Structural design with ArchiCAD, and its integration with structural software

A building’s architectural design and its physical structure are closely interrelated: on the one hand, the architectural design of the building defines the structure; on the other hand, the structural design of a building reflects the overall architectural design. As structure became a visual and aesthetic part of the design in modern architecture, structures must be as light as possible while maintaining complete integrity. Also, the structure must be optimized for performance and price.

ArchiCAD® is Graphisoft's purpose-built virtual modeling solution that allows architects to create a 3D model of their design, effectively creating a Virtual Building ™. This White Paper details how ArchiCAD (AC) supports key aspects of structural design and the optimized workflow between the two disciplines. Architectural and structural design use the same Virtual Building model from the earliest sketches through to CNC machine production of building elements, using the appropriate software solution for every phase.

Standards for structural design
The standards set by authorities and developed over the course of decades are traditionally different for every material (RC, Steel, Wood etc.) in every country or region (e.g. DIN in Germany and Central Europe; BS in the UK; AISC in US). Lately, there has been a trend to unify these into a common standard - at least across regional economies, like the EU’s Eurocode.

Structural analysis and production
ArchiCAD provides sophisticated design information along with the necessary level of model detail. This information can be directly imported and exported in the native format of the structural software or through IFC and used for structural analysis by specialized software. These import/export Add-Ons fully integrate structural design and analysis simulation programs that dramatically improve the simulation of whole-building approaches in design, planning, production and construction. This opens new doors for cost savings and structural optimization and performance.

Using ArchiCAD with these tools provides great benefits to both architects and structural engineers. Because the structural analysis tool can directly access ArchiCAD Virtual Building models, feedback on the structural design of the building can be obtained at any time during the design process. And ongoing changes to the design do not result in laborious (and duplicated) reworking in both separate applications - manually adjusting the geometry of the building to keep up with the alterations - because the essence of a 3D model means that all data is up-to-date and immediately usable.

Download pdf Structural design with ArchiCAD, and its integration with structural software

Wall Behavior or ArchiCAD and Constructor

This document provides a summary of behaviors for the wall object in current ArchiCAD and Constructor, GraphiSoft.
The Appendix is quoted directly from the help file in Constructor. It provides detail information of a wall object including its constructions and behaviors.
Five tasks are to be investigated in this report, including:
1) Is a wall segment delimited to have a single floor plane?
2) Is a wall also delimited to a single roof plane?
3) Can a wall have non-horizontal changes in construction (through its cross-section)?
4) Does the wall object support internal framing layout?
5) Can a wall be a lofted surface, with a bottom curve and top (or intermediate curve) that is lofted between?

In fact, ArchiCAD and Constructor are tailored to different users. Building Objects (BO) in ArchiCAD are preliminary objects with less information for construction and detailing purposes. It is primarily to be used by Architects rather general contractors (GC).

1) Is a wall segment delimited to have a single floor plane?
No necessarily, building objects can be automatically trimmed by other objects in Constructor.
Objects such as wall, column and beam are automatically clipped by the intersect roof or slab. Most are unredoable to their original status except slab clipping, meaning slab is clipped without being able to convert back to its initiative status. Slop is another object then slab where slab is considered a single horizontal element, with or without openings. A step-like slab is a composite element by composing multiple segments as one grouped piece or alternatively, using a stair object to imitate a step-like slab. Wall, as a single piece, will be clipped automatically by a step or slope object if intersect.

Download pdf Wall Behavior or ArchiCAD and Constructor

Convert your 2D floor plan drawings into a 3D ArchiCAD model from DXF and DWG files

Plan2Model provides architects the power to turn your 2D floor plans into 3D ArchiCAD models quickly and effectively. With this ArchiCAD 7.0 add-on, representations of 2D elements on floor plans can be converted to objects in an ArchiCAD model automatically and/or semi-automatically. Use source data in any file format 2D floor plan, such as DXF and DWG files or imported sketches and drawings processed by raster-to-vector conversion software. The simple vector entities – lines, polylines, arcs, and circles that make up 2D floor plans are converted by Plan2Model into a full ArchiCAD intelligent building model containing walls, columns, windows, doors, beams and other objects.

Convert 2D Legacy Work Efficiently
There is a large gap between vector data provided by AutoCAD and other 2D drafting systems’ 2D-drawings and ArchiCAD building model’s objects. In ArchiCAD, the building blocks are not simple geometrical primitives like lines, polylines, arcs and circles but are ‘construction elements’ - walls, windows, doors and the like. Plan2Model bridges this gap making integration of your archive drawings to ArchiCAD quick and easy. The one-click conversion eliminates the lengthy process of manual data entry, multiplying your efficiency in this phase.

Also take full advantage of Plan2Model’s capabilities for converting your scanned drawings. Plan2Model also supports vector data created by raster-to-vector conversion software. To create an ArchiCAD model from this kind of source data without Plan2Model would take the same time and effort as to create a model from scratch.

Download pdf Convert your 2D floor plan drawings into a 3D ArchiCAD model from DXF and DWG files

Floor Suite User Guide

The Floor Suite system includes a number of custom made objects for laying out and scheduling mid-floor framing and an ArchiCAD Add-On Tool which enables the user to operate easier with the objects, create schedules and export these data into an XMLfile.

Installation
To install LayUp for Floors on your computer:
1. FloorSuite.zip Download the compressed installer and double – click on the .zip file to extract the installer .exe file.
2. FloorSuite.exe Double-click on the .exe file to run the installer.
3. Follow the on – screen instructions to complete the installation

Tips
If you are installing on a network, ensure that you are logged on as System Administrator.
If you placed the library into the ArchiCAD Library 10 the library will be automatically loaded as part of the ArchiCAD Library 10, as it exists in a sub-folder
If you did not install the library to the ArchiCAD Library 10, or have not included the ArchiCAD Library 10 in the loaded libraries, then you will need to Load the Floor Suite Library separately. See Screen shot..

Download pdf Floor Suite User Guide

Permission Granted: ADC triumphs on a tough site with ArchiCAD

The site was in a very appealing location, within one of the housing hotspots of the Midlands. The private location in a leafy green setting was perfect for a high quality development of four 2.5 storey 2500sqft detached houses. However, our design proposal would be a backland development, additional houses built within an already built up area, on the edge of Sutton Park. “We were confident that we could design a scheme that would give maximum site coverage whilst retaining the leafy setting.

The trick would be to reassure the residents of Four Oaks, who had already set up numerous action committees to object to and thwart backland developments in their neighbourhood and numerous similar schemes had been refused planning permission.”

2D to 3D
ADC was formed by Nick Kirkland in 2001. The practice has concentrated on the residential sector since and become adept at dealing with the issues of local planning. Initially, ADC had committed to use MicroStation 2D CAD software but realising that the practice had to innovate to be successful, Kirkland and his team decided some 18 months ago to move to a 3D working platform.

“ADC invested in Graphisoft’s ArchiCAD because three dimensional architectural presentations give clients and planners a better insight into schemes,” says Hathaway. “They do not misconceive proposals; residents and consultees have an improved understanding; and, contractors can envisage what the finished build will look like. The advantages are potentially endless

Download pdf Permission Granted: ADC triumphs on a tough site with ArchiCAD

Archicad 10 tutorials

01 figure tool - placing an image into the 2d window
02 mesh tool - modelling a 3-dimensional topography
03 plotmaker - exporting pages/ printing pages
04 element attributes/ customization of settings
05 camera tool and setting up 3d views etc
06 navigating around the 3d window - internal engine/open gl engine
- axonometric/perspective settings
07 3d rendering/lightworks engine settings
08 saving 2d line work from 3d window
09 exporting files for presentation appendix/additional references
10 general orientation within archicad
11 guidelines for drawing with any tool
- magic wand
- shift key and assigning lenghts and angles
- pet palettes
- selecting elements with shift key
- shift key and selecting/deselecting multiple elements
12 settings dialogue
13 layers

The figure tool is utilised for placing flat image files such as jpg. format into the 2d window. In particular this is generally useful when entering site information such as contours, site boundaries etc. and may also be used where sketch drawings have been completed by hand and the design is making the transition to cad.
i:: Prior to placing a figure, ensure the scale of the 2d window coresponds to the scale of the drawing to be placed [if it is a scaled drawing]. This will ensure that the figure will be placed at the correct scale.
ii:: The figure tool is found in the tool box among the 2d elements. Select this tool and to begin placing a figure, open the figure tool settings dialogue box. From here click open under the ‘preview and positioning’ tab.
iii:: From the file dialogue box select the file you wish to place and click open and click ok within the settings dialogue.
iv:: To place the figure in the window, click once in the desired location.
v:: If necessary the figure may be resized by clicking on the corner nodes or dragged to another location

Get pdf Archicad 10 tutorials

ArchiCAD advice

Printing to a PDF file:
Set up your line weights first. I like to use hairlines for the on screen display and for most quick linework for printing (very thin lines). Line thicknesses are established in the pens and colours dialog box. You can select a pen colour, and adjust the thickness for printing or for on-screen display. There is another dialog box for determining whether or not you will see hairlines on screen or true line thicknesses. I just use hairlines on screen: easier for accuracy in making things and easier on my eyes.

On a Mac, I first zoom into the area I want to print to a pdf file, and I use a window proportion that relates to either a landscape or portrait orientation page size. I then set the page layout (portrait or landscape). Then I go File/Print, set the printer quality to the highest resolution and decide on colour or black and white, set the ArchiCAD parameters (in the same print menu) to fit to one page and to print present zoom area, then print to pdf (option at bottom left). PC printing is similar, but many of the Mac features described above you adjust in the main printer dialog box.

Someone asked if it is possible to draw a site plan on top of the 3D model plan view. Of course. I suggest locking all layers containing 3D elements, then make new layers for lines, fills, text, etc. Work on your 2D plan on top of the locked 3D elements, then you can hide the layers with 3D elements when you want to print.

Later in the development of your project, when you are not using lines to show walls or building outlines, you can just use the wall tool to show the building walls, and you can use the door and window tools to save a lot of time instead of drawing these with just lines (makes no sense to do this when you are developing your design in more detail). However, I still use a lot of lines to define features I don’t care to model in 3D (shelves I am not going to see in a back storage room when calling for a 3D rendering of a lobby area).

To print floor plan view to pdf file and bring it into Photoshop for further manipulation: in ArchiCAD make sure all fills etc display as vectorial, not bitmap, before printing to pdf or it won’t work (the pdf file generates an alpha channel: you can overlay your pdf plan drawing on a raster image in Photoshop to see the raster image behind your plan lines / walls). Importing a pdf in photoshop provides resolution options: size, dpi., etc. Adjust to the size of your final rendering image if producing a plan overlay on a raster image. See Photoshop for Architects (Marcia King has this on reserve for you).

Get pdf ArchiCAD advice

Resene Colour range files for ArchiCAD

These allow you to quickly and easily use Reseneʼs vast colour range in your ArchiCAD projects. You can quickly test different colour schemes & provide your clients with more realistic visualisations. These colour files require ArchiCAD 9 or higher and work on both Macs & PCs.

All of the colours have been made into ArchiCAD materials and have also been optimized for use with the Lightworks rendering engine.

Adding Resene colours to your project or template files is an easy process:
1. Opening the Attribute Manager within the your project and selected the materials tab.
2. Press “open” and browse to the Resene colour file you would like to load. Press “open”
3. Select the colours you would like to add and press “Append”. Add as many colours as you like. You can also open other Resene colour files, to load colours from different ranges. When you have finished adding the additional colours press OK

The Resene colours you selected have now been added to your ArchiCAD projectʼs materials menu and can now easily be applied to walls, slabs, roofs, objects etc. throughout your project

Get pdf Resene Colour range files for ArchiCAD

ArchiCAD 9: 3D for Architects Part I

ArchiCAD 9 arrived with what at first I thought were minor improvements. But they add up to quite a lot, especially for 3D work, visualization, and working on a laptop with a cramped screen (figure 1). The latter situation may occur often now that ArchiCAD supports terminal server technology that makes it possible to work over the Internet from a remote location.

This new release also benefits from improvements in DWG compatibility and an improved library search system that enables symbols to be found by name (figure 2). About 2,600 symbols are included in the libraries that ship with the software.

Text input and display are also improved. Users can grab dimension text with visible handles to move and edit, and also paste whole blocks of formatted text from most word processors (figure 3). All of this is particularly important to ArchiCAD‘s market of architects, builders, planners and facilities managers (there‘s a special ArchiCAD version for FM). Among major, full-featured (and, need we say, expensive) CAD packages, only ArchiCAD and Nemetschek‘s Allplan are specifically aimed at the builder market. Bentley and Autodesk add an architectural interface to their products. ArchiCAD provides a lot more power than the typical architectural design software package, but is still easy, nimble and intuitive to use.

Download pdf ArchiCAD 9: 3D for Architects Part I

Rich Text in ArchiCAD 9

ONE of the great improvements to AC9 is the rich text in the working environment. On the principle that anything that appears in the floor plan must also work in GDL, there is a way to author Rich Text in GDL – but it’s very hard work! It is not simply a matter of using something easy like BB-Code.

BB-Code is easier
When you have tried Rich text in GDL you will wish it was. BB-Code is used in bulletin board systems like ArchiCAD talk as an easy to learn and simple method of formatting text – reminds me of word processing in the early 1980’s, but it’s applied to HTML style text.

For example, ‘The quick brown fox jumped over the lazy dog’ could be written as ‘The [B]quick brown fox[/B] [color=red]jumped[/color] over the [I]lazy dog[/I]’. This would give us the ‘fox’ in bold and the ‘dog’ in italic and ‘jumped’ in red and the rest of the sentence in default pen colour. It’s very simple – square brackets with a code starts an action, and square brackets slash with the same code ends it.

There are masses of tutorials on BB-Code on the internet – it can even include pictures and active URLs. You can change lettering size and colour and style. We should all put pressure on GS to retain the new system (for compatibility) but to make another available for bears of little brain like us to use, using a version of BB-Code.

Rich Text hierarchy
Rich Text in GDL operates a bit more like Solid modelling. You have to build up definitions of styles, assemble paragraphs and text blocks, and then use the RICHTEXT command to finally place the result (a bit like PLACEGROUP). There is a systematic hierarchical sequence to get it right. Hardened GDL writers will like it because of the vastly improved appearance in self labelling and dimensioning objects, but normal GDL users will be content to get by in the way we have for the last few versions of GDL, changing the pen colours perhaps. For investment objects (where your time is rewarded in the number of times you will use the object), it is well worth learning how to do this. Word wrap is dynamic, so if you have graphical hotspots to resize text width, you will get a very powerful looking result.

Try some Rich Text
The best way to understand for yourself the way RICHTEXT and RICHTEXT2 work in GDL is to create a sample of rich text in ArchiCAD and drag it from the floor plan into GDL 2D Script and see what it makes as an autoscript. Once you have mastered the 2D, it’s very easy to adapt the result to make it into 3D text. As usual, the autoscript gives one very prescriptive numbers for everything (pens, font sizes, indents, letter spacing etc) but smart parametric routines in your script can make it perform parametrically.

Download pdf Rich Text in ArchiCAD 9

EON FastView ArchiCAD Add-On

Although 3D animations offer a number of benefits, they are time-consuming, thus costly; and require expert knowledge to achieve results required. With the use of EON FastView, the non-animation expert can achieve interactive walkthroughs and design reviews within minutes, saving time and cost and offering a more flexible design tool due to its interactive nature. Once the design alternatives are ready to be reviewed or presented, the 3D content can be shared over the Internet or incorporated in a multimedia presentation using pre-designed templates.

Key Advantages
Interactive walkthroughs
Real-time 3D visualization
High degree of realism
Distribute content quickly and easily on the Internet
Collaboration on the web
Supports interactive configuration
Highly compressed file format compared to animations
Ease of use through intuitive graphical user interface
Seamlessly integrated with ArchiCAD 7.0
Supports user selected html templates for seamless web-integration
Small plug-in (750 KB) for web collaboration
Intuitive navigation and user interface

What is EON FastView TM?
EON FastView is a $495 ArchiCAD Add-On that has been seamlessly integrated into ArchiCAD 7.0. A complete building or a single object can be quickly brought up in the EON FastView real-time viewing environment. Camera views or walkthroughs can be saved for later sharing or modification in real-time. The EON FastView Collaboration enables quick and effective sharing of ArchiCAD models over the Internet. For more information see www.eonreality.com/fastview.

“EON FastView’s ability to handle real time renderings without having to generate large animation files in ArchiCAD saves us time in the visualization process. Higher end interactivity can also be added to the 3D model through the use of EON Studio.” “We were extremely impressed both with EON’s capabilities to seamlessly integrate with ArchiCAD and the ability to be able to fly through and interact in real-time. We believe that the capability to view such models over the Internet will open new possibilities for our firm, both for internal usage and for customer presentations.”

Download pdf EON FastView ArchiCAD Add-On

ArchiCAD Project Framework

With ArchiCAD 9 the Help System has been improved markedly. The web based help system is invoked either with the F1 key or via the Help/ArchiCAD Help menu. Using the search function within the help system greatly improves the efficiency of finding information and many of the pages include links to related or additional information.

The ArchiCAD Manuals are also available as PDF documents inside the ‘Graphisoft Documentation’ folder on the ArchiCAD Installation CD. If you create a folder called ‘Documentation’ inside your ArchiCAD folder any PDFs placed within this folder will be available inside ArchiCAD under the Help menu. There are additional PDFs that are not supplied as part of the documentation.

These include:
- Calculation Guide
- DXF-DWG Conversion Guide
- GDL Reference Guide
- Getting Started
- IFC 2.0 Reference Guide
- Intro to Object Making
- Intro to Office Standards
- Library Preview
- New Features Guide
- Rendering with ArchiCAD
- TeamWork Guide
There are also two Training Guides available on a separate CD. Ask your ArchiCAD reseller if you did not receive this training CD..

Download pdf ArchiCAD Project Framework

Building modeler delivers drawings with easy to use modeling tools

ArchiCAD 9 arrived with what at first I thought were minor improvements. But they add up to quite a lot, especially for 3D work, visualization, and working on a laptop with a cramped screen (figure 1). The latter situation may occur often now that ArchiCAD supports terminal server technology that makes it possible to work over the Internet from a remote location.

This new release also benefits from improvements in DWG compatibility and an improved library search system that enables symbols to be found by name (figure 2). About 2,600 symbols are included in the libraries that ship with the software.

Text input and display are also improved. Users can grab dimension text with visible handles to move and edit, and also paste whole blocks of formatted text from most word processors (figure 3).

All of this is particularly important to ArchiCAD‘s market of architects, builders, planners and facilities managers (there‘s a special ArchiCAD version for FM). Among major, full-featured (and, need we say, expensive) CAD packages, only ArchiCAD and Nemetschek‘s Allplan are specifically aimed at the builder market. Bentley and Autodesk add an architectural interface to their products. ArchiCAD provides a lot more power than the typical architectural design software package, but is still easy, nimble and intuitive to use.

Get pdf Building modeler delivers drawings with easy to use modeling tools

PLUG-INS FOR ARCHICAD

ArchiCAD Plug-in for Terrain Modelling
A common problem faced by ArchiCAD users is the creation and management of 3D terrain models. The ArchiTerra Plug-in was developed to resolve this problem. To create a realistic setting, designers often need to contextualise their projects within certain surroundings. This allows the environmental impact of the project to be monitored throughout the planning phase. The need for such functionality may also arise for city planning or landscaping purposes, requiring the creation of more or less vast 3D terrain models.

Following the correct installation of ArchiTerra, ArchiCAD users are presented with a new Tool Palette that allows the simple and rapid creation of 3D ter- rain models that are fully compatible with ArchiCAD. ArchiTerra allows topo- graphic data to be imported directly into the ArchiCAD Worksheet from text files (lists of points) or DXF files, or new terrain can be created using points, constraints, contour lines and land modelling tools to define the information necessary for constructing the 3D model.

ArchiTerra is an indispensable tool for ArchiCAD users who need to manage site modelling or create complex terrain features.

The package includes:
• the ArchiTerra Add-on, which adds the necessary terrain modelling commands to ArchiCAD;
• the ArchiTerra 20.LIB library, which contains a set of simple, intelligent objects that can be used as terrain modelling tools;
• the ArchiTerra exteriors library, which provides a collection of 3D parametric elements (trees, garden furniture, external light sources, etc.) that can be used to create realistic environ- ments within the terrain models develo- ped with ArchiTerra.

Download pdf PLUG-INS FOR ARCHICAD

ArchiCAD 9 - AxisVM 8 I/O

Workflow:
o The architect creates the model of the building structure in ArchiCAD. The load-bearing structural elements can be modeled using the beam, column, slab and wall tools.
o Then the model is exported via the IFC 2x2 format into AxisVM 8.
o In AxisVM, the structural engineer makes the necessary modifications and additions on the structural model and performs the required structural analysis on it.
o The architectural documentation is created from the original model in ArchiCAD
o The structural engineer creates the structural documentation based on the structural model in AxisVM.

The I/O Process:
To use exchange data, you have to do the following:
1. Download the latest version of Graphisoft’s IFC 2x2 from http://www.graphisoft.com/support/ifc/downloads/public/, and uncompress it.
2. Install the add-on into your ArchiCAD 9 (Add-Ons Folder) when the ArchiCAD is not running by double-clicking on the uncompressed icon.
3. Start your ArchiCAD and, using the standard AC9 Library, assemble the structure you would like.
4. From the ArchiCAD Floor Plan view, choose save as IFC 2x2.
5. Do not forget to have the following configuration on the Export tab page:
6. Start your AxisVM 8, select the Import menu and open the IFC file

Get pdf ArchiCAD 9 - AxisVM 8 I/O

TurnToolBox for ArchiCAD Manual Version 2008

TurnTool is a real time 3D graphics solution targeted at the growing market for 3D on the Internet. Integrate your 3D visualizations in web pages and other applications for interactive viewing and manipulation - responding to user input from mouse and keyboard. Knock your audience off their feet in amazement! The TurnToolBox for ArchiCAD is a plugin for Graphisoft's architectural application ArchiCAD.. It makes it very easy to create breathtaking interactive 3D visualizations. Note that the TurnToolbox plugins exists for other 3D applications as well.

For our customers’ target audience, we make the viewing of this amazing 3D content as easy as pumpkin pie. The TurnTool Viewer is freely available for download from TurnTool’s website and supports automatic installation when viewing TurnTool content. The compact size of TNT-files makes the download of each 3D visualization painless.

TurnTool takes the lead in online 3D visualization by allowing ultra fast downloads and still preserving a high quality of graphics and functionality

The TurnToolBox and the TurnTool Viewer
The TurnTool technology consists of two main components: The TurnToolBox and the TurnTool Viewer. The TurnToolBox generates TNT-files. The TurnTool Viewer enables the user to view the TNT-files directly in their browser. TurnTool has been developed by experienced game programmers and is likely to be nothing less than a revolutionary contender for the Web3D market. With competing products focusing on either file download sizes or quality of 3D content, TurnTool sets a new standard in both areas for an unsurpassed experience.

TurnTool presents itself as a convenient solution to all potential web3D content providers - big or small. Both buying it and selling it is easy. There are no difficult pricing policies to understand. We do not want any money from your customers (unless they insist).
With TurnTool, you just pay for the software. Finally, you can devote your attention to what is important: creating great 3D models and worlds for online display.

Download pdf TurnToolBox for ArchiCAD Manual Version 2008

ArchiCAD ® Educational Version

ArchiCAD is the hugely popular virtual modeling solution developed by architects, for architects. It has formed the modeling core of over a million buildings worldwide; its open standards and numerous add-ons make it a must-have creative tool for any aspiring architect. ArchiCAD is not only powerful, architecture-specific and globally trusted, it’s also fun and simple to use and will add to your enjoyment as you build a career using some of the most advanced digital modeling tools available.

Limitations to the full commercial version are the following:
• All files created with the ArchiCAD student version will have an irremovable logo on all printouts. Further parameters of the Educational Version:
• ArchiCAD Educational Version is protected by a serial number.
• Educational and commercial project files have the same file format (PLN).
• Educational project file compatibility:
- Educational project files can be opened with a commercial version of ArchiCAD. In this case, ArchiCAD switches to Educational mode. The logo cannot be removed.
- Commercial project files can be opened with an educational version of ArchiCAD. In this case, the logo is added, and cannot be removed later.
- Besides “Open”, no other data exchange (copy, paste, merge, hotlink…) is allowed between EDU and commercial project files.
• The Educational version is “time-bombed”. The expiration date is determined by the Serial Number. When a serial number is nearing the expiry date, a new serial number can be entered to renew the license.
• Once an ArchiCAD is installed as an EDU version, it cannot be started as a full or demo version. The ArchiCAD EDU serial number has to be entered upon install; if there is no serial number, the EDU installation cannot be completed. Please note: ArchiCAD files created with educational version earlier than 9 (PNE, PAE…) are not compatible with the newer versions of ArchiCAD educational versions.

Download pdf ArchiCAD ® Educational Version

Artlantis 2.0 for ArchiCAD Users

Modelize a project into ArchiCAD export it and edit it with Artlantis. Return to ArchiCAD modify the geometry of the project, export a new Artlantis file and recover automatically the previous work done into Artlantis.

Step 1 : Modeling into ArchiCAD
Step 2 : Export the model to Artlantis
NB: The export can only be done in 3D View with the activcation of the Perspective option. The camera and heliodon settings will be retrieved into Artlantis. Display the 3D View Menu View > 3D View Mode > Perspective Then File menu > Save as… Format: Choose Artlantis Render Studio 2.0 Name the file (e.g. A.atl) then Save it. The saving is done in Artlantis file format, if they were dependent textures they will be saved into a folder created beside the .atl file.

The following Export dialog box get displayed: Check the needed export options you would like to retrieve into Artlantis. Perspective Cameras, Lights, Sun and the textures associated to Wall, Roof, Slab and Others. Others: Can be columns, beams, objects…
NB: When in the dialog box of the export the Lamps or Sun are still grey, this is means you will have to activate them into the Photorenderings Settings dialog box of ArchiCAD.
Menu Document > Creative Imaging > Photorendrings
Settings in the popup list choose Internal Rendering Engine.
Open the the Effects thumbnail in the Light sources check Sun and/or Lamps

Download pdf Artlantis 2.0 for ArchiCAD Users

HDTV: The Engineering History

“The world is moving towards High Definition Television [HDTV]” “Don’t buy a regular TV now, they are going to be better in every way when HDTV comes into market”. Some of the many phrases dropped by people who are loosely following the HDTV effort. When asked, “How do you know?”, these people confidently responded with, “Because technology is just going to get better and better.” Though HDTV is revolutionizing the world, and the technology is getting better, very little thought is put into the effort done by engineers in the leading companies. People expect television to constantly improve, but these improvements do not occur on their own. Rather, they arise from many different factors, such as nationalistic politicians who push American companies to develop HDTV, the computer industry pushing for a digital television, or engineers inventing new ideas.

In Inventing Accuracy, Donald Mackenzie clearly describes a false perception people have regarding improvements in technology, a notion he refers to as a natural trajectory. Through a chronology of the history of nuclear missile guidance, he defines such a trajectory as "a direction of technical development that is simply natural, not created by social interests but corresponding to the inherent possibilities of the technology (pg 167). However, in the context of military guidance, he comes to the conclusion that these things can't really exist. All trajectories need to be helped along by technical, social, and political pressures. Nothing happens by itself.

Even so, people still believe technologies advance because it is natural phenomenon. Moore’s Law is a prediction that the pace of microchip technology change is such that the amount of data storage that a microchip can hold doubles every year or at least every 18 months. Intel’s 8080 in 1975 had 4500 transistors. In 1995, when Intel introduced the Pentium Pro, it had 5.5 million transistors. However it did not occur because it was on a predestined plan to do so, but rather engineers in Santa Clara working hard to compete with other companies. If no other company that creating chips existed, Intel would most likely be just as happy to fire all its engineers and sell their chips at high prices.

HDTV is no different. This paper strives to analyze HDTV as the product of technological trajectories similar to the way Mackenzie did for nuclear missile guidance. To look under the mask of the natural trajectory and present HDTV as a true product of its surroundings, a manifestation of corporate interests, technical desires, and government goals. This paper also will show that HDTV is not really the natural way of the world, but one method that has been contrived through the involvement of lots of different parties, and done so successfully enough to convince the nation that it's a natural thing that should be expected and accepted by society as a great technological advancement.

Download pdf HDTV: The Engineering History

Digital Terrestrial Broadcasting in HDTV

The core of the digital terrestrial broadcasting, as well as satellite digital which started in December, 2000, is Hi-Vision. An HDTV image has five times more visual information than a conventional television picture, and 1,125 scanning lines in HDTV system give pictures their detailed realism. Also, a wide-screen format with a 16:9 aspect ratio provides a powerful viewing experience. HDTV also provides CD-quality sound and 5.1 surround sound broadcasting, which is capable of reproducing sounds with a realistic feeling of depth that gives listeners a heightened sense of involvement by using six-channel speaker system. NHK has delivered spectacular images from the Space Shuttle, the depth of the ocean, and the Antarctica. Almost 90% of NHK’s main channel (Digital General TV) is broadcast in HDTV.

Data broadcasting
Data broadcasting gives viewers access to information whenever they need it by simply pressing a remote control button. Viewers can request and withdraw detailed information in such emergency situations as earthquakes and severe storms, as well as program related data, local weather forecasts, and sports results. This function will enhance detailed information services.

Interactive services
Interactive functions allow viewers to actively participate in TV programs from their living room. One can join a quiz show as a competitor and join a contest as a juror by submitting the answers and opinions through the television screen. NHK’s most popular music program, “Red & White Year-end Song Festival” (to be aired on 31 December) will invite audience to screen the songs as the jurors.

Multi-channel services
Digital broadcasting has the bandwidth capacity to broadcast up to three different standard-definition programs on one single channel. For example, it is possible to air a children’s animation program, a language learning program, and a cooking program all at the same time on NHK Educational TV channel.

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Using FPGA-Based Channel Bonding for HDTV Over DSL

On an almost daily basis, new video or voice applications push the bandwidth requirements for DSL networks, while telecom carriers in the U.S. and worldwide are targeting delivery of digital and high-definition television (HDTV) to consumers. To achieve delivery of such services without deploying new fiber everywhere, carriers must leverage existing copper deployments already in the ground.

Most DSL lines offer enough capacity for delivering standard-definition television (SDTV). Most programs are available from streaming servers at bitrates of about 750 kbps, with some programs providing a 1.5 Mbps bitrate. However, to allow high-quality HDTV streaming and multiple channels simultaneously, a home must have a bandwidth of at least 16 Mbps. Although newer DSL generations of ADSL2 and VDSL can offer these speeds, they cannot offer high speed over a sufficiently longer distance on a typical DSL line. Therefore, HDTV programs can be delivered only to households close to the DSLAM. Those located further away can only receive lower quality SDTV programming.

To ensure that DSL remains the preferred choice for end users, service providers are looking for new ways to improve the performance of DSL networks. While VDSL and ADSL2 provide better performance, the distance limitations are difficult to overcome. Another scenario is to bring the DSLAMs closer to the end users, but the costs involved with installing new equipment in the network are often prohibitive.

Channel Bonding in DSLAMs and DSL Modems
DSL channel bonding provides the ideal mix of features: higher bandwidth to all users and the ability to extend the distance that can be reached at a certain bandwidth. Instead of using a single copper pair, DSL bonding distributes traffic over a bundle of copper pairs. To achieve an effective bandwidth of 12 Mbps, three DSL lines of 4 Mbps are bundled, with a channel bonding processor at each end of the lines. In most copper networks, subscribers are already connected via several wires, so no new cables need be installed to provide channel bonding service, as shown in Figure 1.

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One Transistor Enables Clean HDTV and NTSC Video Sync Separation

The growing popularity and availability of HDTV is creating a small revolution in the video industry. New video systems must be capable of handling the standard NTSC (National Television System Committee) composite signal as well as high definition signals. Since low cost and low power concerns drive system designers to find the simplest solutions, this article describes a one transistor network that enables a single video sync separator to operate for both HDTV and NTSC systems.

In the sample NTSC signal shown in Figure 1, the color burst and color subcarriers are identified. A “slice level” is drawn half-way down the drop for horizontal synchronization. Variations in color burst or dark blues within the subcarrier can dip below the slice level, causing false sync pulses in addition to the 15kHz horizontal sync signal. With HD (High Definition) signals (Figure 2), the color information is carried separately, so there is no color burst or subcarrier to cause false sync pulses. However, note that the horizontal sync pulse is shorter and higher frequency (20kHz).

It is advantageous if a single sync separator will operate with both HD and NTSC signals. Since false triggers can occur with NTSC signals, a filter can be added in the sync separator path to reduce the height of the color burst and subcarrier signals. This filter cannot be included during HD detection, though, since its shorter sync pulse would also be attenuated, causing missed triggers.

The ISL59885 is a sync separator which features both HD and NTSC detection. An output, labeled HD, is provided which responds to the type of input - high for NTSC and low for HD. This external pin can be used to insert a low-pass filter into the sync separator path preventing false sync pulses in composite video. The circuit is shown in Figure 3. When composite signal (NTSC/PAL) is detected, the filter is enabled by applying a logic high to the base of the transistor. When component signal (HD) is detected, the filter is disabled by having the HD pin at a logic low state. Although the transistor is disabled during HD, a low pass filter is still present to filter out any noise present at the input.

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SDTV Lens on HDTV Camera: To Be or Not to Be?

The essential distinction between SDTV and HDTV is bound up in the core issue of the term “high definition”. It implies that HDTV is distinguished from traditional video primarily by more “definition” – thus producing much higher picture sharpness. Thus, any discourse on mixing SDTV products with HDTV products needs to be closely examined from the viewpoint of its impact on the “high definition” aspect of the final imagery. Unlike the digital cameras and recorders that make up contemporary digital imaging systems, the lens is a totally analog technology. It is a very physical technology, in the fullest sense of the word. The lens is also dynamic— in terms of the substantial degree of control it can exercise over the object image that it presents to the camera image sensors.

Those variations in light level, focus, and focal range offered by the lens come with some technical penalties. As this paper is intended to examine “definition” the focus will be on the behavior of lens resolution. It is useful to establish some metrics in optical terms, for picture “definition”. Audio and video systems (such as a television camera) are described by considerations of bandwidth and the specific system responses over the frequency ranges encompassed within their respective bandwidths. A similar approach can describe the resolution performance of a lens.

OPTICAL BANDWIDTH
Lens Contrast and Resolution are inextricably intertwined. A series of closely spaced alternating black and white lines are visually distinguished by their relative contrast to each other. As their thickness and spacing are progressively reduced our human visual system is tasked to distinguish between these alternating lines. At some point we fail to do so and they blur into a gray patch. The same thing occurs as the test chart object scene passes through a lens. As the alternating lines increase in spatial frequency their optical representation by the lens will exhibit a progressive roll-off as simplistically illustrated in

Figure 1. In other words, the contrast reproduction capability of the lens is modulated as a function of the fineness of detail of the alternating black and white lines. This particular representation of the lens output is technically termed the Modulation Transfer Function – or MTF. The horizontal axis represents the spatial frequency (increasingly fine detail from left to right) in Line-pairs per millimeter (Lp/mm). The vertical axis is the contrast (amplitude of black to white) of the optical image output of the lens.

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HDTV Standards and Practices for Digital Broadcasting

This eduGuide is intended for the video professional that is starting to become involved with designing, specifying, operating or maintaining digital video broadcast and distribution systems for HDTV. For over 50 years our industry has used television technology of a primarily analog nature. True, some digital technology has been used in broadcast facilities for standard definition or NTSC and PAL systems, but its deployment has been limited and ultimately converted back to an analog signal for distribution and broadcast.

Today, HDTV is the first broadcast technology designed to be exclusively digital from image capture to display on the consumer’s TV set. Many different technologies are used where the video, and audio, undergoes many transformations from start to finish. This eduGuide will help you to understand the chain of technologies used, the industry standards behind them, for both copper and fiber optic distribution, and the practices video professionals are developing for the new world of HDTV.

The Role of Technical Standards
The broadcast industry, unlike the A/V and computer industries, has historically been a proponent and practitioner of technical standards for video and audio processing and distribution. The reason is simple: interoperability. The broadcaster, and those in related professional video industries, need to be able to select the best equipment for the task at hand. Since all the equipment in a distribution or edit suite will need to process the same video and audio, there is a need to define and adhere to interface standards between the various pieces of equipment.

There are several technical standards organizations in the world that develop and promote these standards but perhaps the most noted is SMPTE. The Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE) has membership and participation from individuals, broadcasters and equipment manufacturers from around the world. The expertise and experience brought to bear by this group creates a forum for developing very powerful and lasting standards.

The buyer and user of broadcast equipment is the ultimate beneficiary of this process. He can be assured that products compliant with a particular set of standards will allow video and audio signals to be communicated between them in a recognizable way without requiring additional processing or interfacing. The benefit to the user is lower design and operational costs and a wider selection of equipment to choose from for a particular application without being locked in to any one equipment manufacturer employing proprietary interfaces and protocols.

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HDTV and Mobile TV: post Digital Switchover

In May 2006, we produced a discussion paper examining the future market demand and technical opportunities for digital terrestrial broadcasting. We proposed the adoption of new technologies – the MPEG4 video coding standard and a new broadcasting standard, now called DVB-T2 – that would enable the existing UHF spectrum to be used much more efficiently to carry both HDTV and mobile broadcast services alongside existing Freeview services once UK analogue TV broadcasting ends in 2012.

That paper contributed to a UK and an international dialogue that has led to the recent publication of proposals from Ofcom and the public service broadcasters to introduce terrestrial HDTV services in the UK, based on the new DVB-T2 standard. Ofcom has also indicated that it plans to auction off 14 of the UHF channels currently used for analogue broadcasting, leaving 32 channels to carry 6 digital TV multiplexes (networks).

Last autumn the authors of the original paper came together again to build on the progress made over the previous 18 months and to develop their earlier proposals taking into account the full potential for digital terrestrial broadcasting in the UK. This paper makes a set of radical proposals that build on current plans. If adopted over the next several years, these would enable the UK to retain its world leadership in digital terrestrial broadcasting bringing significant incremental benefits to every stakeholder – consumers, manufacturers, broadcasters and media companies, network operators, regulators, and the Government.

Proposals – For Discussion
We take as a working assumption that digital switchover will be completed by 2012 and that Ofcom’s proposals for the sixth multiplex will eventually go ahead, offering HDTV services using MPEG4 and DVB-T2. We believe these steps are not sufficient to meet consumers’ or industry’s needs. (It should also be noted that a separate proposal to introduce terrestrial HDTV using DVB-T and MPEG4 has been made.)

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HDTV: To be or not to be

When budding scientists in elementary, middle and high school need information about chemistry, they have a myriad of sources online. One very popular source turns out to be the Lab’s periodic table site, linked to the Chemistry (C) Division’s external home page. How popular is it? Since May 2000 the site has logged nearly two million hits. The site is maintained and updated by computer technician Nick Degidio and staff member Moses Attrep both of Isotope and Nuclear Chemistry (C-INC). “We average about 30,000 hits a month,” said Degidio. “And that number doubles around finals, term papers and midterm exam time. Its popularity is pretty surprising.”

High definition television is coming to a screen near you — at least we hope so. For some television viewers the system is already in place and working well. For many more consumers, however, the technology may be a bit later in coming. The transition has proven troublesome for television broadcasters, television set manufacturers and government officials as technological, economic and even political issues have slowed the process.

The promise of HDTV is worth the wait, but only if you want the benefits of a higher-resolution picture — imagine doubling the resolution of today’s analog television — coupled with a wider screen image close to the dimensions of a motion picture image. Add to that Dolby digital sound with six separate audio tracks for detailed and realistic surround sound and you’ll probably agree HDTV is a better way to see television. Many people involved in the transition are beginning to fear that when the federally mandated time comes in 2006 to convert broadcast formats, a large per- centage of the population will not be ready

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Model D9887 HDTV Modular Receiver

The Model D9887 HDTV Modular Receiver is designed to receive broadcasts using MPEG-2 4:2:0 or MPEG-4 AVC* 4:2:0 digital compression technology. It is ideally suited for decoding digitally compressed signals for primary distribution and contribution applications. With modular inputs and outputs, the D9887 receiver can be configured to suit the specific needs of your application. An optional IP input and output interface is available for IPTV applications.

Secured Broadcast Reception
Availability of optional BISS conditional access (CA) with modes 1 and E help provide protected distribution of video, audio and/or data broadcasts to multiple locations. Contact Scientific Atlanta for availability of BISS for your configuration.

Key Features
• Single or dual decoder configuration
• Choice of MPEG-2/DVB 4:2:0 or MPEG-4 AVC 4:2:0 video decoding
• HDTV support for 1080i @ 25, 29.97, 30 fps, 720p @ 50, 59.94, 60 fps and 480p @ 59.94 fps
• SD support for 480i @ 29.95 fps and 576i @ 25 fps
• 1-81 Mbps decodable video bit rate dependent on video decoder option
• 1-160 Mbps transport data rate dependant on selected input options
• Video resolution interpolation (letter box, cropped or anamorphic)
• Configured and controlled via front panel LCD
• Two analog stereo outputs per program
• SNMP control and monitoring
• ROSA® Network Management (NMS) support
• Web-based management (10/100 BaseT)

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MA-3300HD HDTV Digital Master Switcher

MA-3300HD HDTV master switcher provides high performance and operability to adopt embedded audio SDI aimed digital broadcasting. This switcher has 16 inputs, 2 program output, 1 preset output, and 4 down stream keyers.

Features
● Designed for embedded audio SDI (8 channel in audio)
● 16x5 Matrix Module
Program and Preset Line (Breakaway of video and audio)
Aux Line for Monitoring
● Maximum 4 DSKs of Self and External Key
Luminance and Linear Key
Boarder Effect
Clip and Gain Control
● Transition Effect of CUT, FF, CF, FC and Mix
● Internal Source Generator of Black and Silence for Program and Preset Line
● Relay Bypass for PGM1 Out from BASE2 In (for Emergency Matrix)
● Redundant Power Supply
● Monitoring
The status of each card can be monitored via SNMP. Condition of the video, audio and reference signals can be also monitored.
● Option
APS (Automatic Program Control System)
AES/EBU Digital Audio Matrix
Audio Level Meter
Clean Output

APS (Automatic Program Control System
Automatic program control and data management by operating personal computer are available. It can play back the peripheral equipment of VTR, Video Server and Character Generator automatically in accordance with program schedule data.

Feature
• More than 1,000 event data per week can be stored.
• Basic language is English and several foreign language can be displayed for Title and comment.
Ex. Japanese, Chinese, Spanish, French, etc
• Several kind of VTR and Server can be control by serial interface.
Ex. Sony, Panasonic, Thomson, etc

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Analog Reconstruction Filter for HDTV Using the THS8133, THS8134, THS8135, THS8200

The THS8133, THS8134, THS8135, and the THS8200 devices are part of a family of chips for graphics and video applications, which contain triple DACs that operate up to 240 MSPS. For television applications, an analog low-pass filter is required to reconstruct the signal that is input to the monitor. High definition television (HDTV) requires a sampling frequency of 74.25 MHz and has pass-band, transition-band, and stop-band attenuation requirements, which affect the complexity of the filter. A higher sampling rate results in a lower filter complexity.

The THS8133, THS8134, THS8135, and THS8200 comprise a family of graphics/video chips that have triple digital-to-analog converters (DACs) that convert digital graphics signals GBR/YPbPr to analog. They insert bilevel or trilevel syncs into the green/luma signal. The trilevel sync is used for horizontal synchronization of high definition (HD) television signals. Table 1 lists the chips and their capabilities. The THS8200 incorporates a 1:2 upsampling and interpolation filter, which results in a simplification of the filter design that is used to reconstruct the analog output signal. The advantages of 2x oversampling are examined for the high definition (HD) television application.

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Setting Up Your HDTV (High-Definition TV)

Where to Begin
Review your HDTV’s User’s Manual to determine which type of TV connection is recommended. Generally, it is one of three types:
HDMI to HDMI, HDMI to DVI or Component. HDMI is recommended for the highest-quality video and is the easiest because it includes the audio signal. Based on the recommended connection from your TV manufacturer, locate the appropriate connection diagram on the right. Ensure that you have all of the necessary cables and follow the connection diagram.

Once complete, you will need to set the AT&T U-verse SM receiver aspect ratio to match the settings of your HDTV and your viewing prefer- ence. (see page 2) Generally, HD content is best viewed in its native 16x9 widescreen aspect ratio. Ensure that you have subscribed to AT&T U-verse HD service. If you have not done this, please call 800-ATT-2020 to request this service. Additional detailed information may be found in the AT&T Receiver Manual and Features Guide.

Connect With an HDMI Connector
Some HDTVs have a high-definition multimedia Interface (HDMI) connector. The HDMI connector provides both a digital video and audio connection.
The HDMI connector can also provide a connection to an HDTV with a DVI input. If your HDTV has a Digital Visual Interface (DVI) connector, you will need an HDMI-to-DVI adaptor and you will need to make a separate audio connection.
Note: The DVI port on the TV must support high-bandwidth digital content protection (HDCP).
Cables Used in This Configuration
1 HDMI-to-HDMI cable or
1 HDMI-to-DVI Adaptor, and RCA audio left/right cables

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Wireless HDTV – Compressed or Uncompressed?

Wireless HDTV continues to be a hot topic in the consumer electronics space. The need for a solution that will finally eliminate audio/video wires is stronger than ever. The TV market is at an inflection point ready to take off, propelled by a combination of major technical and regulatory advances. Flat panel display, LCD and plasma technologies have enabled an amazing offering of elegant TVs that most people want in their living room. HD content is also fueling the demand for HDTVs, with most consumers in the US and Japan having access to a wide array of HD content from TV networks and cable channels, and distributed via terrestrial, cable or satellite broadcasts. In the US this trend is facilitated by the FCC which is making sure through regulation and its influence on cable/satellite operators that HDTV is finally going to happen and on a large scale. Other world markets will follow, including Europe, which already has several satellite providers offering HD programming.

Sporting events such as the Super-Bowl or the Olympic Games see more people rushing to spend thousands of dollars on new HDTV sets. The availability of new HD DVDs will only intensify this demand. This hot market is attracting new players from the PC space such as HP and Dell who hope to take a slice of the TV market from the incumbent TV brands. With such intense competition in this lucrative market, CE manufacturers are investing heavily in differentiating qualities enabling them to offer more elegant designs, better picture quality and more functions. A wireless interface would be a perfect addition to their offerings.

Consumers have shown that they like wireless. The proliferation of cordless phones, Bluetooth headsets and Wi-Fi home networking kits are just a few indications of this preference. Consumers are very likely to opt for a TV with a wireless interface over a TV without one. What is the point of spending so much money on an elegant wall-hanging flat panel TV if its aesthetic appeal is compromised by wires running to the display? To illustrate this concern, one TV manufacturer tells a story about a couple at an electronics store where the wife says: “OK, you can have your silly four- thousand dollar TV, but I don’t want to see any wires running through our living room…”

The need for wireless HDTV is even stronger when it comes to multimedia projectors. The market for HDTV multimedia projectors for home use is growing dramatically. A true cinema experience with a huge picture cannot be matched by TV sets, and the space occupied by these machines is very small. In many cases a projector is not purchased in place of a TV but rather as a complement to it; to be used for special events such as parties and other social gatherings or a ‘night out’ at the home cinema. Although growth is strong, this market is very far from realizing its potential. Perhaps the greatest inhibitor of further growth is the installation difficulty. Having to run video wires across the room to the projector discourages many from purchasing this device. The high prices – as much as several hundreds of dollars – of the long video cables required for projector installation, make the installation experience even more painful. A wireless interface would make all the difference.

It is not surprising therefore, that so many companies have been trying to address this need. Many top TV OEMs have been spending resources on wireless TV technology, while standard bodies and special interest groups, such as 802.11n and UWB, are also targeting this application. Most of the solutions that have been proposed for wireless HDTV share a common assumption: the HD video stream delivered wirelessly is compressed with a typical data rate of 10-30 Mbps. This assumption is based on the premise that video is distributed to the home through terrestrial, cable or satellite...

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Beyond HDTV – television ‘on the run’?

When is enough, enough? Surely the paint is barely dry on the signposts to HDTV? Why spend time and money looking beyond that? It will confuse the public – and quite possibly broadcast management as well. These days, surely technology evolution is in ‘dog years’. So come on, let’s start when we really need something. And by the way, did you hear about the economic downturn? The answer to the why of ‘beyond HDTV’ lies in the very, very long lead times that new television systems fundamentally need. The answer lies in making the distinction between what we might call ‘long-run’ and ‘short-run’ new systems.

The Internet is a fantastic vehicle for introducing new systems, because there is no new infrastructure needed, either for the provider or the user. We already have PCs and the Internet itself. All you need is to download software. These are ‘short-run’ new systems.

Although not a black-and-white distinction, we also need to look beyond the short-run, to systems which do need investments by the provider and user, and new delivery infrastructures. This is the ‘long-run’. It is in this category that ‘beyond HDTV ‘ lies. Any sensible person looks both to the short-run and the long-run – and understands the distinction. We should do the same, because there is always a ‘long-run’.

Today, in 2009, there are about 100 HDTV channels in Europe. But, the founding father of HDTV, Dr Fujio, had the idea for HDTV during the Tokyo Olympic Games of 1964. He thought the public should have a way of feeling they were virtually present on such great occasions. He was right, and we do. The first HDTV broadcasts (in the 1125i/60 format) were as long ago as 1984 in Japan – over twenty years ago. So, the time taken from conception of the idea to rollout of services has been, for us in Europe, over forty years. Could anyone doubt that, on this evidence, it is reasonable for us to start now looking ahead to the next step beyond HDTV?

The tests done in 2008 using the NHK Super Hi-Vision (SHV) technology were important and useful in many ways, and much of the background is given in the three articles published in this special edition of EBU Technical Review.

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Experiments with Delivery of HDTV over IP Networks

The conversion of broadcast television from the legacy analog PAL and NTSC standards to digital format has many exciting implications. These include the possible convergence of television distribution and computer network infrastructures, allowing interactive applications, and the increase in quality possible with high definition digital formats.

To date, the different aspects of this convergence have been studied in isolation: there has been much work on the transport of compressed standard definition TV over IP, and much work defining protocols and standards for high definition TV (HDTV), but few have studied the transport of HDTV over IP. In this paper we present our initial experiments with a system to deliver production quality uncompressed HDTV over IP networks.

Why do we chose to deliver uncompressed HDTV? Several reasons, primarily to maintain image quality and reduce latency. This is most useful in a production facility, where image degradation due to repeated compression cycles is undesirable, but may also be appropriate for very high quality telepresence applications. Delivery of compressed HDTV, using existing MPEG-2 over IP standards, may be more appropriate for other applications.

The outline of this paper is as follows: section 2 covers background in HDTV technology, protocols for transport of video over IP networks and network performance. This is followed, in section 3 with a discussion of the options for protocol development, with our design being outlined in section 4. Section 5 provides preliminary performance analysis of our system, demonstrating transmission of HDTV over a wide-area IP network, with section 6 outlining directions for further development. Finally, we summarize related work in section 7, and provide conclusions.

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Back to Basics: How to Set Up Your new HDTV

So you finally went out and bought a high-definition TV. Congratulations — you’ve joined a growing community of people who’ve switched to the new digital technology. Considering HDTV’s stunningly realistic, widescreen images and Dolby Digital sound, it’s easy to see why more and more home-entertainment enthusiasts would rather have an HDTV than an apprenticeship with Donald Trump.

But because HDTV is relatively new, a lot of people still aren’t aware even of the basics. For example, many don’t know that an “HD-ready” set (a.k.a. an HDTV monitor) needs to be connected to an outboard digital tuner before it can receive any highdefinition shows. Or that just because HDTVs “upconvert” standard TV signals for display in the higher-resolution 720p (progressive-scan) or 1080i (interlaced) format doesn’t mean the programs are true HDTV. To view honest-to-goodness high-def broadcasts, you need the proper equipment, properly connected, and you need a high-def signal. Before delving into the various connection options, let’s review some basic TV-setup considerations. Whether you go with a direct-view, rear-projection, or flat-panel model — or even a front projector — you’ll want to roughly match the screen size to the room so you won’t have to sit too close or too far away to see the whole picture in full detail. A general rule of thumb for comfortable viewing distance is about twice the diagonal screen size (1 1/2 times if you’re using a front projector). For example, if your set has a 40- inch screen measured diagonally, you should sit at least 6 1/2 feet away. Room lighting is also important. For daytime viewing, place the TV where windows can’t shine light onto the screen. And for best nighttime viewing, situate lamps so their reflections don’t appear on the screen.

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HDTV Accessories Guide

On February 17, 2009, the U.S. conversion from analog to digital television will be complete. HDTV, or high-definition television, is the best that digital television has to offer, including spectacular pictures and stunning surround sound that create the most realistic home entertainment experience available. To get true HD you need a high-definition program, delivered in HD, and displayed on an HDTV or HD monitor. Of course, this means that your accessories should be high quality as well, to ensure that you and your family realize the true benefits of HDTV. HDTV ACCESSORIES GUIDE

Rooftops and Rabbit Ears
If you rely on over-the-air reception with “rabbit ears” or a rooftop antenna, you should get even better reception in the digital world—and more channels to boot! DTV allows broadcasters to transmit several TV programs at once—called multicasting—and these programs are available right now to consumers who choose to receive their DTV signal over-the-air. A new generation of antennas that are optimized for digital and HD delivery are available at your local retailer. Check out www.AntennaWeb.org for information about the type of antenna that’s right for you. If Your World Is Flat

A growing number of consumers enjoy the flat-screen experience by purchasing HDTV sets that can hang on the wall, in the form of LCD or plasma displays. There are a variety of accessories to affix the set to the wall, along with racks and cabinets for the components. You may also choose a TV stand or console from companies that specialize in furniture for electronics. The newest electronics furniture is created to blend into your living room and can even be built into the wall to create more space. Don’t forget to refer to your owner’s manual to learn which specialized cleaning product works best for your TV.

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Using Cyclone III FPGAs for Clearer LCD HDTV Implementation

Today's liquid crystal display (LCD) technology has found a great application with high-definition TV (HDTV), but the challenge has been to achieve high resolution, which requires faster data rates. Accelerating data rates require special image processing algorithms to support faster moving video. The industry is confronted with a major problem: how do you implement these algorithms and get a product out to market first, and do it within a known power budget?

To compound the problem, designers need to determine how to reconfigure the image-processing algorithms when the hardware platform connects to different sizes of LCD panels. Larger LCD panels require faster data rates, so the challenge is how to adjust the data rate for the panel size.

Those challenges are easily managed with the new low-cost Cyclone® III FPGA family. Designers can apply image-processing algorithms in Cyclone III FPGAs to convert and map digital video signals onto the display panel. In addition, designers can take advantage of the Cyclone III FPGA's flexibility to reconfigure image-processing algorithms to increase the data rate for larger display panels. Thus, designers can develop a common hardware platform for all of their LCD panels, no matter the size.

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Image formats for HDTV

For several years, European broadcasters have been making programmes in high definition – often based upon co-production deals with the USA and Japan – using the 1920 x 1080 Common Image Format. However, European consumers are currently restricted to down-converted standard-definition versions of the original full-resolution HD content. This situation will soon change as more broadcasters offer HD services – in addition to the pioneering and ground-breaking start made by Euro1080.

This article offers an overview of HD scanning formats and advises European broadcasters not to go against the tide by introducing new production formats for HDTV. Broadcasting and television are now entering the era of High Definition (HD) – a transition as profound as the first introduction of television and the subsequent transition from black-and-white to colour television.

Unfortunately Europe lags behind other parts of the world, denying consumers the chance to view HD programmes in anything other than standard definition. HD has been with us since the early 1990s but those early European attempts unfortunately proved to be unsuccessful. So what has changed? The renewed interest can be attributed to several factors, the main ones being: the availability of high-resolution, large, flat-panel displays for consumer use; a track record of success in other parts of the world; desk-top high-definition production and editing; significantly reduced costs.

Before delving in to the details of scanning formats for high definition, it may be of interest to briefly review the origins of television and their respective picture formats. One of the early pioneers of television was John Logie Baird who introduced television in to the UK with a 30-line vertical mechanical scanning format (see Fig. 1). Despite refinements, it was of course inevitable that electronic scanning should become the mainstream. In the early 30s, the UK moved to 405 lines with a theoretical video bandwidth of 3 MHz. Germany, also an early pioneer of television

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hDtV (high Definition television) and video surveillance

The TV market is moving rapidly towards high-definition television, HDTV. This change brings truly remarkable improvements in image quality and color fidelity. HDTV provides up to five times higher resolution and twice the linear resolution compared with traditional, analog TV. Furthermore, HDTV comes with wide screen format and DVD-quality audio.

Growth in the consumer market for HDTV is impressive. In 2007 the HDTV household penetration in the U.S. was approximately 35%. According to estimates, 85% of all viewers will have an HDTV set at home by 2012. Already today, virtually all major television productions are HD. The two most important HDTV standards today are SMPTE 296M and SMPTE 274M, which are defined by the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers, SMPTE.

hDtV impact on video surveillance market
This development is now starting to have an impact on the video surveillance market, as customers ask for higher image quality standard. The possibility of clearer, sharper images is a long sought quality in the surveillance industry, i.e. in applications where objects are moving or accurate identification is vital. It can be argued that some of these requirements can be met with megapixel network cameras. However the notion of “megapixel” is not a recognized standard but rather an adaptation of the industry’s best practices and it refers specifically to the number of image sensor elements of the digital camera. With high resolution follows huge amounts of image data, which more often than not leads to compromises on frame rate. A megapixel camera alone is therefore not synonymous with high image quality. In contrast, a network camera that complies with any of the given HDTV standards is guaranteed to provide a certain resolution, frame rate and color fidelity, thereby ensuring video quality at all times.

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FireWire 2-Port PCIe DV Quick Installation Guide

The FireWire 2-Port PCIe DV is designed to add FireWire interface to your PCI Express-enabled system. Ulead VideoStudio video editing software is included for producing greeting cards, video e-mails, or home videos complete with attractive titles, effects, and background music.

Features and Benefits
• Compliant with PCI Express Base Specification 1.0a
• Compliant with IEEE 1394-1995, 1394a-2000 and OHCI 1.1 Standards
• PCI Express 1-lane (x1) FireWire adapter works with PCI Express slots with different lane width
• Installs in any available PCI Express slot and supports data transfer rates up to 400Mbps
• Spare enchanced low profile bracket is included to work in low profile chassis
• Two external 6-pin FireWire (1394a) ports to support DV camcorders, hard disk, removable drives, scanners, digital cameras and other FireWire audio/video devices
• Onboard power connector to provide reliable power source
• Ulead VideoStudio software provides exciting digital video capturing, editing and exporting capabilities.

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Ulead VideoStudio 10 Plus

VideoStudio 10 Plus is the latest release of Ulead’s popular video-editing and DVD-authoring software It has a number of new advanced features. What impresses me most are the enhancements Ulead incorporated in the basic tools and functions that makes the capturing and editing jobs much easier and faster. VideoStudioo 10 Plus now offers three program options: the VideoStudio Editor designed for advanced users; the Movie Wizard for beginners; and the new DV-to-DVD Wizard with the capability of burning a DVD directly from an entire tape without scanning or capturing to the hard drive.

The new Editor’s interface has a large preview window on one side, and the Library and Option Panels conveniently placed on the other. It offers four different interface layouts for the viewer to choose from. Ulead has greatly improved the processing speed. Now you can start playing the clip or the project on the preview window almost instantly with one click of the play button. Ulead has added a scrolling Timeline ruler and tracking indicator as I suggested in my version 8 review. But the indicator re-scrolls repeatedly from the middle of the ruler. I would prefer to see the indicator stay put with the ruler scrolling.

The Timeline scale slider is a much-improved tool to adjust the ruler scale. By adjusting the ruler to the frame-size scale, you can identify accurately the frames you want to trim from the video clip. The Timeline ruler bar also has a provision to set (or remove) chapter markers, which is much more convenient than setting the markers while previewing the project. Rip Editing is another convenient feature. Once enabled, the positions of the media files you inserted in all the tracks are locked to the clips in the video track. Hence, you do not have to reposition these files if you drag and drop new clips into the video track or remove unwanted ones from it.

VideoStudio 10 Plus now offers 6 overlay tracks. You can resize, reposition or apply animations, masks or video effects to the clips in the overlay tracks. In addition, you can use the Chroma Key function to create Alpha channel clips or images with a transparent background (only from those with a solid color background). With 6 overlay tracks, you can produce multiple-pictures-in-picture video clips or still images.

The Audio functions have not changed much from the previous versions except the new added 5.1 Dolby Digital support and the Pitch Shift filter that raises or lowers the pitch of the audio clips.

Two other noteworthy features are the Ad-Zapper and the DV Quick Scan. Ad-Zapper automatically detects commercials in TV programs for easy removal. The DV Quick Scan function allows you to scan the DV tape at speeds up to 6X and select the scenes you want to keep in your movie for later batch capture.

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