. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Add authentication support to PJLink protocol.
    Talking PJLink with a projector that has a non-empty user password.
    The ‘Add projector’ panel has been modified to allow setting password. It has no effect if the projector has authentication disabled. PHOTON

Calibration

No changes in this version.

Lighting Programming

PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Albion
  • Added a separate button for Albion Monitoring. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
External DMX Media Control and DMX Patch UI Refactor.

All shared clip properties and media specific properties can be controlled through a DMX fixture with specific control types (similar to Albion DMX Control).
The IO-DMX-Patch with all the fixtures has been redesigned with a better readability and improved performance. There are new features such as search with keywords and multiple selection. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Tracking Systems

PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Lidars
  • PHOTON now supports Livox SDK 2.3.0. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Depth Sensor Update
    Manipulation tools for depth sensor primitive is now functional - Visibility primitives of depth sensor in the calibration tool window now supports the blocker mode. Visible primitives will includes point inside the bounding box and blocker primitives will exclude points from the bounding box. - Shadow playback now works with visibility/blockers primitives PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

File Management

PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
New Sorting options for Playlists.

Sort your playlist alphabetically or chronologically, in an ascending or a descending order. You will Still be able to keep an arbitrary order by disabling toggles, or by reordering playlists manually. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Massive speed improvement for local and network import.

Local single file import is 3-4 times faster. Transfer times for file sequences are much improved (about twice as fast), for import on a single server (no network transfer) is about 4 times faster. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Native image sequence playback in File Manager preview.

It is now possible to preview File Sequences natively in the File Manager Preview window (just like any other supported media format). PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Support for disjoint file sequences.

It is now possible to import sequences that have discontinuities. For example in a directory containing files [Patate-0000-Patate-0099].exe and [Patate-0900-Patate-0999].exr , that is 2 spans of 100 files The files will be imported as a single sequence of 1000 frames, with 800 frames missing. The missing frames will be displayed as Full Frame Color Bars. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Display frame ranges & extension of underlying files of file sequences.

In the File Manager window, file sequences will now display the frame range as well as the extension of the files that make up the file sequence.
For example sequence.seq [0010-0100] - EXR Is a sequence of 90 files named sequence-0010.exr to sequence-0100.exr. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

New Frame Rate override on conversion option

In Auto mode File sequences will have their frame rate set to project frame rate or to the value of 'override' that can be set in the conversion options. Override will be applied to all video files. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Support for disjoint file sequences.

It is now possible to import sequences that have discontinuities. The missing frames will be displayed as Full Frame Color Bars. PHOTON

Display frame ranges and extension of underlying files of file sequences.

In the File Manager window, file sequences will now display the frame range as well as the extension of the files that make up the file sequence. PHOTON

New Frame Rate override on conversion option.

In Auto mode File sequences will have their frame rate set to project frame rate or to the value of ‘override’ that can be set in the conversion options. PHOTON

Imported single images now correctly report duration of 1 frame. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Added progress percentage to the “Delete” operation in File Manager. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
PXT now supports EDL with truncated file names through versionning PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Media Versioning has now customizable pattern string

Added customizable string pattern for the media versioning system (default pattern is "_v"). Modifying this string allows the versioning system to conform to other file naming conventions. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Support of EDL with truncated file names through versioning. PHOTON
Media Versioning has now customizable pattern string.

Added customizable string pattern for the media versioning system (default pattern is “_v”). PHOTON

LED Processors now supports Splitting on Conversion. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
New option to discard Alpha on Conversion.

Added option to discard alpha during media conversion. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

ProRes conversion optimization - should be 25% faster. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Add support for importing '.edl' files.

Edit Decision Lists can be imported. The extension to use for now is '.edl'. The files are imported in a new project sub-folder ('data') and is accessible with a new filter in the File Manager. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

New option to discard Alpha on Conversion. PHOTON
ProRes conversion optimization. PHOTON
Add support for importing ‘.edl’ files.

Edit Decision Lists can be imported. The files are accessible in the File Manager. PHOTON

Editing & Programming

PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Timeline
  • New Keyboard shortcut to move clips up and down inside a sub-sequence [SHIFT + Up arrow] Move selected clips one layer up until they reach the top of the sub-sequence. [SHIFT + Down arrow] Move selected clips one layer down.
    If clips hit the bottom, a new layer is added skipping rename. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Adding frame number to the media properties.
    The media properties now display the index of the current frame being displayed. For file sequences, the sequence start number is taken into consideration in the "FS" mode (the default), but can be ignored if we prefer to display frames starting at 0 ("F0" mode). PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • New Create VCI Cache option
    "create vci cache" in the contextual menu of timeline sequence tab to allow smoother transitions when entering or exiting video clips (works for uncompressed vci too). PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Drag and drop EDL files to create new timeline layer.
    You can drag a previously imported EDL file from the File Manager to the timeline to create a new timeline layer. Each media file corresponds to an EDL event from the dropped EDL. The media file in and out point are obtained from the EDL event. The location in the layer is also obtained directly from the EDL. A new layer is always added with the edl clips. The new layer is named after the EDL file's TITLE statement. Only Cut events are currently supported (no dissolves, nor wipes). PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • New Keyboard shortcut to move clips up and down inside a sub- sequence.
    [SHIFT + Up arrow] Move selected clips one layer up until they reach the top of the sub-sequence. [SHIFT + Down arrow] Move selected clips one layer down. If clips hit the bottom, a new layer is added. PHOTON
  • Adding frame number to the media properties.
    The media properties now display the index of the displayed frame. For file sequences, the sequence start number is taken into consideration. PHOTON
  • New “Create VCI Cache” option.
    Located in the contextual menu of timeline sequence, the VCI Cache allows smoother transitions when intering or exiting video clips. PHOTON
  • Drag and drop EDL files to create a new timeline layer.
    You can drag a previously imported EDL file from the File Manager to the timeline to create a new timeline layer. Media clips are created on the new layer. The in and out points are obtained from the EDL file. Only ‘cut’ transitions are supported. PHOTON
Preview Window
  • New Lock Screen view option
    Added a new combo box and lock icon when in Preview 2D or Layer mode. This combo allows to override the Screen/layer displayed, which usually corresponds to the Timeline's current selection. Done by replacing the current sub_sequence (for Preview 2D mode) or layer (for Layer mode) early inside PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • New Lock Screen view option.
    A new option available in Preview 2D or Layer View. This combo overrides the Screen layer that is displayed in the Preview Window. PHOTON
FXs
  • NEW bilateral filter FX.
    Bilateral filtering allows smoothing of regions while preserving high frequency details. Iterating multiple bilateral filter passes allows stylized results. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • New Kuwahara filter FX.
    The Kuwahara filter is a non-linear filter which reduces noise while preserving edges. It is a form of stylized smoothing filter. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • New Ocean FX
    Replacement of Seascape FX. Should be faster, gives control over sky color with the help a sun, and point of view is now controlled by a camera in the 3D scene. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • NEW Nexus FX
    Added a Graph blob rendering FX node, render rounds around blobs and interconnect blobs with lines. Lines blob tracking and persistence using blob IDs. Works with both normalized and world-coordinate blobs. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • NVIDIA Background removal AI fx
    The effect generates an alpha mask with the option to apply the texture source color on the mask. According to Nvidia documentation: the effect achieves its best results on videos that are recorded by one person sitting in front of a camera. The feature will not perform well on full-body videos, multiple persons in the scene, or camera angles that deviate too much from a front-facing camera. The Nvidia Video Effect SDK needs to be installed. Download the SDK <https://developer.nvidia.com/maxine-getting-started>, unzip it in the root of PHOTON install directory (VYV/photon). PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • New time sources options for time code FX

    Additional options for time sources in the time code FX allow flexibility in what time is displayed by the effect. The new options are available in the Time source combo and are PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

    • No source : well , there is nothing. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • New bilateral filter FX.
    Smooth out regions while preserving high frequency details. Users can use multiple passes to create stylized results. PHOTON
  • New Kuwahara filter FX.
    The Kuwahara filter reduces noise while preserving edges. PHOTON
  • New Ocean FX.
    Replaces the venerable Seascape FX.
    This faster implementation gives user control over sky color.
    The point of view can be controlled by using a Camera primitive in the 3D Scene. PHOTON
  • New Nexus FX.
    Creates a dynamic mesh by linking tracked ‘blobs’ which are vertices in the mesh. PHOTON
  • Integrated Nvidia Background Removal AI.
    Generate an Alpha mask using Nvidia Video Effect SDK.
    The Nvidia Video Effect SDK must be installed separately and can be downloaded from the Nvidia site developer.nvidia.com/maxine-getting-started.
    Unzip it in the root of PHOTON install directory. PHOTON
  • New time sources options for time code FX.

    Additional options for time sources in the time code FX allow flexibility in what time is displayed by the effect. The new options are: PHOTON

    • No source. PHOTON
    • Clip : use the clip’s internal time PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
    • Freerun : use the freerun counter PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
    • Timeline : use the timeline time PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
    • Auto : use whatever is used for the show time (this is the previous behavior of the ‘Timeline’ mode) PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
FX Graph
  • New “Re-emit Particles” option in the “Emitter” graph node. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • New FX Graph profiling tool
    You can now visualize (CPU & GPU) performances taken by each Graphs and nodes in the FX Graph PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Graph Primitive Ref Node - new output slot for the primitive world position
    The slot outputs the primitive's position containing all transformations (parent, pose transform, freeze etc.) PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Blob Filter added modulo and modulo ID filtering params +
    Graph Blob Filtering - added modulo ID and offset ID parameters. Filters in blobs that matches ID % modulo_ID == offset_ID. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Voxelizer added skip-rendering option
    added "skip rendering" parameter to improve performance when only blob tracking is required. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • New FX Graph profiling tool.
    You can now visualize the CPU and GPU performance of every Graph and Node in the FX Graph. PHOTON
  • Graph Primitive Ref Node - Output slot for the primitive world position.
    The slot provides the position containing all transformations (parent, pose transform, freeze, etc.) of the referenced Primitive object. PHOTON
  • New Blob Filter Modulo and Modulo ID.
    Graph Blobs can be searched based on their ID or if their ID is a multiple of some number. PHOTON
  • Voxelizer added skip-rendering option.
    Improves performance when only blob tracking is required. PHOTON
  • Graph Mapper Node - Improved usability.
    Value slider to control the mapped value.
    Add the output value slot.
    Min and Max rescale values exposed are now linked to the mapping manager value.
    Mapping manager UI fixes to display and update the dynamic data from the mapper node. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • FX Graph: Expose/Unexpose all parameters
    Introducing two new buttons in the contextual menu of a graph node. - Expose all : Expose all auto-parameters at the same time. No longer need to select each of them individually. - Unexpose all : Unexpose all auto-parameters. Users may choose to keep connected slots through a pop-up window. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • FX Graph: Expose/Unexpose all parameters.
    Introduce two new buttons in the contextual menu of a graph node.
    Expose all: Expose all auto-parameters at the same time. Users may choose to keep connected slots through a pop-up window. PHOTON
  • Added random jitter for the Texture Locator node and the Primitive Locator node based on RGB. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • FX Graph Removed irrelevant medias/playlists in Sprite Renderer combo drop-down lists
    "Plugin", "Data, "3D Object", "Not converted" and "Audio" are removed from the Sprite renderer playlists - Only converted ".vci" files can be assigned to a sprite. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Removed irrelevant medias/playlists in Sprite Renderer combo drop- down lists. PHOTON
  • Added multi-input blobs for the graph nodes “Point Locator” and “Vortex Force.” PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • It is now easier to select a slot in the graph. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • New Blobs Average Position Graph Node. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • New “Time Since Last Message” output to the “Network Monitor” graph node. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Cues are now ordered by ID in the Graph “Cue” module. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Added new math graph nodes for remainder and modulo operations PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • New math graph nodes for remainder and modulo operations. PHOTON
  • Added a “Residual” output to the “Virtual Camera (Ref)” graph module. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • A lot of Optimization and new features for the Voxelizer Node PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Color Management
  • New support for adobe RGB, P3 and Rec 2020 color spaces. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • 16 bits HDR timeline setting will follow choice or context in 'Settings' PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Support for Adobe RGB, P3 and Rec 2020 color spaces. PHOTON
  • Automatically switch to 16 bits floating point precision based on choice of rendering context. PHOTON

UX

PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Summary
  • A lot of bug fixes, improvements & performance boosts all around. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Massive playback improvements. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • New 10gig speed file import system. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • New Performances Profiling tools PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • New Performance Profiling tools. PHOTON
  • PXTA UIs are now way more 4K friendly. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Improved project loading time PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Q4 | 2022 PHOTON

Settings
  • NVIDIA driver profile and triple buffering are now automatically set when starting the application.
    When starting up, the "Dynamic Streaming" profile is automatically activated, and triple buffering is enabled (these are documented required settings). PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • NVIDIA driver profile and triple buffering are now automatically set when starting the application. PHOTON
UI
  • Search in drop-down Menus
    New feature that applies to all combos. Allows to type in a searching bar to reduce the number of combo items when drop-down is activated. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • "Hide window in focus" keyboard shortcut and changed existing "Hide all windows"
    "Hide all windows" is now ALT+SHIFT+W for consistency.
    ALT+W to hide the current module in focus. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Added ability to quit rapidly.
    Added the ability to quit without saving using Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Q". PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Search in drop-down Menus.
    Start typing in the search bar to reduce the number of combo items when drop-down is activated. PHOTON
  • Changed keyboard shortcuts for “Hide window in focus” and “Hide all windows”.
    “Hide all windows” is now [ALT+SHIFT+W] and [ALT+W] to hide the current module in focus. PHOTON
  • Added ability to quit without saving project using Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Q. PHOTON
  • Improved readability of some system error messages. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Introducing new font rendering system, allowing for clean anti- aliased font at any scale. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
Licenses
  • New feedback on why software won't start when license is inadequate or expired.
    When a product did not start because of a bad license (unsupported product, or expired support plan) it would previously simply crash: a Message Box is now displayed informing the user of the problem, providing an address where help might be available and pointing to the log files for additional info. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

Shadows PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON

  • Add the option to offset the start and end point (similar to video in out) PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Shadow recording Update
    • DMX now saves the initial universe data state at beginning of the recording. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
    • New option to disable the project save at recording when mouse and keyboard recording option is disabled. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
    • At session playback in the shadow module, the saved project will be loaded only if the mouse and keyboard playback option is enabled. PHOTON · XENON · TACHYON
  • Better feedback on why software won’t start when a license is inadequate or expired. PHOTON
Shadows
  • Add the option to offset the start and end point (similar to video in out). PHOTON
  • Shadow recording Updates:
    • DMX now saves the initial universe data state at the beginning of the recording. PHOTON
    • New option to disable the project save at recording when mouse and keyboard recording option is disabled. PHOTON
    • At session playback in the shadow module, the saved project will be loaded only if the mouse and keyboard playback option is enabled. PHOTON
Version 9.3PHOTON

Previz & Simulation

PHOTON

3D Scene

General
  • Headlight shading. PHOTON
  • Normals can be displayed on 3D Objects. PHOTON
  • 3D Curve primitive (camera or object animation on a 3D path). PHOTON
  • Blending modes named "Real-Time Blending" and "Static Blending". PHOTON
  • Alpha from Sequence is now replaced by blending modes for 3D Objects in outputs. PHOTON
Automation
  • Exposed PSN trackers' rotation in Scene automation. PHOTON
Modeling
  • Additional modeling options:
    • UV Map (Planar, Cylindrical and Spherical) PHOTON
    • Merge Meshes. PHOTON
    • Triangulation. PHOTON
Projection Study
  • “Render Dist Min / Max” parameter for cameras and projectors to control z-culling. PHOTON
  • Measurement tools:
    • Press [B] to select the Measurement mode. PHOTON
    • Trace a line between two points in the 3D Scene to get a measure. PHOTON
    • Hold [Shift] to snap to the vertex of a 3D Object. PHOTON
    • Unit system selection for any measurement object. PHOTON
    • Hold [Ctrl] to move an existing line while selecting its extremity. PHOTON
Calibration
  • "Position Priors” are now called “Transformation Priors” to include orientations." PHOTON
  • Fixture presets improvements:
    • New presets created by pressing [+] duplicate the currently selected one. PHOTON
    • Visibility lists linked to the {no selection} preset are now kept when the calibration object is deleted. PHOTON
    • "no selection" is now named “Reference Visibility”. PHOTON
  • New contextual menu in fixture preset list to reset the RT calib pose estimation. PHOTON
  • You can now drag-and-drop to object visibility while the search in the models list is used. PHOTON
  • Camera default values:
    • Resolution: 1280x1024 (s13e). PHOTON
    • Ratio: 1.25. PHOTON
  • Moving Light default values:
    • Resolution: 1x1. PHOTON
    • Ratio: 1. PHOTON
  • Control lock calibration now locks the led processors’ quad setting 2D sliders. PHOTON

I/O

PHOTON

I/O Manager

Network Message
  • Switching between network protocols keeps previous IP address, port and url. PHOTON
  • Newly created messages feature the parameters (IP address, port, url) of the currently selected message. PHOTON
OSC
  • OSC Tab dedicated to OSC messaging with server and client management. PHOTON
Matrix Switcher
  • Editable matrice names. PHOTON
Projector Devices
  • “PJ Link Series” is now named “PJ Link”. PHOTON
Input Device
  • Safety Bars that can be displayed over any Input. PHOTON
  • Input Devices MultiPreview mode to visualize all the live inputs simultaneously. PHOTON
  • New test cards acting as input simulations to pre-program a show offline. PHOTON
DMX (formerly known as The Art-Net)
  • Art-Net universe limit is now 32768. PHOTON
  • Improved light tracking. PHOTON
  • Improved interoperability with lighting boards. PHOTON
  • Advanced moving light tracking features:
    • Blobify: Automatically merge two moving lights in a single beam when two performers are close enough from each other. PHOTON
    • Tracker Lost Fade: Automatic moving lights fade out when performers’ trackers disappear. PHOTON
    • Flip Mode and Beam Angle: Choose how a moving light will flip when reaching its maximum pan/tilt range. PHOTON
    • Fixture-specific Filtering: Assign smoothness and extrapolation settings specifically to each fixture pointing at a tracker. PHOTON
    • Improved Minimum Movement: Non-linear fixture repositioning when the performer exits the minimum movement tracking distance. PHOTON
Mapping Manager
  • Automation is now visible in the Mapping Manager. PHOTON
Newly Supported Protocols and Third-party Software
  • Spout PHOTON
  • NDI 4 PHOTON
  • OSC PHOTON
  • sACN PHOTON
  • DXF PHOTON
  • Unreal PHOTON
  • Stype PHOTON
  • Mo-Sys StarTracker PHOTON
  • Notch PHOTON
PosiStageNet 2.03
  • The library has been rewritten to be lighter so it is now easier to use and extend. PHOTON

Calibration

No changes in this version.

Lighting Programming

PHOTON
Albion
  • Default Tracking framerate is now 240Hz. PHOTON
  • Added parameters to control cameras’ LCD display and status LED. PHOTON
  • New Albion Monitor Module PHOTON
  • Albion Monitor Standalone: Standalone application version of the Albion Monitor tool. PHOTON

Tracking Systems

No changes in this version.

File Management

PHOTON
Conversion setting allowing framerate override. PHOTON
Watch Folder: Set a directory to be polled periodically for new content. New content will automatically be imported and converted. PHOTON
Export playlists as .CSV files. PHOTON
Select {Copy File Name} or {Copy File Path} from the media contextual menu to perform these actions. PHOTON
Optimized raw playback speed. PHOTON
"Mpixel Limit" is now named "Display Server". PHOTON
"Preview Mpixel limit" is now named "Controller". PHOTON
HDR mode:
  • WMF Cineform HDR decoding. PHOTON
  • ProRes HDR support. PHOTON

Editing & Programming

PHOTON
Timeline
General
  • Integration of the Keyframe Editor in the Timeline Tray. PHOTON
  • In-module focus: the top bar of each window section is highlighted with a light gray color when in focus. PHOTON
  • Sequence Selection Lock: Right-click on the Sequence tab and select {Lock Selection} to disable editing for this Sequence. PHOTON
  • Playhead focus now follows timecode jumps. PHOTON
Shared Clip Properties
  • "blend value" is now named "opacity”. PHOTON
  • Crop and rotation values now available in pixels. PHOTON
  • [Reset All] button for Shared Clip Properties. PHOTON
Timeline Editor
  • Highlighted Layer names on mouse rollover. PHOTON
  • Loop option in the Edit menu allowing to choose how many times a Clip is played. PHOTON
  • Universal Crossfade supports Sequences’ alpha content. PHOTON
  • Snapping in the Timeline:
    • Hold [Shift] while moving the Playhead to snap with Clips and Regions’ Ins and Outs. PHOTON
    • Hold [Shift] while moving or resizing Clips and Regions to snap with the Playhead, Clips and Regions’ Ins and Outs. PHOTON
    • The snap hint color is now cyan. PHOTON
  • Clips display icons to indicate changes made to the following Properties: Play mode, Sound, Geometry, Blending, Rotation Crop, Color correction, Alpha transfer, Free run. PHOTON
  • Screens display icons when the post-processing toggle is activated and when these parameters are changed: Geometry, Blending, Rotation, Crop, Color correction. PHOTON
Regions
  • The Regions’ "Display" toggle is now activated by default. PHOTON
  • Right-click on a Clip in the Timeline and select {Create Region} to create a Region. PHOTON
  • Right-click on a Screen track or Clip in the Timeline and select {Create Region Around Clip(s)} to perform this action. PHOTON
  • Reference time now appears when moving or resizing Regions. PHOTON
Preview Window
  • 2D Transform improvements:
    • Click-Drag to move a Clip now works from any of its parts. PHOTON
    • Contextual cursors (horizontal/vertical/diagonal for resize and move). PHOTON
    • 2D Transform handle color is grey. PHOTON
    • Tooltip shows height and width (percentage or pixels) when resizing Clips. PHOTON
    • Tooltip shows position when moving Clips. PHOTON
  • Multi-Preview Mode:
    • Preview all Screens in a grid view. PHOTON
    • Click on a Screen in the Multi-Preview window to open it in 2D Preview mode and automatically scroll down to its instance in the Timeline. PHOTON
    • Red outline to indicate Screen selection. PHOTON
    • Use Display/Hide toggle for Screens’ name and resolution. PHOTON
    • Double-click on a Screen in the Multi-Preview window to open it in 2D Preview mode and select it. PHOTON
    • A slider to change the size of the screen previews manually. PHOTON
  • Contextual transformation options: Flip, Flop, Fit to Screen, Fit to Screen Width and Fit to Screen Height. PHOTON
Clip Properties
  • Ability to disable RT-Splitting per clip. PHOTON
  • Media Clips’ volume can be keyframed. PHOTON
  • Soundless Media Clips no longer feature Volume slider or [Audio Config] button in their Media Properties. PHOTON
Keyframe Editor
  • Sliders linked to an animation feature text colored in yellow. PHOTON
FX (Available in Stack and Graph)
  • Camera FX
    • Alpha background Toggle. PHOTON
    • Transform fx is now named rotate_radians PHOTON
  • Lighting renderer FX
    • Renders all 3D Scene Moving Lights onto projection surfaces. PHOTON
    • Gobos as texture sources. PHOTON
    • Feather/Iris control. PHOTON
  • LUT FX to load .Cube Luts. PHOTON
FX Graph
General
  • Graph Filters: all, recently added, used, unused. PHOTON
  • Graph FX list features a search and supports multi-selection to export, delete and reorder. PHOTON
  • Checkerboard alpha toggle in FX Graph preview. PHOTON
  • Lockable FX Graph preview. PHOTON
  • Snap Grid:
    • Select {Settings > General > FX Graph > Display Snap Grid} to display the Snap Grid. PHOTON
    • Activate the [Snap to Grid] toggle to enable snapping. PHOTON
    • Press the [Auto-Snap Nodes] button to automatically snap the nodes with the grid. PHOTON
    • Adjust grid cells dimensions with the "Grid Cell Width" and "Grid Cell Height" sliders. PHOTON
    • Adjust snap sensitivity with the "Snap Distance" Slider. PHOTON
  • Particle System improvements. PHOTON
  • Return of the Lightning FX. PHOTON
  • /Video/ node file selection features Playlists. PHOTON
  • Particle Radial Force now supports multiple sources (blob slot input). PHOTON
  • /Time/ node features an exposable speed parameter. PHOTON
  • /Python/ node upgraded to Python 3.7. PHOTON
  • The /Audio Analysis/ node features one output slot per frequency. PHOTON
  • The /Network Streamer/ node directly accepts “Numeric”, “Blobs”, and “String” as inputs without serializing or deserializing. PHOTON
  • FX Graph shortcuts now appear in shortcut helper (F1). PHOTON
  • Resizable Minimap and Zoom value display. PHOTON
  • /OSC Client/ node features a "Is Receiving" output slot indicating if new values were sent since the last frame. PHOTON
  • /MIDI Input/ node features a "Is Triggered" output slot indicating if a new value was received since the last frame. PHOTON
  • /Cue Graph/ node displays IDs. Search for Cues with IDs. PHOTON
New Nodes
  • /3D Curve/: Control an animation in the 3D Scene. PHOTON
  • /lut/: Load .CUBE lut files. PHOTON
  • /Lighting renderer/: Renders 3D Scene Moving Lights onto projection surfaces. PHOTON
  • /MIDI Input/: Receive a value from MIDI devices listed in the I/O Manager. PHOTON
  • /String/: Input a character string. PHOTON
  • /== (String)/: Compare 2 strings with an equality operator. PHOTON
  • /Network Host Info/: Output the hostname. PHOTON
  • /Substring/: Extract a segment of a string. PHOTON
  • /UDP Client/: Receive unicast/broadcast/multicast messages from external sources. PHOTON
  • /String to Numeric/: Convert ascii or binary strings to numbers. PHOTON
  • /Spout Sender/: Send textures through Spout. PHOTON
Cue Editor
  • Editable Cue IDs. PHOTON
  • Added used/unused filter. PHOTON

UX

PHOTON
NEW!
Advanced Search

The 3D Object Advanced Search window and the Timeline Advanced Search window feature searchable lists of various components (Media, 3D Objects, Cues, Graphs, Input Devices) that are currently integrated in a project. The Advanced Search windows will facilitate component location through association with corresponding data such as timecode or Screen association. PHOTON

File Manager
  • Right-click on a Media and select {Find In Timeline} from the contextual menu to open the Timeline Advanced Search window. PHOTON
  • Right-click on a 3D Object and select {Find In 3D Scene} from the contextual menu to open the 3D Scene Advanced Search. PHOTON
Cue Editor
  • Right-click on a Cue and select {Find In Timeline} from the contextual menu to open the Timeline Advanced Search window. PHOTON
FX Graph
  • Right-click on a Graph and select {Find In Timeline} from the contextual menu to open theTimeline Advanced Search window. PHOTON
I/O Manager
  • Right-click on an Active Input Device and select {Find In Timeline} from the contextual menu to open the Timeline Advanced Search window. PHOTON
New Shortcuts
3D Scene
  • Press [O] to switch between Perspective and Ortho projection modes. PHOTON
  • Shortcut to extend pyramid changed to [Shift+E]. PHOTON

Timeline PHOTON

Timeline Editor PHOTON

  • New Timeline shortcuts to select Clips before or after the Playhead: [Ctrl+;] & [Ctrl+’]. PHOTON
  • Keyboard shortcuts to move selected Clips on the Timeline:
    • [+] and [-] to specify a number of frames will move the selected Clips accordingly. PHOTON
    • [,] and [.] move Clips left and right by 1 frame. PHOTON
    • [shift+,} and [shift+.] move Clips left and right by 10 frames. PHOTON
  • [R] resets the full view in the Timeline. PHOTON
  • [F] frames the current selected item(s) (Clip or Region ). PHOTON

Regions PHOTON

  • Press [Ctrl+Shift+R] to create a Region around a clip selection. PHOTON

Preview Window PHOTON

  • [F] frames the bounding box of the selected image-based Clip. PHOTON
  • [R] resets the view to the full raster of the selected Screen. PHOTON
  • Press [4] to select the Multi-Preview mode. PHOTON
FX Graph
  • Press {Ctrl+F} to perform advanced search for nodes in the FX Graph. PHOTON
  • [Ctrl+D] duplicates nodes and links them to appropriate modules. PHOTON
  • [Shift+Drag] on multi-selection links all the selected nodes to the source node. PHOTON
  • [Shift+Drag] replaces an existing unique connection. PHOTON
Settings
PHOTON
  • “Auto window creation” is now named “Mosaic Mode”. PHOTON
  • “Draw Canvas View” is now named “Set First Out as GUI”. PHOTON
  • “Letter Boxed Window” toggle is now disabled when "Mosaic Mode" is active. PHOTON
  • Copy server output configurations: Right-click on the source server and select {Copy Outputs Config} or select the source server and press [Ctrl+C]. PHOTON
  • Paste server output configurations: Right-click on the destination server and select {Paste Outputs Config} or select the destination server and press [Ctrl+V]. PHOTON
  • Legacy “4K Display” mode has been removed. PHOTON
  • Controller resolutions are ordered by width. PHOTON
  • Resolutions now feature names (FHD, 4K, etc.). PHOTON
  • UHD (3840X2160) and 4K (4096X2160) resolutions are now available resolutions in the Controller and Output dropdown menus. PHOTON
General
  • Additional Timeline Settings for Media Clips:
    • Media Resolution: Select either the {Screen Resolution} or the {Media Resolution} option to set the resolution of a new Media Clip. PHOTON
    • Media Playing Mode: set the default playing mode when creating a Media Clip. PHOTON
    • Media Volume: set the default volume when creating a Media Clip. PHOTON
Control
  • DMX Control: Server-specific DMX control. PHOTON
Log Manager
Logs
  • Logs from other connected servers are now visible. PHOTON
  • Added warnings upon startup when NVIDIA Settings are wrongly set:
    • “GPU profile is not set to (Workstation App - Dynamic Streaming).” PHOTON
    • “Triple Buffering is disabled.” PHOTON
Shortcut Module
  • Searchable shortcuts in the help menu. PHOTON
  • Shortcuts for the Timeline module and the Preview window are now distinct in the Shortcuts help menu. PHOTON
System
  • Multicast UDP for all UDP traffic. PHOTON
  • Dongle Error message: A message box informs the user about the missing dongle. PHOTON
Network Assistant
  • If {new project} is selected and the name left empty, the default project will be selected. PHOTON
  • The VYV Network Assistant’s (VNA) network interface can now be selected from the Adapter dropdown menu located in the System Configuration window. Products launched from the VNA will share the same subnet. PHOTON
  • Network Assistant now uses Multicast for self-discovery and communication. PHOTON
Version 8.1PHOTON

Previz & Simulation

PHOTON

3D Scene

Position Offset while Tracking 3DOF
  • You can add position offset to tracked objects PHOTON

Blocker per object in Object Visibility List now accessible for default fixture preset PHOTON

3D view can be any projector and camera of the scene
  • Select the camera or projector from which to view the scene PHOTON
Faster rendering through shadow render optimisation
  • Renders up to 2.5X faster with complex scenes on high end GPUs PHOTON
Increased precision while moving calibration points
  • You can hold Ctrl+Shift while moving the calibration points to move them 100 times slower than normal PHOTON
FBX models have their own folder in the Primitives menu
  • Imported FBX models now appear in the FBX folder under Primitives PHOTON
Export projectors and cameras pyramid as models (OBJ)
  • Also exports the Box model PHOTON
Automatically extend the projector and camera frustum to the closest surface
  • Press the E hotkey to calculate, extend, and display the centre point and the four corners of the frustum as they intersect with the surface PHOTON
  • Exports these 3D point coordinates in CSV format PHOTON
Projection Study mode displays real-time smoothed projection blending for the Heat map
  • Support for shadows and blending in real-time PHOTON
Upgraded Primitive UV map feature
  • Affixes the UV map of an object in position and reveals or crops the texture as the object moves in 3D space PHOTON
Drag-and-drop objects from the Object List to the Visibility list of projectors and cameras
  • To add object to the visibility list of the selected projectors and cameras, you can drag them from the Primitive list to the Calibration window or the visibility list directly PHOTON
New Moving Light object
  • Associate this object to ArtNet Light Fixture to calibrate and control it from Photon PHOTON
  • Control intensity from Opacity and Zoom PHOTON
  • Auto-fade box support, moving light will fade-in or out if it intersects the bounding box of the chosen geometry PHOTON
New Primitive: Lighting surface
  • A Lighting surface can always face projectors and cameras (as opposed to a projection surface which has its own orientation), preserving its texture regardless of which projector is projecting upon it PHOTON
Target tracking mode for Projectors and Moving Lights objects
  • Projectors and Light fixtures can now 3D auto-follow any primitive (by aiming at its center) or be linked to a Copernic ID (by aiming the fixture towards this Copernic) PHOTON
Blinn shader - Specular and Diffuse shading for projection
  • 3D rendering now uses a Blinn shader to illuminate the scene, allowing for better specular and diffuse lighting PHOTON
Artnet controls available in Device Control menu
  • After creating a projector or a Moving Light, this menu allows to create and link it to an Artnet Fixture PHOTON
  • The control menu (hotkey: Q) offers control over the Artnet parameters of the selected object (Projector, Moving Light) linked with an Artnet Fixture PHOTON
  • Target tracking parameters are also present in this menu PHOTON
Null objects can drive and move Copernic IDs
  • Null object now generates tracking data based on its position if it is linked to a tracker ID PHOTON
Timing can control Primitive Presets animation instead of speed and acceleration
  • Instead of using acceleration and maximum speed, you can use timing-duration to move from one primitive preset to the another. PHOTON

I/O

PHOTON
Artnet fixture
  • In addition to the previous invert property, you can change the pan control of the ArtNet fixture using a clockwise or counterclockwise rotation PHOTON
  • Fixture tab is now the first tab to appear in the Artnet menu PHOTON
Improved access to the Projector Web interface
  • Projector Web interface can be launched from Projector device menu PHOTON
Can now specify and monitor the Artnet refresh frequency
  • The Artnet refresh frequency can be specified by sending Artnet and monitored by receiving Artnet PHOTON
Supports Bluefish444 and AJA Kona4 live input cards
  • Single-link or Quad-link modes PHOTON
  • You can add and declare multiple input devices in Photon for multiple single-link streams PHOTON
Input devices can be custom named
  • After creating an input device, you can manually edit its default name PHOTON

Calibration

No changes in this version.

Lighting Programming

PHOTON
Albion
  • The type of the license (Albion, Photon, etc..) and the number and type of outputs (2 x HD, 4 x 4K, etc…) now appear in the Help > About window PHOTON
Active Rigid point options in Albion reconstruction
  • Albion can be set to “Active Rigid Point” reconstruction meaning that the Rigid points reconstructed by the system are recomputed at every frame in real time (if calibration lines move, tracked object used in calibration move, etc…) PHOTON
Albion tracking affects the scale of tracked rigid objects
  • In addition to affecting an object’s position and rotation, Albion can now change the scale of tracked objects PHOTON

Tracking Systems

No changes in this version.

File Management

PHOTON
Completely redesigned File Manager
  • More available information to display in columns (vertices and polygons counts, folder, extension, creation and modification dates, etc…) PHOTON
  • Resizeable columns PHOTON
  • Customizable column visibility PHOTON
  • New pre-built, intelligent playlists (used, unused, 3D objects, non-converted, etc…) PHOTON
  • Centralized network management of source media files (delete, copy, rename, move, etc.) PHOTON
  • New thumbnails allow for dynamic resizing (they are also larger and preserve the image’s ratio) PHOTON
Import and conversion tasks panel
  • New commands: Pause All, Restart All, and Cancel All PHOTON
  • Re-prioritize tasks PHOTON
Media and 3D objects previewer-player panel
  • Preview media (movies and images) in an embedded player PHOTON
  • Preview imported 3D objects in an embedded 3D scene PHOTON
Drag and drop from File Manager to 3D Scene
  • Drag-and-drop 3D objects directly from the File manager to the 3D scene to add them in the scene PHOTON
Load objects in memory during import (optional)
  • The “Refresh Factory” command is still available as a manual on-demand command PHOTON
Complete 3D object management over the network
  • Add and delete 3D objects from project across the Photon network PHOTON
Preference to delete original files from Photon network after conversion
  • Maximize the amount of RAID space for converted material PHOTON
  • Note that it’s always recommended to keep original files on a backup drive, SAN or NAS nonetheless PHOTON

Editing & Programming

PHOTON
New FX Tools
Vortex Force
  • A new Force feature is available to apply to particle streams PHOTON
Arctan mathematical operation now available
  • Allows you to apply the inverse function of the tangent function to an effect PHOTON
Smooth
  • This module calculates the average the values used in a specified time period (i.e. calculate the mean of values used in the past 10 seconds). Can smooth out value changes PHOTON
VYV Video Streamer (server and client)
  • Used in conjunction, these two modules broadcast and receive a video signal through the Photon network (H264, etc…) PHOTON
Lighting Multicam Fx
  • Builds a multiview array of all available cameras in the Scene PHOTON
  • Preview mode renders one of the following: PHOTON
  • * Selected primitives in wireframe
    • All local OptiTrack cameras set in Video mode (MJPEG) PHOTON
Silhouette Fx
  • Requires Lighting Multicam Fx as source to blend all cameras together into a silhouette on current projection or Lighting surface PHOTON
  • Auto-select closest cameras for dynamic silhouettes (weight based on angle formed between the camera and the surface) PHOTON
Timeline
Timeline snapshot
  • Timeline snapshot now saves in PNG format with an alpha channel, if it exists PHOTON
Improvements to the Timeline preview window
  • 1/2/3/4 hotkey to switch between Preview 2D/LayerView/Preview 3D/Multiview Layers PHOTON
  • Now centered by default PHOTON
  • Scaled to fit by default PHOTON
  • Pan and scale now available in Layer View PHOTON
  • Layer view displays clips at correct ratio PHOTON
Universal Cross Fade
  • When enabled, an automatic fade Out - Fade In of a custom duration is applied between contents on surfaces when the Timeline timestamp jumps from one location to another PHOTON
Visualization of the alpha through a checkerboard representation
  • Enable checkerboard visualization to identify portions of the image that are transparent (Layer view and Preview 2D) PHOTON
Surfaces can now have internal time disconnected from main time
  • When enabled, a given projection surface can be time-scrubbed freely, while other surfaces remain tied to the main Timeline PHOTON
  • Supports the Universal Cross Fade feature inside each surface PHOTON
New Surface Mixer widget
  • You can easily see and manage all surfaces set to internal time. It displays regions and playback state for all surfaces (for example, allowing control and links to Midi mapping) PHOTON
  • Toggle play-pause for each surface PHOTON
Audio waveform view at the bottom of the timeline
  • Choose the layer containing audio to be displayed at the bottom of the timeline view PHOTON
Advanced Timeline Search
  • Search clips by name and type using the Timeline screens PHOTON
  • Navigate through the selections created via Search PHOTON
  • Enables quick replace, update, and deletion of clips PHOTON
FX
Particles - Point particles can be shaded (Ambient and Diffuse) by scene lights
  • There is a new input for the Point renderer node that takes Primitives declared as as inputs to shade the particles PHOTON

UX

PHOTON

General

Network UI can be toggled On or Off
  • The UI on the network machine can be toggled on or off (used to be “off” only) PHOTON

Licensing information is now available in the Help > About window PHOTON

Video now displays at the correct Image Aspect Ratio
  • Input device feed now respects the aspect ratio PHOTON
  • Layer View and Preview 2D in Timeline and Preview window PHOTON
New colour scheme across the application
  • New color for enabled buttons PHOTON
  • New splash screen PHOTON
Better VNC support for remote access
  • Press Shift-Tab to toggle in or out of “fullscreen mode” when connecting through VNC or TeamViewer to view the interface PHOTON
Version 7.9PHOTON

Previz & Simulation

PHOTON

3D Scene

Fixed camera/projectors pyramid display when changing z-near/z-far
  • This fix does not affect render or tracking PHOTON
3D Scene LED Previz
  • Attenuate / fade LED shader based on camera resolution/distance PHOTON
Moving-light rendering
  • Render a circular beam and silhouette PHOTON
  • Shadow now supported PHOTON
Primitive
  • Removed unexposed/unused intensity parameter PHOTON
Silhouettes
  • Always displays silhouette on selected primitives - but only on external borders PHOTON
  • Wireframe mode now use opacity instead of silhouette_opacity PHOTON
  • Silhouette_opacity defaulted to 0 PHOTON
Znear / Zfar (in Dev Menu)
  • now used in non calibrated view PHOTON
RT Calib
  • Options in the Automation menu are now exposed for child projectors:
    • New menu in automation (for cameras) PHOTON
    • Filtering values PHOTON
    • RT activated PHOTON
    • Reference model selection PHOTON
Export projectors and cameras pyramid as models (OBJ)
  • Right-click on selected primitives: PHOTON
  • * Exported pyramid will be the length set in the 3D Scene PHOTON
Export model now support multiple model selection
  • Right-click on selected primitives: PHOTON
  • * Will create as many obj files as selected
    • Models will be exported with their current transformation (Transformation and Vertex displacement) PHOTON
Export 3D Object, Projector Camera & Moving Light data in a .CSV format
  • Right-click on selected primitives: PHOTON
  • * Creates a table where selected object's properties and transformations are described PHOTON
Projector, camera and moving light 3D model representation
  • Combo box Brand Model in Properties menu: PHOTON
  • * Folder assets installed with the installer contains models and a simple definition file. UI auto generated
    • Default: no object PHOTON
Custom 3D Scene camera
  • New combo box (right top of the scene) PHOTON
  • All camera, projector or moving light of the scene can be used to control the main view. Allow to control all parameters of the view PHOTON
Projector (camera & moving light) Array tool
  • Properties menu: create children with position pattern (grid, arc or circle) PHOTON
View tab - new option to change background color (and reset to default)
  • All Mode except for calibration mode (stays RED) PHOTON
Improved manual projector line-up control in PJ view window
  • Manual control has better precision when holding shift PHOTON
  • Middle-click to manually zoom PHOTON
Projection Study - Projector Statistics - added parameters
  • Added projector base dimensions PHOTON
  • Added vertical and horizontal field of view PHOTON
Calibration - Twister
  • Enables custom deformations on top of calibration PHOTON
  • Per output PHOTON
  • Custom sized deformation grid PHOTON
Output Identification
  • Added Display Ident toggle in calibration PHOTON
  • Overrides output rendering to show unique background color, 10 px rectangle around output with inverted color, connected device name and output name PHOTON
  • Uses VYV font (Flavin Bold) PHOTON

I/O

PHOTON
MIDI-interface
  • BUGFIX MIDI out sending 3x garbage messages for each message sent PHOTON
  • (bad loop check + non-initialized variables) PHOTON
  • Restored Launchpad device highlight mapped buttons in Green PHOTON

Bluefish & AJA live input cards Support PHOTON

Custom resolution - (only in new_window_creation mode)
  • Now per output resolution instead of per server PHOTON
  • Added optional offset X/Y PHOTON
  • Leave offset empty defaults to previous automatic behavior PHOTON

Calibration

No changes in this version.

Lighting Programming

PHOTON
EGLUI Color Picker PHOTON

Tracking Systems

No changes in this version.

File Management

PHOTON
File Manager Warning
  • On delete, display warning if the selected files are used in the timeline PHOTON
TIFF conversion optimisation
  • Faster TIFF conversion PHOTON
Image-sequence
  • Faster import of file sequence PHOTON
Splitting/Cropping UI for conversion
  • User can now decide to convert a specific part of the media file PHOTON
TIFF/TIF file support
  • TIFF files are automatically converted to 8bbp PHOTON
Image Sequence Support
  • Uses project's frame-rate for file-sequence conversion PHOTON

Editing & Programming

PHOTON
New FX

Liquid Paint FX PHOTON

Vector Flow FX PHOTON

Metaballs FX
  • Metaballs FX allows the user to control the behaviors of moving gaussian patterns that blend together to create content PHOTON
  • * Number of metaballs
    • Speed min and max of metaballs PHOTON
    • Intensity of blending PHOTON
    • Hue and range of Hue PHOTON
    • Lifetime of each pattern PHOTON
    • Attraction between patterns parameter PHOTON
Camera FX
  • This FX renders the 3D scene from any projector or camera point of view. Options to render in different render types, shading, shadows and which objects to include or not are available PHOTON
  • * New parameters : render_mode, show_grid, show_blending, show_projectors
    • New combo to select Root SG primitive for scene rendering PHOTON
    • Added screen-render mechanism to force surface render on display server when required for Camera FX PHOTON
    • Added "use camera aspect" to use SG's camera aspect-ratio instead of resolution based aspect PHOTON
    • Added "use camera resolution" to use SG's camera resolution instead of Layer's resolution PHOTON
Line Generator FX
  • Allows you define the number of generated lines wanted, their orientation, their moving speed, their color and the color of the background PHOTON
Conformal Tiling
  • This FX produces deformations on input clips based on mathematical expressions of several types (sinusoidal, polynomial, etc…) it allows to easily create endless and wrapping video loops PHOTON
Chromatic Aberration
  • This FX can be used to reproduce photographic chromatic aberration or exaggerated red, green and blue distortions PHOTON
Time Displacement FX
  • Record last N frames and uses a mask to fetch pixel color at a specified time in the past PHOTON
Timeline
New "Photoshop" blend modes
  • Difference PHOTON
  • Color dodge PHOTON
  • Color burn PHOTON
  • Linear burn PHOTON
  • Color divide PHOTON
  • Color Blend PHOTON
  • Screen-alpha PHOTON
  • Exclusion PHOTON
  • Hue PHOTON
  • Saturation PHOTON
  • Luminosity PHOTON

Support for 23.964p / 50p / 59.94p / 60p frame rates for Playback and Rendering PHOTON

Media properties : lock (right click) for in and out point.
  • When enabled, the value is never changed on media action PHOTON
FX
Stack FX
  • A passthrough now applies when all FXs are deactivated PHOTON
Clone FX
  • Multiple start times allow animation of the 'iteration' parameter PHOTON
  • now follows the Timeline time (or Free Run time) PHOTON
Graph FX
  • "Time Source" Node to get the clip time from the timeline PHOTON
  • "Time" input slot to inject time for FXs that need it PHOTON
Stack FX & Graph FX clips
  • The Timeline now injects clip time to graphs and FXs PHOTON
  • Added "Free Run" options PHOTON
Alpha Transfer (Clip Shader and FX)
  • Inverted Alpha option PHOTON
Bug fixes alpha transfer
  • Was multiplied with current layer alpha if any alpha PHOTON
  • Alpha-from-intensity was affected by color correction PHOTON
  • Show-alpha option should display alpha as white color and discard alpha PHOTON

UX

PHOTON

General

Sliders
  • Shift - drag gives 10x slider precision PHOTON
  • Ctrl - Shift - drag gives 1000x slider precision PHOTON
  • Ctrl - drag allows sliders to go beyond their range PHOTON
DPI Scaling
  • Fixed Win7/Win10 DPI scaling issues:
    • Sliders moving erratically PHOTON
    • Mouse offset in full-screen PHOTON
    • Non-centered splash screen PHOTON
  • Pick a color using the mouse as follows: PHOTON
  • * Ctrl + move = color under mouse
    • Ctrl + click = apply the color PHOTON
  • RGB and HSV Values are now displayed PHOTON

Alpha Support in Quicktime Render PHOTON

Photon/Xenon always sets background to black on startup PHOTON