Why you need a real-time converter

In no time at all, formats for HD recording have multiplied. Although the mainstream format for delivery of commercial broadcasting is HDCAM, an infrastructure to accommodate HDCAM-SR is also gradually coming into mainstream. On the other hand, the SD format is still being widely used for news coverage and the introduction of non-linear HD media such as XDCAM and P2 is being considered. As long as the video is output as HD-SDI, interoperability is possible.

It is not unusual for TV programs and promotion videos to be shot and recorded with cameras that use consumer HDV video formats. Moreover, from the adoption of SD, real time output from PC monitors was being recorded and broadcasted. Of course, this method is also effective in an HD environment. No matter how quickly you may have embraced HD, however, the advantages of non-linear editing are often hindered. Whenever real-time multi-format conversion is unavailable, you can suffer from three types of loss.

・Time wasted in conversion process

In some cases today, production companies are loading footage that needs converting to a non- linear editing system (NLE), and using software to convert to the desired format. This methodology is not practical or an efficient use of your NLE system. The process of loading each time into the NLE, rendering with software and then outputting may seem quick and convenient at first glance, but in many it just ends up taking more time than initially expected.

・Unnecessary investment in equipment

Conversion can tie up the entire NLE for long

periods of time, and results in a shortage of temporary drive space and increases costs. Moreover, converting using an NLE system is a non-editing task that can unnecessarily tie up an expert editor. Thus, all the temporary storage space, which you need for a margin of safety during conversion, can add significantly to operating costs.

Monitoring various video formats is another issue. A monitor compatible with the format of the data needing conversion may not always be readily available. HD video can be checked on a PC monitor, but if you want to check output on a projector or consumer TV, you can only use HD- SDI or HDV.

・Lost business opportunities

In a fast paced production environment where speed, ease of use and reliability are essential, format compatibility can kill a project. As a result, we tend to avoid dealing with formats we are not sure about or we consider to be a hassle. If your studio doesn’t deal with certain formats you may find yourself turning down business.

The production side examines work right down to the fine details and trouble avoidance is given high priority. If you have long-term relationships with clients, both sides know what the other can and cannot do. Of course, this may seem like an ideal way of working, but it can also mean loss of future business by refusing new clients with special format or conversion requirements. If your company can only deal with a limited number of formats it always runs the risk of not being competent to deal with large projects using formats beyond your capabilities.