I need to put together a computer system for a multimedia installation at a museum. The system needs to play back two simultaneous, full-screen, 60 minute video projections (video format not decided yet) with a four-channel, 60 minute sound track (source is 24-bit/48kHz). This piece will run continuously six days a week for four months. I am thinking pd could be up for the task. I have used pd for audio work, but never for video, so I need some advice - particularly hardware ideas for now, as I am building the computer from scratch.
Can anyone advise on minimum CPU speed for this kind of playback. Will a dual-CPU system be an advantage when playing back several media streams simultaneously (if I need to run more than one instance of pd)? Perhaps harddrive speed (and number of harddrives) is more crucial?
I have a dual-head Matrox G400 graphics card. Would this be capable of playing back two different full-screen videos? If not, any other suggestions?
The system will be running Linux with only the minimum of necessary software to run the installation. Of practical reasons, the computer needs to be rack mounted. I am thinking a 4U cabinet to ensure air flow without too much noise. I will probably use a Delta 1010 sound card, since the breakout box can be easily rack mounted and it is well supported on Linux.
Any input is greatly appreciated!
Thanks, Frank Ekeberg