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March 2, 2021

AJA Releases Desktop Software v16

Free Update Introduces HDR Signaling over SDI, Expanded IP Video Support and Increased Hardware Compatibility for KONA, Io and the new T-TAP Pro

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Grass Valley, CA – AJA Video Systems has released Desktop Software v16, a free update that introduces powerful new features to AJA’s lineup of KONA, Io and T-TAP products, such as High Dynamic Range (HDR) signaling over SDI, expanded IP video functionality, support for the just announced T-TAP Pro Thunderbolt™ 3 output device, and increased compatibility with the latest hardware and operating systems. 

 

Desktop Software v16 includes compatibility updates for the latest macOS®, Windows® and Linux® operating systems, including support for macOS 11.x Big Sur, Ubuntu 20.04 LTS, Redhat/CentOS 8 and continuing support for Windows 10 updates. Desktop Software v16 enhances and expands support for high-end computer hardware, including certified compatibility of AJA PCIe cards and Thunderbolt devices with the 2019 Mac Pro and AJA PCIe card support for Supermicro X11DAI, X11SPA+TF and X11DPG. For IP video workflows, v16 also increases compatibility with NMOS compliant devices by updating to NMOS 1.3 and adds improved troubleshooting capabilities with new LLDP support for KONA IP, Io IP and Avid ArtistTM | DNxIPTM.

 

With Desktop Software v16, HDR over SDI is available on select AJA KONA and Io products, and the new T-TAP Pro device. The included AJA Control Panel software features a redesigned HDR tab, offering controls for HDR to be signaled via both SDI and HDMI simultaneously. New HDR capabilities for AJA Control Room and AJA Control Panel include the addition of HDR metadata capture and HDR auto playback detection for ease of use for critical monitoring applications. To further streamline AJA’s leading 8K workflows, the v16 update also adds KONA 5 8K monitoring and output capabilities for Apple® Final Cut Pro® and Avid® Media Composer®.

 

Additionally, the new AJA Software Development Kit (SDK) v16 for OEM Developer Partners is also available and targeted at simplifying encoding and high-end 12-bit/HDR workflows. SDK v16 introduces 12-bit workflow enhancements for KONA 5 and Corvid 44 12G, including support for Color Space Conversion and LUTs when working with 12-bit material. New KONA 5 and Corvid 44 12G 8K bit file updates provide developers with access to 3G multi-link options, in addition to 12G, plus new 4:2:0 planar support for encoding solutions, saving time and money through the enablement of direct capture or output of 4:2:0 material without requiring transcoding.

 

“AJA has the most comprehensive toolset for leading creative software applications, and with our latest Desktop Software v16 update, we’ve continued to add powerful new features that improve the reliability and ease of use of our KONA, Io and T-TAP products. Desktop v16 includes increased hardware compatibility and breakthrough features for creative pros who are working in the latest delivery formats,” said Nick Rashby, President, AJA Video Systems.

A number of AJA Developer Partners that have built proprietary systems and solutions for broadcast, post and AV applications using products like AJA T-TAP Pro, KONA 5 and KONA HDMI have already begun to take advantage of the new Desktop Software v16 features. 

Drastic Technologies CTO James Brooks shared, “Desktop v16, and the SDK version for developers, when integrated with our videoQC and FlowCaster products, allow our customers to transmit full HDR signaling at 4K from anywhere in the world to a local monitor for review. Systems including KONA 5 and KONA HDMI support HDR signaling in, while those with KONA 5 and T-TAP Pro enable HDR signaling out, with auto HDR detection simplifying settings for a more seamless end user experience. KONA 5 and the new T-TAP Pro pair perfectly with our dedicated Intel NUCs, and T-TAP Pro’s incredible output capabilities make it the only mobile device that can handle frame by frame, frame-accurate metadata to nearly any desired monitor.”

AJA Desktop Software v16 feature highlights include: 

  • Support for the new T-TAP Pro portable Thunderbolt 3 output device, featuring 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0 for 4K/UltraHD on macOS and Windows

  • Expanded OS compatibility, including macOS Big Sur 11.x, Ubuntu 20.04 LTS, Redhat/CentOS 8, and Windows 10

  • Certified compatibility of AJA PCIe cards and Io devices with SuperMicro X11DAI, X11SPA+TF, and X11DPG

  • Breakthrough HDR over SDI support; VPID signaling is now available for SDR/HDR transfer characteristics over SDI on KONA, Io, and T-TAP Pro

  • HDR metadata/transfer characteristics for capture and auto playback detection

  • New 8K optimizations for capture/playback on macOS, Linux and Windows, including KONA 5 8K support in Apple Final Cut Pro and Avid Media Composer

  • 4K closed captioning support in AJA Control Room on KONA 4, 5, Io 4K Plus, and T-TAP Pro

  • ST 2110 updates on KONA IP and Io IP; NMOS update to 1.3 and LLDP support

  • Expanded functionality on AJA NMOS application

  • Dynamic FPGA firmware reconfiguration, providing rapid firmware switching

AJA SDK v16 feature highlights include:

  • 8K bitfile updated; added quad- and dual-link I/O via 3G-SDI and 1.5G-SDI (multi-link I/O) for 4K to the 8K bitfiles for KONA 5 and Corvid 44 12G

  • New 4:2:0/4:2:2, 8-bit/10-bit, 3-planar I/O, for integrating SDI 4:2:2, 10-bit I/O with 4:2:0-based encoders/decoders (8-bit or 10-bit)

  • New 12-bit workflow enhancements for KONA 5 and Corvid 44 12G

  • New custom HANC playout capability with KONA 5 and Corvid 44 12G

Pricing and Availability

AJA Desktop Software v16 and SDK v16 are now available as a free download from AJA’s support page.

 

About AJA Video Systems, Inc.

Since 1993, AJA Video has been a leading manufacturer of video interface technologies, converters, digital video recording solutions and professional cameras, bringing high-quality, cost-effective products to the professional broadcast, video and post production markets. AJA products are designed and manufactured at our facilities in Grass Valley, California, and sold through an extensive sales channel of resellers and systems integrators around the world. For further information, please see our website at www.aja.com.

 

All trademarks and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.

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March 2, 2021

AJA Announces T-TAP Pro

Compact Thunderbolt™ 3 Device Supports up to 4K/UltraHD Output over 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0, Empowering Video Professionals to Produce High-End Content from any Location

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Grass Valley, CA - AJA Video Systems has unveiled T-TAP Pro, a compact, silent, and portable Thunderbolt™ 3-connected device that simplifies 4K/UltraHD and 2K/HD/SD monitoring and output over 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0 on compatible Mac® or PC computers. Ideal for a range of production scenarios, T-TAP Pro provides high-quality video monitoring, including High Dynamic Range (HDR) support for high frame rate (HFR) and large raster workflows from a Thunderbolt 3 host system.

 

“T-TAP Pro was developed for production professionals who require the highest quality video output wherever they’re working,” explained Nick Rashby, President, AJA Video Systems. “This robust and powerful device enables monitoring and output of high bandwidth 4K/UltraHD and pristine HDR content directly from your laptop or desktop computer, with the power and convenience of a single Thunderbolt 3 cable.”

 

T-TAP Pro is a versatile monitoring and output device suitable for high-end color grading, audio mixing, editorial and visual effects, in addition to on-set monitoring and playback, that enables creative professionals to work efficiently from home or any location. Compact, portable, silent, and reliable, T-TAP Pro powers high-quality HDR and HFR video monitoring up to 4K/UltraHD over 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0 from any supported Thunderbolt 3-enabled Mac or PC. T-TAP Pro features extensive compatibility with popular creative applications for editorial, graphics, effects, color, and streaming, including Apple® Final Cut Pro®; Adobe® Premiere® Pro, After Effects®, Audition®, and Character Animator®; Avid® Media Composer® and Pro Tools®; and more. For audio workflows, T-TAP Pro features multi-channel embedded audio on SDI and HDMI, and a 3.5mm stereo analog audio connection that provides a convenient method for monitoring audio, enabling editors or digital artists to plug in headphones directly to the device or connect to an external analog audio mixer. 

AJA technology partners, including Colorfront, have already begun work to deliver T-TAP Pro support across popular broadcast, post and proAV solutions. With T-TAP Pro support coming for Colorfront Express Dailies, Colorfront On-Set Dailies, Colorfront Transkoder and Colorfront Streaming Player, Bruno Munger, Director of Business Development, Colorfront shared, “AJA’s new T-TAP Pro arrives at the perfect time, bringing great value to production and post professionals with an in-demand feature set and compact form factor. It delivers the advanced, high-end connectivity that our customers require when using our professional streaming player and other solutions on both laptops and small desktop computers.”

 T-TAP Pro feature highlights include:

  • Compact Thunderbolt 3 video and audio output 

  • Silent-running designed-in for critical monitoring environments such as audio mixing, screenings or on-set

  • 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0 connectivity for working with 4K/UltraHD over a single cable, with simultaneous output on both connections

  • Support for up to 4K/UltraHD/HD output over SDI and HDMI up to 60p

  • 10- and 12-bit uncompressed quality

  • HDR support for Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG) and HDR10, as well as Dolby Vision™ via the AJA Software Development Kit (SDK); HDR signaling over both HDMI and SDI 

  • Thunderbolt 3 single-cable connectivity on Mac and PC

  • 16-channel embedded SDI audio output

  • 8-channel embedded HDMI audio output

  • Front panel audio levels reference display

  • 2-channel 3.5mm headphone output with rotary knob adjustment

  • Broad application compatibility, including Apple Final Cut Pro, Adobe® Creative Cloud®, Avid Media Composer and Pro Tools, and much more

  • Included power supply

  • Three-year international warranty

Pricing and Availability

T-TAP Pro is now available for $795 US MSRP through AJA’s worldwide reseller network. For more information, visit: www.aja.com/products/t-tap-pro

 

About AJA Video Systems, Inc.

Since 1993, AJA Video has been a leading manufacturer of video interface technologies, converters, digital video recording solutions and professional cameras, bringing high-quality, cost-effective products to the professional broadcast, video and post production markets. AJA products are designed and manufactured at our facilities in Grass Valley, California, and sold through an extensive sales channel of resellers and systems integrators around the world. For further information, please see our website at www.aja.com.

 

All trademarks and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.

February 18, 2021

OWC Announces The Only Universal and Fully Compatible Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C Cable You Will Ever Need

One cable that can do it all - 100% compatible and certified reliable solution for interconnecting devices, and hundreds of millions of Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB-C, and USB4 equipped Macs, PCs, tablets, and phones

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OWC®, the premier zero-emissions Mac and PC technology company, and a respected provider of MemoryExternal Drives, SSDsMac & PC docking solutions, and performance upgrade kits, announces its next-generation connectivity solution, the OWC Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C Cable. Whether connecting accessories, power, video or even networking the OWC Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C Cable is universal for everything making it the only cable you will ever need. Connecting with USB-C on both ends, this cable is safe, certified, and always reliable for Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB 4, USB 3.2, USB 3.1, USB Power, Video, etc. And you get 100% of both the maximum power allowed and the full data capability supported from/between any USB-C port-equipped device and host.

No matter what kind of device or power level; be it a Mac, PC, tablet, or mobile device, the OWC Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C Cable never lets you down for your USB-C to USB-C connectivity needs. Contrast this with USB-type cables, which often carry no certification, have more limited and varying data speeds, and are not all rated and safe for the power level a system can demand. OWC Thunderbolt 4 cables take all the guesswork out for your USB-C to USB-C connectivity needs. Full certification for power and data capabilities provides peace of mind and ensured reliability regardless of what you need connecting.

From our research and first-hand experience, USB-C to USB-C cables are among the largest causes of technical support headaches. While many USB-C to USB-C cables 'look' and feel of quality, even being the highest quality USB cable doesn't mean it supports Thunderbolt or even high-speed USB-C 5Gb/s or 10Gb/s needed for modern USB-C docks and drives. This causes frustration, lost time, and lost productivity as devices fail to operate correctly, if at all, and with no apparent reason to the end-user. Using some USB cables for power connections is even dangerous when overpowering can risk excessive heat or worse.  

"With the OWC Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C Cable, you never have to worry or wonder if you have the right cable because it's a perfect cable for all of your C-to-C connectivity needs," said Larry O'Connor, Founder, and CEO of OWC. "If it fits your ports, it 100% does support. No other USB-C cable, other than one that is Thunderbolt 4 certified, can make this claim. As I introduce these new cables to individuals and groups, I can't tell you how many people have said they will be cutting all their other USB-C cables. Incorrect cable use is a real issue and headache we are excited to have solved."

OWC Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C Cable Highlights

  • 100% USB-C Compatible: connect to today’s, tomorrow’s, and yesterday's Macs, PCs, iPads, Chromebooks, Surface and other devices with a Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB-C, or USB4

  • Certified for All Uses: enjoy lab test certified safe power delivery up to 100W of power, up to 40Gb/s of data performance, and up to 8K of video capability

  • Versatile Connections: connect any drive, dock, display, eGPUs, PCIe expansion, external SSDs, RAID storage, Power adapters, accessories, anything that goes USB-C to USB-C

  • Powerful: Certified safe delivery of up to the maximum 100 watts of power/charging from docks, adapters, and other devices that USB-C and Thunderbolt support.

  • Stunning visuals: connect up to 4K, 5K, 6K and 8K Thunderbolt or USB-C display

  • Guaranteed quality: 3 Year OWC Limited Warranty

Pricing & Availability
The OWC Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C Cable is available now for $27.99 in 0.8 m length on

MacSales.com.

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January 14, 2021

AJA Releases Two New 12G-SDI openGear® Solutions

OG-12GM enables 12G-SDI to/from quad-link 3G-SDI Muxing/deMuxing;

OG-FiDO-TR-12G provides 12G-SDI to/from fiber conversion with single-link LC connectivity

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Grass Valley, CA  – AJA Video Systems today announced the release of two new 12G-SDI openGear® solutions, AJA OG-12GM and AJA OG-FiDO-TR-12G. Featuring support for up to 4K/UltraHD content, OG-12GM is a 12G-SDI to/from quad-link 3G-SDI Muxer/DeMuxer, and OG-FiDO-TR-12G is a state-of-the-art 12G-SDI/Fiber transceiver. Both are designed for use in high-density openGear 2RU frames and compatible with Ross® DashBoard software for flexible device control and monitoring.

"As demand for high raster 4K/UltraHD content increases, convenient 12G-SDI solutions are critical to simplifying cabling and transport of high bandwidth content,” said Nick Rashby, President, AJA Video Systems. “In response to industry demand, we’re bolstering our lineup of 12G-SDI workflow tools with the new OG-12GM card and OG-FiDO-TR-12G transceiver, which feature industry-wide compatibility in openGear frames.”

OG-12GM is an openGear-compatible SDI transport converter that supports single-link 12G-SDI to/from quad-link 3G-SDI, two Sample Interleave (2SI) to/from Square Division (Quadrant) pixel mapping, and selectable Distribution Amplifier (1x4). It provides detailed timing analysis for validating alignment of quad-link SDI inputs via a unique timing analyzer that quickly helps to identify possible timing issues for quad-link signals. Ideal for critical broadcast applications where high-quality conversion and reliability are required, OG-12GM features openGear’s high-density architecture and DashBoard support on Windows®, macOS® or Linux for monitoring and control over a local network or remotely.

OG-FiDO-TR-12G offers unmatched flexibility and cost-efficiency for 12G-SDI to Fiber conversion and Fiber to 12G-SDI conversion with single-link LC connectivity, enabling long cable runs up to 10km for single mode. OG-FiDO-TR-12G is compatible with all certified openGear products and supports Ross DashBoard software for convenient remote control and monitoring over a PC or local network to further simplify production workflows.

Pricing and Availability

OG-12GM and OG-FiDO-TR-12G are now available through AJA’s worldwide reseller network for $895 US MSRP, and $1325 US MSRP respectively. For more information, visit: www.aja.com/family/opengear

About AJA Video Systems, Inc.

Since 1993, AJA Video has been a leading manufacturer of video interface technologies, converters, digital video recording solutions and professional cameras, bringing high-quality, cost-effective products to the professional broadcast, video and post production markets. AJA products are designed and manufactured at our facilities in Grass Valley, California, and sold through an extensive sales channel of resellers and systems integrators around the world. For further information, please see our website at www.aja.com.

January 14, 2021

OWC Acquires LumaForge and Jellyfish Technologies

LumaForge to continue as an OWC Company, with team intact, to further expand production and server capabilities, solutions, and line up

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OWC®; a leading zero emissions Mac and PC technology company and one of the world’s most respected providers of MemoryExternal DrivesSSDsMac & PC docking solutions, announced today the acquisition of LumaForge, creator of the award-winning family of shared storage Jellyfish solutions and its support of the ultra-reliable video workflow server that connects content creators, editors, colorists, graphic artists, and sound mixers. The Jellyfish product line adoption further establishes OWC as the provider of the most reliable storage workflow solutions available for both existing OWC and LumaForge customers and new.

 

The LumaForge Jellyfish product family consists of Jellyfish Mobile: The first plug-and-play video workflow server that comes with a handle. Jellyfish Mobile was designed to be on-the-go or, at least, out of the server room. It excels with teams of four to six editors working with 4K media on the road or at the office. Jellyfish Tower: Matches the ease-of-use and plug-and-play magic powers of the Mobile and is as powerful as something you’d find in your server room. It’s quiet enough to stand on its own in your edit bay and powerful enough to take on 6+ editors working with 4K media and beyond. Jellyfish Rack: The most powerful in the lineup plug-and-play solution, intended to live alongside all your other fancy server room equipment. Jellyfish Rack is the preferred solution for ultra-high-bandwidth connectivity (25GbE/50GbE) and can seamlessly merge into the most complex enterprise network environments.All existing customers will be receiving direct communication regarding their support and upgrade paths within the coming weeks.

 

“I am excited to welcome the amazing LumaForge team and solutions into the OWC Family. This acquisition both strengthens our enterprise/server storage capabilities and enables an even broader lineup of solutions to serve the needs of video, photography, and music professionals with some really exceptional new offerings,” said Larry O’Connor, OWC Founder & CEO. “Jellyfish and LumaForge customers will continue receiving the support and development, while this trusted technology will flourish and have a whole new level of support and engagement within the OWC family.”

“There’s no better home for our team and technology than OWC. A legendary brand with a reputation for great products and support that countless people depend on every day,” said Josh Minney, CEO, LumaForge. “We’ve always admired what Larry and his team have built, and we are all excited to actually be a part of it.”

January 11, 2021

OWC Announces High-Powered 6 Port USB-C Travel Dock E for Macs, PCs, iPads, Tablets, or Phones

The best mini-sized dock to connect, charge, display, network, and import on-the-go through one cable

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OWC®, the premier zero-emissions Mac and PC technology company, and a respected provider of MemoryExternal DrivesSSDsMac & PC docking solutionsand performance upgrade kits

 announces its next-generation mobile connectivity solution, the OWC USB-C Travel Dock E. It reduces the hassle of adapter and dongle heft while expanding your connectivity options with six essential ports: USB 3 Type-A, HDMI 2.0, SD card reader, and all new Gigabit Ethernet, and USB-C 100W power pass-through. Through its integrated USB-C connecting cable, the compact Travel Dock E lets you transform any location, be it a studio, classroom, boardroom, or coffee shop, into a mobile office. The OWC USB-C Travel Dock E gives you the ability to connect, charge, display, and import at will with USB-C or Thunderbolt 3-equipped computers, tablets, and phones.

Based on the original award-winning OWC Travel Dock, the new OWC USB-C Travel Dock E offers fast and reliable sharing, streaming, and surfing. Nothing can quash productivity faster than slow, low-quality Wi-Fi, but the OWC USB-C Travel Dock E isn't going to let you down. Its Gigabit Ethernet port has an industry-standard connector so that you can plug in anywhere for a speedy server connection, uninterrupted downloads, and reliable file transfers.

Unlike other mini docks that sacrifice usability to remain portable, the OWC USB-C Travel Dock E packs a heavyweight punch akin to a desktop dock. This compact dock is about the size and weight of a hockey puck, and it can be used via bus power when you don't have access to an outlet. Or, connect a USB-C power adapter to the OWC USB-C Travel Dock E USB-C power delivery port to charge your device with up to 100W of power on the go or when working from home.

When finished using the OWC USB-C Travel Dock E, you can safely disconnect it in one click with the free OWC Dock Ejector software. The OWC Dock Ejector was designed by OWC hardware and software engineers to ensure all data is written to one or more connected drives before disconnection, saving time and protecting against data loss.

OWC USB-C Travel Dock E Highlights

  • Make a powerful presentation on a 4K HDMI display

  • Share, stream, and surf quickly and reliably fast with standard RJ45 Ethernet 1000BT networking

  • Transfer files with storage devices in a blink of an eye

  • Charge up small mobile devices for on-the-go use

  • Ingest photos and movies directly from media cards with the SD card reader

  • Enjoy the convenience of a full-sized keyboard or mouse with your notebook

  • Connect it to Macs, PCs, iOS, Android, and Chrome devices

  • 2 Year OWC Limited Warranty and lifetime US-based support  

 

"We are so proud to keep the OWC Travel Dock product family going strong," said Larry O'Connor, CEO, and Founder of OWC. "The OWC USB-C Travel Dock E is a great update to an award-winning product."

Pricing & Availability

The OWC USB-C Travel Dock E will be available Q1 2021 in Space Gray for $64.99 at 
MacSales.com. The customer-favorite and award-winning OWC USB-C Travel Dock continues to be available as well. Users can choose from four colors to best complement their gear and get connected to notebooks, displays, and more as needed on the go. Starting at only $54.99, this Travel Dock is fully compatible with all Thunderbolt 3 equipped Macs & PCs.

December 8, 2020

OWC Announces Copy That App for iOS and iPadOS

Take control of your content, copy multiple photos and videos with ease, and added security

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OWC®, the premier zero-emissions Mac and PC technology company, and a respected provider of Memory, External DrivesSSDsMac & PC docking solutions, and performance upgrade kits announces OWC Copy That, an app that lets you easily copy photos and videos from your iPhone / iPad directly to external storage devices. It gives you the ability to select what you want to copy, where you want to copy, and how you want to copy your data and is available now for iOS and iPadOS.

With Copy That, OWC has taken the guesswork out of data backup. The process is simple. Connect your iPhone or iPad to an external drive. Select the type of media you want to copy and how you want to copy it. Then click the "Copy That" button, and you're done. Whether you are a hobbyist out in the field taking nature photos, an influencer shooting daily videos, or you're just an enthusiast taking family pictures, OWC Copy That lets you free up storage on your device, duplicate and protect your valuable data.

   

OWC Copy That includes smart copy functions that streamline the copy process. You can exclude screenshots and selfies and decide what you want to do with existing files. OWC Copy That puts you in control of your data. These settings are sticky. Once they are set, they become your default settings until you change them. This makes it a breeze to copy files in batches whenever you need. No longer do you have to click and click to copy photos and video. OWC Copy That makes the process quick and easy.

OWC Copy That Highlights

  • More room: transferring photos and videos to an external drive frees up space on devices enabling space for additional apps and OS upgrades 

  • Extends use life: great for limited storage space older iOS devices 

  • Effortless sharing: external drives make it much easier to share files with desktops, laptops, and other users 

  • Copy Anywhere: transfer files to almost any destination including attached external storage, even network shares 

  • Duplicate with ease: once data is copied to external storage, data duplication and backups are easier and faster 

  • Works with iOS and iPadOS


"As a leader in the storage space, it makes sense that we would expand OWC's years of data knowledge and offer this innovative iOS app into our product family," said Larry O'Connor, CEO and Founder of OWC. "Coping data is just not as easy as it should be until now. OWC Copy That takes the guesswork out of selecting and copying various files, photos, etc., from Apple iOS devices. A product many of us at OWC have wanted, and we believe you do too."

Pricing & Availability
OWC Copy That is available now for free in the 
App Store. At launch In-app, purchases will be discounted for a limited time priced at $.99 and will move to $2.99. The special price is valid through the end of the year. In-app purchases will include Verified Copy, a more secure way to copy, verify copies of data by comparing to originals and Delete From Device, the ability to delete items from the iPhone or iPad.  

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October 20, 2020

A Cinematographers’ Tribute to the
Photography of the Incredible Douglas Kirkland
Wednesday, October 28, 11am PDT

CineGear Expo pays tribute to Douglas Kirkland in a special ON AIR presentation on October 28, 2020. The unassuming still photographer is known worldwide for his iconic imagery of famous artists from Man Ray to Coco Chanel to Andy Warhol, and musicians from Frank Sinatra to Mick Jagger to Diana Ross. His extensive portfolio of actors’ mportraiture is unmatched: Marlene Dietrich, Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, Leonardo DiCaprio, Elle Fanning to name just a few. He has captured countless filmmaking pioneers like Charlie Chaplin, Orson Welles, Oliver Stone, and James Cameron—whose work has impacted the art of motion pictures.

This ON AIR presentation pays homage to Kirkland’s 250 black and white portraits of cinematographers shot captured over the past 30 years for Kodak’s On Film ad mcampaign. What better way to honor Kirkland than to see his work and to hear from a select few of his subjects as they recall the first time he photographed them?

Hosted by Richard Crudo ASC, the ON AIR panel of renowned cinematographers includes: Steven Poster ASC, James Chressanthis ASC, Nancy Schreiber ASC, George Spiro Dibie ASC, Dante Spinotti ASC, AIC, Stephen Lighthill, ASC, Vittorio Storaro ASC, AIC, Don McAlpine ACS, ASC, and Reed Morano, ASC, DGA. Kirkland, his dynamic wife/partner Françoise, as well as son, director Mark Kirkland, join the conversation from the Kirkland studio.

The one-hour program, available on Wednesday, October 28th at 11 am PDT, will include photos, footage and classic conversation about Douglas Kirkland as he enjoys mhis sixth decade as a still photographer. To RSVP for this free CineGear event visit: https://www.cinegearexpo.com/cinegear-on-air/douglas-kirkland-the-cinematographers/

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September 23, 2020

CineGear Goes Virtual for 2020 Film Series Competition

Participate Free via phone, tablet, computer or connected TV

Cine Gear Expo announces a rousing virtual lineup for their much-anticipated annual Film Series Competition to be held at 12 noon, Saturday, October 3, 2020.

Like the Expo’s successful in-person events, online guests will be treated to a full schedule of curated finalist films including Independent Shorts, Music Video/Commercials and Student Shorts with submissions from AFI, USC, & London Film Schools. Following the screenings, CineGear guest host, Jay Holben, will moderate a spirited online networking event, complete with trivia questions, prize give-aways, lively chat and more. Viewers will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite film in each category that will be tallied with the selections of CineGear’s independent team of industry judges. Next comes the Award Presentation when winners will receive filmmaking prizes generously donated by top industry tech and services companies.

Independent Short Film finalists:
Swimming, Director: Anna Chi
Sound, Director/Writer: Tawan Bazemore
• Second Team, Director: Ria Pavia
Stevie, Director/Writer: Eric L. Thompson
Godspeed MC/For God and Country, Director: R.J. Hall
Stormchaser, Director: Gretl Claggett
Waves, Director: Jane Hae Kim
The Entity, Director/Writer: Chi K. In


Music Video / Commercial Finalists:
Nice Shoes, Director/Writer: Jonathan Lawrence
Hey, Beautiful!, Director: Kenneth Ferrone
Chasing the Horizon, Director: Sasha A. Logov

Alive, Director/Writer: Carissa Dorson
Oo La La, Director/Writer/Producer: Frank Rogala
James Arthur feat. Travis Barker – You, Director/Producer: Timon Birkhofer
Stellar Moto Brand Commercial, Director/Writer: Iggi Ogard
About the Girl in the Trunk, Director/Writer: Lindsay Clift
Slant - With or Without You, Director: Vez Visuals


Student Short Film Finalists:
Día de Las Carpas- AFI Conservatory, Director: Joao Dall’Stella
They Won't Last- AFI Conservatory, Director: Portlynn Tagavi
Natives- The Peter Stark Producing Program, Director: Ramon Farrier
Tree #3- AFI Conservatory, Director: Omer Ben-Shachar
Our Home Here- AFI Conservatory, Director: Angela Chen
GROK SEE BLUE- AFI Conservatory, Director/Producer: Quinn Else
A Guide to Being Herman- USC Film School, Director: Sergio Zaciu
Furthest From- AFI Conservatory, Director: Kyung Sok Kim
Time Difference- London College of Communications, Director: Xuqin Sun
Pumpkin- CAL State LA, Television, Film & Media Studies, Director: Chris Collins

Join CineGear Film Series Competition October 3, 2020
Screenings: Noon – 5:17 pm PDT
After-Party: 5:20 pm – 6:20 pm

Free Registration and schedule: https://www.cinegearexpo.com/film-series-competition- virtual-event/

Registrants will receive detailed instructions and online links to enjoy full participation in
the CineGear 2020 Film Series Competition.

This year’s virtual festival is brought to you by CineGear Expo in conjunction with
AutoDCP and Sunset Magicwerks, LLC. Sponsors include: Driving Plates, Litegear,
Cush Light, Duclos Lenses, ENTTEC, Moss LED, OWC, Quasar Science, Azden,
Grosso Kresser Vineyard, Band Pro Film and Digital, Fotodiox, InkTip, LA NY 411,
Ledgo Technology Limited, Litra, Sigma and Matthews Studio Equipment. For more
information, visit
www.cinegearexpo.com

August 10, 2020

OWC Sending Customer Content to Outer Space on the Envoy Pro
Tech leader holding contest for artists of all genres to have creative content included on an

upcoming rocket launch to space and back

Woodstock, IL – August 10, 2020OWC®; a leading zero emissions Mac and PC technology company and one of the world’s most respected providers of Memory, External Drives, SSDs, Mac & PC dockingsolutions and performance upgrade kits, today announced that the Envoy Pro Thunderbolt™ 3 external SSD will be going into space – and returning – with a leading space exploration developer’s upcoming launch. OWC is holding a contest for creatives to submit their videos, songs and images for consideration, for the chance to have that creative content included on the drive when it is sent into space.


Entrants are challenged to show the team at OWC what they’ve created. Participants can submit a video, a song, image(s), or any other type of content they have produced using an OWC product. Entries should be uploaded to Facebook, Twitter and/or Instagram calling out @PoweredbyOWC and using #OWCInSpace in order for all content to be properly evaluated by the OWC team. Posts should mention which OWC product was used in the creative process. Winners will be contacted by DM, so be sure to follow @PoweredbyOWC on those platforms. The contest will begin accepting submissions on August 10 th and will do so through August 21st.

All submissions will be evaluated by executive and creative team members at OWC. Selected winning entrants will be uploaded onto the OWC Envoy Pro and launched into orbit with the September 2020 launch.


Prizes:
One grand-prize winning entry will receive a 16” MacBook Pro, an LG 32” IPS 4K Thunderbolt monitor, and a specially-engraved OWC Envoy Pro. The top ten first-prize winning selected content providers will receive a specially engraved version of the OWC Envoy Pro drive. All winning submissions will receive a certificate of participation and a commemorative patch following the rocket launch and return. All prizes will be distributed following the launch and return of the rocket.


Contest Guidelines:
Contestants are asked to upload an original video or song between one to two minutes in length, or an image or multiple images. Show OWC your out-of-this-world work, and show the world why OWC solutions are the key to unlocking true creative potential. Guidelines for submission: all entries should be English-language content only, or if in another language, please use English subtitles. All voting results will be final, and the winners will be notified by DM, so be sure to follow @PoweredbyOWC on Facebook, Twitter and/or Instagram. Entering the contest is easy, just post content beginning August 10 th .

For contest details visit: OWC in Space. Key points are:

  • The opening date for submissions is August 10th, 2020. Entrants will need access to social media platforms in order to participate.

  • Submissions will be accepted until 11:59 PM Central Time, August 21st, 2020.

  • Winners will be notified by DM on or before August 26th, 2020 and announced on or before August 26th, 2020. Follow @PoweredbyOWC on Facebook, Twitter and/or Instagram.

 

"We have known for many years that our customers include some of the most talented and creative people around, and we want to give them the chance to have a part in this adventure with us,” said Larry O'Connor, Founder and CEO, Other World Computing. "OWC is proud to provide storage and upgrades that keep our customers’ content and creations safe for years, and we can’t wait to see the entries, get them on the space-bound Envoy Pro, and back here to Earth!”


Send your family into space…
In addition to the contest, OWC will also be sending photos into space! Open to everyone 18 and older, the photos can be of anything that is significant to the photographer – a family photo, a pet, a travel image, a selfie – something important that you’d like to share with the galaxy! The collected images will be uploaded to the Envoy Pro, and contributors will receive a certificate of participation following space travel. Images should be within community standards; OWC will not utilize nor acknowledge any images outside the parameters. Anyone submitting an image will need a verifiable email in order to receive certificate of participation. Images can be
uploaded through the OWC website.


Open to legal US residents 18 and over. Limit one entry per person. Entrants must comply with the submission policy. OWC reserves the right to disqualify any submission that does not follow the guidelines and content restrictions listed in the terms and conditions. OWC reserves the right to utilize every entry for promotional purposes. Winners will be notified via DM; be sure to follow @PoweredbyOWC on Facebook, Twitter and/or Instagram. Prizes are nontransferable and no substitution will be made. Entrants agree to receive OWC special offers via email. Void where prohibited.

For submission policy information please visit: https://eshop.macsales.com/service/ideasolicitation.cfm.


OWC respects our community’s First Amendment right to freedom of speech. However, in accordance
with our community standards, we reserve the right to reject all material that is obscene, offensive,
insulting, derogatory, defamatory, and intimidating to any and all classes of individuals.

 

August 6, 2020

OWC Raises the Bar on 2019 Mac Pro Upgrades with Inspired New Wheels Kit

OWC Rover Pro is the pioneering alternative mobility solution that installs in minutes

Woodstock, IL – August 6, 2020OWC®; a leading zero emissions Mac and PC technology company and one of the world’s most respected providers of Memory, External Drives, SSDs, Mac & PC dockingsolutions and performance upgrade kits reveals the new OWC Rover Pro – a toolless, patent-pending made in the USA design that allows users to add wheels to the 2019 Mac Pro in under two minutes. Factory-finish, matching stainless-steel housings feature 360-degree articulating wheels with non-marring soft rubber tread install and include stops to keep your Mac Pro in place and offer the freedom of mobility when needed.


Ingenious “Wheels On/Wheels Off” Design
The OWC Rover Pro is the innovative mobility solution for the 2019 Mac Pro. The patent-pending design enables your Mac Pro to go “wheels on/wheels off” in under two minutes while saving time and money vs the factory wheel kit.


Easy Toolless Install
No tools, no hassle, no worry: simply place your Mac Pro’s factory feet into the Rover Pro’s polished stainless-steel housings and secure with a few hand twists. When you’re done moving your Mac Pro around, the Rover Pro allows quick and easy conversion back to the factory feet for stationary use.


Smooth, Silent, Safe
Industrial-strength soft rubber tread wheels with 360-degree articulating rotation and low friction bearings let you move your 2019 Mac Pro silently and effortlessly on any surface. Pull it across the studio, rotate it under your desk for convenient port access… the Rover Pro lets you easily put your Mac Pro where you want it while safely preserving your floor’s finish.


Stays in Place
The Rover Pro includes wheel stops that prevent any unintended movement. When not in use, the stops conveniently clip to the casters so they’re immediately ready to help get the job done wherever you need to with a wheel kit built for rolling and securing a 2019 Mac Pro on any surface.


Highlights

  • Unique: patent-pending made in USA design

  • Fast toolless install: hand tightens in under 2 minutes

  • Highly positional: 360-degree articulating wheels

  • Smooth and silent: non-marking soft rubber tread wheels with low friction bearings

  • Elegant: highly polished stainless-steel matches the Mac Pro

  • Protective: vibration absorbing silicone rubber pad preserves factory feet finish

  • Secure: wheel stops prevent unintended movement

  • Quality: built to be the best and backed with a Lifetime Limited Warranty

“The OWC Rover Pro Wheels Kit is one of the most creative accessories we’ve been able to develop for the 2019 Mac Pro, this is fun with a purpose,” said OWC Founder and CEO Larry O’Connor. “Even going beyond the alternative wheel offerings, we are proud to have this made in the USA design to offer our customers another option, one that saves money, is designed for quick and easy installation, and complements their machine. At OWC, we’ve always been about helping our customers get the most out of whatever machine they are using, inside and out, and for us this is a logical continuation of that mandate.”


The OWC Rover Pro is available to order now with special limited-time pricing at MacSales.com, and will begin shipping in September.

July 16, 2020

OWC Speeds Up Productivity 10X with Updated Thunderbolt™ 3 10G Ethernet Adapter

Bus-powered portable adapter gives Thunderbolt™ 3-equipped Macs and PCs with no or slow Ethernet connectivity 900MB/s real-world speed to reduce transfer times from minutes to seconds

WOODSTOCK, IL – July 16, 2020OWC®; a leading zero emissions Mac and PC technology company and
one of the world’s most respected providers of
Memory, External Drives, SSDs, Mac & PC docking
solutions
and performance upgrade kits, today announced the availability of the Thunderbolt™ 3 10G
Ethernet Adapter with real-world speed over 900MB/s so you can transfer a 50GB file in under a minute,
perform video editing, and live stream gaming sessions.


Connecting the OWC Thunderbolt 3 10G Ethernet Adapter to your Thunderbolt 3-equipped Mac or
PC adds warp speed file transfers to your workflow. Now you can access 10GBASE-T 10Gb
Ethernet networks or Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices to transfer large multimedia files at over
900MB/s real-world speed. While improving project efficiency and workgroup collaboration with
the quickest network connection available, the OWC Adapter is also backwards compatible
with other Ethernet standards including 5GBASE-T, 2.5GBASE-T, 1000BASE-T, and 100BASE-Tx. 


Bottleneck-Free Editing Collaboration
Improving project efficiency and workgroup collaboration, the Thunderbolt 3 10G Ethernet Adapter
keeps teams aligned and project budgets in-check as it gives multiple workstations the maximum data
capacity for sharing and editing creative content requiring large volumes of data like video, animation,
and graphics. Editing can take place directly from files on a shared RAID storage device without the
inefficiencies of downloading files to individual workstations.


Maximizes Small Office or Home Office Networks
Without having to incur the extra expense of a full 10Gb Ethernet network yet maintain optimum
performance, creative professionals in SMBs or home offices are connecting to a 2.5-5Gb/s equipped
router or switch. Unfortunately, these pros are often limited to Gigabit Ethernet (1Gb/s) speed by their
computer. By simply adding the OWC Thunderbolt 3 10G Ethernet Adapter to their machine,
photographers, videographers, musicians, and other creative pros can now enjoy greater signal
reliability, stability, and security with up to 5x faster speed on 2.5-5Gb/s networks and up to 10x faster
speed on 1Gb/s Ethernet networks.


Dramatically Increases Performance and ROI of Existing Networks
With an ideal combination of affordability and performance, most wired local area networks installed
over the past two decades utilize Cat5e or Cat 6 copper cabling. Those setups are limited to a maximum
1Gb/s speed. With built-in 2.5GBASE-T and 5GBASE-T technology (formerly NBASE-T), the OWC
Thunderbolt 3 10G Ethernet Adapter can deliver up to 5Gb/s speed over existing cabling for up to a
500% performance increase and maximum infrastructure ROI.

Pro Audio Video AVB Ready 
Time-sensitive data such as audio and video media streams require Audio Video Bridging (IEEE
802.1Qav, AVB) ready gear. No sweat…the OWC Thunderbolt 3 10G Ethernet Adapter can stream high
volumes of high-quality data in real-time to multiple destinations with very low latency over existing
network cable.


Access Your Work and Home Computer Anytime, Anywhere
The Wake-on-LAN support can easily wake a hibernated Windows or sleeping Mac computer for remote
system management, program use, and stored file access. Instead of having an “always on” system
wasting energy and your hard-earned money, you can keep a work or home computer in a low power
state of readiness that’s accessible anytime, anywhere.


Highlights

  • Blazing-fast: over 900MB/s real-world tested transfer speed for large file transfers, video

  • editing, and live streaming gaming sessions

  • Compatible: use with any Thunderbolt 3-equipped Mac or Windows computer

  • Capable: Up to 100-meter cable distance with Cat6a for 10G, Cat6 for 5G, and Cat5e for 2.5G

  • Smart: supports auto-negotiation for 10Gb/s, 5Gb/s, 2.5Gb/s, 1Gb/s and 100Mb/s Base-T

  • Ethernet standards

  • Accessible: Wake-on-LAN ready for remote access of home or work computer

  • AVB ready: perfect for use in pro audio and video applications where synchronization of data

  • streams is critical

  • Cost effective: 2.5GBASE-T and 5GBASE-T technology (formerly NBASE-T) provides up to 500%

  • faster performance over existing cabling

  • Cool: ventilated aluminum heatsink housing maximizes heat dissipating airflow

  • Easy setup: connect the included Thunderbolt 3 cable and connect to your network

  • Covered: 1-year OWC Limited Warranty


Availability
The Thunderbolt 3 10G Ethernet Adapter is available now at
MacSales.com with an MSRP of $149.00.

July 3, 2020

ZEISS Virtual Cine Expo

Save the Date: July 15-17, 2020

ZEISS has responded to the Covid-19 pandemic and the resulting cancellation of live events by launching the ZEISS Virtual Cine Expo. From 15 to 17 July 2020, the virtual trade show booth allows visitors and customers to interact with ZEISS. With interactive content and live presentations, the international ZEISS team is providing a look at new products such as the new Supreme Prime focal lengths, as well as ongoing projects and topics.

The ZEISS Virtual Cine Expo booth will be available online from 15 July. The virtual trade show booth will also stay online after 17 July until autumn 2020.

Go to https://www.zeiss.com/consumer-products/int/home/website/cinematography/zeiss-virtual-expo.html for more details.

June 9, 2020

Revitalize Older Macs and PCs to Like-New Performance with the Massive new 4TB OWC Mercury Extreme Pro 6G SSD

Universal fit, best-in-class internal 2.5-inch SATA 6Gb/s SSD delivers sustained performance for everyone from performance enthusiasts to production professionals, now in up to an immense 4TB capacity

WOODSTOCK, IL — June 9, 2020OWC®; a leading zero emissions Mac and PC technology company and one of the world’s most respected providers of Memory, External Drives, SSDsMac & PC docking solutions and performance upgrade kits, announced the availability of the new Mercury Extreme Pro 6G SSD, in capacities from 240GB up to 4TB. OWC’s newest 2.5-inch SATA SSD is among the most versatile and reliable on the planet, featuring state-of-the-art components and engineering that bring older Macs and PCs up to current model performance levels.


The Mercury Extreme Pro 6G SSD is ideal for audio, video, photography editing, and production, for users who require sustained performance. They are the standard for use in video capture with Black Magic cameras, AJA and more, in situations where sustained write performance is critical, and when a drop in performance can lead to lost frames and production time. Some drives drop to 50-60MB/s after their cache is exhausted, but the Mercury Extreme Pro is up to 10x faster performance than what many drives deliver today after their peak speed is exhausted with as little as 2-3 percent of the drive written. When sustained performance is non-negotiable, the Mercury Extreme Pro 6G SSD has users covered end to end.


A 10-year Legacy of Class-Leading Performance and Reliability
When the first Mercury Extreme Pro 6G SSD was launched nearly a decade ago, it was built to be the fastest, most reliable, and longest endurance 2.5-inch SATA Solid State Drive available on the market. The evolution of OWC’s premier 2.5-inch SATA SSD continues that legacy with up to 5X faster performance over the entirety of its capacity compared to other drives. For Macs or PCs with a 6G SATA drive bay, the Mercury Extreme Pro 6G SSD is the fastest 2.5-inch SSD available today, with rock-solid engineering to keep users working full speed ahead throughout its life for a lower Total Cost of
Ownership.


Revitalize Beloved Macs & PCs into Modern Day Workhorses
With users’ investment in apps plus time devoted to getting that beloved Mac or PC configured just the way they like, it makes sense for users to maximize the lifespan and longevity of their machine before retiring it. By revitalizing any Mac or PC with a Mercury Extreme Pro 6G SSD, it can be transformed to like-new performance levels. Built using today’s highest quality NAND flash memory and controller design, the Mercury Extreme Pro 6G SSD delivers sustained real-world tested read/write speeds over 500MB/s throughout its storage capacity. From faster boots and application launch times to greatly improved system responsiveness, users will love using their “new” computer at a fraction of the cost of
buying the latest model.

Highlights

  • Ideal for high-performance computing, gaming, RAID, and audio/video/photo editing and capture applications including in-camera

  • Starts Fast, Stays Fast: maintains consistent read/write speeds exceeding 500MB/s over entire drive capacity, many other drives slow down after only 2-3 percent use

  • Saves Money: use drive until full vs. replacing slowed down drive

  • Big Space: up to 4TB capacity for the largest projects

  • A/V Ready: use with Blackmagic, SoundDevice, Atomos devices

  • Universal Fit: includes full-sized spacer for 100% secure and compatible use in applications with 9.5mm drive height

  • Peace of Mind Ownership: 5-Year Limited Warranty with award-winning live support

  • Supercharges Macs and PCs: ideal for both notebooks and desktops


“With each passing day audio, video and graphic applications are demanding more and more from our machines whether you are an enthusiast or a production pro, and older Macs and PCs just can’t keep up with those demands,” said OWC founder and CEO Larry O’Connor. “Most of our loyal customers are very fond of their current laptops and desktops and can’t stand the thought of spending thousands to replace them, which is why we live by the mantra ‘repair don’t replace.’ Our new state-of-the-art Mercury Extreme Pro 6G SSD sets a new benchmark for performance, reliability and warranty support in this category, and is the culmination of over a decade of brilliant engineering innovation by OWC.”

Pricing & Availability
The OWC Mercury Extreme Pro 6G 4TB 2.5-inch SSD is available now at MacSales.com for $899.75. The
Mercury Extreme Pro 6G line starts at 240GB for $79.75.

April 23, 2020

OWC Doubles Capacity in Award-winning SSDs

Tech leader unveils first-to-market 4TB blades for maximum speeds and massive portable storage

WOODSTOCK, IL — April 23, 2020OWC®; a leading zero emissions Mac and PC technology company founded in 1988, and one of the world’s most respected providers of Memory, External Drives, SSDs, Mac & PC docking solutions and performance upgrade kits, is first to announce the availability of a 4TB M.2 drive. For the first time ever, the new 4TB Aura P12 M.2 NVMe SSDs will be utilized in OWC’s Envoy Pro EX line (Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C) for 4TB of portable storage, as well as the ThunderBlade and Accelsior 4M2, which will each now offer up to a whopping 16TB of storage.

 

The Aura P12 SSDs give users the freedom to dramatically up their game, utilizing 3D NAND flash memory and security features including TCG Opal and TCG Pyrite. These SSDS are engineered to give users the best and longest working life, with read speeds up to 3400MB/s and write speeds up to 3000MB/s, a perfect blend for media-heavy projects, on-location downloads and faster previews, renders and processing in audio and VFX programs.

 

The award-winning Envoy Pro EX Thunderbolt 3 and Envoy Pro EX USB-C are now offering up to 4TB of lightweight, robust and impact-resistant portable storage, and allow users to work anywhere in real-time, on transfer tasks including multistream video and intricate data files. With transfer speeds up to 2800MB/s (Thunderbolt 3) and 980MB/s (USB-C), respectively, the Envoy Pro EX line offers rugged, award-winning designs, lightning-fast speeds and now the ability to easily take 4TB of capacity along in a backpack, gear bag or even a pocket.

 

The Accelsior 4M2 PCIe M.2 NVMe internal SSD delivers over 6,000MB/s real-world speeds, now in a giant 16TB capacity, ideal for VR/AR/MR environments, compute-intensive applications and large format video editing.

 

And for creative professionals and prosumers capturing and processing 4K or 8K video, the award-winning ThunderBlade, now available with up to 16TB capacity, can be the difference between staying under budget and on-schedule on a project – or not. With dual Thunderbolt 3 ports and capable of connecting multiple drives with SoftRAID, transfer speeds of up to 2800MB/s are off the charts and a 1TB content transfer can be completed in under four-and-a-half minutes.

 

For a little wow-inducing perspective, 4TB users of the Envoy Pro EX will be able to store up to 800,000 images, 5.7 hours 4K RAW footage or 166 hours of GoPro 4K footage. With the 16TB ThunderBlade or Accelsior 4M2, users will be able to capture almost an entire day – 22.7 hours - of 4K RAW footage, or almost a full month of GoPro 4K footage, at 665 hours (or 27 days)!

 

“Our SSDs have traditionally been a knockout with professionals and prosumers across industries, especially those who have a truly demanding workflow in rugged environments or studio spaces,” said OWC Founder and CEO Larry O’Connor. “We are very excited to be the first to offer this 4TB Aura P12 SSD to expand our Envoy Pro EX, ThunderBlade and Accelsior 4M2 line-ups. We know that users will get the highest performance they’ve ever experienced and can continue to count on OWC for superior reliability.”

 

Availability

The newest SSD capacities are backed by a 3-Year OWC Limited Warranty and are available for pre-order now at MacSales.com with an early-May ship date for the ThunderBlade, Accelsior 4M2, Aura P12 and the Envoy Pro EX with USB-C. The Envoy Pro EX Thunderbolt 3 will begin shipping mid-May.

 

April 22, 2020

OWC Celebrates Earth Day at 50 With Continued Green Leadership

 

Tech leader’s newest locations will follow long company tradition of solar panel array installations

WOODSTOCK, IL — April 21, 2020OWC®; a leading zero emissions Mac and PC technology company founded in 1988, and one of the world’s most respected providers of Memory, External Drives, SSDs, Mac & PC docking solutions and performance upgrade kits, has opened two new facilities and announced that one facility has recently been equipped with the maximum in solar capability and the other will soon be equipped. OWC has always taken an approach of ‘waste not, want not’ in avoiding planned obsolescence, extending the life and performance of existing hardware, and maximizing the benefits of finite resources required to do so. OWC applies the same consideration to resources it utilizes and sees environmental stewardship as the only the right thing to do for future generations. And with the 50th anniversary of Earth Day on April 22nd, OWC is primed to widely expand their green practices with these additional solar power installations coming online that add to already significant solar and wind generation and many other operational aspects that recognize the pricelessness of our environment.

 

OWC’s Austin, TX team moved into a larger facility late in 2019 and recently had a solar installation consisting of 696 American-made SunPower solar panels installed across their new corporate park. The panels will provide up to 355,000kWh/yr. of power, or 48% of the power used by the buildings in that location. The array was installed in early March,  and based upon work from home coronavirus restrictions, will hopefully be inspected and generating power by May.

The OWC service and upgrade team moved from the existing Woodstock, IL headquarters into a newly-renovated 14,000 sq./ft. space this month. The move was necessitated by the requirement for additional room and team members, allowing OWC to expand upon its sales of used Macs and build-outs and servicing of both used Macs and customers’ machines that are sent directly to OWC for repairs and upgrades. The plan for the additional Woodstock facility will include the installation of 154 solar panels. Continuing in OWC’s long tradition of recycling, the current plan is the installation of the panels originally utilized on the roof of OWC’s first Austin location that first went online in 2015. 

“Everyone on the team at OWC is proud to take part in making the environment a priority,” said Larry O’Connor, OWC Founder and CEO. “This green mandate OWC has always lived is top-to-bottom, from this business starting as the reuse/re-inking of printer ink ribbons, expanding to giving customers the power to perform their own upgrades and keep their machines running better and longer, to now the recycling, shipping, cleaning, power, and more that every team member participates in at every OWC location. It is exciting to be celebrating Earth Day at 50, and to know that we are all making a difference in the world around us, for the better.”

 

OWC has a proud history of green power support and generation. A Vestas V39/500 wind turbine went operational at OWC headquarters in Woodstock in October of 2009. OWC quickly became the first manufacturer/distributor in the U.S. to become 100% on-site wind powered. The wind turbine alone in Woodstock generates more power than is consumed at this location, where most of OWC’s team members work, estimated at 265,650kWh/yr. Additional clean power produced by wind and sun is pushed back out onto the local grid. Beyond solar and wind power, OWC currently recycles 97 percent of its solid waste materials and received LEED® Platinum Certification from the Green Building Certification Institute for the headquarters in 2010.

 

OWC is regularly engaged with environmentally-conscious organizations and artists. Current projects include Kiss the Ground and “Eating Our Way to Extinction”. Kiss the Ground inspires participation around climate, soil, food and the future of Earth itself. The film shows how regenerative agriculture can sequester the carbon from the atmosphere and balance the Earth’s climate in a matter of decades. The “Kiss the Ground Movie” is narrated by Woody Harrelson, features Tom Brady, Gisele Bündchen, Ian Sommerhalder, and Patricia Arquette, all strong advocates for environmental advancements. It has been accepted to the Tribeca Film Festival and will be distributed in the coming months. “Eating Our Way to Extinction” is a cinematic documentary film set to premiere later this year. It focuses on issues around environment, health, compassion, and economics and is one piece of an entire educational plan designed to reduce consumption of food types that lead to increases in greenhouse gases and/or the destruction of natural resources.

OWC is also continuing to work with Jam in the Van, the world’s first and only solar-powered mobile recording studio. Jam in the Van is a robust content workspace, video production house and live event production team. They offer an authentic and engaging space where artists and fans can interact, typically crossing the country visiting top music festivals. During this time, the studio is offering stay-at-home performances from artists that can be seen through their YouTube and other social channels.

OWC has always believed the economic reality is that, with careful planning and a little team effort, sustainability is synonymous with success. The tech leader has always sought to provide customers with products that allow them to maximize the longevity of their technology products and to improve the performance of those products, keeping more electronics out of landfills for a longer period of time. 2020 sees the 50th anniversary of Earth Day; OWC will continue to live every day as Earth Day and encourages others to do so as well.

shutterstock-logo.jpg

April 15, 2020

Shutterstock Announces New Footage Subscription for Increased Accessibility to Fresh Content

Faced with challenges to produce high-quality video content at scale, new footage subscription provides content creators with efficient solutions to meet market demands

New York, NY, April 15, 2020 - Shutterstock, Inc. (NYSE: SSTK), a leading global technology company offering a creative platform for high-quality content, tools and services, today announced the launch of an annual subscription for Shutterstock Footage. Shutterstock’s collection of 18+ million HD and 4K video clips are now available for license through a range of cost-effective monthly plan options or for less than $9 per clip through an annual plan. 

 

eMarketer recently forecasted that US adults will spend 108 minutes per day with digital video in 2020 and this number will increase to just under 2 hours by 2021, further highlighting the need for fresh video content. The new footage subscription is geared toward digital content creators, including video editors, freelancers, and social media managers, who need more flexibility while still accessing a breadth of high-quality, diverse and authentic content. 

 

“Producing a video shoot can be costly and challenging, particularly in situations where production and location-based shoots are restricted, as they are now. Film producers, video editors and marketers have always leveraged our footage to deliver both continuity in a scene, as well as entire video narratives, but with the additional recent challenges of social distancing guidelines and restrictions on gatherings, today’s producers are looking for flexible resources to help them deliver on projects,” said Jamie Elden, CRO at Shutterstock. “With video consumption trends increasing now more than ever, the market needs to quickly and easily access fresh, relevant and affordable content.”

 

Shutterstock adds more than 75,000 HD and 4K clips every day, providing customers with an ever-current collection. Additionally, the advanced search capabilities including search by Frames Per Second (FPS), duration, resolution, or category, enable video creators, editors and marketers to quickly find what they’re looking for. 

 

New footage pricing options include the ability to choose from 10 or 20 clips a month, with annual upfront, annual monthly, and month-to-month billing options available. Learn more about the new pricing options here

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March 31 2020

Shutterstock Announces Footage Library Availability for Mobile Users 

Application users can now search, save, and license over 17 million videos on-the-go with Shutterstock mobile apps 

New York, NY, March 31, 2020 - Shutterstock, Inc. (NYSE: SSTK), a leading global technology company offering a creative platform for high-quality content, tools and services, today announced its footage offering is now available for license on the customer iOS and Android applications in SD, HD, and 4K. With over 17 million videos in the collection, searching, saving and licensing footage content allows customers to create engaging video content from a mobile or tablet device. 

 

Mobile video advertising is growing at a rapid pace. According to eMarketer, mobile video ad spending in the US will increase by 24.6% to $28.52 billion in 2020. Whether it’s a social media manager creating a video ad or a creative director building a footage collection on their commute, the Shutterstock app now supports a mobile-only workflow for footage content creators. 

 

“As consumers spend more and more time on their devices, marketers are adapting their strategies to reach them there. As a result, we’ve seen many customers transition to mobile-only campaign creation and execution,” said Jamie Elden, Chief Revenue Officer at Shutterstock. “This update enables a new generation of producers and content creators to access footage in seconds to quickly and easily create on-the-go - perhaps while on location. We are committed to continuously innovating our products and streamlining the creative process as the needs of our customers continue to evolve.”

 

The mobile app browsing experience also includes the computer-vision powered discovery tool, Visually Similar Video, to help users surface more content that looks similar to a selected clip. This proprietary Shutterstock technology relies on pixel data within images - rather than metadata collected through keywords and tagging - to help identify and surface relevant content.

 

Explore Shutterstock’s footage offering on the customer application for iOS here and for Android here.

March 26, 2020

OWC Unveils the Newest Iteration of its Wildly Popular Mercury Elite Pro External Storage Solution for Creative Pros, Gamers, SMBs and Today’s Digital Family

Featuring real-world speeds of 283MB/s and capacities up to 16TB, it’s the perfect blend of performance, reliability and value in a desktop-sized external drive for any USB-equipped Mac or PC

Ready for Play

The Mercury Elite Pro is up to virtually any task with its rugged, solid aluminum enclosure holding a high- performance 3.5-inch 7200RPM hard disk drive with up to 16TB capacity. It can be used for a variety of personal and business needs including pro-level video editing projects, Time Machine and File History backups of important data, migrating data from an existing machine to a new computer, expanding game storage of console gaming systems, or just freeing up space on a computer’s internal drive to improve performance.

Purposefully Designed
Offering an ideal blend of form and function, the Mercury Elite Pro’s fanless brushed aluminum chassis provides maximum heat dissipation to run quietly and cool, while the shock isolation design keeps the drive and your data safe and protected. It fits discreetly on any desktop with the included vertical orientation stand or place it horizontally with the included non-skid rubber feet.

Ready for Play


The Mercury Elite Pro isn’t just all work and no play. Besides saving and backing up computer data or functioning as a workhorse drive on-set or in the edit suite, it can be used to watch videos, listen to music, and view pictures through your gaming console or directly attached to your Smart TV.

OWC Mercury Elite Pro Highlights

• Pro-grade performance: up to 283MB/s real-world speed
• Spacious: up to 16TB capacity for music, videos, photos, business files, and game storage
• Easy backups: Apple Time Machine and Windows File History ready
• Quiet: heat-dissipating brushed aluminum chassis and fanless venting provide cool, nearly 
silent operation
• Rugged: built-in shock isolation protects drive
• Space efficient: includes matching vertical stand
• Flexible: includes non-skid rubber feet for secure horizontal use
• Compatible: use with Mac, Windows, and Linux machines; PS4 and Xbox consoles; and 
Smart TVs.
• Deployment ready: pre-configured solutions undergo rigorous multi-step certification
• Peace of Mind Ownership: Up to 3 Year Limited Warranty with 1 Year Level 1 data recovery and lifetime US-based live support

Availability

The OWC Mercury Elite Pro external storage system is available now at MacSales.com in capacities from 1TB to 16 TB with prices starting at $109.00, or as an add-your-own drive 0GB enclosure for $49.00.

OWC-Mercury-Elite-Pro-hero-300x282.jpg

OWC®; a leading zero emissions Mac and PC technology company

and one of the world’s most respected providers of hard drives

SSDsMac & PC docking solutions and performance upgrade kits,

today announced the latest edition of its legendary Mercury Elite

Pro external storage system for Mac, PC, Linux machines, Smart

TVs, and PS4 and Xbox consoles. The 3.5-inch USB 3.2 5Gb/s hard

drive system is a modern day workhorse, delivering real-world

performance up to 283MB/s and capacities up to 16TB to keep

pace with the demands of creative workflows, business users,

booming family storage needs and critical file backups.

The Essential External Storage Solution for Everyone
The Mercury Elite Pro kicked off OWC’s rich, storied history of

storage solution innovations nearly 20 years ago, and it has

successfully stood the test of time by continuing to offer an

incomparable blend of performance, quality, and value in a

single HDD storage solution.

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January 15, 2020

Shutterstock Announces Top Creative Trends

for 2020

 

The data-led report predicts image, video and music styles set to dominate marketing campaigns, advertising creative and video projects throughout the year

New York, NY, January 15, 2020 - Shutterstock, Inc. (NYSE: SSTK),  a leading global technology company offering a creative platform for high-quality content, tools and services, today launched its ninth annual Creative Trends Report, identifying global and local trends that will influence design aesthetics and visual culture in 2020.

Shutterstock Announces Top Creative Trends for 2020

According to eMarketer, growth in average daily time spent with video increased by 11% among users in 2018, making it the fastest-growing digital media activity. The increasing consumption of visual media challenges brands to keep up with sharing compelling visual content that engages their target audience. This report provides data-led insights for brands, marketers and creatives to keep their content fresh and relevant, and to drive better performance for their marketing campaigns.

The three major creative trends for 2020 include:

  • The Roaring 2020s - a century after the loud and lavish 1920s, the look that defined an era is back and on the center stage globally in 2020. Searches for "gold pattern" are up 4223% year-over-year and ''20s retro" saw an increase of 189% from the previous year.

  • Occulture - alternative faiths and age-old beliefs are enchanting Millennials, Gen Z and Gen Alpha, showing renewed interest in mainstream channels and on social media networks in particular. Customers are searching for keywords like "magic" and "spiritual" an impressive 525% and 289% more respectively over last year.

  • In Full Bloom - forget elegant arrangements and delicate displays. The floral visuals of tomorrow are big, bright and in full bloom. The 141% surge in searches for "flowerscape" and 136% uptick for "bloom" make this a vivid trend for the year ahead.

"This year's data points toward the pursuit of meaning, happiness, and opportunity in new  creative projects—traits that may be reflective of the uncertainty in our climate and the year ahead," said Lou Weiss, CMO at Shutterstock. "The analysis, which is grounded in data from billions of keyword searches made by marketers, social media managers, video producers and designers, provides a glimpse into the creative trends that we expect to engage consumers on a much bigger scale. It also serves as a source of inspiration for our customers and contributors as they develop creative projects in 2020."

In addition to the three major trends, the report outlines local favorites in 25 countries around the world, as well as five rising trends that promise to gain traction in 2020. Rising trends range from design mainstays like "minimalistic black" and traditional arts including "Chinese ink painting" to elegant photography and modernized visuals such as "wild life" and sports photography. This year's report not only offers hand-curated collections for each of the trends from Shutterstock images, video and music, but also includes images from Offset and Shutterstock Editorial as well.

The annual report analyzes data gathered over a 12-month period from billions of customer searches for images, footage, and music content. The data, combined with analysis from Shutterstock's internal visual intelligence panel pinpoint patterns and styles that have the potential to stand out. As themes emerge, the panel confers to determine the trends they expect to command creative projects in 2020.

Explore the full 2020 Creative Trends Report here.

About Shutterstock, Inc.
Shutterstock, Inc. (NYSE: 
SSTK), directly and through its group subsidiaries, is a leading global provider of high-quality licensed photographsvectorsillustrationsvideos and music to businesses, marketing agencies and media organizations around the world. Working with its growing community of over 1 million contributors, Shutterstock adds hundreds of thousands of images each week, and currently has more than 300 million images and more than 17 million video clips available.

Headquartered in New York City, Shutterstock has offices around the world and customers in more than 150 countries. The company's brands also include Bigstock, a value-oriented stock media offering; Shutterstock Custom, a custom content creation platform; Offset, a high-end image collection; PremiumBeat, a curated royalty-free music library; and Shutterstock Editorial, a premier source of editorial images for the world's media.

For more information, please visit www.shutterstock.com