Many broadcast and post-prodction facilities are on the path to upgrading, changing or installing new storage capability for growing nonlinear editing (NLE) operations. Xsan from Apple Computer is a 64-bit cluster file system for Mac OS X that permits sharing files and volumes up to 16TB on a high-speed Fibre Channel network. Using Fibre Channel multipathing, an Xsan client can theoretically achieve throughput of up to 400MBps, perfect for multiple editors working on a video project or a computing cluster that needs fast access to data. Other components of a SAN infrastructure, Xserve RAID arrays, and Xserve G5 Server, will be shown as well, and how these components can integrate into a multiplatform environment. Use of Xsan/Xserve in an enterprise application will also be discussed. Time permitting, video creative applications Final Cut Pro HD and Motion will be available for viewing.

Dean Norton heads the 15-person technical team at Macprofessionals, Michigan'šs only Xsan Medallion Reseller, and Apple Professional Video Value Added Reseller. Norton has been supporting Apple technology professionally for 15 years. He holds two bacheloršs degrees in technology subjects from Michigan State University, and five current technical certifications from Apple. When he is not thinking about SAN solutions, he spends time writing, learning the guitar, and flying stunt kites.

Jon Rutherford heads both the Training and Video Departments. Macprofessionals is the only Apple Authorized Training Center in Michigan to offer the complete Apple Pro Apps curriculum. Our Video group specializes in configuring specific solutions to meet the client's needs. Jon has years of multi-media experience and travels the country providing training and consultation services.

MANAGERS' DINNER will be at 5:30 PM at Greek Isles , 39777 Grand River Ave. (just west of Haggerty in Pheasant Run Plaza). (248) 442-9255.