Blackmagic Design Pty. Ltd. has released an updated version of the software to control its DeckLink uncompressed video i/o cards. DeckLink v4.1 adds improvements for all DeckLink cards, standard definition and high definition alike.
The new version adds Video and Key output support to DeckLink Pro, making it possible for users of those cards to connect the two SDI outputs into vision switchers, for live keying of graphics over real-time video — handy where DeckLink Pro is being used for sports or other live broadcast events, according to the company.
An internal keyer is now included as well, allowing live keying of video as it’s passed from the video input to the DeckLink video output. All DeckLink models support this feature.
Also included is a utility called LiveKey, that allows users to enable DeckLink key modes and quickly key graphics that can be set to fade up and down automatically. A new Disk Speed Test application enables users to test disk arrays for optimal performance — Blackmagic said the app uses HD-sized chunks when testing arrays to make sure your disk array is suitable for high-performance video work.
Blackmagic DeckLink 4.1 is available to users at no charge. It’s compatible with Mac OS X v10.2.7 or higher, including Mac OS X 10.3.