Softimage and Intergraph Computer Systems Announce Immediate Availability of SOFTIMAGE DS Version 2.1 for Intergraph's StudioZ GT Workstation.

MONTREAL--(ENTERTAINMENT WIRE)--Dec. 7, 1998--

New Release Increases Productivity and Creative Capabilities by Delivering Powerful Performance, Software-based Real-time Effects and

Expanded Interoperability Features

Softimage Inc. (a subsidiary of Avid Technology, Inc.) and Intergraph Computer Systems, Inc. today announced shipment of SOFTIMAGE(R)|DS version 2.1 for Intergraph's new StudioZ(TM) GT Workstation. Version 2.1 is the latest release of Softimage's nonlinear production (NLP)(TM) system that -- in combination with the increased power of Intergraph's StudioZ GT Workstation -- provides enhanced performance by delivering software-based, real-time effects via two streams of D1 (ITU-R 601) uncompressed video and uncompressed graphics. This complete, turnkey software and hardware system delivers a seamlessly integrated media production environment for Windows NT(R), enabling post-production professionals and digital artists to create more dynamic content.

The new version of SOFTIMAGE|DS is the first software-based, Windows NT solution to support multiple streams of D1 (ITU-R 601) uncompressed video, giving video professionals even greater performance when finishing graphics- and effects-centric content such as commercials, music videos and TV programs -- at high resolution, on a single platform. SOFTIMAGE|DS version 2.1 includes enhanced OMF(R) support and the ability to import Avid Log Exchange (ALE) files for expanded interoperability with Avid systems and third-party post-production products, as well as several new special effects and presets. In addition, version 2.1 now supports 16:9 anamorphic media, demonstrating Softimage's commitment to developing DTV and HDTV applications that will enable customers to create digital content for this increasingly popular medium.

Intergraph's new StudioZ GT Workstation accelerates processing times and performance by 50 to 70% (compared to the previous single-stream workstation) and enables the creation and playback of effects in real time. The StudioZ GT's ability to output uncompressed serial digital component (D1/SDI) video in real time means that the quality of content created in SOFTIMAGE|DS often exceeds the stringent requirements of post-production professionals working in all areas of the video and broadcast content-creation markets. The new StudioZ GT for SOFTIMAGE|DS Workstation continues on the commitment to provide an integrated platform for post-production professionals using SOFTIMAGE|DS software to perform high-end video capture, nonlinear video and audio editing, compositing, paint, titling and more, on a single, industry-standard system.

"Intergraph's StudioZ GT Workstation delivers the level of performance needed for optimal creativity with SOFTIMAGE|DS version 2.1, including multiprocessor operation, high-volume throughput and uncompressed, broadcast-quality video output in real time," said Chris Laport, president of Universal Images, based in Southfield, Michigan. "SOFTIMAGE|DS version 2.1 represents the exact kind of comprehensive, turnkey system that we were looking for in our model for post production and animation workflow."

"SOFTIMAGE|DS represents an affordable solution for uncompressed nonlinear finishing with powerful effects capabilities," said Drew Diskin, post production supervisor for Broadcast Video, Inc., based in Miami, Florida. "The seamless integration of the multiple toolsets in SOFTIMAGE|DS gives us creative power and flexibility that we haven't had in a linear world."

Pricing and Availability

Complete turnkey multi-stream systems, consisting of SOFTIMAGE|DS version 2.1 software and Intergraph Computer Systems StudioZ GT Workstations with one hour of uncompressed storage, are now available through authorized SOFTIMAGE DS resellers for the MSRP of $150,000 (U.S.). Hardware upgrade options providing multi-stream capabilities are available for existing users of SOFTIMAGE|DS running on single-stream Intergraph StudioZ for SOFTIMAGE|DS Workstations. Each SOFTIMAGE|DS system also ships with a coupon valid for one person to attend five days of training, which includes the SOFTIMAGE|DS Introduction (DS201) course and SOFTIMAGE|DS Advanced (DS301) course at a Softimage Authorized Training Center (ATC).

About Avid Technology

Avid Technology, Inc., which acquired Softimage Inc. in 1998, is an international, industry-leading provider of digital audio and video tools for information and entertainment applications. The company's products are used by a variety of customers worldwide including film, television and interactive content producers, TV news broadcasters, corporate communicators and consumers. For more information, visit Avid's Web site at www.avid.com or the Softimage site at www.softimage.com.

About Intergraph Computer Systems

Intergraph Computer Systems is the world leader in interactive and 3D graphics technology, products, and services for Windows NT. Intergraph develops, manufactures, sells, and supports computer systems for the creative, technical, and business desktop as well as servers, networking, and interoperability products for IT solutions. Hardware products include Pentium/Pentium Pro/Pentium II processors/Windows 95/Windows NT-based graphics workstations, and servers. A member of the Fortune 1000, Intergraph is the world's largest company dedicated to supplying interactive computer graphics systems. For more information, visit Intergraph's Web site at www.intergraph.com/ics or call 1-800-163-0242.

Softimage, OMF, Media Composer and Avid are registered trademarks and NLP is a trademark of Avid Technology, Inc., or its subsidiaries or divisions. Intergraph and StudioZ are registered trademarks of Intergraph Computer Systems. All other trademarks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.