A few weeks ago, Wildform announced the release of Flix Pro, which converts standard video into vectors using an advanced automated bitmap trace function. Flix Pro, which has been designed for both the PC and Macintosh platforms, outputs all types of Flash video, including Flash MX and FLV, Flash 3-5 and the Flix vector video. The Flix Pro software can turn any video into an animation that can be manipulated using the Flash application. To see examples of what Flix Pro can do, visit the Wildform Gallery.

The Flix application itself features bit rate control, encoding presets, links, variables, file stitching, etc. It is designed to let users encode video, add customized elements and quickly post that data to the web. Other features include:

• Batch encoding, which allows you to use any number of files within a drag and drop interface.
• Advanced memory management when working with the Flash Player.
• The ability to add links to your video.
• The ability to add metadata to your video.
• Export audio separately as .WAV and MP3 files.
• Flexible video output at any dimension, etc.

Here is a partial list of answers to Flix Frequently Asked Questions. The Wildform web site contains a great deal more information.

When encoding video, the only way to find out what the bit rate of a Flix encoded SWF movie will be, is by setting a bit rate in the Video tab. Some approximate preset bit rates are: 28k-150KB/min., 56k-300KB/min., 128k-800KB/min., 256k- .8MB/min. and 512k-3.5MB/min. Setting a maximum bit rate is essential when determining what the final video file will be. Also, the Flix software allows you change the encoding presets.