Discreet Logic highlights video editing for the high end at IBC '96.

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 13, 1996-- Discreet Logic (NASDAQ:DSLGF) is showcasing its editing product line in its Editing Theatre at the International Broadcasters Convention (IBC) in Amsterdam, Sept. 12-16 (Stand No. 7.320).

FIRE, the company's noncompressed, format-independent on-line nonlinear video and audio editing system forms the cornerstone of the company's editing product line.

Discreet Logic will also be conducting a technology demonstration -- an editing ``prep'' station -- in conjunction with FIRE in the theater presentation. The Editing Theatre showcases a collaborative workflow model designed to demonstrate the productivity of concurrent task execution.

In many conventional on-line editing suites, a principal on-line editor works with an assistant who carries out a series of tasks during a session. The objective is to fuel workflow efficiency by enabling the delegation of more time-consuming or simple tasks to another operator who uses a lower-cost workstation, effectively paralleling the work.

Discreet Logic will be demonstrating the flow of text, images and set up files, as well as browsing, between its two systems: a Silicon Graphics Inc. Onyx-based FIRE and the Indigo(2) IMPACT-based prep station.

The operators will generate text set up files on the prep station, and then send the files to the FIRE on-line system for incorporation in the final product.

``We're communicating a strong message to the editing market at IBC,'' said Graham Sharp, senior vice president of sales and marketing. ``The editing demonstration shows our commitment to driving workflow improvements and productivity in the on-line editing realm. Our goal is to show the future of editing.

``We're providing users with the choice of setting up an accessory station that can be utilized to assign time-consuming and simple tasks to an assistant -- CG, retouching, etc. This frees the on-line editor to focus energy on the creative story-telling process.''

FIRE

FIRE features powerful editing tools and a unique gestural interface, providing a complete editing solution for the professional. It is one of the first open-architecture video editing systems to harness the power of the Onyx graphics supercomputer and combine it with a state-of-the-art database to give users direct, integrated access to video and audio material.

FIRE operators edit with a new gestural interface, meaning with direct manipulation of pictures and shots rather than relying on the keyboard. Therefore, the process is more intuitive and efficient. This type of editing eliminates having to make keyboard commands to trim, reassemble or remove shots, although these commands are supported.

With gestural editing operators simply select shots and drag them using a pen interface into a storyboard. All data information associated with the pictures moves at the same time.

FIRE offers on-line editors a sophisticated toolset which specifically addresses the new and expanding requirements needed for on-line finishing.

Key features and benefits include: the EditDesk, a large work environment that includes a clip library, a timeline and storyboard capabilities; SoftEdits, which enable editors to make uncommitted transitions that can be modified at any point in an edit; advanced editing tools with image-enhancing capabilities such as color correction, keying and character generation; special effects capabilities that bring 2-D effects into a 3-D world; professional audio capabilities, including up to 32 tracks of audio with real-time level EQ and cross-fades for simultaneous audio and video editing; one or two streams of real-time video option; and industry-standard EDL support.

In addition, FIRE offers exceptionally strong audio support with STREAM, which includes audio tools for dialogue, sound effects, mixing and music soundtrack finishing. Audio abilities range from scrubbing and timeline editing with waveform display, to advanced tools such as EQ, pitch shifting and time compression/expansion for complete in-suite finishing when needed.

System Configuration

FIRE runs on an Onyx RealityEngine(2) Deskside or Rack system from Silicon Graphics, which comes configured with either two 250 MHz CPUs or four 250 MHz CPUs. The Deskside version offers 256 MB of RAM, two RM4 boards, the RealityEngine(2) graphics subsystem and the Sirius Video real-time I/O board.

FIRE offers incremental video stream options, and requires a minimum of one 27-minute STONE 3150. More CPUs and more storage can be added, depending on the requirements of the client.

Availability

FIRE 1.1 is currently shipping. Discreet Logic is currently soliciting client feedback on the editing prep station technology demonstration. No formal announcement of a product based on this technology has been made.

The matters discussed in this news release may include forward- looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may vary significantly based on a number of factors, including the timely development and acceptance of new products, the impact of competitive products and pricing, the timely development and release of products by strategic suppliers and the other risks detailed in the company's prospectus dated Nov. 14, 1995, particularly in the Risk Factors section.

About Discreet Logic

Discreet Logic, based in Montreal, develops and supports nonlinear, on-line digital systems for creating, editing and compositing imagery and special effects for film, video, audio and broadcast.

The company's systems are used by creative professionals for a variety of applications: feature films, television programs, commercials, music videos, interactive game production and live broadcasting.

Through direct contact with digital artists, editors, audio engineers, production and broadcasting specialists, Discreet Logic offers technology designed to meet the present and future needs of content creators.

For more information, contact Discreet Logic corporate headquarters, 5505 boul St-Laurent, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H2T 1S6. Tel: [phone]; fax: [phone]; e-mail: [e-mail]; Web: www.discreet.com -0-

NOTE: Discreet Logic, FIRE, STREAM and STONE are trademarks of Discreet Logic Inc. Silicon Graphics and Onyx are registered trademarks and RealityEngine(2), Indigo(2) IMPACT and Sirius Video are trademarks of Silicon Graphics Inc. All other trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

CONTACT: Discreet Logic Inc., Montreal

Leigh Pesqueira, 514/948-7061

514/272-8735 (fax)

[e-mail]