Filter Forge architecture is procedural and sample-based, and we recommend that filter authors avoid bitmap-based components as much as possible. Still there are cases when you need a bitmap buffer in the component subtree. A traditional way to create such buffers is using a Blur with a tiny radius, which is size-dependent and not very user-friendly. Filter Forge 10 introduces a dedicated component for that – Bitmap Cache.
The Bitmap Cache component rasterizes its input to an internal bitmap without further processing. It may be useful to place in front of heavy modules like loops and high-detail noises, improving rendering time and filter control response.
This is not a universal solution and should be used with caution. Possible side effects include increased initialization time while the cache is being populated, higher memory usage and less room for anti-aliasing. You should always check filter performance with and without the cache, and generally prefer fully procedural rendering. For more information, check out Help for Bitmap-based components and Sample-based architecture.
The Bitmap Cache component doesn't have any settings and is size-independent. You can find it in the Advanced section on the Component bar.
