SGO Mistika runs on a standard, albeit high-end, PC platform. Using non-proprietary hardware allows for greater freedom and easy integration with existing infrastructures.
The Mistika software can run on a variety of standard hardware however SGO supply a complete turn-key solution using preferred hardware suppliers. The base Workstation platform is the HP Z800 which delivers ultimate performance in a revolutionary next-generation design. It supports the latest Intel® Xeon® 5600 series processors and combines the extreme speed, massive expandability and maximum productivity that you expect from a high-end system.
“There’s no disputing that Mistika has the best stereo 3D toolset on the planet bar none, but this is complimented by equally capable conform and grading tools, all of which run faster than we ever thought possible on a stock workstation. SGO’s open approach to storage and the sheer script-ability of Mistika means that we are able to integrate the system seamlessly into our operations.”
Phil Oatley, Head of Technology, Park Road Post Production
Mistika makes heavy use of the GPU so all systems are equipped with a Quadro 6000 6GB graphics card. Video I/O is handled by a DVS Atomix video card offering optimum data throughput and support for real-time I/O for all established video formats, from SD up to 4K. The operating system is Suse 64bit Linux providing a well supported and flexible core that is recognised by many system administrators.
Mistika can even run on a lap top for on-set remote creative operation, enabling creative design to begin while shooting. Decisions can be made there and then for later DI processes. As the creative settings are non-destructive, the original camera material is not altered in any way. As for Stereo 3D ‘Mistika Live’ enables real-time live adjustment of the dual camera feeds, enabling real-time correction of left eye/right eye errors, such as camera miss-alignment, colour balance and so forth.
Unlike many of its competitors, Mistika employs an open storage policy. By using standard fibre-channel RAID arrays with a standard file system Mistika allows easy integration into an existing data infrastructures. The preferred storage arrays are from Infortrend which the disk type and capacity dependent upon the working requirements. For an entry level HD system a single 16 disk array of SATA drives would be used. If you are working with 2k and Stereoscopic 3D then add another array. If you are looking to work with 4k files then you would move to the faster SAS disks. As the arrays are standard items it is easy to expand or replace storage as and when required.
“We have been able to create a completely integrated solution from rushes through to final DI, which offers the highest possible levels of quality, speed and flexibility. Meta Data is the heart of our operation and Mistika’s open architecture has allowed us to deliver an incredible degree of automation in areas that were previously labour-intensive, leaving our artists to concentrate on the most important aspects for the client – the best looking images and timely delivery.”
Phil Oatley, Head of Technology, Park Road Post Production
Mistika can be used to provide the central storage for other systems in your facility as part of a Storage Area Network. Work natively in a S.A.N. infrastructure while sharing standard format files with other open systems without any import or export process required. You can create the structure of your project on the central storage and allow other Editors, Compositors and CG Artists to save and render directly into the timeline for immediate real-time review and finishing in Mistika.
