Consolidate vs. Transcode (newbie question)

[Job Ter burg]

Consolidating clips implies you leave the clips in their original codec. Transcoding clips means you copy into a different codec.

If you transcode or consolidate a sequence, the used elements in the sequence (plus adjustable handles) will be copied (consolidated) or transcoded.

[Bill Ravens]

To elaborate on Jobs response, the nature of an AMA link is to provide instant access to the natively stored files, on the acquisition media. There is no access to these files once the removeable, acquisition media is disconnected from your computer. In order to copy the native media to a non-removeable storage location on your computer, it is necessary to consolidate the files. This will COPY the acquired files to a location of your choice.

There are limitations to AMA linked files, once linked within MC. One cannot add FX, nor output any AMA linked file via QT Reference. In order to do this, the TRANSCODE process must be done. Transcoding will reformat the natively formatted files to DNxHD, AND copy them to your media storage file location.

So, if you’ve consolidated these files, then transcoded them, you have, on your computer, a copy of the original files as well as a converted copy.

[Frank Raposo]

Ok, that makes sense. We’re using a program called Shot Put Pro to copy the media off of the cards and using AMA to link to those files and then transcoding. But essentially, we could have used Consolidate instead of Shot Put. Thanks guys.

quinnmcguee

[Rosie Walunas]

Hi, I’m still trying to understand the difference between Consolidation and Transcoding in terms of starting a project and loading all the footage. AMA linking is easy to grasp.

You write:

“In order to copy the native media to a non-removeable storage location on your computer, it is necessary to consolidate the files. This will COPY the acquired files to a location of your choice.”

and

“So, if you’ve consolidated these files, then transcoded them, you have, on your computer, a copy of the original files as well as a converted copy.”

Then what’s the difference between simply copying-pasting the camera files to an edit drive and then just loading them, say via AMA. I don’t really understand Consolidation, I guess. (I do understand the handlebars concept at the end of an edit.) But what about when you load P2 footage at the beginning of an edit and it is consolidated, that’s obviously living in it’s native codec and accessing that media some how.

Any more information would be appreciated.

Thanks!