Computer Visualization Facility
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The following is a list of the hardware available in the facility.
VisionStation |
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The Elumens VisionStation is a hemishperical dome which allows the projection of spherically corrected images, providing the user with an extraordinary immersive experience, unlike anything that can be appreciated on a standard flat screen monitor. Because the user's eyes are at the focal point of the dome, the imagery appears to fill the peripheral vision, greatly adding to the sense of "being there". The content for this device can be either computer-generated or live-action video (provided it is shot with an appropriate lens). |
61" Plasma Screen |
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This 61" (~155cm) plasma monitor is a state-of-the-art display device. Brilliant luminosity allows for comfortable viewing even in a brightly lit room and the saturation of the colours is extraordinary. This screen is exceptional in meetings where information needs to be discussed by people too numerous to easily sit around a standard monitor. Because it is so bright, the lights needn't be dimmed as with most projection devices. Also, there are no shadows cast as is the case with front projection solutions. This device may be used in the CVF or hired out (internal customers only please) for a small fee. |
G4 Macintosh |
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This powerul G4 also boasts a SuperDrive for buring CD-Rs as well as DVD-R. Connected to this workstation is a MiniDV/S-VHS editing deck and Sony Monitor for video editing. Final Cut Pro III makes it the perfect video editing station for the academic user. A 21" Sony Trinitron flatscreen also makes it perfect for 3D modelling and animation, using the latest release from Newtek, Lightwave 7.5. |
Various PCs |
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Much of the work in the CVF is performed on the range of Intel-based PCs. The range includes a dual-processor PIII, a mid-range PIV with a GeForceIII graphics card and a hihgh-end PIV with the latest Parhelia graphics card from Matrox. The PCs are provided with at least two monitors, with the high-end PIV have up to five. Please see the software section for a description of the applications available. |
3D Stereoscopic Visualization |
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Using NuVision active shutter wireless stereo glasses, our 3D Stereo workstation (DEC Alpha) can be used to provide an outstanding immersive 3D experience. Unlike anaglyphic stereo (red/blue galsses), active stereo allows a complete and vibrant colour spectrum providing dazzling images that really seem to jump out of the screen. This tool allows users to see spatial relationships that can only really be guessed at using standard 2d displays. |
DVD Burning |
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With new applications and research producing hug amounts of data, more and more often you can find backing up important information can take up several CD-Rs. A standard single sided DVD-R can hold as much as seven 800MB CD-Rs (4.7gb). The price of media has dropped from $15 six months ago to $2~$3 today, making this an effective and affordable data storage option. You can also make your own DVD movies that can be played in most set-top DVD players. |
Last modified: 14th March, 2003
Maintainer: Bernard Meade, Advanced Research Computing
Copyright © 2002 University of Melbourne