By now, you've probably heard the term "pixel map," and you're likely aware that a common way to apply an image to an LED display is by using a media server to optimally position the image on the display. However, using a media server is not the only way to accomplish that. The MagicQ Pro from ChamSys offers a step forward in the area of pixel mapping control: an onboard pixel mapping engine. The MagicQ's built-in functionality for pixel mapping is very similar to the way a media server works – designate a maximum area of pixels (called a "grid" in the MagicQ), select an image file and apply that image file to the grid. The information from the image will be translated into color and intensity values and then transmitted via DMX or ArtNet to the fixtures. What is unique is that the console is doing all the work, without having to use a media server or any other video equipment.
From "Video Digerati" by Vickie Claiborne, PLSN, May 2010
