OCTOPUS6 FCP plug-in scheme

The Workflow

The FCP plug-in is launched as a separate application, it always appears as the top window in the same position and size of the source panel. 3 different tabs allow users to work with scripts, media or setup.

Access to OCTOPUS rundowns and stories is gained via the script tab, double clicking on an available script opens it for editing. Working with media is a breeze in OCTOPUS6. Media can be searched with quick search and reporters can make a simple selection of raw material from any OCTOPUS client machine, with the option of browsing a lowres copy. The hires video files and content are always stored on video servers.

Users are able to view the video and text content at the same time with subsequent editing in OCTOPUS6 Final Cut plug-in. When placeholders are selected, the timeline can be rendered to fill a selected placeholder via available options in the placeholder menu. This action renders the final clip and stores it in the drop box where virtually any automation system can pick it up. Communication between these devices is via the industry standard MOS protocol.

Having the clip rendered and saved, the automation system links it with the OCTOPUS placeholder, updates OCTOPUS with the actual duration and generates a lowres copy of the clip. The edited clips can now be previewed in the OCTOPUS rundown, which will also reflect the updated clip duration values.

OCTOPUS6 FCP plug-in can be configured in the setup tab, available options include setting the path to hires material for each supported device.