Sony ImageMixer Operating Instructions

Introduction

About This Manual

General notes Using this manual

Read Carefully

About trademarks Warning About pictures and images

Software Usage Contract

Chapter 1 Before Use

Chapter 2 Capture

Environment

Chapter 3 Album

Environment

Chapter 4 Movie Editing

Environment

Chapter 5 Layout

Environment

Chapter 6 Image Editor

Introduction About This Manual

General notes

● This manual is an HTML document which explains the functions of PIXELA

ImageMixer Ver.1.0 for Sony (henceforth, 'ImageMixer'). This manual does not explain the basics of Windows or Macintosh operating systems. Basic operations, such as working with individual windows, are based on general usage of Windows and Macintosh.

● Screenshots may differ slightly depending on each company's bundling of this

product.

● Most screenshots currently used in this manual relate to the Windows

version. The screenshots for Windows and Macintosh differ slightly. Moreover, images may vary according to monitor specifications.

● Due to the fact that the most recent information related to this software has

not been added to the manual, please consult the Read Me file, included on the CD-ROM.

Using this manual

This manual explains all ImageMixer's many functions. Any item can be referenced

by clicking the menu (table of contents) displayed on left-hand side of the screen.

● Blue text indicates a link. Clicking it will display the relevant item.Once that

item has been displayed, the link will appear in purple text.

● The end of the page can be referenced by clicking .

● The beginning of the page can be referenced by clicking .

● The preceding page (or preceding item) can be referenced by clicking .

● The following page (or following item) can be referenced by clicking .

● Issues of particular importance are indicated in red text. Please read them

carefully.

Homepage

The latest information on ImageMixer can be found on our home page:

http://www.ImageMixer.com/

Introduction Read Carefully

About trademarks

● 'Windows ®' is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the U.S.

and other countries. The official name of Windows is Microsoft ® Windows ® Operating System.

● Macintosh is a registered trademark of Apple Computer, Inc.

● In addition, the company names and brand names referenced in this manual

are themselves the trademarks, registered trademarks, and products of the respective companies.

Warning

1. All rights related to the user manual and software produced by our company (henceforth, 'product'), both of which are stored on the installation CD-ROM, belong solely to PIXELA Corporation.

2. Unauthorized reproduction or reprinting of the contents of the product, or any portion thereof, is strictly prohibited.

3. The contents of this product are subject to change without notice.

4. PIXELA Corp. offers no guarantees for this product. Moreover, PIXELA Corp.

assumes no responsibility for damage caused as the result of defects in this product (directly, indirectly, as a special case or in inevitable cases) even once an announcement has been made that such damage may occur. By the same token, PIXELA Corp. assumes no responsibility for costs incurred in the reproduction or recovery of any lost computer programs or data, when such loss is associated with the use of this computer program when included in another application.

All the rights to the picture data (including text characters) included in the product CD-ROM are protected by accompanying copyrights based on the Copyright Act.

No persons other than the copyright holder may engage in the sale, rental, transfer, or reproduction of this material without the consent of the copyright holder. Violations to the Copyright Act are subject to criminal punishment. Use of the picture data on this CD-ROM is permitted for individual use only.

The image data on this CD-ROM may not be duplicated for business purposes. Moreover, neither corrected nor altered parts of the data may be used for business purposes.

About pictures and images

● Keep in mind that pictures and images which may used with ImageMixer may

be protected or otherwise forbidden, irrespective of their purpose or use.

● As for general literary property, the approval of the rightful claimant of the

work is required except in the case of personal use.

● Duplicating any type of currency, negotiable instruments, securities, etc., is

illegal and punishable by law.

● Duplicating licenses, passports, various kinds of certificates, official

documents, private documents, etc., is illegal and punishable by law.

Software Product Use

Introduction

Consent Contract

You are permitted by PIXELA, Inc., according to the following use consent conditions of this use consent contract (henceforth, "this contract") to the nonexclusive, nontransferable right to use the software program (henceforth, "this program") and its add-ons, such as the user guide.

Consented matter

You are granted the nonexclusive, nontransferable right to install and use one copy of this program on a single computer.

The primary user of this program may copy parts thereof for backup purposes, with all usage rights, as set forth in this contract, remaining exclusive to the primary user.

Prohibited matter

This program cannot be used on a network. When it is used by two or more computers on a network, a royalty is required to be paid to PIXELA, Inc. for each additional computer.

Third person use or the use of this program by the method of re-use consent, transfer, distribution, loan, or others, is not allowed.

You may not correct, alter, reverse engineer, decompile, or disassemble all or part of this program. You may not allow a third person to perform such an act.

Termination of contract

When a customer reproduces this program or its add-ons without permission or breaks the above-mentioned consent conditions, this contract is automatically terminated, and other legal action may be taken by PIXELA, Inc. Upon termination of this contract, this program, its add-ons, and all duplicates thereof, shall be returned to PIXELA, Inc., or abandoned.

Guarantee and exemption from responsibility

This program, its add-ons, and the productions thereof, may not conform to your specific purpose, notwithstanding any representations, express or tacit. Moreover, PIXELA, Inc. does not guarantee that the functions of this program will agree with your needs, or that there are neither discontinuities nor errors in the functions of this program. PIXELA, Inc. does not take any responsibility for direct or indirect loss or damage accompanying or related to the use of this program, nor for any disputes arising between the customer and any third party related to use of this program or caused by this program.

Introduction

Chapter 1 Before Use

System Requirements

Windows Macintosh

Setup

Installation Uninstalling

Basic Operations

Starting ImageMixer ImageMixer startup screen Outline of tasks Selector Bar Status Bar Dialog box buttons Exiting ImageMixer Basic operations

Basic Terms

Chapter 2 Capture

Environment

Chapter 3 Album

Environment

Chapter 4 Movie Editing

Environment

Chapter 5 Layout

Environment

Chapter 6 Image Editor

1-1

System Requirements

In order for ImageMixer to work correctly, your computer must meet the following minimum system requirements. Please confirm that your computer system meets these requirements before installing ImageMixer.

Windows

OS

Microsoft ® Windows ® 98/Windows ® 98 Second Edition/Windows ® Millennium Edition/Windows ® 2000 Professional/Windows ® XP Home Edition/Windows ® XP Professional (IBM PC/AT compatible)

(In Windows ® 98 and Windows ® 98 Second Edition, DV (IEEE1394) capturing is not supported. In Windows ® 98, USB capturing is not supported)

CPU

Intel MMX ® Pentium ® 200MHz or faster. (Pentium ® III 500MHz or faster for capturing a movie via USB or IEEE1394. Pentium ® III 800MHz or faster is

recommended.) Software DirectX 8.0a or later Sound 16-bit stereo sound card with stereo speakers Memory 64MB or more

Hard Disk

Approx. 200MB for program, 1GB or more of free

space recommended for work space

Graphics

4MB or more of VRAM, minimum of 800x600 at 16-

bit hi-color (65,000 colors); Direct Draw driver

compatible

ImageMixer will not run correctly in a screen area of less than

800 x 600, or in less than 256 colors.

Other

DirectX must be installed.

If the standard Windows fonts are not installed on

the system, characters will not be displayed correctly.

To install and use this software in Windows ® 2000

you must be authorized as a Power User or

Administrator; for Windows ® XP you must be

authorized as an Administrator.

Macintosh

OS

Mac OS 8.5.1 or later (Mac OS X is not compatible)

Memory 64MB or more

Hard Disk

Approx. 100MB for program, 1GB or more of free

space recommended for work space.

Graphics

Minimum of 800x600 (32,000 colors)

ImageMixer will not run correctly in a screen area of less than

800 x 600, or in less than 256 colors.

Other

Pre-installed QuickTime 4 or later.

USB or IEEE1394 capturing is not available with

Macintosh.

1-2

Setup

Installation

Windows

1. Insert the ImageMixer CD in the CD drive.

After inserting the CD, the screen below is displayed. If this screen is not displayed, right click the CD icon in My Computer to explore the contents of the CD drive and then double click the 'install.exe' file.

2. Click [PIXELA ImageMixer].

3. Select a language from the list.

If ImageMixer has already been installed, a dialog box will appear prompting you to uninstall the application. If you wish to reinstall ImageMixer, complete the unstinallation process and then reinstall.

4. Continue clicking [NEXT], according to each of the displayed messages.

Installation process begins.

5. When the dialog box reads, 'ImageMixer setup is complete,' click the [Finish] button.

ImageMixer is installed after performing all of the steps above. The same type of process is used to install other applications, such as DirectX 8. ImageMixer requires DirectX 8 to

be installed.

Macintosh

1. Insert the ImageMixer CD.

The Menu screen appears automatically. If the Menu screen does not appear automatically, search for the [Setup Menu] icon by double-clicking the CD icon on the desktop.

2. In the Menu screen, click a desired language icon to begin the installation process.

Click the 'USB Driver' button when you want to install it.

3. Continue by following the instructions.

Uninstalling

Windows

1. From the Start menu, point to settings 'Settings' and open the 'Control Panel.'

2. Double-click the [Add/Remove Programs] icon.

The Add/Remove Programs property dialog box is displayed.

3. Select ImageMixer from the list of programs and click the [Add/Remove] button.

4. Select the language of the currently installed version of ImageMixer and click [OK].

The uninstall process begins.

5. When the dialog box says 'uninstall successfully completed,' click the [OK] button.

In some cases captured files may remain after the uninstall process is completed. To delete all ImageMixer information, delete the Program Files >Pixela > ImageMixer folder.

Macintosh

1. Drag the following folder to the Trash: 'System Folder: Preferences:

IM Default Settings , ImageMixerPreferencesFile'.

2. Drag the 'ImageMixer' folder from the HDD to the Trash.

1-3-1

Basic Operations

Starting ImageMixer

Windows

ImageMixer can be started by clicking on the Start Menu and pointing to Programs>Pixela>ImageMixer>PIXELA ImageMixer Ver.1.0. for Sony If a shortcut icon for ImageMixer was created at installation, an icon will be displayed on the desktop (see the example at right). Doubleclicking this icon will also start ImageMixer. Additionally, you can refer to this manual by selecting Start>Programs>Pixela>ImageMixer>Help.

Macintosh

ImageMixer is started by double-clicking the ImageMixer icon (created during installation) in the ImageMixer folder on the HDD.

ImageMixer startup screen (The Main Selector)

The first window displayed when ImageMixer is started is called the Main Selector.

Capture Environment button

Album Environment button

Movie Editing Environment button

Layout Environment button

Exit button Click to exit ImageMixer.

Explanation display

Click to begin

As the mouse pointer is moved over the

or button, a short explanation is displayed.

tasks related to capturing media files.

tasks related to albums.

tasks related to editing movie files.

tasks related to graphic layouts.

Outline of tasks

Tasks related to capturing media files (Capture Environment)

ImageMixer allows you to select which existing media you want to work with and import files from a memory card, such as one which is inserted in a digital camera connected to your computer. You can also record sound from audio CDs or by using a microphone. Capturing still shots or entire scenes from a digital movie camera is also easy with ImageMixer. You can then use the main screen to confirm these operations by double clicking the appropriate thumbnail and easily add media files to existing albums.

Tasks related to albums (Album Environment)

Albums help you organize media files to be used with ImageMixer. Available tasks include viewing still images and movies, running slide shows, displaying information related to individual files, performing file searches, and sorting files according to specific criteria. Using albums also means that you only need manage those files that serve the purposes you define.

Tasks related to editing movie files (Movie Editing Environment)

ImageMixer is a powerful application when it comes to editing movie files. To create professional quality movies, you can cut scenes, superimpose sound, add transition effects, and make custom tiles appear in specific places in the media stream. Also, since ImageMixer saves movie files in MPEG1 format, there is no degradation of image quality, since unedited portions do not need to be rewritten to disk.

Tasks related to graphic layouts (Layout Environment)

Creating customized labels for video cassettes, floppy disks, and other items is a snap with ImageMixer, as is designing other two-dimensional images. You can also choose from a wide variety of designing tools, such as those related to colors, text manipulation, shapes and textures.

Tasks related to editing still pictures (Image Editor)

Unlike conventional photographs, digital images can be altered in a variety of ways with ImageMixer, including applying masks to certain sections of an image, adding filters, changing background composition, etc.

1-3-2

Basic Operations

Selector Bar

The buttons located on this bar control the desired working environment and general actions associated with the current environment.

Capture Environment button

Album Environment button

Movie Environment button

Layout Environment button

Minimize button

Help button

Click to begin

Click to minimize the ImageMixer application window and display it in the task bar. (Windows only)

Click to bring up this manual and get help using ImageMixer. (Windows only)

tasks related to capturing media files.

tasks related to albums.

tasks related to editing movie files.

tasks related to graphic layouts.

Preferences button

Exit button Click to exit ImageMixer.

Status Bar

Click to confirm or make changes to settings related to the currently selected mode.

The bottom part of ImageMixer's application window is called the 'Status Bar.' When the mouse pointer is placed over an object, an explanation of its function is displayed in the Status Bar.

Dialog box buttons

Many of the dialog boxes in ImageMixer contain the following buttons.

[OK] or [Yes]

[Cancel]

[NO]

Exiting ImageMixer

Clicking the Exit button on either the [Main Selector] or the [Mode Select

Bar] will close the ImageMixer application.

1-3-3

Basic Operations

Basic operations in ImageMixer

Selecting an album

Once you select the album you want to work with, its icon turns bright yellow, so you are able to easily distinguish which album is currently active.

Selecting thumbnails

Thumbnails may be selected in a variety of ways.

● Selecting one thumbnail

Click to select.

● Selecting a series of thumbnails

Click the first thumbnail in the series, hold down the 'Shift' key, and then click the last thumbnail of the series.

● Selecting only individual thumbnails

In Windows, click the thumbnails of your choice while holding down the 'Ctrl' key. In Macintosh, use the 'Command' key.

● Selecting all thumbnails currently displayed

In Windows, hold down the 'Ctrl' key and press 'A.' In Macintosh, hold down the 'Command' key and press 'A.'

Selecting objects

Objects in a certain layout may be selected in a variety of ways.

● Selecting one object

Click to select.

● Selecting only individual objects

In Windows, click the objects of your choice while holding down the 'Ctrl' key. In Macintosh, use the 'Command' key.

● Selecting all objects in the layout

In Windows, hold down the 'Ctrl' key and press 'A.' In Macintosh, hold down the 'Command' key and press 'A.'

● Canceling object selection

Click anywhere in the layout there is no object.

Selecting a color in Windows (See below for Macintosh.)

When selecting a color, the following dialog boxes are displayed.

Click the color you wish to work with.

User-defined colors are displayed in . Click the color you wish to work with.

Click to display and . A user-defined color can be created by clicking an area in the color

spectrum or by inputting digits.

The color currently specified in or is displayed here.

Click this button to add the color currently specified in to . Once any color on the basic color palette or the custom color palette

has been selected, the selected color will be displayed in

Selecting a color in Macintosh

The following color select dialog boxes are displayed by double-clicking currently displayed color palette by clicking

. A color can be selected in the

.

Click the color palette type you wish to work with.

Click an area in the color spectrum to specify a color.

Input digits to specify a color.

1-4

Basic Terms

Basic terms used in ImageMixer

IEEE1394

Also called 'I Triple E 1394,' this interface is best known for facilitating very fast data transfer speeds (up to 400Mbps). It is used primarily as an output interface (DV connector) for digital video cameras or hard disk drives. Other names for this interface include i.LINK (in Windows), and FireWire (in Macintosh).

MPEG

MPEG stands for Moving Picture Experts Group. MPEG is an international data compression format for digital movies and Hi-Fi audio. MPEG-1 is the approved format for Video CDs, and its brilliant audio/video quality is comparable to that of VHS videotape. MPEG movies are stored as smaller files than DV (digital video) movies of the same length, making it the standard movie format for Internetrelated activities. The MPEG-2 format also creates high quality images, but is used primarily for DVDs and Digital Satellite Broadcasting.

Exif

Based originally on JPEG and TIFF file types, this format is used for still pictures taken with digital cameras. Exif files contain detailed information (such as the date/time the photo was taken, image size, shutter speed, etc.) on individual pictures.

Capture

This refers to activities related to bringing in still pictures and movie files from sources such as disks, cameras connected directly to your computer, and existing media, as would be the case in selecting and saving a single frame from a movie file. Capturing is also a term used in ImageMixer to refer to the recording of sound, from audio CDs or through a microphone, as well as moving images via a video camera connected directly to your computer.

Thumbnails Thumbnails are small graphic representations of files which have been added to a particular album. They are linked not only to the file on your computer, but also to information pertaining to that file, such as name, size, save directory, etc. Windows users might think of a thumbnail as a 'shortcut,' and Mac users may make a relationship to the term 'alias.'

Source files

Once movies, still pictures and sounds are added to the yellow albums, they become album files. All the information pertaining to album files is linked to their thumbnails.

Album files

Source files refer to the media stored on your computer. As opposed to album files or thumbnails, they can be considered the 'original' data files.

Trimming

This task refers to getting rid of unnecessary portions of an object.

Transition

The point at which one movie scene ends and another one begins is called a transition.

Templates

Upon installing ImageMixer, you will have a number of pre-designed pictures which you may like to use as backgrounds for your own layouts. These are called templates, and they may be accessed by clicking the [Templates] button.

Templates can neither be changed in size, nor edited.

Custom templates

ImageMixer lets you save your own designs for use as backgrounds in future layouts. They may be accessed by clicking the [Custom Templates] button.

Object

Figures, images, and text arranged in layouts are called objects.

Control point

Once an object in a particular layout is selected, the four corners surrounding the object are displayed as control points. They can be dragged to change the size the object.

Control points are displayed slightly differently in Windows and Macintosh.

Blocks

Blocks are the square areas which surround the control points.

Introduction

Chapter 1 Before Use

Chapter 2 Capture

Environment

Capture Environment

Opening Capture

Environment

Capture window

Capture Tasks

Import file mode display

Importing files

Digital Camera Import Mode

Digital camera import

display

Importing files from a digital

camera

Audio CD Recording Mode

Control panel

Caution

Recording music files

Troubleshooting

Sound Recording Mode

Control panel

Recording sound files

Recording sound files while

previewing movie images

Troubleshooting

USB Device Capture Mode

(Win)

Control panel

Connection status

Capturing movie scenes

Capturing still pictures

DV Camcorder Capture Mode

(Win)

Control panel

Changing the display size

Connection status

DV cassette indication

Capturing movie scenes

Capturing still picture files

Capturing/Recording

Preferences

Chapter 3 Album

Environment

Chapter 4 Movie Editing

Environment

Chapter 5 Layout

Environment

Chapter 6 Image Editor

2-1

Capture Environment

ImageMixer allows you to select which existing media you want to work with and import files from a memory card, such as one which is inserted in a digital camera connected to your computer. You can also record sound from audio CDs or by using a microphone. Capturing still shots or entire scenes from a digital movie camera is also easy with ImageMixer. You can then use the main screen to confirm these operations by double clicking the appropriate thumbnail and easily add media files to existing albums.

Opening Capture Environment

1. Open ImageMixer.

2. Click the [Capture Environment]

button on the Main

Selector.

3. Click the

Capture Mode Selector button which corresponds to the task

you wish to perform.

The selected mode is displayed.

Capture window

Capture mode selector

Click either

or , depending on

the method by which you wish to bring in media.

Control panel

This section changes depending on the mode selected.

Album list window Albums are displayed in a list.

Thumbnail list window

Depending on the capture mode selected, album file

thumbnails are displayed in a list.

Import File Mode button

Click to start

import file mode.

Digital Camera Import Mode button

Click to start

digital camera import mode.

CD Recording Mode button

Click to start

CD recording mode.

Sound Recording Mode button

Click to start

sound recording mode.

USB Device Capture Mode button

Click to start

USB device capture mode. (Windows

only)

DV Camcorder Capture Mode button

Click to start

DV camcorder capture mode. (Windows

only)

2-2-1

ImageMixer allows you to "drag and drop" media (still pictures, movies, and sound files) straight from disks on your computer into albums of your choice.

Capture Tasks

Import file mode display

and are displayed only when the displayed thumbnails are not

those related to still pictures.

Folder list window

Folders in the HDD and removable disks are displayed here in a format which is similar to that of Explorer in Windows. In Macintosh, this window resembles the Finder.

Still Picture File Display button

Movie File Display button

Sound File Display button

Display All Files button

Thumbnail list window

Capture button

Click to display only thumbnails of still picture files in the selected folder.

Click to display only thumbnails of movie files in the selected folder.

Click to display only thumbnails of sound files in the selected folder.

Click to display thumbnails of all media files in the selected folder.

Here you can see thumbnails of those files in the selected folder that can be added to albums. They appear according to the file type(s) sorted by

selecting one of the following buttons: or

.

Click to add the selected thumbnail(s) to the album currently selected in the album list window.

Album list window Albums are displayed in a list.

Displays a preview of the source file and provides detailed file information. In the case of movie files,

Preview window

the entire movie can be previewed in this window. The preview window is not displayed when a sound file thumbnail is selected.

A single fame and its position in the movie can be

Play position slider

previewed by dragging the slider. This is not displayed when a still picture is selected.

Play button Begins playback of the currently selected movie.

Pause button Pauses playback.

Volume control

In Windows, adjust the volume by dragging the slider. In Macintosh, click to display a vertical volume slider. Adjust the volume by dragging the slider up or down.

Preview ON/OFF

Switches the preview display on or off.

button Single Frame Rewind

Rewinds the movie frame by frame. (Macintosh only)

button Single Frame Advance

button Information Display

button

Advances the movie frame by frame. (Macintosh only)

Displays detailed information pertaining to the selected file.

2-2-2

Capture Tasks

Importing files

1. Select a disk/volume or folder from the folder list window.

Media files existing in a particular disk/volume or folder displayed in the folder list window can be added to albums. They appear as thumbnails in the thumbnail list window. In Windows, click click

to open volumes or folders and click to close them.

2. Select an album of your choice from the album list window.

This will be the album into which you will import files.

3. Select a thumbnail from the thumbnail list window.

More than one thumbnail may be selected at a time.

to open disks or folders and click to close them. In Macintosh,

4. Click the [Import] button.

The source file of the thumbnail selected in step 3 is added to the album selected in step

2. At this point, a copy of the source file is created and saved into the directory designated in the

Files can also be imported by dragging and dropping thumbnails from the thumbnail list window into the desired album. See below.

Capturing/Recording Preferences.

In Macintosh, it may be impossible to create thumbnails for files which cannot be opened

by QuickTime Player. Also, since Macintosh recognizes files by their contents rather than file extensions, some files may be added as certain file type which is not in accordance

with their file extension.

2-3-1

This mode allows you to import files from digital cameras and memory card reader devices.

This is possible when a removable disk is mounted.

Digital Camera Import Mode

Digital camera import display

Select memory card menu

Refresh button

Digital cameras and memory cards connected directly to the PC are displayed in a list.

Click to refresh the reading of data from the source currently selected in

.

Memory card list window

Comment input pane

Import button

Still Picture Display button

Movie Display button

Sound File display button

Available memory cards and similarly formatted sources are displayed here.

This pane allows you to add personalized comments which relate directly to individual files, which later may be added to albums.

Click to copy the source files of the selected thumbnails to the

save location, and add them to

the selected album. Click to display only thumbnails of still picture files

stored on the selected memory card. Click to display only thumbnails of movie files stored

on the selected memory card. Click to display only thumbnails of sound files stored

on the selected memory card.

Display All button

Click to display thumbnails of all media stored on the selected memory card.

Small Thumbnail button

Large Thumbnail button

Click to display small thumbnails in the thumbnail list window.

Click to display large size thumbnails in the thumbnail list window.

Here you can see thumbnails of those files stored on the memory card selected in and which can be

Thumbnail list window

added to albums. They appear according to the file types sorted by selecting one of the following

buttons:

or .

Album list window Albums are displayed in a list.

Preview window

Refer to

file capture mode

Information Display button

Displays information pertaining to the selected file.

Exif File Information Display button

Displays file information pertaining to the selected

Exif file.

Exif Device

Displays

Exif camera information pertaining to the

Information Display button

Exif Photo Information Display button

selected file.

Displays photo information pertaining to the selected

Exif file.

Displays file information depending on which of the

Information display

following buttons is currently active: or

panel

.

2-3-2

Digital Camera Import Mode

Importing files from a digital camera

Files from a digital camera memory card or removable disk may be imported as follows:

1. Select a digital camera from the menu

Memory cards and sources with digital camera memory card formatting are displayed in the memory card list window.

2. Select a source from the memory card list window.

Thumbnails of the files in the selected source are displayed in the thumbnail list window.

3. Select a thumbnail from the thumbnail list window.

4. Comments for individual files may be added in the comment input

pane.

5. Select a destination album from the album list window.

6. Click the [Import]

The source file of the thumbnail selected in step 3 is added to the album selected in step

5. At this point, a copy of the source file is created and saved into the directory designated in the

Files can also be imported by dragging and dropping thumbnails from the thumbnail list window into the desired album. See below.

Capturing/Recording Preferences.

button.

.

Vertically oriented pictures are usually saved horizontally, though Exif files will contain information to the effect that the picture was taken vertically. ImageMixer creates vertical thumbnails for those files in accordance with the Exif information, even though they may have originally been saved as horizontal images.

2-4-1

ImageMixer allows you to record CDs straight from your CD-ROM drive. Recorded files can be played or added to a movie media stream.

Audio CD Recording Mode

Control panel

Audio CDs can be played or recorded using the control panel shown below.

Audio CD mount indicator

In Macintosh, this is displayed when an audio CD is inserted into the CD drive. In Windows, this appears regardless of whether or not an audio CD is present.

A list of available CD drives is displayed. Select the CD drive you wish to record from. (Windows only)

Select CD drive menu

If 'Enable digital recording' is checked in the

Capturing/Recording Preferences, the CD drive is displayed

according to its drive name. If the setting above has not been made, the CD drive will appear according to its path.

Track number display The number of the current track is displayed.

Displays the accumulated time of the track being

Time display

played.

Volume control Adjust the volume by dragging the slider.

Stop button Click to stop playback.

Play button Click to start playback.

Pause button Click to pause playback.

Click to record. While recording, this button

Record button

functions as a stop button.

Eject button

Eject the audio CD from the CD drive. (Macintosh only)

The play position for beginning playback may be

Play position slider

selected by dragging the slider. The track list pertaining to the currently present

Track list pane

audio CD is displayed here. In Windows the total time of each track is also displayed.

2-4-2

Audio CD Recording Mode

Caution

Please take note of the following points before recording an audio CD.

Analog recording (Windows only)

● CDs mounted on an external drive can not be recorded.

● The output from the CD drive must be streamed through a sound card

(meaning that the CD audio output jacks are connected to the CD input jacks on the sound card). Sound quality may be of a slightly lower quality than the original CD.

● When another sound recording application (wave form audio device, etc.) is

running, it is impossible to record with ImageMixer.

● Having more than one CD player open may cause problems, such as the

track list not being displayed. ImageMixer itself may also experience problems. Close other CD players before recording with ImageMixer.

● To avoid any possibility that ImageMixer is unable to record in Windows, go

to Control Panel>System>Device Manager Tab>CD-ROM and select the brand name of the CD-ROM device installed on your computer. From there, click the Properties button, and finally the Properties tab. On this screen, make sure that there is no check next to "Enable digital CD audio for this CDROM device."

Digital recording

● If digital recording from the CD drive is not possible, try analog recording.

Macintosh supports only digital recording

Recording in Macintosh

When another player is running, recording may not be possible. If [Auto Play] is selected in the QuickTime settings, playback will begin shortly after an audio CD is inserted. ImageMixer functions, such as Play and Record, are not available at this time. Change the settings of the relevant software to disable the automatic play option.

In Windows, the recording mode can be changed via the Capturing/Recording Preferences.

2-4-3

Audio CD Recording Mode

Recording music files

Follow these steps to record music from an audio CD. The size of recorded sound files is approximately 10MB per minute of CD audio.

1. Insert the music CD in the CD drive.

If the CD plays automatically, stop playback and close the audio software.

2. Select an album.

Designate an album from the album list window into which to save the recorded sound files.

3. In Windows, select the CD drive from the select CD drive menu.

4. Select a track from the track list window.

5. If you wish to record only one portion of a track, cue up the track

according to the instructions below.

To record an entire track, go directly to the next step.

6. Click the [Play] button. Click the [Pause] button at the point

you wish to begin recording.

(Tracks may also be played by double-clicking the track number in the track list window.) You may also choose to drag the slider to the desired record position.

7. Click the [Record] button.

ImageMixer will begin recording and stop at the end of the track.

To record another track, repeat the process. To stop recording, and thereby record only a portion of the track, see below.

8. Click the [Stop] button at the point you wish to stop recording.

This step is necessary only if you wish to record a portion of the track.

The audio format of digitally recorded files is PCM, the sampling rate is 44.1KHz, and the bit rate is 16bit stereo. In Windows, the file type of recorded files is WAVE. In Mac, AIFF files are created. Files are saved in the

Capturing/Recording Preferences, but are, of course, added directly to the album selected in step 2. To confirm successful recording of sound files, double-click their thumbnail icon in the thumbnail list window.

save location designated in the

Macintosh

Files are recorded is by dragging & dropping the track number from the track list window to the thumbnail list window. Tracks are recorded individually.

2-4-4

Audio CD Recording Mode

Troubleshooting

Unable to record sound files (analog recording in Windows).

See section 2-4-2)

( There may be a problem with a driver. There may also be a problem with the

connection between the CD drive and the sound card. If you expect this to be the case, contact the relevant manufacturer.

Track list not displayed.

Confirm that the correct CD drive is selected (Windows only), that the CD currently in the drive is an audio CD, and that the CD drive is functioning properly.

Sound files were created, but cannot be played.

Check the speaker power and volume. Note that the ImageMixer volume control works independently of the volume control on the speakers. In Windows, right click the speaker icon on the task bar and select 'Open Volume Controls.' If 'CD Audio' is muted or if the volume is too low, adjust accordingly and record again. In Macintosh, open [Apple] menu>[Control Panels]>[Sound], to set the recording sound level. The method for adjusting the volume may be different depending on your computer's configurations, in which case we recommend that you consult the manufacturer's technical support center.

Recorded analog sound files contain noise and jump.

Check to see whether the volume level is too high. Refer to '

Also note that we do not recommend that you perform other tasks on your computer while recording is taking place.

Sound files were created, but cannot be played' above.

Recorded analog sound files jump. (analog recording)

Your computer hardware may be close to the minimum specifications required to run ImageMixer. Close all other applications before starting ImageMixer and try again. (When the CPU and HDD are not being used to run programs other than ImageMixer, system resources should not become depleted.

Sound is not recorded from the starting point (sound begins late). Although recording commences when the [Record] button is clicked, sound is not always recorded from this point. This is because there may be a time lag before play begins. It is therefore recommended that you set the point at which to begin recording slightly before the point from which you wish to record. Unnecessary portions can be cut in the

Movie Editing Environment.

2-5-1

ImageMixer enables you to record sounds using a microphone or other sound output devices (such as a TV, cassette tape player, etc.) connected to an audio input jack on your computer. Sound effects and narration can be recorded, and then added to movies you create yourself with the ImageMixer software.

Sound Recording Mode

Control panel

From the control panel, you can record sounds using a microphone or other sound output device connected to an audio input on your computer. You can also use the control panel (shown below) to playback recorded sounds.

Preview window Displays a preview of the selected thumbnail.

Playback position slider

The position at which you wish to begin playback can be selected by dragging the slider.

Preview ON/OFF

Switches the preview display on or off.

button

Displays the accumulated time of the currently

Time display

playing movie or sound file.

Volume control Adjust volume by dragging the slider.

Stop button Click to stop playback.

Play button Click to start playback.

Pause button Click to pause playback.

Click to record. During recording, this button

Record button

functions as a stop button.

2-5-2

Sound Recording Mode

Recording sound files

Follow these steps to record music from a microphone or other sound output device, such as a TV, cassette tape player, etc. The size of recorded sound files is approximately 10MB per minute of CD audio.

1. Connect the microphone or other sound output device to the appropriate input jack on your computer.

2. Select an album.

Select the album from the album list window into which you wish to save the recorded sound files.

3. Click the [Record] button.

4. Click the [Stop]

recording

The audio format of digitally recorded files is PCM, the sampling rate is 44.1KHz, and the bit rate is 16bit stereo. In Windows, the file type of recorded files is WAVE. In Mac, AIFF files are created. Files are saved in the

Capturing/Recording Preferences, but are, of course, added directly to the album selected in step 2. To confirm successful recording of sound files, double-click their thumbnail icon in the thumbnail list window.

.

button at the point at which you wish to stop

save location designated in the

Recording sound files while previewing movie images

Recording sound with a microphone or other sound output device can be performed while previewing a movie to which the sound will later be added. This is useful in synchronizing narration or background music to specific scenes of a movie. The files can then be added to movies you create yourself with the ImageMixer software.

1. Connect the microphone or other sound output device to the appropriate input jack on your computer.

2. Select the thumbnail of the file to which the sound will later be added.

If necessary, change the currently selected album in the album list window.

3. Confirm that the [Preview On/Off] button is active (colored bright yellow).

A preview of the file selected in step 2 will be displayed.

4. Confirm the "off" position of the volume control.

To prevent the original sound of the movie from interfering with the sound you are about to record, make sure that the volume control slider indicates the lowest volume possible, effectively turning it off.

5. Select an album.

Select the album from the album list window into which you wish to save the recorded sound files.

6. Cue up the movie playback by clicking the [Play] button or by dragging the play position slider to the point at which you later plan to add sound.

7. Click the [Record]

The movie will play and recording will start.

button.

8. Click the [Stop] button at the point you wish to stop recording.

The audio format of digitally recorded files is PCM, the sampling rate is 44.1KHz, and the bit rate is 16bit stereo. In Windows, the file type of recorded files is WAVE. In Mac, AIFF files are created. Files are saved in the

Capturing/Recording Preferences, but are, of course, added directly to the album selected in step 2. To confirm successful recording of sound files, double-click their thumbnail icon in the thumbnail list window.

Save location designated in the

2-5-3

Sound Recording Mode

Troubleshooting

Sound files were created, but cannot be played.

Check the speaker power and volume. Note that the ImageMixer volume control works independently of the volume control on the speakers. In Windows, right click the speaker icon on the task bar and select 'Open Volume Controls.' If 'Line In' is muted or if the volume is too low, adjust accordingly and record again. In Macintosh, open [Apple] menu>[Control Panels]>[Sound], to set the recording sound level. The method for adjusting the volume may be different depending on your computer's configurations, in which case we recommend that you consult the manufacturer's technical support center.

Recorded analog sound files contain noise and jump.

Confirm that the CD recording volume is suitable. Refer to '

Also note that we do not recommend that you perform other tasks on your computer while recording is taking place.

Recorded analog sound files jump.

Your computer hardware may be close to the minimum specifications required to run ImageMixer. Close all other applications before starting ImageMixer and try again. (When the CPU and HDD are not being used to run programs other than ImageMixer, system resources should not become depleted.

Due to the possibility of noise, etc., we do not recommend recording

sounds with internal microphones.

Sound files were created, but cannot be played' above.

USB Device Capture Mode

2-6-1

(Windows Only)

ImageMixer enables you to capture still pictures or movie scenes directly from devices connected to your computer's USB port, such as a digital camera.

Control panel

Monitor window Displays images from the USB-connected device.

Volume control Adjust volume by dragging the slider. Still Picture Capture

button Motion Picture

Capture button

Click to enable the capturing of still pictures.

Click to enable the capturing of movie scenes.

Click to capture either a still picture or a movie scene.

Capture button

Information display panel

The function of this button depends on whether or is currently active. Note that this button functions as the STOP button during movie scene capturing.

Indicates current operation and connection status of the device.

Connection status

Connect the USB interface of the device (such as a digital video camera) to the USB port on the computer. Set the device to display images through the USB connection. Consult the instruction manual that came with your equipment for details on transferring images from your particular device.

If the connection between the PC and the device is working properly:

A blue monitor window is displayed. Depending on your selected task, the message in the information display panel will read 'There is ... of free space in the destination directory,' (for capturing movie scenes) or 'Ready to capture still picture.'

If there is a problem with the connection between the PC and the

device:

A black monitor window will displayed. When the device is not ready to play or is not connected to the PC correctly, the message on the information display panel will read 'Connection with the peripheral is invalid. Please confirm the connection between your PC and the peripheral.'

USB Device Capture Mode

2-6-2

(Windows Only)

Capturing movie scenes

Follow these steps to capture (record) a movie file from a USB-connected device.

1. Select an album.

Designate an album from the album list window into which to save the captured movie file.

2. Click the [Movie Scene Capture] button.

Capturing a movie scene is now possible.

3. Adjust sound volume if necessary.

This setting does not effect the original sound level of the captured movie scene.

4. Click the [Capture] button at the desired point to begin capturing.

5. Click the [Stop] capture.

If the 'Capture as MPEG1' box is checked in the Capturing/Recording Preferences, the status box below will be shown. After the capture is complete, the movie file will be

automatically added to the album designated in step 1.

button at the point you wish to end the

To view the newly captured file, double-click its thumbnail to open the view window. This function cannot be used while capturing is in progress.

Capturing still pictures

Follow these steps to capture a still picture from a USB-connected device.

1. Select an album.

Designate an album from the album list window into which to save the captured picture file.

2. Click the [Still Picture Capture ] button.

Capturing a still picture is now possible.

3. Click the [Capture] button.

After the capture is completed, the file will be automatically added to the album designated in step 1. To view the captured file, double-click its thumbnail to open the

window. This function cannot be used while capturing is in progress.

view

DV Camcorder Capture Mode

2-7-1

(Windows Only)

ImageMixer enables you to capture both still pictures and movie scenes a digital video cameras connected to the IEEE1394 port of your computer.

Control panel

From the control panel, you can play or record media from a digital video camera connected to your PC.

Monitor window

Displays the movie directly from the digital video camera.

Small Monitor button

Click to display the movie in the small monitor window.

Large Monitor button Click to display the movie in a large monitor window.

Cassette indicator

This icon becomes active (glows) when a DV cassette is present in the digital video camera.

Refresh connection button

Click to refresh the connection between the PC and the digital video camera.

Displays the current play time according to the

Time display

counter on the video camera.

Volume control Adjust the volume by dragging the slider.

Clicking this button will rewind the DV cassette

Rewind button

inside the video camera, as if you pushed the rewind button on the device itself.

Stop button Click to stop playback.

Play button Click to start playback.

Pause button Click to pause playback.

Clicking this button will fast forward the DV cassette

Fast Forward button

inside the video camera, as if you pushed the rewind button on the device itself.

Single Frame Rewind button

When the movie is paused, this button moves the movie backward one frame at a time.

Single Frame Play

Plays the movie frame-by-frame (slow motion).

button Single Frame Advance

button

When the movie is paused, this button moves the movie forward one frame at a time.

Still Picture Capture

Click to enable the capturing of still pictures.

button

Click to capture either a still picture or a movie scene.

Capture button

Movie Scene Capture button

The function of this button depends on whether or is currently active. Note that this button functions as the STOP button during movie scene capturing.

Click to enable the capturing of movie scenes.

Information display panel

Indicates current operation and connection status of the device.

DV Camcorder Capture Mode

2-7-2

(Windows Only)

Changing the display size

When capturing files from a digital video camera (DV camcorder), there are two monitor sizes from which to choose:

Click the [small monitor] change the monitor size.

button or the [large monitor] button to

small monitor and large monitor.

Connection status

Connect your digital video camera to the IEEE1394 port on your PC and set it to play mode. That is, your device should be set in the mode you would normally use to view scenes already recorded on the tape inside the machine.

If the connection between the PC and the device is working properly:

A blue monitor window is displayed. Depending on your selected task, the message in the information display panel will read 'There is ... of free space in the destination directory,' (for capturing movie scenes) or 'Ready to capture still picture.'

If there is a problem with the connection between the PC and the

device:

A black monitor window will be displayed. If the digital video camera is not properly connected to the PC, or is not set to play mode, or if a DV cassette isn't present in the machine, the message on the information display panel will say "Camcorder Not Found."

If there seems to a problem with the connection between the PC & the digital video camera, try clicking the [refresh connection]

button.

DV cassette indication

When a DV cassette is present in the digital video camera, this icon becomes active (glows). When a cassette is not present, the icon is inactive

(appears gray).

DV Camcorder Capture Mode

2-7-3

(Windows Only)

Capturing movie scenes

Follow the steps below to capture movie scenes.

1. Select an album.

Designate an album from the album list window into which to save the captured movie file.

2. Click the [Movie Scene Capture] button.

Capturing a movie scene is now possible.

3. Click the [Play] button to start the movie in the monitor window.

You can also fast forward, rewind, pause, etc., to find the point at which you plan to begin recording.

4. Adjust sound volume if necessary.

This setting does not effect the original sound level of the captured movie scene.

To prevent frame jumping on low-spec machines, it may be impossible to hear sound. In such cases, the volume should be adjusted during playback.

5. Click the [Capture] button at the desired point to begin capturing.

6. Click the [Stop] capture.

If the 'Capture as MPEG1' box is checked in the Capturing/Recording Preferences, the status box below will be shown. After the capture is complete, the movie file will be

automatically added to the album designated in step 1.

button at the point you wish to end the

To view the newly captured file, double click its thumbnail to open the view window. This function cannot be used while capturing is in progress.

Capturing still picture files

You can capture a still picture by following the steps below.

1. Select an album.

Designate an album from the album list window into which to save the captured picture file.

2. Click the [Still Picture Capture ] button.

Capturing a still picture is now possible.

3. Click the [Play] button to start the movie in the monitor window.

You can also fast forward, rewind, pause, etc., to find the point at which you plan to begin recording.

4. Click the [Capture] button.

After the capture is completed, the file will be automatically added to the album designated in step 1. To look at the captured file, double-click its thumbnail to open the

view window. This function cannot be used while capturing is in progress.

2-8

Open the capturing/recording environment.

Capturing/Recording Preferences

Displaying preferences window

1. Open ImageMixer.

2. Click the [Capture Environment]

Selector or Selector Bar.

3. Click the [Preferences]

Preferences window

button on the Main

button.

Movie capture settings

This function is only Windows except .

Here you can set preferences related to the

USB device capture mode or the DV camcorder capture mode, both of which are used to capture movie scenes and

save them on your computer.

● Capture as MPEG1

The default format for movie files created with PIXELA ImageMixer is MPEG1. However, if you wish to save movie files in AVI format, uncheck this box.

● Minimum amount of free disk space

If you capture and save long movies or a large number of smaller movies to your hard drive (HDD), the combined size of the files will require a considerable amount of storage space. To prevent your disk from becoming too full, you can effectively "set aside" a minimum amount of free disk space by selecting a value from the dropdown menu or by entering a number yourself.

● Monitor capture mode

Checking this box will allow movie files to be shown while scenes from those movies are being captured.

Still Picture Capture Settings

Captured still images can be altered to increase their suitability for use on your

PC.

● Reduce Interlace Noise

Movie scenes captured from digital cameras are rewritten to your hard drive at a rate of one every 1/30 second. However, the individual frames (from which you would capture a still picture) are not completely rewritten at this rate. Rather, rewriting is performed at the rate of one "half-frame" (half the number of horizontal lines or "pixels") every 1/60 second. When a computer is used to capture still pictures from movie scenes, some blurring may occur between the two halves of the one frame being captured, especially when the subject in the movie scene is moving relatively quickly. Interlacing eliminates this blur and produces a better quality still picture. In this process, however, one half of a frame is essentially preserved to "fix," or "support," the other half, thereby lowering the resolution. Therefore, we recommend you leave this box unchecked unless you plan to capture still pictures from "fast action" movie scenes, such as those taken of sporting events, etc.

● Lock Aspect Ratio

If your digital video camera uses the NTSC format (standard in the United States, Canada, Japan, and elsewhere) the resolution of still picture files will be 720 x 480 pixels, which is most likely slightly longer horizontally than the display of your computer. When you display these still pictures on your PC monitor, the width will be elongated when compared to its appearance on a standard-sized TV. Locking the aspect ratio, however, will compensate by reducing the image to 720 x 640 pixels, thereby preserving the originally intended size of the image. If your digital video camera uses the PAL format (standard to Australia, New Zealand, many European nations, and elsewhere), the resolution of still picture files will be 720 x 576 pixels, which is most likely slightly longer vertically than the display of your computer. If you preserve the originally intended size of the image by locking the aspect ratio, the 576 pixels will be reduced to 540, however, the resolution of image will also slightly decrease.

● Crop surrounding pixels according to settings below

Excess or unwanted portions around the edges of the image can be cut off. This is referred to as "cropping." Here you can enter the number of pixels you wish to have cut off from the edge of the image.

Audio CD Setting

This setting relates to the recording of audio CDs.

● Digital recording

Digital recording is enabled by checking this box. Unchecking the box will allow ImageMixer to record the analog representation of audio CDs.

Prefix for Newly Captured Files

ImageMixer adds a prefix to all newly captured or recorded files. For example, if you enter the prefix 'ABC,' the names of all files that ImageMixer captures or records will, from that point on, be saved as 'ABC0001,' 'ABC0002,' 'ABC0003,' etc.

Destination of Captured/Recorded Files

This field allows you to define the directory (folder, etc.) into which all newly created files will be saved. The [Browse] button provides a visual representation of where possible directories exist on your machine. Once you have selected a destination folder, click [OK] to close the browser.

USB Capture Device Setting

This setting allows you to select the driver needed for properly transferring the audio portion of movie media captured from

devices connected to the USB port of

your computer.

If you experience a loss of the audio portion associated with movie media, change this setting.

Introduction

Chapter 1 Before Use

Chapter 2 Capture

Environment

Chapter 3 Album

Environment

Opening Album Environment Nomenclature Thumbnails

Movie file thumbnails Sound file thumbnails

Still picture file thumbnails Album Menu File Menu

Exporting Album Files Context Menus Thumbnail Views

Thumbnail view

Thumbnail/File information

View

Thumbnail/Detailed file

information view

Image Editor View/Play Window

Playing movies and sound

files (Win)

Playing movies and sound

files (Mac)

Viewing still pictures Exporting Album Files

Exporting movies

Exporting pictures

Output to memory card Printing Within the Album

Environment

Finding Specific Files

Search by file type

Search according to specific

criteria

Sort Album Preferences

Chapter 4 Movie Editing

Environment

Chapter 5 Layout

Environment

Chapter 6 Image Editor

3-1 Album Environment

Albums help you organize media files to be used with ImageMixer. Available tasks include viewing still images and movies, running slide shows, displaying information related to individual files, performing file searches, and sorting files according to specific criteria. Using albums also means that you only need manage those files that serve the purposes you define.

Opening Album Environment

1. Open ImageMixer.

2. Click the [Album Environment]

button on the Main Selector.

Nomenclature

Selector Bar

The buttons located on this bar control the desired working environment and general actions associated with the current environment.

Thumbnail Display buttons

These buttons change the way album file thumbnails are displayed.

Album list window

Existing albums (those you have created, etc.) are shown here.

Menu buttons

The

Album Menu button and the File Menu button

are located here.

Thumbnails

Thumbnails are the small graphic representations of files which have been added to a particular album.

Display Control buttons

Buttons for

sorting thumbnails are also located here.

Image Edit button

Allows the source file of a selected still picture thumbnail to be edited.

Thumbnail list window

Thumbnails related to movies, still pictures, and sound files are shown here. You can use the display control buttons to effectively "filter out" those file types you do not wish to be displayed.

3-2 Thumbnails

Thumbnails are small graphic representations of files which have been added to a particular album. Thumbnails for a selected album are displayed in the 'thumbnail list window.'

Movie file thumbnails

The graphic representation, or thumbnail image, consists of the first frame of the movie.

The title of the movie is shown here.

This is the icon used for movie files.

Sound file thumbnails

This is the ImageMixer thumbnail image used for sound media.

The title of the sound media is shown here.

This is the icon used for sound media.

Still picture file thumbnails

The thumbnail image consists of a miniature image of the picture itself.

The title of the still picture is shown here.

This is the icon used for still pictures.

3-3 Album Menu

Clicking this button displays the album menu.

Create new album

Creates a new album. Clicking this command displays the 'Save As' dialog box. Enter the file name, define the destination directory, then click [Save]. The newly created album will appear in the album list window.

Add album

Adds, or retrieves, a saved album which was previously removed. Clicking this command displays the 'Open' dialog box. Selecting and opening an album file here adds it to the other albums currently displayed in the album list window.

Remove album

Removes the selected album from the album list window. Note that the album file itself is not deleted.

When an album has been deleted or moved from the directory in which it was saved, a question mark (?) will be displayed on the album's icon. In this case,

remove the album and add it again.

Rename album

Allows you to change an album's name. After selecting an album from the album list window and clicking this command, a dialog box appears. Enter the new album name and click the [OK] button.

Album name input field.

OK button.

Cancel button.

Backup album

Creates a duplicate file of the currently selected album. Clicking this command displays the 'Save As' dialog box. Enter the file name, define the destination directory, then click [Save]. The newly created backup album is displayed in the album list window. A folder with the same name as the backup album is created in the destination directory. The backup album file and backup files of the files added to the original album are saved in this folder. In Windows, the album file and its thumbnails' source files are copied into the backup folder. In Macintosh, the copies of the original source files are renamed with the prefix "BackUP," followed by consecutive numbers.

Delete album

Deletes the selected album. Clicking this command displays a confirmation dialog box. Clicking the

Only the album itself, and not the source files associated with it, is deleted.

button deletes the selected album.

Create album with selected thumbnails

Creates a new album with the selected source files (according to the currently selected thumbnails) as its initial contents. In Windows, clicking this menu item displays the 'Save As' dialog box. Enter the album file name, define the destination directory, and then click [Save]. The newly created album is added to the album list window. In Macintosh, clicking this menu item creates an album with the selected thumbnail files and adds it to the album list window.

Add thumbnail

Adds thumbnails into the selected album. Clicking this command displays the 'Open' dialog box. Select the directory in which the file you want to add is saved. Selecting and opening files adds them to the album selected in the album list window. Thumbnails of the newly added files are then displayed in the thumbnail list window.

Unlike adding thumbnails via the import file mode, this command does not create a copy of the thumbnail's source file.

When a thumbnail is added, its name is the same as that of its source file. Because ImageMixer manages thumbnail names and source file names separately, they do not always have to be the same. Thumbnail names can be changed in the 'title' field of the

information view. File names can be changed by the 'rename file' command in the file menu.

In Macintosh, it may be impossible to create thumbnails for files which cannot be opened by QuickTime Player. Also, since Macintosh recognizes files by their contents rather than file extensions, some files may be added as certain file type which is not in accordance with their file extension.

Thumbnail/Detailed file

Add folder contents

Adds all the importable files from a particular folder into the selected album. Clicking this command displays the 'Browse for Folder' dialog box. After selecting the folder from which you would like to add files, click [OK] in Windows, or click [Select] in Macintosh. Thumbnails of the newly added files are then displayed in the thumbnail list window. Files from sub-folders can also be added by checking 'Include Sub-folders.'

Test thumbnail integrity

Since thumbnails are merely graphic representations of the actual files that exist on your computer, there may be cases where the source file is changed (renamed, moved, etc.), thereby changing the information which links it to its corresponding thumbnail in ImageMixer. To see if this is the case with any of the thumbnails within a particular album, first select those you wish to check, and then click the 'Test thumbnail integrity' command.

In Windows, when a file added in an album cannot be found because it has been deleted or moved from the directory in which it was saved, a question mark (?) will be displayed on the file's thumbnail. This is not displayed in Macintosh.

Cut thumbnail

Cuts, or removes, the currently selected thumbnail from the album. The cut thumbnail can then be pasted into another album of your choice by selecting the 'Paste thumbnail' command.

Copy thumbnail

Copies the selected thumbnail. The cut thumbnail can then be pasted into another album of your choice by selecting the 'Paste thumbnail' command.

Paste thumbnail

Pastes a cut or copied thumbnail into the album of your choice.

A cut or copied thumbnail cannot be pasted into an album in which a copy of that thumbnail already exists.

Delete thumbnail

Deletes the selected thumbnail from the album. Clicking this command displays a confirmation dialog box. Clicking the [OK] button deletes the selected thumbnail.

Only the thumbnail itself, and not the source file associated with it, is deleted.

Change size of thumbnails

Allows you to display either large or small thumbnails.

3-4 File Menu

Clicking this button displays the file menu.

Move

Moves the source file of the selected thumbnail. Clicking this command displays the 'Browse for Folder' dialog box. Select the destination location and click [OK] to move the source file.

Copy

Copies the source file of the selected thumbnail. Clicking this command displays the 'Browse for Folder' dialog box. Select the destination location and click [OK] to copy the thumbnail source file.

Delete

Deletes the source file of the selected thumbnail. Clicking this command displays a confirmation dialog box. Clicking the

file.

button deletes the selected source

View/Play

Clicking this command will allow pictures and movie files to be viewed and sound files to be played.

Display file location (Windows only)

Displays the contents of the directory containing the source file of the selected thumbnail. This function utilizes the standard Windows Explorer interface.

Rename file

Allows you to change the name of the source file associated with the selected thumbnail. Clicking this command displays a dialog box. Enter the new name and

click the

Thumbnail names cannot be changed through this operation. Change thumbnail names in the 'title' field of the

button.

Thumbnail/Detailed file information view.

Edit Picture

Allows the source file of the selected still picture thumbnail to be edited. The edited still picture is created as a new file and its thumbnail is automatically added to the album when exiting the Image Editor. The original still picture file remains unchanged after editing. A duplicate of the still picture file which is to be edited is created when Image Editor is started.

Export within album as new movie

Exporting is a term used to refer to the action of creating a new file according to a pre-designated format. Clicking this command will not change the source file of the selected movie thumbnail. Rather, ImageMixer will, regardless of the format of the original file, save the movie according to the settings you define in the accompanying dialog box. After the process is complete, a thumbnail associated with the new file will appear in the current album.

Export within album as new picture

Exporting is a term used to refer to the action of creating a new file according to a pre-designated format. Clicking this command will not change the source file of the selected picture thumbnail. Rather, ImageMixer will, regardless of the format of the original file, save the picture according to the settings you define in the accompanying dialog box. After the process is complete, a thumbnail associated with the new file will appear in the current album.

Output to memory card

Outputs a copy of the source file associated with the selected thumbnail to a memory card.

Print

Prints out the source file of the selected thumbnail. Clicking this command displays the Print Layout Settings dialog box, providing you with a variety of options related to paper size, etc.

Run slide show

Runs a slide show of still pictures as well as the first frame of movies according to the selected thumbnails. Slide shows run according to settings you define in Album

Preferences.

In Macintosh, these buttons are not displayed. The slide show can be ended by pressing the [Command (Apple)] key, [.(period)] key or [Esc] key.

Play

Runs the slide show.

button Stop

Stops the slide show.

button

Stops the slide show and

Return

returns to main screen of the

button

Album Environment.

Apply as wallpaper (Windows only)

Sets the source file of the selected still picture thumbnail as the desktop wallpaper.

When Active Desktop is on, files set as wallpaper will not be displayed. Make sure that Active Desktop is off.

Use as screen saver (Windows only)

Sets the source file of the selected movie thumbnail as the screen saver. MPEG and AVI format files may be used as the screen saver.

3-5 Context Menus

Context menus provide a variety of commands related to working with thumbnails and their respective source files. They can be displayed in Windows by rightclicking the thumbnail you wish to work with. In Macintosh, hold down the control key while clicking the appropriate thumbnail.

Copy thumbnail

Copies the selected thumbnail. The cut thumbnail can then be pasted into another album of your choice by clicking the 'Paste' command.

Paste thumbnail

Pastes a cut or copied thumbnail into an album of your choice.

A cut or copied thumbnail cannot be pasted into an album in which a copy of that thumbnail already exists.

Delete thumbnail

Deletes the selected thumbnail from the album. Clicking this command displays a confirmation dialog box. Clicking the [OK] button deletes the selected thumbnail.

Only the thumbnail itself, and not the source file associated with it, is deleted.

View/Play

Clicking this command will allow pictures and movie files to be viewed and sound files to be played.

Export within album as new picture

Exporting is a term used to refer to the action of creating a new file according to a pre-designated format. Clicking this command will not change the source file of the selected picture thumbnail. Rather, ImageMixer will, regardless of the format of the original file, save the picture according to the settings you define in the accompanying dialog box. After the process is complete, a thumbnail associated with the new file will appear in the current album.

Export within album as new movie

Exporting is a term used to refer to the action of creating a new file according to a pre-designated format. Clicking this command will not change the source file of the selected movie thumbnail. Rather, ImageMixer will, regardless of the format of the original file, save the movie according to the settings you define in the accompanying dialog box. After the process is complete, a thumbnail associated with the new file will appear in the current album.

Print

Prints out the source file of the selected thumbnail. Clicking this command displays the Print Layout Settings dialog box, providing you with a variety of options related to paper size, etc.

Output to memory card

Outputs a copy of the source file associated with the selected thumbnail to a memory card.

Insert image as cover of album

This command makes the currently selected thumbnail image appear as part of the icon of the currently selected album.

Edit picture

Allows the source file of the selected still picture thumbnail to be edited. The edited still picture is created as a new file and its thumbnail is automatically added to the album when exiting the Image Editor. The original still picture file remains unchanged after editing. A duplicate of the still picture file which is to be edited is created when Image Editor is started.

3-6 Thumbnail Views

Thumbnails of files existing in the currently selected album are displayed in the thumbnail list window. There are a variety of views available, each with their own special properties.

Thumbnail view

Displays thumbnails existing in the selected album. This is the default view.

Thumbnail/File information view

Thumbnails are displayed in a list with accompanying file information relative to title, file type, present location on your HDD, date created, date modified and any comments you may have entered.

Thumbnail/Detailed file information view (Windows)

Selecting individual thumbnails provides you with a wide variety of information, including that which relates to Exif formatted files. In

particular, these files contain all sorts of information relative to specific dates/times, camera information, and camera settings. This view also allows you to add your own information, such as titles and comments that will help you remember certain details associated with individual files. A small preview pane (described below) is also available.

Monitor

Play position slider

Play button

Preview ON/OFF button

Pause button

Displays a preview of the selected thumbnail, though this monitor does not appear at all when the thumbnail corresponds to a sound file.

The position at which you wish to begin playback can be set by dragging the slider, though this slider does not appear at all when the thumbnail corresponds to a still picture.

Begins playback, though this button does not appear at all when the thumbnail corresponds to a still picture.

Turns the preview display on or off.

Pauses movie/sound playback, though this button does not appear at all when the thumbnail corresponds to a still picture.

Volume control

File Information Display button

Drag the slider to adjust the volume of movie or sound files, though this slider does not appear at all when the thumbnail corresponds to a still picture.

Displays file information relative to the selected file, including file name, file type, and file location. You can also use fields here to enter your own title or comments.

Detailed Information Display button

Exif File Information

Display button

Camera Information Display button (Exif

files only)

Photo Information Display button (

files only)

Exif

Displays detailed information ( including image dimensions (in pixels), file data size,

playing time, date added to the current album, date modified, and file creation date.

Displays Exif file information relative to the selected file, including a description of the image, date/time the picture was taken, Exif version, image size, and whether or not the picture is meant to appear vertically or horizontally (orientation).

Displays information relative to the camera with which the Exif picture was originally taken, including the name of the camera manufacturer, camera model, and the camera's maximum aperture value.

Displays information relative to the settings under which the Exif photograph itself was taken, including lens focal length, shutter speed, aperture value, exposure value, exposure program, metering mode, ISO, white balance, and whether or not a flash was used.

Exif files only),

Thumbnail/Detailed file information view (Macintosh)

Selecting individual thumbnails provides you with a wide variety of

information, including that which relates to Exif formatted files. In

particular, these files contain all sorts of information relative to specific dates/times, camera information, and camera settings. This view also allows you to add your own information, such as titles and comments that will help you remember certain details associated with individual files. A small preview pane (described below) is also available.

Displays a preview of the selected thumbnail, though

Monitor panel

Volume control

Preview ON/OFF Turns the preview display on or off.

Play button

Play position slider

this monitor does not appear at all when the thumbnail corresponds to a sound file.

Drag the slider to adjust the volume of movie or sound files, though this slider does not appear at all when the thumbnail corresponds to a still picture.

Begins playback, though this button does not appear at all when the thumbnail corresponds to a still picture.

Pauses movie/sound playback, though this button does not appear at all when the thumbnail corresponds to a still picture.

Single Frame Rewind button

Rewinds the movie one frame at a time.

Single Frame Advance button

File Information Display button

Detailed Information Display button

Exif File Information

Display button

Advances the movie one frame at a time.

Displays file information relative to the selected file, including file name, file type, and file location. You can also use fields here to enter your own title or comments.

Displays detailed information (Exif files only), including image dimensions (in pixels), file data size, playing time, date added to the current album, date modified, and file creation date.

Displays Exif file information relative to the selected file, including a description of the image, date/time the picture was taken, Exif version, image size, and whether or not the picture is meant to appear vertically or horizontally (orientation).

Exif Device

Information Display button

Exif Photo Information

Display button

Search mode

Displays a list of thumbnails and allows you to Search for a specific file or

Displays information relative to the camera with which the Exif picture was originally taken, including the name of the camera manufacturer, camera model, and the camera's maximum aperture value.

Displays information relative to the settings under which the Exif photograph itself was taken, including lens focal length, shutter speed, aperture value, exposure value, exposure program, metering mode, ISO, white balance, and whether or not a flash was used.

type of file within those thumbnails according to the criteria you select in

the accompanying pane.

3-7 View/Play Window

This window allows pictures and movie files to be viewed and sound files to be played. To bring up this window, follow the steps below.

1. Select the thumbnail which corresponds to the file you want to view or play.

2. Clicked View/Play on the pull-down file menu or click View/Play from the context menu.

Files can also be viewed or played by double-clicking their corresponding thumbnail.

Playing movies and sound files (Windows)

View/Play window for movies and sound files.

Display

Stop button Stops movie playback.

Movies are shown here. When playing sound files, an animated speaker icon appears.

Play button

Pause button Pauses movie playback.

Play position slider

Display Previous button

Display Next button

Time display

Click to begin playback from the current position on the play position slider.

Used to define the position at which to begin/resume playback by dragging the slider. The corresponding frame is shown.

When two or more files have been selected for viewing, clicking this button moves you to the previous file in the series.

When two or more files have been selected for viewing, clicking this button moves you to the next file in the series.

Displays the accumulated play time of the movie or sound file currently being played.

Volume control Drag the slider to control volume.

Close button

Closes the view/play window and returns to the main screen of the Album Environment.

Playing movies and sound files (Macintosh)

View/Play window for movies and sound files.

Display Movies are shown here.

Volume control Drag the slider to control volume.

Play button

Play position slider

Single Frame Rewind button

Single Frame Advance button

Click to begin playback from the current position on the play position slider.

Used to define the position at which to begin/resume playback by dragging the slider. The corresponding frame is shown.

Rewinds the movie one frame at a time.

Advances the movie one frame at a time.

Close button

Viewing still pictures

View window for still pictures.

Closes the view/play window and returns to the main screen of the Album Environment.

Display Displays the selected file(s).

Zoom In button Clicking this button enlarges the display size.

Zoom Out button Clicking this button reduces the display size.

Display Previous button

When two or more files have been selected for viewing, clicking this button moves you to the previous file in the series.

Display Next button

When two or more files have been selected for viewing, clicking this button moves you to the next file in the series.

Close button

Closes the view display and returns to the main screen of the Album Environment.

3-8 Exporting Album Files

Exporting is a term used to refer to the action of creating a new file according to a pre-designated format. This action will not change the source file of the selected movie thumbnail. Rather, ImageMixer will, regardless of the format of the original file, save the movie according to the settings you define in the accompanying dialog box. After the process is complete, a thumbnail associated with the new file will appear in the current album.

Exporting movies

Exported files will appear in the current album and their source files will be saved according to the destination folder defined under 'Destination of exported files' in the Album Preferences.

1. Select the thumbnail of the movie file to be exported from the thumbnail list window. Click 'Export within album as new movie' in the pull-down

The

Movie Format Settings dialog box will appear.

2. Define the file format options (described below) and click the [Export] button.

PIXELA ImageMixer MPEG1 format:

Select either [low], [Normal], [high], or [highest] image quality.

MPEG movie for Sony:

Select either [160 x 112], [160 x 112 (CV)], [320 x 240], or [320 x 240 (HQ)] image size and quality.

File Menu or the Context Menu.

Movie Format Settings dialog box

Preview display

Play position slider

Play button

Pause button Pauses movie playback.

MPEG exporting options for SONY

Allows you to preview the movie before proceeding with file export.

Used to define the position at which to begin/resume preview by dragging the slider. The corresponding frame is shown.

Click to begin preview from the current position on the play position slider.

Defines size and quality options relative to the Sony MPEG movie format. Note that when a low image quality is selected, the compression speed (rate at which the file is exported) is relatively fast, while the data size of the newly created (exported) picture is relatively small. Conversely, when a higher image quality is selected, the compression speed (rate at which the file is exported) is relatively slow, while the data size of the newly created (exported) picture is relatively large.

Volume control Drag the slider to control volume.

Exports movie according to the format selected in

Export button

or .

MPEG exporting options for ImageMixer

Defines quality options relative to the ImageMixer MPEG1 movie format. Note that when a low image quality is selected, the compression speed (rate at which the file is exported) is relatively fast, while the data size of the newly created (exported) picture is relatively small. Conversely, when a higher image quality is selected, the compression speed (rate at which the file is exported) is relatively slow, while the data size of the newly created (exported) picture is relatively large.

Close button

Closes the dialog box and returns to the main screen of the Album Environment.

Exporting pictures

Exported files will appear in the current album and their source files will be saved according to the destination folder defined under 'Destination of exported files' in the Album Preferences.

1. Select the thumbnail of the movie or still picture to be exported. Click 'Export within album as new picture' in the pull-down

Context Menu.

the

The

Still Picture Format Settings dialog box will appear.

2. When exporting a still picture from a movie file, select the desired frame by dragging the play position slider.

File Menu or

3. Define the file format options (BMP for Windows, PICT for Macintosh, Exif or JPEG) and click the [Export] button.

4. Once the file is exported, the dialog box will close and the new file will appear in the thumbnail list window of the current album

Still Picture Format Settings dialog box

Preview display

Play position slider

Exif

BMP/PICT

JPEG

Allows you to preview the still picture before proceeding with file exportation.

Used to select the frame of the movie from which you wish to create (export) a new picture.

This is not displayed when exporting from a still picture.

Converts the selected movie or still picture file into

Exif file format used by digital cameras. Original

the size or 640 x 480 pixels may be selected.

Exports the selected movie frame or still picture in BMP (Windows) or PICT (Macintosh) format.

Exports the selected movie frame or still picture in JPEG format. Note that when a low image quality is selected, the compression speed (rate at which the file is exported) is relatively fast, while the data size of the newly created (exported) picture is relatively small. Conversely, when a higher image quality is selected, the compression speed (rate at which the file is exported) is relatively slow, while the data size of the newly created (exported) picture is relatively large.

Export button Exports movie according to the defined format.

Close button

Closes the view/play window and returns to the main screen of the Album Environment.

Output to memory card

Outputs a copy of the source file of the selected thumbnail to a memory card.

1. Select the thumbnail to be output.

2. Click 'Output to memory card' in the pull-down

Context Menu.

3. The card present either in a camera or in a memory card reader

connected to your computer. Click the [Output] button.

Memory Card Output dialog box is displayed. Select a memory

File Menu or the

4. A progress bar is shown and the file is saved to the selected memory card.

Memory Card Output dialog box

Selection menu Defines the output destination.

Searches for any memory cards present, either in a

Card Search button

camera or in a memory card reader connected to your computer.

Still Picture Display button

Movie Display button

Sound Display button

Display All Files button

Displays only thumbnails of still picture files in the thumbnail list window.

Displays only thumbnails of movie files in the thumbnail list window.

Displays only thumbnails of sound files in the thumbnail list window.

Displays thumbnails of all files in the thumbnail list window.

Memory card list window

Available memory cards are displayed in a list. Clicking a memory card icon here displays all the relevant files as thumbnails in the thumbnail list window. Note that files stored on floppy disks and other similarly formatted media will appear here as well.

Thumbnail list window

Displays thumbnails of the files existing on the selected memory card.

Refreshes (rereads) the data existing on the

Refresh button

currently selected memory card. Outputs a copy of the file selected in the thumbnail

Output button

list window to the selected memory card. Closes the memory card output dialog box and

Close button

returns to the main screen of the Album Environment.

Printing Within the Album

3-9

Environment

Whether you would like to print out snap shots of your favorite pictures or create a physical record of your album files, ImageMixer provides you with a variety of printing options, conveniently located within the album environment. Furthermore, the printing process itself is made quite efficient by the fact that you choose only those pictures you would like to print by simply selecting their corresponding thumbnails.

When sound files are selected, the speaker icon (standard sound file thumbnail image) is printed. When movie files are selected, only the first frame of the movie is printed.

1. Select the thumbnail(s) of the file(s) to be printed.

2. Click Print in the pull-down File Menu or the Context Menu.

3. The Print Layout Settings dialog box is displayed. After the options

are set, click the [Print] button to print out the selected file.

Brings up the Print Layout Settings dialog box.

Print.

Closes the Print Layout Settings dialog box and returns to the main screen of the Album Environment.

Print Layout Settings

Index Printing

Prints thumbnails and their source file names.

Defines the number of thumbnails printed per page.

Example: 4 pictures per page.

Defines the number of thumbnails per page by columns and rows.

Example: 2 columns, 3 rows per page.

Information Printing

Prints thumbnails and information pertaining to their corresponding source files.

Defines the number of thumbnails printed per page.

Example: 2 pictures per page.

Only the file information that is checked will be printed.

● File Name

● Title

● Type

● Location

● Image Size

● Date Created

● Date Modified

● Data Size

● Length

● Comments

The number of boxes that may be checked depends upon the number of images per page as well as the paper size.

When the file to be printed is an Exif file, checking the 'Indicate Date' box allows the photo date/time to appear in the lower right-hand corner of the picture.

List Printing

Prints thumbnails and information pertaining to their corresponding source files.

Only the file information which is checked will be printed.

● File Name

● Title

● Type

● Location

● Image Size

● Date Created

● Date Modified

● Data Size

● Length

● Comments

The number of boxes that may be checked depends upon the number of images per page as well as the paper size.

When the file to be printed is an Exif file, checking the 'Indicate Date' box allows the photo date/time to appear in the lower right-hand corner of the picture.

Print Image Only

Prints the selected picture according to its actual size. The date can also be printed in the lower right-hand corner of the picture by checking the 'Indicate Date' box.

When the file to be printed is an Exif file, checking the 'Indicate Date' box allows the photo date/time to appear in the lower right-hand corner of the picture.

Sony ImageMixer Operating Instructions

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Introduction

Capture Environment

3-1 Album Environment