Template-Based Graphics Software Offers Real-Time Manipulation in 3D Space

MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA --(March 22, 2000)-- Pinnacle Systems, Inc. announced that Rocket for FXDeko is now shipping to customers worldwide. FXDeko is an option for Pinnacle Systems' FXDeko character generator system that enhances on-air production with stunning 3D elements and graphics that can be manipulated in real-time in true 3D space. It also enables users to stream graphics in real-time directly to air by providing an interface to live data streams. The software has a list price of $9,950.

Rocket for FXDeko is a template-based tool that allows the generation of real-time 3D elements which can be automatically updated by live data streams. Rocket for FXDeko already has been used by leading broadcasters to enhance graphics capabilities. The software was used to provide graphics for the NBA.com on Feb. 12, 2000, as part of the National Basketball Association (NBA) All-Star 2000 weekend, and by the USA Network for its live telecast of "Improv-Ice" on Dec. 2, 1999.

"The response we received from the beta version of Rocket for FXDeko was better than expected, and we anticipate even greater feedback now that the product is available world-wide," said Mark Sanders, CEO and president of Pinnacle Systems, Inc. "By using Rocket for FXDeko, broadcasters can easily and inexpensively create a completely new on-air look."

About Rocket for FXDeko

Rocket for FXDeko gives broadcasters the ability to create television graphics with 3D elements that can be easily updated from a number of external sources including web pages, ODBC databases, text files or even Microsoft Excel worksheets. The template-based approach eliminates the need for programmers or graphics artists to standby during broadcasts to feed the different screens. Templates can be created in advance for different broadcast formats like sports scores, stock market activity or weather forecasts. Rocket for FXDeko allows on screen graphics to be animated to show changes in real-time based on the incoming data streams. This allows the visuals to be updated automatically from rapidly changing information.

Rocket for FXDeko is an optional upgrade to the existing FXDeko systems and includes the ability to create and display business graphics such as line charts and bar graphs in real-time. With the power of Rocket for FXDeko, users can instantly add up-to-the-second news elements to any graphic. Late-breaking news can be ready for broadcast within seconds.

About FXDeko

The FXDeko character generator provides an intuitive user interface that makes it a snap to add and control the spectacular effects broadcasters want. It has a growing plug-in library of impressive transitions, such as falling titles, water ripples, shards and page turns that can be applied to any graphic or text element. With its template-based graphics and shrink-to-fit feature, FXDeko is ideal for connecting to a 4:4:4:4 operation for the highest level of effects performance, key output and video quality, and currently supports most DTV formats, automation systems and databases. FXDeko supports 4:4:4:4 operation for the highest level of effects performance, key output and video quality, and currently supports most DTV formats.

About Pinnacle Systems, Inc.

Pinnacle Systems' broadcast, desktop, and consumer products provide video professionals and consumers cutting-edge digital video tools to create, store, distribute and view web enabled digital video easier and more affordably than ever before. Pinnacle Systems may be reached at 650-526-1600 or on the World Wide Web at www.pinnaclesys.com.