Before using Apple Pro Training Series: Compressor 3.5, you should have a working knowledge of your Macintosh and the Mac OS X operating system. Make sure that you know how to use the mouse, and standard menus and commands; and also how to open, save, and close files. If you need to review these techniques, see the printed or online documentation included with your system.

For the basic system requirements of Compressor 3.5, refer to the Final Cut Studio documentation, or Apple’s website, www.apple.com/finalcutstudio.

Apple Pro Training Series: Compressor 3.5 is a reference aid, a self-paced learning tool, and the official curriculum of the Apple Pro Training and Certification Program. Developed by experts in the field and certified by Apple, the series is used by Apple Authorized Training Centers worldwide and offers complete training in all Apple Pro products. The lessons are designed to let you learn at your own pace. The book’s online companion page, www.peachpit.com/apts.compressor, includes review questions and answers summarizing what you’ve learned, which can be used to help you prepare for the Apple Pro Certification Exam.

For a complete list of Apple Pro Training Series books, see the ad at the back of this book, or visit www.peachpit.com/apts.

The Apple Pro Training and Certification Program is designed to keep you at the forefront of Apple’s digital media technology while giving you a competitive edge in today’s ever-changing job market. Whether you’re an editor, graphic designer, sound designer, special-effects artist, or teacher, these training tools are meant to help you expand your skills.

Upon completing the course material in this book, you can become a certified Apple Pro by taking the certification exam at an Apple Authorized Training Center. Certification is offered in Compressor, Final Cut Pro, Motion, Color, Soundtrack Pro, DVD Studio Pro, and Logic Pro. Successful certification as an Apple Pro gives you official recognition of your knowledge of Apple’s professional applications while allowing you to market yourself to employers and clients as a skilled, pro-level user of Apple products.

For those who prefer to learn in an instructor-led setting, Apple offers training courses at Apple Authorized Training Centers worldwide. These courses, which use the Apple Pro Training Series books as their curriculum, are taught by Apple Certified Trainers and balance concepts and lectures with hands-on labs and exercises. Apple Authorized Training Centers have been carefully selected and have met Apple’s highest standards in all areas, including facilities, instructors, course delivery, and infrastructure. The goal of the program is to offer Apple customers, from beginners to the most seasoned professionals, the highest-quality training experience.

For more information, please see the ad at the back of this book, or to find an Authorized Training Center near you, go to training.apple.com.

Apple Pro Training Series: Compressor 3.5 is not intended as a comprehensive reference manual, nor does it replace the documentation that comes with the application. For more information about Compressor, refer to these sources: