Apple's Final Cut Server

Apple today introduced Final Cut Server, a new server application that works seamlessly with Final Cut Studio 2 to provide media asset management and workflow automation for post production and broadcast professionals. The scaleable server application supports workgroups of any size; it includes a cross-platform client that enables content browsing, review and approval from within a studio or over the internet. Final Cut Server automatically catalogs large collections of assets and enables searching across multiple volumes: it is designed to manage the flow of work, as assets and projects move from producer to editor to artist through the entire production process, the company said.

"Final Cut Server's powerful media asset management capabilities simplify managing the thousands of assets that make up a typical edit," said Rob Schoeben, Apple's vice president of Applications Product Marketing. "And Final Cut Server's sophisticated workflow automation tools ensure projects flow smoothly through an organization, enabling everyone to be more productive."

Final Cut Server automatically catalogs content, generating thumbnails and low resolution clip proxies in the process. Broad search capabilities extend from simple keywords to complex combinations of IPTC, XMP and XML metadata. Final Cut Server can configure a range of highly specific access controls that define user permissions on an asset or project basis.

In addition, the server application includes customizable templates that manage the flow of work typically found in broadcast, post and education environments. Sophisticated watch-and-respond systems can be configured to track the progress of assets, alert editors as projects move through the production pipeline and automatically notify producers by email when a project is ready for evaluation. In addition, location-independent review and approval tools enable clients to view, annotate and approve content from anywhere.

Final Cut Server includes a time-saving shot selection and editing tool that supports drag and drop integration with Final Cut Pro 6 projects. An offline/online workflow enables editors to work with HD proxies in the field. Final Cut Server integrates directly with Compressor 3 for delivery and provides pristine format conversions for publishing to broadcast television, web, iPod, Apple TV, DVD and mobile phones.

Final Cut Server will be available this summer for $1000 (one server and 10 concurrent client licenses) or $2,000 (one server and unlimited client licenses).

by MacNN Staff