Software
Simulation
RealFlow on the Mac
Next Limit Technologies has announced RealFlow4 (RF4) for Mac, a new version of its fluid and dynamics simulation tool with native binaries for Apple PowerMac, G4, G5, and Intel systems running Mac OS X Version 10.4 or higher. RealFlow4’s tool set has been reorganized and provides a user-customizable interface. RF4’s Cancel Mesh capability enables artists to stop a mesh during the calculation process, adjust parameters, and continue the process. RF4 also includes RFNative objects, basic primitives designed to save users time, and it provides the ability to apply Python language scripts to five RealFlow areas: batch runs, events, daemons, waves, and fluids. One full RF4 license is priced at $2700.
Video
Capture, Convert, Customize
Online Media Technologies’ AVS Video Tools has been updated to Version 5.4. The software assists users in the cross-conversion of video formats, video capturing, and transferring video files to handheld devices, such as Apple iPod, Sony PSP, and various mobile phones and portable DVD/Dvix players. Version 5.4 includes AVS Video ReMaker, a utility that enables users to directly edit DVDs and MPEG files without re-encoding. Running on Windows 2000, XP, and 2003, AVS Video Tools costs $29.95 for a single-user license. A trial version, which embeds a watermark logo on output files, is offered on the company’s Web site.
NVPerfKit Upgrade
Nvidia has introduced NVPerfKit 2.1, a suite of tools for the debugging, visualization, and profiling of OpenGL and Direct3D software applications. Designed to speed game software development, NVPerfKit provides users access to low-level performance counters inside the driver and hardware counters within the CPU, helping them identify and resolve performance issues during development. NVPerfKit 2.1 works with 32- and 64-bit Windows XP and Linux operating systems on Nvidia GeForce 7 Series, GeForce 6 Series, Quadro FX, and more recent Nvidia GPUs. The NVPerfKit 2.1 suite is now available for download from the company’s developer portal at http://developer.nvidia.com/NVPerfKit.
Macworld: It’s more than iPods
Macworld Conference & Expo 2007, which is taking place at the Moscone Center in San Francisco January 8 to 12, brings together creative professionals in fields to see and experience the latest innovations in Mac technology. The 2007 show offers attendees an unprecedented number of interactive exhibits, educational/training sessions, and speakers.
Macworld’s graphic design training enables novices and professionals alike to experience the latest tools, hands-on demonstrations, training, tips and techniques, and learn from others who use Mac technology. This year’s training highlights include: an intensive two-day training on applications and tools for graphic designers; a hands-on lab; educational user conferences on a range of topics; and a behind-the-scenes session covering Apple’s Shake.