Creative Conners Adds Periaktoi Feature to Spikemark Automation Software

	Screen shot of Creative Conners' Spikemark release 3.1.11 with Periaktoi

Creative Conners' latest release of their Spikemark scenic automation software, Release 3.1.11, adds a new visualization option for rotating scenery in the stage model viewer. Scenic elements can now be shown as Periaktoi to more accurately represent multi-sided spinning walls. The update, free and recommended for all users, is available at creativeconners.com along with training videos and PDF instruction manual. Included in Spikemark is simulator mode, where users can experiment, design, cue, and run all the automation in a show without connection to any motors. Spikemark runs on Windows PC's, and has touch-screen features for Windows 8.

Automation operators will find easy access to the new Periaktoi feature, pronounced "peh-ree-AKH-toy" and named after the traditional Greek three-sided rotating column. The operator need only add a Revolver machine to the virtual stage model, then select "Periaktos" and number of sides from the schematic side bar control. "This feature is in addition to the previous option to show rotating scenery as turntables, and tracking scenery as walls or wagons," notes company founder Gareth Conner.

The new Periaktoi feature emerged from a specific request. This fall, long time automation customer Mystic Scenic Studios was contracted to build and automate the set for the October Adobe MAX conference, and they felt their automation operator needed a more realistic representation of a pair of three-sided rotating walls. Additionally, because images are continually projected onto the walls, the video production company for the show enjoyed the benefit of accurately experimenting with cueing off-site, simply running Spikemark in simulator mode.

In addition to the Periaktoi feature, Spikemark has seen updates throughout the year to increase its versatility, robustness, and user friendliness, including:
• Drag and drop features enhanced
• Meters added as a valid position unit
• Auxiliary output switching added to allow for improved hydraulic lift control
• Active time linked cues completely sever when "enable all links" box is unchecked
• Best of all, Spikemark was made free in January 2014.

Spikemark is the brains of the Creative Conners automation system, and pairs with one of the Stagehand motor controllers (Stagehand Pro, Stagehand Classic, Stagehand Mini, or Stagehand FX). It is designed to be an intuitive and powerful interface to control all moving scenic elements. Spikemark's full stage model viewer allows the operator to see a real time 3D visual representation of the stage in simulator or live mode. The simulator mode allows users to experiment, design, cue, and run all of the automation in a show without connection to any Stagehands or motors. The full version is free to download, as are the updates which are recommended for all users. Updates will not affect existing show files.