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Frame/Field Accurate Layoff to DVCProHD
We are considering purchasing a deck and are hoping to solve a problem in the process. We edit and layback to tape with a Panasonic DVCProHD AJ-HD1400 (rented), Final Cut Pro 6.0.6, AJA Kona 3 (software versions from 6.0-7.5 depending on the computer), and AJA GEN10 for video reference. We have two problems with that system that may be deck related.
1. We cannot be sure that our layoffs will be both field or frame accurate. We are often off by a frame or two in either direction and sometimes off by a field, which is a big problem. We’ve tried compensating by off-setting our layoff, but the problem is inconsistent and we only know if it worked when the layoff is done. For hour-long shows that is a pretty big problem!
2. We cannot insert unless both in and out points are in the black (like between acts). This is both because of problem #1 and because our out point usually gets some kind of hit or a black frame.
My question is this: do we have this problem because the AJ-HD1400 is not as frame-accurate as the 1700 or 1800? Is there some other hitch in our system? It is critical that we are able to make frame and field accurate layoffs. Any help appreciated. Thanks!
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4 Replies
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If you’re using firewire as your connection to the deck, it’s not frame accurate… needs to be an RS-422 deck that’s calibrated with your system for this to work right.
Jerry
Apple Certified Trainer, Producer, Writer, Director Editor, Gun for Hire and other things. I ski.
8-Core 3.0 Intel Mac Pro, Dual 2 gig G5, AJA Kona SD, AJA Kona 2, Huge Systems Array UL3D, AJA Io HD, 17″ MBP, Matrox MXO2 with MAX Cinema Displays
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Right. We have been using the RS-422 interface from our AJA Kona 3 and still have this problem with consistency.
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I don’t know that particular deck but I do know that lots of people have mentioned frame accuracy problems when laying to tape with FCP.
One way to avoid waiting through the whole layback is to record elsewhere the characters output from the VTR when you make the edit – you can then check that it starts on a round number.
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That’s a great tip! Thanks for the help!
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