What are the specs for WindAdobe CS and Axio Utils versions?

[Silver_Productions]

Matrox

Can you please tell me what are the specs for the Windows, Adobe CS and Axio Utils versions that can be used with an Axio 'Full' (not LE) system based on a HP XW-8400 workstation?

We have system running old software and I want to know how far I can upgrade its software.

Thank you

Riz

[Matrox_Support_Sam]

Hi Riz,

Can you confirm what version of Windows and Adobe CS you would like to run?

From Adobe CS3(3.2.0)/Axio 3.6 to Adobe CS4/Axio 4.x, the Axio FX board was removed and therefore, Matrox GPU effects processing would be handled by the display card (GPU) that is in the system (just like the AXIO LE does).

For Adobe CS3, you would need Premiere 3.2.0 and latest Axio 3.6 version. The OS requirement would be: Microsoft Windows Vista Business or Ultimate (32-bit).

For Adobe CS4, Premiere 4.2.1 update is needed with Axio 4.2.1 software version. The OS versions would include support for the 64-bit version of Microsoft Windows Vista Business or Ultimate, and support for Microsoft Windows 7 Professional and Ultimate (64-bit).

For Adobe CS5, you would need Premiere 5.0.3 with latest Axio 5.1.2 drivers. This release only provided OS support for Windows 7 Professional and Ultimate (64-bit).

The Axio 3.6 software system requirements are mentioned on page 4 and 5 of the User Guide: http://www.matrox.com/video/media/pdf/support/axio/doc/en_Matrox_Axio_Installation_and_User_Guide_36.pdf

Here are the User Guides for Axio 4.2.1 (Adobe CS4) and Axio 5.1.2 (Adobe CS5):
- http://www.matrox.com/video/media/pdf/support/axio/doc/en_Matrox_Axio_Installation_and_User_Guide_4_2_1.pdf
- http://www.matrox.com/video/media/pdf/support/axio/doc/en_Matrox_Axio_Installation_and_User_Guide_5_1_2.pdf

Hope this information is helpful. Please let us know if you need further information.
_________________
Regards,
Sam
Matrox Video Technical Support

[Silver_Productions]

Thank you very much for the very elaborate answer. You have answered everything I needed to know about the software upgrade.

I have another question though as upgrade requires me to remove the effects card. What will be the effect of this on performance. I am not interested with Matrox effects. We are a filmmakers and we never use anything else but fades, but what about keys, multi-layer playback, real-time colour adjustments, the things that differentiates Axio from other I/O cards, will they be affected?

The HP Workstation and the graphics card in it were the top of the range at the time when Axio was purchased but they must be pretty slow by today's standards. Axio still works as a video editor that no FCP or entry level Avid can match. I wanted to be sure that the reason for that is mostly the effects card and losing it will render Axio lethargic.

Thanks in advance.

Riz

[Matrox_Support_Sam]

Hi Riz,

The Matrox GPU effects have been removed however, the Matrox CPU based effects are still available such as Matrox Color Correction, Luma Key, Wipes, dissolves, etc... Therefore, the CPU based effects will be handled by the CPU performance of the system.
The HP xw8400 is a little outdated and you may see a difference in performance from Adobe CS3 to CS5 days, as Adobe adds new functionality/features and therefore, taking advantage of the latest powerful systems and GPU cards. Also, you must take into account the 64-bit OS support/requirement with Adobe CS5 when upgrading your system.

If you are planning to upgrade to Adobe CS5, please see Adobe's minimum system requirements. http://www.adobe.com/products/premiere/tech-specs.html
* Please note we do not support Adobe CS5.5 with Axio latest drivers.

Here is an interesting article which relates Adobe CS5 and CS5.5 performance and functionality with GPU cards: http://www.studio1productions.com/Articles/PremiereCS5.htm

Please let us know if you need further assistance.
_________________
Regards,
Sam
Matrox Video Technical Support